Studying abroad is no longer an unattainable dream as there are more and more opportunities opening up across the globe. As there are many choices available, most students are confused about how to choose a destination for pursuing their higher education. Globor gives you an insight on the things to consider before starting your application to the universities abroad.

• Location 

Where you want to study is the first question that pops into your mind when you decide that you want to pursue your overseas education abroad. With many options to choose from, this is the first thing to consider to further narrow your choices. Answering this question will be easier if you further expand your horizons by asking yourself a few questions like:

• How far do you want your destination to be from your home country?
• Which course do you want to pursue?
• Which is your dream university?
• Is there preference to the climate you want in your study abroad destination?

These questions can, to some extent, help you filter out the options effectively. There are many reputed educational institutions all over the world, and most countries will have your dream course. It will be fitting if you have a good idea on your expectations as in climate and culture, which will enable you to find the right destination for your future. 

• Cost

The expenses that you are willing to shed for your abroad education is a key factor that will have an impact on your decisions. Most banks are willing to give educational loans, and they have become more extensive when it comes to the number of countries that the students can apply for. 

Depending on the country and course of choice, one can get a ballpark idea of the expenses incurred. Education in countries like, say, the USA is very expensive, and pursuing courses will only be possible if you have a good scholarship. There are other countries and universities that give good opportunities and grants to students who are academically qualified. The living expenses pertaining to each country are subjective and subject to change, so also inquire about part-time jobs that will help meet the day-to-day expenses of the students. Today, many foreign education consultants guide and support students to get hold of the best universities and the best possible offer in terms of studying and managing the expenses as well.

• Academic Rankings

There are many official ranking reports that often categorise universities under different criteria and rank them on the basis of the same. These academic rankings are extremely helpful for students in deciding which universities to apply to. 

Different domains rank different courses, such as MBA universities and colleges, which are typically ranked by the Financial Times, Economic Times, and so on. The Times Higher Education World University Rankings also publishes general rankings that rank universities based on:

• Citations
• Teaching
• Research
• Industry Income
• International Outlook.

Look down on the options that you are looking for, and then filter down the universities that you are planning to apply to.

• Employment opportunities in the study location

Most students who apply to universities abroad are also thinking about building a future in the country they choose. So, when settling in for the future comes into question, the opportunities to work and stay back also come into view. Make sure to understand from alumni groups or from respective university academic counsellors about the placement and stayback opportunities in their country.

The placement opportunities are not as vibrant as in India, and most universities will only provide you with the necessary assistance to guide you through. Staying back is very important, as it will give you enough time to broaden your resume through internships and eventually help you find a job. 

Also, try to understand the major employment opportunities and fields in the country you are interested in. It will give a fair idea of the amount of opportunities that your particular course and industry can offer, and it will also be good to check on the payscale and whether it will suffice to bring your family down as well. 

• Language

Even though most universities have English-speaking academic staff, in some countries, it becomes necessary to learn their language. Learning a foreign language can be difficult, but it will definitely have its own perks in terms of getting you more job opportunities and better acceptance into their culture. It will also help you communicate with the locals much more effectively. If you are not very keen on learning a new language, you should make sure that you apply to universities in English-speaking countries. Most countries will also require you to submit a language test score, and these scores have different cut-offs. 

• Visa Regulations

Visa regulations are not the same in every country. Some countries have very strict terms and conditions when it comes to granting visas, and some other countries are quite lenient when it comes to processing. The visa regulations can also differ within the country. Take note of these and also make sure you check the time that is required for visa processing. 

• Opportunities for dependents

If you are married, you will undoubtedly prefer to bring your spouse and children with you. Most countries accept it because they issue student visas and dependent visas for spouses together. It will be ideal to check whether the spouse will be able to work in the country and whether they will have an open work visa. The validity of the spouse visa will be similar to that of the student visa. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions related to the visa before applying for admission. 

These are just a few of the things to consider, but they are the most important ones when considering studying abroad. With the help of a good educational consultant like Globor, the entire process can be seamless and hassle-free.