While studying abroad sounds like all fun and games, there are actually a number of things one needs to sort out before finally being to take flight into the new venture. From university application forms to student visas, it may sound like an administrative nightmare. Fret not! We have compiled a list of things you will need to prepare for a favourable overseas university application.
The first item that you need to prepare are transcripts from your latest school or learning institute. Make sure you dig up every past achievement and qualification you have obtained that demonstrates why you deserve a spot in the school. It is ideal if your past qualification is related to the programme of choice and that it ticks every criterion for enrolment. Remember, this does not only refer to academic qualities but also talents and skills! If you have held a leadership role in the past and is evident on paper, include that into the submission as well.
For all documentations prepared, you would also need to have them translated into the default language of the chosen country and have them notarised before submitting.
One major thing to note about studying abroad is the university’s main language of instruction. It is crucial that the school sees your proficiency in the language to know that you are able to understand classes. Therefore, we recommend that you start preparing for the language tests and take them before the university application window opens. If you have not yet learnt the language, then find out what is the minimum score needed and start taking classes so that you are able to meet the requirement.
That said, many countries like Canada extends a conditional offer to students who barely meet the language requirement. A conditional offer means that the university will admit you after you fulfil the prerequisite for enrolment.
Besides language requirement, some universities or countries such as Japan require applicants to sit for a university entrance exam before they can be considered for enrolment. So before you kick back and wait for a response from the school after submitting your application, you should do a check to see if that programme requires an entrance exam. If so, find out how you can prepare for it. You can start by finding out what are some typical entrance exam questions or topics related to your course and read up on them.
Some programmes, especially media and arts related, will require applicants to submit a portfolio along with their application form. This portfolio includes past works and evidence to prove that the student has prior knowledge of the course. Having a portfolio will greatly increase your chances of getting accepted into the programme- if you do not already have one, start preparing and creating works to build your portfolio. Not only is this helpful in your university application, it will also help in your future employment as you continually update your portfolio so that employers will see your skills and experience in the field.
With so many applicants fighting for a spot in the school, you need find an edge that will help you stand out from the crowd. Letters of recommendation come in handy because they are testimonials from people who know you and are able to validate your good character and skills. Do request one from a relevant party(s) and do it in advance to give the writer time to process and produce an impactful recommendation.
On top of that, some universities also require students to submit a personal statement during the application process. A personal statement supports your application by allowing you to articulate your interest in the particular programme and the skills you possess that emphasizes your passion in the desired field. A good personal statement for university will include skills and outstanding student qualities that will put you at a notch above the rest.
Studying overseas is not a pocket-friendly attainment, so before you make the call to hop on a plane, do find out what are the various scholarships available for you. Besides scholarships, there are several other methods to receive funds to study abroad and that is through loans and bursaries. Once you find a programme of choice, find out what are some loans or grants available. These aids can be in the form of government grants, bank loans, bursaries by institutes, and even your own local organisations such as heritage groups and clan associations. When contemplating a loan, you will need to also consider that you will have to pay the provider back when you start working. Read more about the types of financial aids available for students here.
Thereafter, start planning out your finances on how to stretch your dollar. You need to take note of tuition fees, monthly expenses such as rental and phone bills, and then set aside an amount for your everyday living. Sticking closely to the stipulated budget will help make sure you do not overspend and can still live comfortably for the entirety of your studies.
Universities usually request an admission interview if you just meet the requirement by an inch or if you are applying for a top university. This is your chance to reveal who you are as an individual and allow your personality to shine as you woo their approval, which is why you need to be well-prepared for it so that you can confidently answer their questions and hold a substantial conversation with the interviewers. You could research on what are some typical questions asked and practice the interview process with someone who can provide constructive feedback. The practice will also help to build your confidence. You should also research more on what the course entails to show your commitment to the programme through the interview.
Point to note, some universities even spring an impromptu essay on applicants during the interview and the topic is only revealed on the spot. So be mentally prepared to bring out your best literary skills to impress the board.
The last question you will probably find yourself asking is if you should engage an education agent. A good agent does more than just help you fill out forms- a good agent will be able to advise and source for schools and programmes suited for your needs, help you gather all the documents needed within a proper timeline, and even guide you during the student visa application process. The support does not stop there. An education agent will see to it that there is someone to pick you up from the airport when you arrive into the new country and also help you settle into your new accommodation. Getting an education agent helps reduce the stress of moving to a foreign land so that you are able to settle down easily and seamlessly! We hope that this list dispels all fear of a complex process to studying abroad and paints a clearer picture of the tasks at hand.
Click here to find out more about accepting university offers.
Next article
What course should I study?
If the title of this article resonates with you like a resounding gong, then you are at the right place. Choosing what...
Please enter your email address to receive our latest education related articles in your email!