Study Abroad Application and it's challenges

Coming to a decision to study abroad takes a lot of effort, mind games, and much more. The next step towards the study abroad plan is to decide on the course and shortlist colleges / institutions you want to enrol in. Then comes the most vital part, which is filling out the study abroad applications!

Each institution has a different set of requirements, and the study abroad application comes with a lot of challenges; let’s see what they are:
 

The budget for studying abroad varies depending on the country, the type of programme, how long it lasts, and your spending limit. Students have the option of self-funding; that is, all the expenses are borne by the parents, or they can also choose to take an education loan from a financial institution instead.

Academically talented students can also choose from many scholarship programmes listed on university websites to reduce their financial obligations. Once the budget has been set, the student needs to plan everything accordingly and having a set plan will make life a tad bit easier in a new country!

 

Most students are unaware of the deadlines and miss out on the opportunity in front of their eyes. Keep in mind the timeline provided by the institution and submit all the documents in the given time. It is advised not to wait for the deadline and submit the application beforehand to avoid confusion. Once you skip the deadline, you have no choice but to wait for the next intake to apply!

 

To be eligible to study abroad, you need to have given at least one English proficiency test, and some general exams include GMAT, GRE, SAT, and ACT which depend on the country and course you choose. If you are going for a bachelor’s abroad, you must have secondary education qualifications and transcripts. If you are going for a master’s abroad, you must show the university results and proof of your undergraduate.

 

It is a crucial part of your study abroad application process and there are students who are unaware of what a SOP is. A SOP is a personalized essay which talks about the background, reason to pursue the course, your achievements, your contributions and why do you think you are the right fit for the particular institution. It is vital to keep in mind that a SOP reflects your personality so it’s important to put your best step forward! 

 

There are two types of LOR; one is academic, which is given by your professors/ teachers, and the other one is Professional, which is provided by your boss/ managers. In a LOR, the referee discusses your abilities, successes, experience, and contributions to your college or professional organisation. Some institutions ask for more than 2 LORs, so checking the requirements is essential to avoid any last-minute hoax.

 

So now that you have decided to study abroad, you might know about IELTS, TOEFL, PTE exams that are mandatory in many of the institutions. Having a good score in the English proficiency test is as important as your scores in high school. There is a certain score that you have to achieve to be eligible to fill out the study abroad applications and that depends on the university/ college you choose to study in. 

 

While filling out the application form, look out for essays, if any. Some institutions have separate essay requirements for the courses. These essays test your ability to answer in a personalized manner and why the particular course would help you later in life! In addition, you can showcase your determination to the admission committee and convince them of your planning through these essays!

 

In the hustle and bustle of shortlisting colleges and filling out study abroad applications, students forget to apply for a visa and miss their chance. Having a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your anticipated return date is necessary. If you don't have a passport or it's about to expire, you should apply for one immediately or have it renewed.

 

There is a list of documents that are required for filling out the study abroad applications, which the institution itself provides. Once you have decided on your study abroad plan, see for intakes and start preparing for your new journey. It takes a whole lot of planning, execution and ideation to study abroad, but worry not; we at MapMyStudy will help you ace your study abroad plan like a boss!