Are you starting your study abroad application soon? If yes, then you should read this.
Studying abroad may seem like an easy process but the truth is, it can get stressful. Your application process requires as much planning and dedication as possible.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 5 mistakes to avoid during your study abroad application. These mistakes could affect your application and in some cases, your entire study abroad experience.
Here are 5 mistakes to avoid during your study abroad application:
- Applying for the wrong course or to the wrong university
As a prospective international student, your first task when applying to schools abroad is to figure out your interests and a course that aligns with these interests. After deciding what you hope to gain from your study program, you should look out for schools that will help actualize these goals.
Many students make the mistake of just selecting any program during their application stage. This could either result in a series of rejections because the admission board doesn’t see you as a good fit for the program or even worse, you’ll end up getting accepted for a program you don’t want to do.
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If you’re unsure about the program you want to study, do some research, look up the curriculum, speak to university reps or even attend open day sessions if possible to have an idea of what you’re getting into. The next step will be to choose schools offering what you’re looking for. Your ranking of universities may be based on faculty expertise, funding opportunities, acceptance rate or the percentage of international students, depending on what your priorities are.
Ask as many questions as you need to ask to clear up any doubt you may have regarding choices.
- Ignoring funding opportunities
This is one of the biggest mistakes students make during their study abroad application. International education already costs a fortune, so why not look out for ways to ease that burden? Many schools offer funding opportunities (scholarships, tuition discounts, or assistantships) available for international students who study abroad.
When planning your study abroad application, take your time to research available funding opportunities in your university or faculty for those you’re eligible for. This could go a long way in reducing the cost of your international education.
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- Not researching living and study expenses
Another mistake students make during their study abroad application is not planning for the costs that come with international education. Having an estimate of tuition costs, living expenses and other costs associated with your study abroad will help you plan and budget better.
Without proper preparation for these costs, you may end up spending money applying to schools you can’t afford or living in cities with a higher cost of living than you imagined. On the other hand, proper research into the cost of living and tuition allows you to explore alternatives that fit your budget and make also plans for your study program.
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- Last minute application
This is a common mistake students make during their study abroad application. In most cases, this is an after-effect of procrastination.
Getting your application documents ready early enough helps you beat the last-minute rush. Early applications allow you to take advantage of application fee waivers, tuition discounts and assistantships opportunities. Your chances of submitting an impressive application will be affected if you start working last minute.
Documents like your statement and purpose and letters of recommendation have to be well-written rather than rushed since you’re hoping to convince the admissions committee to accept your application for a program.
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- Poor research on the conditions of your visa
This mistake, like others on this list, is likely to happen when you do little or no research during your study abroad application. From finding out the requirements for visa application to the conditions of your visa, research helps you make informed decisions during your application.
Can you work while studying? What jobs are you allowed to do as an international student? Does your student visa allow you to stay back and work after your program? If it does, how long is this for? Can you move with your dependents?
These are questions you should look into to avoid getting disappointed along the way. Speak to study abroad experts, do your own research and make a choice that suits your study abroad goals.
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