Pursuing your study abroad dream requires proper planning and dedication. Getting your application documents ready and knowing what is required to make your university application more impressive, are key steps during your study abroad process.
Starting out this process can be confusing and you will need as much information to help make this process easier.
Here are a few questions international students typically ask when getting started on their study abroad journey:
1. What are the main documents I need to start my study abroad journey?
To begin your university application, you’ll need the following documents:
- Academic Transcripts
- International passport
- Statement of Purpose
- Reference letters
- O-level results
- Academic CV
- Proof of English proficiency (varies with school)
2. What should I consider when starting my study abroad journey?
There are several factors to consider when starting your study abroad journey. However, here are 5 top things to consider as an international student:
- Work placement or internship opportunities
- Your estimated budget
- Language barrier (if any)
- School ranking of your desired institution
- Accommodation
3. What costs should I include in my study abroad budget?
Your budget should include your cost of tuition, living expenses and visa fees. Here is a list of major expenses you would incur as an international student:
- Tuition
- Accommodation costs
- Feeding and transportation expenses
- Healthcare
- Visa expenses
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4. What is the difference between a personal statement and a statement of purpose?
A personal statement focuses on who you are. A personal statement is a bit informal and should tell your story. Your story should elaborate on your aspirations, personal motivation for the program, your achievements and how you’ve overcome the challenges you’ve faced so far.
Your personal statement should be captivating and should link who you are to the program you’re applying for.
Statement of purpose, on the other hand, is more detailed and adopts a formal approach. Your SOP should highlight your academic strength, professional background, career goals and the specific areas of the program you’re interested in.
Your SOP should be specific on how your academic or professional achievements influenced your decision to apply for the program.
5. What is the difference between a conditional offer and an unconditional offer?
A conditional offer is an offer of provisional admission given to prospective students with the condition that they fulfil certain requirements to gain full admission.
On the other hand, an unconditional offer signifies the candidate has met the entry requirements and has been accepted by the university for a Specific Program.
6. Can I work while studying abroad?
Your work eligibility as an international student will depend on the conditions of your student visa. Most countries allow international students to work while studying with a restriction on the number of working hours during school sessions.
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7. How can I get work experience as an international student?
- Internships and Work placements
Internships are the best way to gain work experience while studying. You can apply for paid or unpaid internships in your field. This will help you build experience and develop the skills needed in your industry. Internships also help you decide if a specific career is right for you.
- Volunteering
Volunteering activities help you network and contribute to solving societal problems while gaining work experience. Volunteer work can be a great addition to your work experience as it allows you to pursue your various interests.
- Part-time Jobs
If your student visa allows you to work, you can get a part-time job while studying. This would be a useful source of income to cover study and living expenses while developing skills that may be useful to employers.
- Freelance work
In some countries, international students are not allowed to engage in freelance work. Freelancing is also a great way for international students to supplement their income. Before engaging in any freelance work, ensure your student visa permits you to do so.
8. When should I start my university application?
As soon as possible. Applying to universities can be an overwhelming process. To make this process easy for you, gather the required documents early enough and start your application at least 6 months before the deadline.
9. How long does it take to get a degree abroad?
The program length will depend on your course type, university, and study destination. Generally, a full-time undergraduate program can run for 3-4 years, while postgraduate programs like a Master’s degree could be anywhere between 18-30 months, with a PhD program requiring 3-4 years.
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10. How can I finance my International Education Dream?
- Scholarships
This is the most popular and convenient way to finance your study abroad. Scholarships could be based on academic excellence, sports-based or in form of fellowships.
- Student Grants
These are also called Bursaries. They are need-based scholarships providing financial aid for students with little or no income. Student grants are typically offered by the government, university or an NGO.
- Crowdfunding
Your personal savings and funds from family and friends can sum up to a large part of the cost of your study abroad. Crowdfunding requires long-term planning to give you enough time to raise the funds needed.
- Part-time employment
As an international student, you’d have restrictions on the number of hours you can work and the type of work you can do. Working part-time, however, will help you fund your living expenses and other study expenses you’d need to take care of. Roles like graduate/teaching/research assistantships include part or full tuition waivers and a stipend.
- Student loans
Student loans are also a popular means of funding international education, though they are usually every student’s last resort. Student loans involve seeking financial aid from institutions or the government to support your studies. These loans include interest that will be added to the loan amount during repayment.
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