Plan to study abroad?

Before you sign up for any course or university, you must do your homework well, consider the purpose of your education, evaluate your financial health and understand all the risks involved. If you are planning to travel abroad for your education this year or later or know someone who is, here's some practical advice to follow:

Useful tips for students from students

1. Research, research, research. Start planning at least a year or two in advance. Look for universities and courses that best meet your requirements.

2.Take your entrance examinations well in advance. Your scores will be valid for at least two years. This will also give you time to reappear if your scores are not up to the mark.

3. It's important to pick the right course in a good university, over a good, popular destination or country. Choose a course with good, experienced faculty, that also offers live projects and practical learning experience to help you grow in your career.

4. Start applying at least six months in advance. Processes that usually take two weeks, can be delayed by months due to the lockdown/pandemic, even a future one due to a next wave. So don't procrastinate and lose precious time thinking you have it all under control.

5. Before registering/signing up for the first dose of any vaccine, check with your college and official website of the country you will be visiting to ascertain your decision. Carefully read the terms and conditions on the official website, take necessary permissions and secure relevant paperwork before you travel from India.

6. If you haven'[t gotten admission in a college of your choice, wait for a few months. Don't pay full fees and opt for an online course. The experience of a classroom environment vis-a-vis virtual learning is not the same.

7. While looking for financial assistance, consider varying transaction, conversion rates and other bank charges. Be prepared to pay extra, maybe even double the amount you had in mind.

8. Keep your finances and documents in order.

9. Be ready to explain gap years on your CV, especially while applying for a visa to pursue a post-graduation education in certain countries. Without relevant work experience, relevant documents and recommendation letters from employers, the process may be delayed further, or even lead to rejection of application due to insufficient paperwork.