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How to Apply to Foreign Universities

1. Choosing a university

Choosing a university can be a daunting task, as there are many factors to consider before even thinking about applying to foreign universities. Here are six steps to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.

Step one is to decide on a discipline or field of study. While it’s possible to change your major during your studies, it’s best to choose a broader discipline to focus on initially. Some of the major academic disciplines to choose from include Business, Humanities, Natural Science, Applied Sciences, Formal Science, and Social Sciences. Each of these disciplines has its own subfields, such as Accounting, Finance, Management, Marketing, Creative Writing, History, Languages, Literature, Music, Philosophy, Performing Arts, Theater, Theology, Visual Arts, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Geology, Physics, Space Science, Agriculture, Architecture, Education, Engineering & Technology, Environmental Studies, Forestry, Journalism, Law, Library Science, Medicine, Public Administration, Social Work, Computer Science, Mathematics, Anthropology, Archaeology, Economics, Education, Geography, Political Science, Psychology, and Sociology.

2. Choose a Country

When choosing a university, it’s important to consider the country where it’s located. Some countries are renowned for specific programs and academic disciplines, but there are other factors to consider beyond reputation, such as cultural differences, campus life, and location.

For instance, if you come from a liberal country, studying in a more conservative country like the United Arab Emirates might be a culture shock. When selecting a country to study in, you should evaluate factors such as the student visa process, affordability and livability, community safety, primary language, employment opportunities, immigration policies, and standard of living.

3. Consider the University’s Rankings

When choosing a university, some students prioritize the opportunity to travel abroad, while others prioritize the university’s reputation and quality of education. To assess a university’s ranking, you can consult resources such as Times Higher Education, U.S. News Global University Rankings, and QS Top Universities.

Although these resources may not use the same criteria to rank universities, they provide a useful starting point. However, it’s important to gather additional information to gain a more comprehensive understanding of what each university has to offer.

4. Read Reviews from Other Students

Before starting the process of applying to foreign universities, it’s important to consider the experiences of previous students. While there are websites dedicated to reviewing universities and courses, there are also alternative sources of information, such as student reviews and testimonials.

You can find reviews on various platforms, including the university’s website, Reddit threads, StudentsReview, CollegeTimes (previously RateMyCollege), GetEducated, and WhatUni. Additionally, you can try reaching out to former alumni directly through social media to ask for their opinions.

However, it’s important to approach online reviews with caution and not rely solely on the first review you read. Instead, consider multiple sources of information to determine if a program is the right fit for you before beginning the application process for foreign universities.

5. Calculate the Cost

When considering international programs, it’s important to keep in mind that they are often more expensive than local programs. For instance, in 2019, international students in the United States paid an average of over $26,000 per year in tuition and fees, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Therefore, it’s crucial to select a program that fits your budget, as studying abroad is likely to cost more than studying in your home country. If your desired program is too expensive, you can explore options such as grants, savings, scholarships, or student loans to fund your degree.

Once you have determined the program and location that best suits your needs, you can begin the application process for your chosen universities, which can be a lengthy and detailed process.

6. How to Apply to Foreign Universities

The process of applying to foreign universities can be challenging, but there are numerous resources available to assist you. If you encounter difficulties with any of the steps, don’t hesitate to contact the program coordinators for assistance.

Remember that the university staff is there to support you as a potential student, so make the most of their assistance. After you have decided on the location and program you want to pursue abroad, the following are the next steps to follow.

•  Step 1: Select your desired program

Firstly, determine the location where you wish to study abroad and the level and field of study that you are interested in and have the necessary academic qualifications for. Consider your future career prospects and then choose a specialization that aligns with your goals. It is recommended to select a program that matches your objectives and to opt for a university that is highly ranked, has a strong reputation in your desired field, or meets other criteria that are important to you.

• Step 2: Thoroughly review the requirements and deadlines

The initial stage of applying to a foreign school involves carefully examining the requirements. If the information provided on the school’s website is unclear or inadequate, it is recommended to request additional information from the institution. If you are uncertain whether your nationality is eligible for student visas in the country, you may visit official government websites and study councils for further clarification. It is crucial to be mindful of the deadlines to ensure that you do not miss the admission or entrance exam deadlines.

• Step 3: Compose a Motivation Letter

In some cases, applying to specific fields of study or schools necessitates the submission of a motivation letter. The motivation letter, also known as a cover letter, should demonstrate your capacity to excel at the institution and should highlight your abilities and achievements. It is important to articulate your enthusiasm for studying at the university in a well-organized and concise motivation letter, using clear and effective English language.

• Step 4: Request a Recommendation Letter

In some cases, universities or programs may require one or more recommendation letters from a teacher. If you had a positive relationship with a teacher, do not hesitate to ask them for a recommendation letter. Keep in mind that instructors need time to write recommendation letters, and they may be requested to write letters for multiple students. To ensure that they have enough time to write a thorough and persuasive recommendation, it is advisable to ask them as early as possible.

• Step 5: Prepare for the TOEFL or IELTS Exam

If English is not your first language and you plan to study abroad, you will likely need to take an English language proficiency test. When scheduling your study abroad timeline and booking the exam, consider the time required to prepare for the test. Depending on your English language skills and the university’s required score, you will need to allocate time to study and get ready for the exam.

Moreover, it is important to book the exam at least one month in advance since each test center offers exams a maximum of four times per month based on local demand. If you apply late, the exam may be fully booked.

• Step 6: Translate and Verify Your Documents

If you’re applying to study an English-taught program abroad, you must translate your documents, such as your diploma and grades, into English. Keep in mind that the translations must be verified by a competent authority. If you’re unsure which authorities your prospective university accepts, check their website or ask an admissions official for more information.

• Step 7: Utilize Online Application Platforms

In recent times, many schools have adopted online application platforms to simplify the application process for students. Sending documents electronically through these platforms is preferred by most schools and students as it is faster, and usually less expensive or even free, compared to sending them by post.

• Step 8: Enroll for the Admission Test

In certain countries like India and some schools, particularly medical schools, an admission test is conducted to evaluate your proficiency in natural sciences and other subjects like language or mathematics. It is important to check the date and location of the test as it is usually held one or two months prior to the school’s commencement. You must register for the test beforehand and if necessary, make travel arrangements if the test is held abroad. Additionally, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the test format and content. You can prepare for the test by reviewing sample tests, if available.

• Step 9: Prepare for the Interview with Confidence

The final step in the application process may involve an admission interview. Certain schools, such as the University of Oxford and other prestigious programs, conduct interviews to determine which candidates are most suitable for admission. The interview typically begins with questions about your motivation for applying to the school or program, your background, and your future aspirations. To prepare for the interview, practice answering common interview questions, remain confident, and don’t let the formal setting overwhelm you. Stay composed and avoid speaking too fast or too slow.

• Step 10: Arrange Your Visa Appointment

To qualify for a student visa, your school and program must be accredited by the government of the country where they are located. Once you have received an acceptance letter and been admitted to the school, it is usually time to apply for a student visa. Depending on the country’s regulations and the number of applicants, the process of applying for a student visa can be lengthy and complex. Therefore, it is advisable to apply for your student visa and schedule your appointment or interview as soon as possible. The documents required for a student visa application typically include a bank statement, application form, receipt of payment for your application and university tuition fee, passport, medical information, and background information.

• Step 11: Budget for Expenses

When applying to schools abroad, there are various expenses to consider, such as entrance exam fees, document translation fees, English language test fees, tuition fees, and visa application fees. However, don’t let these expenses discourage you, as many students study abroad on a budget. It is important to plan for these expenses so that you can budget accordingly.