Before you start your studies abroad, there’s one important decision to make: which international university will you choose?
At Studee, we work with nearly 400 universities and colleges worldwide. With so many options, narrowing down your choices can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to help. This guide will walk you through the key things to consider, so you can confidently find the right international university to make your second home.
We'll cover:
Your subject
Choosing your subject is one of the first and most important decisions you'll make when planning to study abroad. It helps you narrow down which universities are the best fit for you.
Some universities offer programs in a wide range of subjects, while others focus on one area, like a business school. These specialized universities are well-known for their expertise in certain fields and may offer unique programs, facilities, and career opportunities that you won't find anywhere else. For instance, if you want to study art, you might seek a university with strong creative industry connections and campus facilities, like studios and galleries, to support your learning.
Your study abroad program
If your study abroad program isn’t right for you, then your university won’t be either. To help you decide whether a university’s programs meet your needs, consider the following:
- What you’ll learn
Studying a program that you can be passionate about is essential for a successful study abroad experience. Most universities offer a syllabus, either online or in a brochure. This will show you what you'll learn throughout the semester, helping you decide if the program interests you and if you have any skills or experience you can apply to your studies.
- How you’ll learn
Everyone has their own learning style and certain programs will be better suited to how you prefer to study. Some programs have more contact hours, meaning you'll spend more time learning from professors and interacting with students, while others offer more time for independent study.
Depending on your subject, the focus may be on lectures, while other programs may emphasize hands-on learning or group work. Assessment methods also vary; for example, history students are often graded through written assignments, while drama and theater students may be assessed through performances and practical work.
- Who you’ll learn from
As a student, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from professors who are experts in the disciplines and subjects that you’re passionate about. They’ll be able to provide you with world-class guidance and support in your field of study, and offer valuable advice to prepare you for the industry you want to work in.
Research the faculty teaching the programs you’re interested in or attend university open days to learn more about the professors’ expertise and understand the programs from their perspective.
Entry requirements
All universities have their own requirements that students must meet to be eligible for a program. Before choosing your university consider the following:
- Your grades
Most universities ask students to have previously achieved a minimum grade point average (GPA) in a subject or multiple subjects related to the program that they want to study. For example, if you want to study History at an international university, you’ll be expected to have strong grades in that subject, and in similar subjects such as Geography, Politics, or English Literature.
Grading systems vary by country, so it can be difficult to convert your current grades to the grades required by an international university. Familiarize yourself with different grading scales and qualification types Use online resources such as a grade conversion tool, contact the university, or speak to a student advisor for additional help with converting your grades.
- Your qualifications
Depending on the level of higher education you want to study at (e.g. undergraduate or postgraduate), you’ll need to prove that you have achieved the required academic qualifications to study your chosen program at your desired university.
For example, if you want to study for an undergraduate qualification, you’ll likely need a secondary level qualification like a high school diploma, International Baccalaureate (IB), or your country’s equivalent of this. For a postgraduate program, you’ll generally need a recognized undergraduate qualification, such as a bachelor’s degree.
To study internationally, you may need to take additional courses such as a language proficiency exam (e.g. IELTS or TOEFL) or a university entry exam. The format and scoring systems of these courses can be different depending on the test provider and your study abroad country, so make sure to familiarize yourself with the tests you need to take, and leave plenty of time to prepare.
- How to fill the gaps
If your grades are below the required level or you need a specific qualification, it’s important to address any gaps that could prevent you from studying abroad. Be prepared to retake exams in subjects where your grades are lower, or take extra exams, courses, and opportunities to build the experience and knowledge you need to strengthen your application.
University and subject rankings
University rankings help you identify which universities and subjects are highly rated globally and give you a clearer picture of each university’s strengths and weaknesses. Rankings often consider important factors like student satisfaction, research quality, and career prospects, which can guide you in choosing universities that match your interests and goals.
Two of the most well-known international rankings are the QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education World University Rankings, but there are many others that can provide a full view of how a university performs in the areas that matter to you.
Location
Your study abroad country will become your home away from home, so liking your university’s location is vital. The following factors can help you decide which locations to consider when choosing your university:
- Type of location
Consider the type of environment you want your international university to be in. Are you excited by a lively city, or do you prefer the calm and natural beauty of a rural setting? Or maybe you’d like to study somewhere that offers a mix of both?
Each option has its own advantages. For example, rural universities are often surrounded by nature and outdoor activities, providing a peaceful atmosphere that can be great for your mental well-being. On the other hand city universities offer countless opportunities for networking, internships, and cultural experiences right at your doorstep.
Some universities even offer the best of both worlds, with easy access to both city life and natural locations.
When researching universities, take time to explore the kind of area they are located in. Think about whether it’s a place where you can feel comfortable throughout your studies.
