Are you ready to begin your study abroad adventure but unsure which program to choose? Feeling overwhelmed is normal!
With so many great universities worldwide, picking the right program can be challenging. At Studee, we’ve helped thousands of students make this big decision. Many of our student advisors were international students too, and they understand exactly what you’re going through as you take your first steps toward studying abroad.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing your perfect study abroad program:
What subject you want to study
What entry requirements you can meet
What are your career goals?
Your university program can open the door to an exciting and successful career in whatever field you choose. If you already have a dream job, focus on the programs that are desirable in that industry and will give you the skills, knowledge and experience you need to be an ideal candidate for employers.
For example, if you want to pursue a career in acting, a bachelor’s degree in drama or theater studies is a great place to start. If you haven’t decided what your career path is yet but you want to keep your options open, look into studying subjects like English, math, engineering, and business. Programs in any of these disciplines will provide you with transferable skills that can be applied to multiple career paths.
What subject do you want to study?
It’s easy to find programs that match your interests and goals if you know what subject you want to study. Start by making a list of subjects that you enjoy or excel at, then research programs that will let you study them abroad. For instance, if you like biology, programs like Biochemistry, Environmental Biology, or Marine Biology are just some of the options to consider. You might even discover a specific area of study that you hadn’t considered before.
Programs are usually taught within specific faculties or schools. By researching the faculty your subject belongs to, you can discover a variety of related programs that you might not have considered but could be perfect for you.
What entry requirements can you meet?
All universities have entry requirements that students must meet to be enrolled in their programs and these will determine what programs are available to you.
Programs may require you to have certain grades in specific subjects, qualifications in related courses, a portfolio of relevant work, and have passed exams such as English proficiency or admissions tests.
Establish what requirements you can meet and what you need to achieve so you know what programs are suitable for you. Even if the specific program you’re aiming for isn’t an option, there may be a related degree that you’re eligible for. Exploring these alternatives can open up new opportunities.
Every country has different entry requirements and grading systems so make sure you do your research and get in contact with your preferred university to determine how your grades translate internationally.
What is your budget?
Now you know what you want to study and if you have what you need to apply, but do you have the budget?
Program tuition fees can vary depending on the university or country where you’re studying, the length of your program, and the type of degree you are enrolled in. It’s important to set a clear budget before you apply to university because this will allow you to narrow down your choices to those programs that are financially suitable for you.
Understand what sort of financial aid is available to you. You may be eligible for scholarships, bursaries, or sponsorship opportunities that will help fund or reduce the cost of your tuition and in some cases, contribute towards additional expenses such as accommodation and living costs.
For more tips on how to budget to study abroad, read our guide here.
How do you want to study?
Everyone has their own unique learning style. Whether you thrive in workshops, laboratories, or lecture halls, there is a program out there to suit your needs. Assessment methods can also differ from one program to another, with some focusing on exams while others prioritize coursework. To make an informed decision, consult the program description or contact university staff for guidance.
If you want more flexibility, consider universities that offer hybrid programs. More and more universities are providing this option so that students can study both on campus and remotely from the comfort of their own homes.
What university do you want to go to?
If you already know what university you want to go to, the program you choose will depend on what they offer and specialize in. Your university might have an exceptional reputation for a certain program and have dedicated professors, resources, and state-of-the-art facilities to support student success in this particular area of study.
Consider programs that are high in the league tables for your preferred university. Well-known international university rankings such as the QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education World University Rankings will give you a comprehensive overview of what program will give you the best possible education at your chosen university.
Who teaches your program?
Studying at university is a great opportunity to learn from professionals who are experts in their fields and have years of knowledge and experience to share.
Research the faculty teaching the programs you’re interested in to understand their areas of expertise. If you have specific passions or subjects you want to explore, there are likely professors who have conducted research in those areas.
For those looking ahead, seek programs taught by professors with industry experience who can offer valuable advice and coaching for your career goals.
Universities often hold open days where prospective students can learn more about the programs and meet the professors. If you can’t attend in person, see if there are any virtual open days or online resources to get a better understanding of the program from the professors' perspectives.
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.