Did you know that as per the survey conducted by INTO University Partnerships, 8 out of 10 millennials in India aspire to study abroad? You, too, can gain from an impeccable education system of international universities, learn about new cultures, connect with a vibrant student community and most importantly, unlock enormous job opportunities. If you are planning to study abroad, this guide is for you.
So, how to prepare for study abroad journey?
1. Self-introspection
Studying abroad is a life-changing experience; hence, you have to be extremely sure about your chosen path. So, ensure your course perfectly aligns with your previous academic qualifications and future career plan. So, decide on the perfect study program, whether it is a diploma, degree, master’s degree or any other program.
Do a quick self-introspection exercise, and ask yourself these questions:

• What are my key skills?
• What domain will help me build a successful career?
• How will my preferred course add value to my knowledge and abilities?
• What are my long-term goals, and will a certain course help me achieve them?

2. Research
Every study abroad student will tell you that conducting thorough research is extremely crucial to find the right course, university and study abroad destination. Once you know which course to choose, find the universities in your preferred study abroad destinations which will help you achieve your academic aspirations.
So, research these factors:

• Courses: You should gather information about specialisation, subjects offered, graduation/post-graduation courses, intakes and duration of the programs.
• Universities: Get to know the global rankings, courses offered, admission requirements, research facilities, infrastructure, library and the student-faculty ratio.
• Destination: Check out job opportunities, student life, safety, culture and weather.

3. Entrance exams:
Most international universities will require you to take entrance exams, depending on your chosen course. Please devote time to prepare for these entrance exams as it will help you secure a university seat.
Here are some entrance exams:

• English proficiency exams: TOEFL, PTE and IELTS.
• Other competitive exams: GRE, GMAT, SAT, MCAT and LSAT

• Pro tip: Be prepared with the entrance exam scores before you begin the admission process.

4. Admission process
Every year, universities across the globe shortlist candidates from the sea of applications. To stand out from the crowd, you must create an impressive profile with a CV, Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letter of Recommendation (LOR). LOR will be shared by your faculty member from your previous university. However, SOP should be drafted by you in essay format and include these points:

• Academic qualifications
• Academic achievements
• Extra-curricular activities
• Projects
• Published articles, if any  
• Internship, if any
• Reason to choose a course/university and study abroad destination
• Short-term and long-term goals

• Let’s share one tip with you – apply to a couple of universities instead of focusing on just one university to increase the chances of securing admission.

5. Education loan
Please don’t forget that researching the right study abroad education loan is equally important. So if you are planning to opt for a study loan for abroad education, you must gather information such as education loan providers, interest rates, customer ratings, educational costs covered etc.
6. Be ready for visa application
You will need a student visa to travel to your dream study abroad destination. So, the visa application process will play an important role in achieving your study abroad dream. Most countries require students to submit all the necessary documents, right from academic transcripts to health certificates.
When you apply for a visa, visit the respective country’s official website to learn about the prevailing rules and regulations of the visa application process. Here are a few documents that you can keep ready before applying for the visa:

• 2 passport-sized photographs
• Valid passport
• ID and address proof
• Academic transcripts
• Entrance exam scores
• Student health insurance documents
• Proof of funds certificate

Note: If you apply for a study loan for abroad education, your lender will provide you with a proof of funds certificate.
So, here’s how to prepare yourself for studying abroad. If you are worried about the multiple costs, you can opt for a study abroad education loan as it covers major education-related costs. If you want more information, please remember we are just a call away.