Have you ever decided on getting a higher education in abroad? What’s next? Here are a few next steps you could take:
A – Choose the educational establishment that best meets your criteria;
B – Study a foreign language;
C – Prepare all documents necessary for admission.
It’s a good idea for prospective students who want to study abroad to
commence their preparation in advance, at least one year before the
beginning of the study programme. The enrolment in international
universities takes, on average, three months to one year in sequence.
However, usually there are certain application deadlines and, therefore,
those applying later may not be admitted.
1. Country Selection
Sometimes students choose a university almost at random. But many
countries have their own national characteristics, advantages and
disadvantages. The best idea would be to get acquainted with these
institutions before your trip abroad. Therefore, we shall explore the
educational system, entry requirements and opportunities to receive
education in the chosen specialty in this country. Check out the living
conditions, pricing, including the ability to partially cover the
tuition fees with grants or scholarships, and opportunities for
part-time work in your free time. It is important to know the university
ranking and how well the course you’re considering is regarded
internationally.
2. Language Proficiency
The basic requirement for admission to any international university
is a certificate confirming the knowledge of a foreign language. If you
select the English-language programmes, you have to pass the TOEFL or
IELTS certificate exam (or any other required). If the teaching is
conducted in the local national language, then you should learn the
language of the country you intend to study in.
3. Admission Consideration
At the same time, prepare the documents necessary for admission.
Nearly all international universities require applicants who have not
yet graduated from school to submit a statement on academic performance
over the past three years. They can also take into account the grade
point average for the core subjects. In countries such as Germany, the
UK and Norway, school education takes 12 years to complete, thus, to
make up for the difference in the educational systems, all foreign
students have to undertake preparatory training programmes. Examples
include the A-level or Foundation or IB programmes, which take place in
high school or a preparatory center at the university. Current or final
grades of these programmses, are also included in the list of required
documents. Sometimes, to enroll in an International university, one
needs to take tests or examinations on a major subject or submit a
portfolio.
You should invest a lot of time into writing your motivation letter.
Here, you will explain your choice of profession and educational
institution, and what your plans for the future are. It is advisably to
give some details of your achievements, such as attendance to
competitions, contests or other special talents. Recommendations from
teachers, as well as diplomas and certificates are more than welcome.
Finally, add the filled out registration form, photos, copy of the
foreign passport and, possibly, reference on your financial standing,
and submit the document package to the university.
