Choosing the right university to study abroad can be a daunting task. But it is also one of the most crucial decisions you will make in life – one that will affect both your professional as well as personal future. So how does one go about it? After all, every student is different and so are their goals in life. With so many universities wooing students today, it can be a rather overwhelming experience selecting one that’s right for you.
Here are some tips that should help you make an informed choice:
Available programs
This is one of the most important factors to consider when applying to the college of your choice. Some universities may be more suited for you than others, depending on your preferred area of specialisation. Universities offering more robust and flexible programs or courses in your preferred subject can offer better opportunities in the long run. There’s no point qualifying for an Ivy League school if it doesn’t offer the subject you wish to major in.
Geographical location
Location is also a significant factor. For example, if you come from a small town you may not be comfortable in a large metropolitan city. Or you may hail from a warm place and may not be able to bear the cold. Select a location that is best suited to your needs. Also try to make sure that the university is located close to potential employers, if you plan to explore internship opportunities in the near future.
Accreditation
For renowned universities, accreditation is practically a given. An accreditation can be national or international, and specific departments or programs within the university can also have their own accreditation. Graduating from an accredited university guarantees that employers and other universities (if you plan to apply for higher studies) recognise your degree.
Faculty-to-student ratio
If you like one-on-one interaction with professors, you will need to check the faculty-to-student ratio at the university. Larger institutions tend to have classes where communication between students and faculty is at a bare minimum. If you prefer more collaborative sessions you should consider a smaller university.
Worldwide ranking
Various ranking programs rarely agree, and for good reason. Every ranking program has its own way of ranking universities, which can sometimes be ambiguous. Their opinions may differ from yours regarding what is important and what is not. Feel free to draw inspiration from such rankings but don’t let them be the sole deciding factor.
Accommodation
If you plan to live on campus you will need to make sure the university has adequate housing. With students spending a lot of time in dorm rooms, having a comfortable living arrangement is absolutely necessary. It is important that there’s a vacancy for you in the dorm or you may find you have nowhere to stay.
Extracurricular activities
Extracurricular activities are an integral part of the university experience. A lot of universities like to flaunt the different extracurricular activities they offer. Though academics will be your main focus, it is important to have additional activities to stimulate you. Choose a university that covers your extracurricular interests for a more rewarding college experience.
Placement opportunities
Knowing how the university places students after graduation is significant. It is useless getting a fancy and expensive degree if you fail to land a job. Check what kind of assistance is provided for getting employment after you graduate from school. This is particularly important if your degree is in an esoteric subject with few employment opportunities.
Tuition fees
A major anxiety when deciding to study abroad is the tuition cost. Some may be able to afford the expensive tuition, but it is likely to be unaffordable for most. Be sure to check if financial aid offered to students and you might get a break via a scholarship. Also do account for other expenses besides tuition, such as food, commuting, and other necessities, as well as some recreational activities.
An ace up your sleeve
The tips mentioned above may be adequate to help you decide which international university best meets your needs. However, there’s something else that will make studying abroad much easier –HDFC Bank ISIC Student ForexPlus Card.
The ISIC (International Student Identity Card) is specifically designed for Indians studying abroad, keeping in mind their unique needs. You can use it to pay for books, tuition, food, travel or any other expense without any worry and focus on your studies. You can also use it to withdraw cash from ATMs.
Apart from being a universal student ID card, ISIC can also provide free insurance coverage, chip-based security, and discounts on books, food, accommodation. It also provides travel across over 40,000 partners in 130 countries. This card can be availed in three most widely accepted currencies i.e. USD, Euro, GBP. Click here and know how to get a Forex card
Studying abroad can be an exhilarating experience, whichever university you choose. And with HDFC Bank ISIC Student ForexPlus Card in your pocket, the world is your oyster!
To apply for a ForexPlus Card, click here.
* Terms & conditions apply. ForexPlus Card approvals are at sole discretion of HDFC Bank Ltd.
