Which are the best study abroad programs?Alan Lakein rightly said, “Failing to plan is planning to fail.” If you are looking forward to undergoing a rewarding study abroad experience, it is absolutely essential to plan the way forward in advance. While deciding to go for overseas higher education you must consider all aspects including your academic credentials, career aspirations, financial capability, program requirements along with ascertaining the suitability of the university’s location. Study Abroad Programs

The below-listed points will help you in effective preparation for your higher education abroad. 

1) Academic Planning: 

Planning the course and program you want to undertake is of utmost importance. To begin with, it is important to clearly undertake a comprehensive review of your academic profile and career goals. Clearly laid out academic plan will help you define a clear blueprint for the future and the more you understand yourself and your needs, the more enriching your higher education experience will turn out to be. Once you have your academic plan in place, take out sufficient time to exhaustively research on the requirements of the course you want to pursue. Completing your applications early is not only a safe bet but also saves you from the overbearing anguish of missing your application deadlines. Some schools require you to spend a significant amount of time in filling up the application forms; and you must be mentally prepared to invest long hours in filling up those cumbersome forms.  

2) Know the program requirements: 

While it is imperative that you are fully aware of the demands and commitments of the chosen program, it is also important that you clearly understand the broader picture of the future it assures. Knowing every specific of the program ranging from the number of credits required to graduate, expected code of conduct, study commitments, scholarship, RA opportunities, placement record and financial aid will create the groundwork for a successful match. 

3) Rope in a trustworthy Overseas Consultancy: 

To enjoy a seamless and enhanced educational experience you must not only be aware of academic realities but should also be adequately prepared for cultural transitions. In addition, you also need a thorough understanding of the entire application process and advantages of applying early. A well written SOP, nicely documented letters of recommendation and an effective resume together make an impressive profile that will decidedly put you in an advantageous position. An overseas expert can not only help you in making a glowing profile but can also help you in easing out the much dreaded cumbersome application process.  

4) Learn more about the host country: 

While the thought of being on your own excites you to no end, it is imperative to foresee the challenges of staying away from a comfortable and familiar setting. You are accustomed to a particular life style and environment and getting yourself acquainted to a new culture will not only help you in settling down easily but also aid you in building nurturing and sustaining relationships. The best way to start is to know more about your soon-to-be host country. Try and gather information on its culture, language, political setting up and also brush up your knowledge on health and safety considerations of your host country. If you take steps to learn the local language of your host country, it would serve as an added advantage that will aid you in effectively integrating with the local culture. One sure shot way to brighten your study experience is to know your host country well in advance.  

5) Learn about the university location: 

Do you want to stay near the city center and enjoy a thriving nightlife or want a quiet picturesque setting with occasional getaways? Are you ready to lead a self-reliant life cooking on your own and doing your own laundry? Self-sufficiency comes to your aid if you are game with living off-campus but if you would want to play it safe you might want to consider settling in the university dorm. When selecting a School also makes sure you are well aware of its tuition fee and living expenses.  

6) Take Standardized Tests: 

Most of the sought after higher study destinations require international students to take some standardized tests like GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS that demonstrates their proficiency in English language. Please do not take these tests lightly as the scores go a long way in determining your chances of making it to the schools of your choice. 

7) Plan your Finances: 

Overseas education is an expensive proposition, and one needs to plan finances diligently. In order to get I-20, you need to demonstrate your financial capability. In case you don’t have sufficient fund at disposal, you need to look into other viable options such as educational loans. Try and explore all avenues and possibilities including financial assistance from the school in question that includes Scholarship/fellowships, Assistantships and Tuition fee waiver. When you are working on the financial requirement, do not forget to calculate living expenses along with tuition fees. 

With proper planning and adequate preparation, you will be able to take on the reigns of your study experience in your hands and smoothly gallop along the terrains of unfamiliar destination.