- Culture and language
Studying abroad offers a great opportunity to experience new ways of living and broaden your worldview. However, adapting to cultural differences can be challenging. so it’s important to learn about the country you’re moving to and prepare to integrate into the local community. For example, learning the native languages in addition to the language used in your classes will make it easier for you to get around and talk confidently with locals. If the local culture doesn’t align with your values, it might be better to explore universities in other locations.
- Climate
We all have our preferred climate. Whether you prefer warmer or colder weather, choosing a location with a climate that suits you can boost your productivity, mental health, and overall happiness while studying.
- Distance from home
Studying abroad gives you the chance to explore a country very different from your own. You might be excited to take on this new adventure, or perhaps feeling nervous to pack your bags and go somewhere new. That’s why it’s important to consider how far you’re comfortable traveling when searching for your ideal university.
If you’d rather stay closer to home, apply to universities in nearby countries or continents that won’t require long-distance travel.
- Career prospects
When researching universities, consider the location’s reputation aligns with your future career plans.
Certain locations are known for specific industries. By choosing a university in a region known for your field of study, you can benefit from world-class expertise, valuable connections, and practical work experience that will give you a competitive edge in the job market.
For example, if you’re interested in studying business, London is a great choice, because it’s Home to many of Europe’s leading companies.
Campus
Your university’s campus is at the heart of your study abroad experience, so it’s important to take this into account when choosing a university.
When finding out what a university’s campus has to offer, it’s worth thinking about:
- Facilities
Consider what social spaces, study areas, and program-specific facilities you would benefit from both personally and academically, and find universities that offer them. For example, if you want to study a drama degree, you’ll need dedicated performance spaces such as studios, workshops, and theaters to provide you with the equipment and environment necessary to participate in your program
- Student housing
Many international universities offer their own accommodation as an affordable option for students living on or near campus. Research the type of housing (e.g. halls, houses, or apartments) and the layout (e.g. shared or private rooms). This will help you to decide whether it suits your needs and is within your study abroad budget
Student life
University is the perfect place to meet people from different walks of life and connect with friends who share your interests. Many universities support this by offering a variety of student clubs, events, and organizations.
Whether you’re into sports, academics, or extracurricular activities, you’ll have plenty of options to get involved and find your community.
Research the student societies and activities on offer at the universities you’re considering, and compare them to see where you’ll feel most at home.
University support services
It’s important to feel supported as an international student, and your university should have services in place to help and guide you throughout your studies. Think about what support you might need and find out what universities offer it. These services could include:
- International student support
Issues related to immigration (e.g. visas, passports, and permits), and general guidance about living and studying abroad.
- Student integration
Mentoring, orientation programs, and events to help you settle into your new life abroad.
- Academic advisors
To provide support related to your program and academic success.
- Career advisors
Help with building your resume, gaining work experience, and searching for jobs to transition into a successful career after graduation.
- Mental health support
Counseling and support groups to help you manage your well-being.
- Healthcare services
On-campus health clinics or local healthcare providers to offer medical support, check-ups, and emergency care.
- Financial support
Aid and advice for students who need support with funding their studies abroad.
- Accommodation support
Help with finding student housing and support with any accommodation-related issues.
- Language support
Workshops, courses, and sessions to support non-native speakers improve their knowledge of the local languages and languages of instruction.
The cost of studying abroad
Studying abroad is a significant financial commitment, so it’s important to find a university that fits within your budget. When deciding if a university is affordable, consider the following:
- Application fees
Costs for studying abroad can begin as early as your application process. You may need to pay for your application, student visa, health insurance, and passport, among other things. These fees will vary depending on the country and program you choose, so it's important to factor them in when selecting a university.
- Tuition fees
Tuition will be one of your largest expenses when studying abroad, and the cost of your chosen program will vary depending on the university and country. If a university’s tuition fees are beyond your study abroad budget, it might be better to explore more affordable options or look for ways to reduce your costs.
- Living costs
The location of your university will affect how much you spend on daily expenses like groceries, rent, utilities, and entertainment. Some places have a much higher cost of living than others, so it's important to consider universities in areas where these expenses fit within your budget.
- Return on investment
A good return on investment means that the money you spend on your education is rewarded with better career opportunities and a high-quality learning experience. In other words, even if a university is expensive, it’s worth it if it significantly boosts your academic and career prospects. To ensure you're getting value for money from your international education, it's important to research what each university offers in terms of education quality, career support, and potential outcomes after graduation.
- Financial aid
If you need financial support while studying abroad, focus on universities that offer aid. Look for grants, bursaries, scholarships, and loans that you qualify for, and explore sponsorship opportunities if available. Many universities provide scholarships specifically designed to help international students cover some of their study abroad costs.
Second opinion
Getting a different perspective is a helpful way to make an informed decision about which university is the right choice for you. Talk to peers such as friends, family, or teachers who know you well and can help you evaluate your options. Consult an expert like a Studee student advisor, who can evaluate your needs and aspirations, and use their knowledge to help you find your dream university.
Ready to start your study abroad journey? Tell us your study plans and we’ll help find your ideal program at the perfect university for you.