5 Things to Know Before Studying Abroad

Of course, it will be healthier for you or your family to determine the budget of your education abroad and make decisions according to this budget. International education can be expensive, but here are some things you can do to study abroad on a budget, such as:

• Look for countries with relatively affordable tuition fees

• Search for scholarship opportunities in the country you’ve chosen. Some scholarships can be fully paid, while others can be partial.

• Search working conditions and alternatives as a student. Some countries allow you to work part-time while studying there.

Choosing the right country for your study abroad journey depends on may factors, such as living conditions, cultural differences, spoken language, distance to the country where you live, climatic conditions, accommodation, tuition fees, and available post-study work opportunities.

USA, Canada, Australia, UK, Ireland and New Zealand are among the top study abroad countries for international students. However, you can make a more accurate decision on the choice of country, considering the field you’ll study and the popular professions in that country.

Choosing the right university and course is the most important part of the decision to study abroad. In the process of making this decision; you can get free help from IDP consultants who will guide you to choose the right course at the right place.

When you choose your university or college overseas, make sure you know all about their admission requirements, including academic results, certificates, etc. You need to also check if the university or the institution require specific exams as a prerequisite to be accepted. Below are some of the exams you may be required to take:

• English proficiency exam, like the IELTS test, is often required by universities overseas. Check out the university website to know the score you need to achieve to get accepted.

• For medical education in Canada, USA, and Australia you’ll need the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) as a compulsory requirement.

• In Canada and the USA, the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is required for legal education.

• In the UK, the GRE test is common for engineering, social sciences, and MBA subjects, while in the USA, GMAT testing is more common, especially for business, marketing and finance master's programs.

• SAT test is required by most universities and colleges in USA for students seeking an undergraduate degree.

As an international student overseas, you can work part-time while studying. This will help you gain some work experience, get in touch with the local community and earn some money. Some countries allow students to work only on campus in the first year, while others offer off-campus work.

Some of the most common jobs for international students abroad can be working as:

• Waiter

• Babysitter

• Retail staff

• Call centre phone operator

You need to think about your career after graduation, even before starting your studies overseas.

Most international students want high-paying career opportunities abroad and some consider the possibility of staying at their study destinations. In light of that, social and professional networks, internship opportunities and joint projects with most universities in cooperation with employers can be great chances for you.

Need help to plan for your study abroad journey? Speak with your IDP counsellor today!