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Destination Selection
How To Choose Where To Study?
An experience abroad is seen as indispensable on a student's resume, and more students choose to study in a different country every year. Universities have long recognised the value of internationalisation, both for themselves and for their students. Choosing where to study abroad is probably the most important decision a student makes, though choosing a subject area is usually the easy part, go with what interests you, or what you already have experience in. There is a lot to weigh up during your destination selection.
Choose A Destination That You Would Love To Study In
You should think about the next set of questions during your destination selection:
- What language do you want to study in?
- What form of education are you looking for?
- How tough will it be to get a visa?
- What are the university entry conditions?
- Which destinations are cheaper?
- Are there employment opportunities after your studies?
- Will culture shock be an issue?
Get Help Choosing A Destination“Ruhe Global Resources came highly recommended, and they delivered efficiently. From the application process to my arrival in the UK, the whole team went above and beyond to make sure everything ran smoothly.”
Factors To Consider During Your Destination Selection Stage
Student Visa
Once you have narrowed things down by language and the style of education you want, it is time to look at the factors you cannot control, starting with your student visa. You cannot travel without one, and the application itself changes depending on your destination, your citizenship and the course you plan to study.
Study Language
The language you want to study in is usually the biggest factor in choosing where to study, and settling on it early narrows your destination selection considerably. If English works for you, the USA, the UK and Australia take in the largest numbers of international students, and their institutions dominate the top rankings. Germany, France, Malaysia, China and Singapore are also worth a look, all popular with international students and increasingly offering programmes taught in English.
University Entry Demands
Admission to your chosen university is another factor outside your control, and competition for a spot can be considerable. If you are applying for an English language education, check the language requirements early, most schools will expect a test score from something like IELTS or TOEFL.
Study Cost
For many students, cost decides where they study. Tuition alone can vary hugely between countries, and even between regions of the same country, and it is only one part of the bill. Factor in accommodation, travel, everyday living costs, health cover and insurance too. Destinations like the UK and Canada offer free health services, which is worth weighing into your calculations.
Employment Opportunities
A degree from the US or the UK carries real weight with employers, but finding work in your destination after you graduate is not guaranteed. Some countries, the US among them, place tight restrictions on post study work visas, so check what is actually available to you in your chosen destination before you commit.
Culture Shock
Culture shock is the factor most students overlook when picking a destination. It should not put you off studying abroad, but it is worth preparing for, especially if your destination's culture is very different from home. Experiencing something new is one of the most rewarding parts of studying abroad, both personally and professionally.
Good luck with your destination selection.
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