Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Study Abroad Program
How to Pick a Study Abroad Program That’s Right for You
What are your study abroad goals? Where do you want to go? What courses are offered? You may think about questions like this when selecting a study abroad program. It may take some consideration to find the right fit with all the various preferences related to academic, personal, and professional goals. Here are some steps to help make your decision with confidence.
Determine Your Goals
Decide what you want to do while you are studying abroad. Do you want to improve speaking another language? Experience another culture? Get school credits? Improve a chance of getting a job later? We benefit from knowing what we want in order to select the type of program that will best meet your desired experience. Many study abroad programs are tailored to help students meet such goals in a structured way.
Explore Study Abroad Destinations
Look into different countries and cities where you can study abroad. Think about things such as what language they speak, what their culture is like, what the weather is like, how safe it is, how much things cost, what cool places are nearby to visit, which college you want to go to that is good for your subject, and you are able to go too. Make a list of all the places that interest you and that you like. You can also explore colleges with good study abroad programs to ensure you’re getting quality education abroad.
Pick a Program Type
Think about what kind of study abroad program is best for you. Program types include semester/year-long exchange, short-term summer/winter programs, internship programs, volunteer programs and specialized study tours. Think about how long you want to go, what classes you want to take and whether you want to do any activities apart from the university.
Assess the Weather
Review the weather related to the study abroad program is an important preparation to prepare before you go to the country you have chosen. You want to have a sense of what climate conditions you will encounter.
Review Academic Offerings
Assess the academic program/service and course opportunities from each program, particularly to review what might count towards these academic interests and requirements. This means, do course with respect to your major /minor, and if there are electives that are aligned with your area of interest or academic experience. As well, you want to see if the host institution is recognized an accredited to meet your requirements.
Consider Language Requirements
If you are doing a study abroad program in a non-English country, you also need to assess your language abilities, and the program requirements in terms of language assessment (i.e. tests: TOEFL, IELTS, etc). Some programs may offer language courses or even immersion courses, to help improve your language competency.
Cost and Financial Aid
Determine the overall cost of the study abroad program. It includes tuition fees, living and meals, transportation, insurance, visas, personal spending, etc. In addition, research scholarship opportunities, grants, loans, and financial aid options available to international students. If possible determine the relative costs of different locations and programs according to your budget.
Talk to Advisors
Speak with academic advisors, study abroad advisors like Education Street, faculty members, alumni, and others that have studied abroad. You would be surprised at how much these individuals can assist you by offering insight, suggestions, advice, and suggestions based on their experience.
Learn About Support Services
Finally look at the support services offered by your host institution or study abroad provider. This could include orientation, academic support, housing support, cultural support, health support, and emergency support. Consider the level of support provided for international students, and the overall student experience.
Think About Personal Preferences
When selecting a destination to study abroad, think about your personal preferences, interests, and comfort level.
You will be able to choose an appropriate study abroad programs that satisfies your goals and enhances your academic experience by considering each circumstance in light of these factors.
Written By – Ankita Thakker
About:- Ankita Thakker is passionate, experienced and most importantly: gives results. The founder and Chief Counsellor Mrs. Ankita Thakker has mentored hundreds of students.
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