Planning to study abroad is undoubtedly a thrilling decision but also an overwhelming process. Ease the stress by keeping the following points in mind. Find the best destinations to study and the popular scholarship options to apply.
Having a solid education foundation is a prerequisite for a rewarding career which is the primary reason why many students plan to study abroad to elevate and hone their knowledge. However, no matter how exciting the thought of studying overseas sounds, deciding where to study abroad can be overwhelming.
With numerous destinations and programs to choose from, it is essential to make an informed decision that suits the goals and interests of the students.
Read the blog to learn about the key factors to consider when choosing the perfect study abroad destination, along with available scholarship options and top destinations to study abroad.
Points to Consider While Deciding to Study Overseas
Research Destination Options: Create a list of potential destinations that best align with the academic and career goals. Consider factors like language, culture, climate, and local customs while choosing and researching each destination, taking into account factors like the cost of living, safety, and accessibility to resources like healthcare and transportation.
Evaluate Academic Programs: Choose a program that matches the academic needs and interests with the universities and colleges providing it. Research the program’s reputation, faculty, and resources to check the education quality offered at the institute.
Consider Language Requirements: Every student planning to study abroad must prove their proficiency in the language used in the chosen country. Some of the popular language tests accepted in the English-speaking country are IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, etc.
Budget and Financial Aid: Next is to determine the budget and explore options for financial aid that could help fund the study abroad experience. Research scholarships, grants, and other funding options that may help reduce financial stress.
Safety and Support: Ensure that the chosen destination has a stable political climate, low crime rates, and adequate healthcare facilities. Consider the support services provided by the study abroad program, such as pre-departure orientation, on-site staff, and emergency assistance.
Cultural Experiences and Extracurricular Activities: Select a destination that offers a rich cultural experience and opportunities for extracurricular activities. To enhance the learning experience, consider the local customs, traditions, and festivals, as well as participating in volunteer, internship, or part-time work opportunities.
Consult Study Abroad Advisors and Alumni: Seek guidance from experienced study abroad consultants who can provide valuable insights and resources.
Popular Destinations to Study Abroad
There are numerous popular destinations for study abroad programs, each offering unique academic, cultural, and social experiences. Some of the most popular destinations include:
United States: Known for its world-class universities and diverse culture, United States is a top choice for study among international students. Institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford consistently rank among the best in the world.
United Kingdom: Home to some of the most prestigious institutions like Oxford and Cambridge, UK is renowned for its high-quality education and rich history.
Canada: With its excellent education system, multicultural society, and relatively affordable cost of living, Canada is a popular choice for students from around the world.
Australia: Known for its friendly locals, beautiful landscapes, and high-quality education, Australia is another popular study destination among Indian students.
Germany: With its strong economy, high-quality education, and affordable tuition fee, Germany is an attractive study-abroad destination.
All these popular destinations offer trending academic programs and cultural experiences, making them attractive to students from various backgrounds and interests.
Are there any Scholarship Programs for Studying Abroad?
There are many scholarships that Indian students can explore to study abroad. While some are specific to certain countries or fields of study, others are more general. Here are some well-known scholarships:
| Scholarship Name | Detail |
| Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships | The United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) offers these fellowships for Indian students pursuing a master’s degree in the United States. The scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, and other related costs. |
| British Council’s GREAT Scholarships | These scholarships are specifically designed for Indian students who wish to study at the undergraduate or postgraduate level in the United Kingdom. These are available in various fields of study and cover a portion of the tuition fee. |
| Chevening Scholarships | The UK government funds Chevening Scholarships to outstanding students worldwide pursuing a one-year master’s degree at any UK university. The scholarship covers tuition fee, living allowance, and other related expenses. |
| Commonwealth Scholarships: | The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission offers these scholarships for Indian students pursuing master’s or Ph.D. programs in the UK. The scholarship covers tuition fee, living expenses, airfare, and other related costs. |
| Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD) | Funded by the European Union, these scholarships are awarded to students worldwide to pursue a joint master’s degree in Europe. The scholarship covers tuition fee, a monthly living allowance, and travel expenses. |
| DAAD Scholarships | The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers numerous scholarships for Indian students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or Ph.D. programs in Germany. It cover tuition fee, living expenses, and other related costs. |
| Australia Awards Scholarships | Funded by the Australian Government, these are for Indian students pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D. program in Australia. The scholarship covers tuition fee, living expenses, airfare, and other related expenses. |
| Inlaks Scholarships | The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation offers these scholarships for Indian students pursuing a master’s, Ph.D., or other postgraduate programs at top institutions in the United States, Europe, and the UK. The scholarship covers tuition fee and living expenses. |
| Tata Trusts Scholarship | Tata Trusts offer various scholarships for Indian students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate programs abroad in various fields. The amount for scholarship varies depending on the course and institution. |
| Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarships | These scholarships are offered to Indian students pursuing postgraduate studies in various fields at prestigious institutions abroad. The scholarship amount is up to INR 20 lakhs, which can be used for tuition fee and living expenses. |
How Do I Get Opportunities to Work Abroad?
Working abroad not only provides financial independence but also offers an enriching experience that helps in career growth and expands cultural horizons. Here are some ways which could help international students to get work opportunities abroad:
- Explore countries and cities that offer interest-related job opportunities. Consider factors such as language, cost of living, work culture, and visa requirements to find the most relevant options.
- Customize your resume to highlight skills, experiences, and achievements relevant to the targeted jobs and countries.
- Attend industry conferences, workshops, and events to connect with experts in the field of interest. Networking help students discover job opportunities and gain insights into the job market in the target country.
- Utilize online and offline employment search platforms, like Indeed, Monster, and LinkedIn, to find job postings.
- Learn the local language to increase the chances of securing a job abroad.
- Prepare for interviews and practice answering common interview questions.
How to Select Affordable Places to Study Abroad?
There are numerous factors that every international student needs to consider before deciding on affordable countries to study abroad. Important points to keep in mind include:
- Tuition Fee
- Quality of education
- Cost of Living
- Available financial aid options and scholarships
- Whether a student visa is required to study there
Conclusion
By carefully evaluating the above mentioned factors and doing thorough research, students can confidently choose the study abroad destination that perfectly aligns with their goals and interests. Studying abroad is a life-changing experience which can greatly enhance personal, academic, and professional development, so make the most of this opportunity and cherish every moment.
To begin with the application process or to simply seek guidance in the selection process, visit your nearest Canam office today or connect with the experts at Canam online.
