Step-by-Step Guide to Studying Abroad
May 08, 2023
With the growing demand for Overseas education, an exceptional increase in the number of Indian students moving to study abroad has been observed. In the past 6 years, a massive number of more than 30 lakh Indian students went to popular study destinations abroad for higher education. Talking about the year 2022, approximately 750,365 Indian students went abroad and in the year 2023, this number is expected to increase further.
Many are pondering why Indians prefer to study in foreign countries. Well, there are several reasons behind the rising number of Indian students going abroad on student visas. Apart from the high-ranked universities and exciting research opportunities, most countries provide high-quality education, niche courses, attractive salary packages, international exposure, and stay-back options for job search.
Studying abroad is an exciting and life-changing experience for students who want to explore the international world and expand their academic horizons. However, planning to study abroad can be a tedious task, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the process.
If you are aspiring to study abroad, then this 8-step guide will provide a roadmap to plan and execute your study abroad dreams. Keep reading to find out more about these steps.
8 Steps to Plan to Study Abroad
- Counselling
There are a plethora of university and course options for students planning to study abroad. So, the first step in planning to study abroad is to get expert advice from a study abroad consultant. The consultant will provide comprehensive information about the university options, admission process, scholarship opportunities, visa requirements, and other essential aspects of studying abroad. In addition to this, they also assist students in identifying the right course, country, and university based on their academic background, preferences, and study budget.
- Course, Country & University Selection
The second step is to select the course, country, and university that best suits your academic goals and preferences. You need to research the curriculum, faculty, facilities, and other aspects of the university to ensure that it aligns with your academic aspirations. You also need to consider factors such as the cost of living, language requirements, cultural norms, and weather conditions of the country you wish to study. Since the counsellors have a better understanding of suitable course options, they can guide you comprehensively at this step.
- Standardised Test Preparation
Many universities and institutions require applicants to take English Language Proficiency tests and standardized tests such as the IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, and GMAT. To present the test scores during the application process, you need to prepare for these tests well in advance. To attain the desired scores, you can enrol in test preparation courses, take practice tests, or use study materials to improve your performance. This will be the third step.
- Application & Admission Assistance
The fourth step is to apply to the shortlisted university by submitting the application form, academic transcripts, test scores, essays, and other required documents. You can seek assistance from a consultant to ensure that your application is complete and meets the university admission requirements. The consultant can also help you with interview preparation and follow-up communication with the university.
- Scholarships
Higher education abroad can be expensive, as such you can check for scholarships. Many universities and governments offer scholarships to international students based on their academic achievements, research potential, or financial need. You need to research and apply for scholarships well in advance to increase your chances of receiving them. You also need to ensure that you fall into the eligibility criteria before you apply for the same.
- Overseas Education Loan Requirements
Those of you who are unable to secure scholarships or have insufficient funds can consider to take an education loan to finance your studies. For this, you need to research the loan options, interest rates, repayment terms, and eligibility criteria before applying for a loan. The overseas education loan consultant can guide you in identifying the right loan provider and completing the loan application process.
- Visa Processing
After receiving the admission offer from the university, you need to obtain a student visa from the country to relocate. For this, you need to submit the visa application form, passport, admission letter, financial documents, and other required documents to the embassy or consulate of the country. Students need to prepare well in advance and adhere to visa processing timelines to avoid delays or rejections.
- Pre-Departure Essentials
The final step is to prepare for departure by arranging accommodation, travel tickets, insurance, and other essential items. It will be helpful if you research and book accommodation on or near the university and arrange for airport pickup if necessary. You also need to obtain health insurance and travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies or travel disruptions. Doing all this in advance makes your transition from your home country to a foreign country much easier.
So, you see, the process to study abroad requires a lot of time, research, and planning. While some aspirants apply on their own, most students prefer to take assistance from overseas educational consultants. The reason behind approaching industry experts is to better the chances of application and visa approval. This might not be the case for self-applications as it will be on a trial-and-error basis. But when you decide to approach a consultant, you should also be assured that you consult the right one.
Why is it Essential to Approach the Right Consultant?
While approaching a consultant for study abroad guidance, it is essential to avoid scammers and rely only on trusted sources. You can research and shortlist consultants based on their reputation, expertise, and credentials. You can check the consultant's website, read reviews and testimonials, and speak to former clients to assess the quality and reliability of their services. It is also advisable to check if the consultant is a member of a professional association or certified by a recognized organization.
Speaking in a nutshell, studying abroad can be a life-changing experience with numerous benefits, including personal growth and career development. However, planning to study abroad can be overwhelming without proper guidance and support. By following the eight steps outlined in this guide, you can plan and execute your study abroad dreams with confidence and ease.
If you are looking forward to approaching a trusted consultancy, then your search ends here. KC Overseas Education is one of the leading and trusted study abroad consultants in India. With industry expertise spanning over 25 years, KC has assisted more than 3,00,000 students to date and helped them achieve their plans to study abroad.
Reach out to the country experts at KC to initiate your plan of studying abroad.