Study abroad
Every year, Indian students in large numbers move to foreign educational institutions for pursuing higher education.
Why study abroad?
There are many reasons why study abroad programs are becoming so popular. For most international students, the appeal is likely to be a combination of gaining a high-quality education, experiencing immersion in a new culture, gaining a global mindset and expanding future employment prospects.
Studying abroad is an exciting challenge that often leads to improved career opportunities and a broader understanding of the way the world works.
The type of experience you have during your time abroad will vary hugely depending on where you go, so make sure to pick a study destination based on your own personal interests as well as the country’s academic reputation.
Where in the world should I study?
Choosing where in the world you wish to study is not always an easy task. As well as your own personal interests, you should think about practicalities such as the costs of studying in that country (both tuition costs and living costs), your graduate career prospects (is there a good job market?) and your overall safety and welfare.
How do I get started?
Once you’ve made up your mind about where you want to study, you should start to think about choosing a program and a university, if you haven’t already. You can research leading universities with the QS World University Rankings®, use the subject rankings to discover universities which are best for your subject, and also consult national rankings of universities in your chosen destination.
You’ll then want to look closely at the courses offered by the institutions on your shortlist, as well as researching the local area and lifestyle, admission requirements and costs.
Once you’ve firmly decided on your program and institution, you should start to think about your application(s). Application processes differ depending on the university and the country, but generally each institution will provide full details of how to submit your application on the official website.
In some cases, there is a two-step application process for international students. This means you must submit two applications: one for a place at the university and one for a place on the course itself. This should be clearly stated on the university’s website. If you still have questions about the process, you should contact your chosen university directly.
If you think you might need a student visa, remember that in most cases you won’t be able to apply for one until you have received a letter of acceptance from your chosen university. Each stage can take several months, so allow as much time as possible.
How long do study abroad programs take?
The length of time you spend studying abroad will depend on the program and level of degree you’re undertaking. Generally, an undergraduate degree will take three or four years of full-time study, while a graduate degree such as a master’s degree or equivalent will take one or two years. A doctoral (PhD) program will usually take three to four years.
At many universities across the world, there is also the option of studying abroad for a shorter period of time. Student exchange programs allow you to study abroad for a year, a semester or even just a few weeks. Information about these shorter programs should be available on the website of the main university you plan to enroll.
What documentation should I submit with my application?
You may be asked to provide some supporting documentation as part of your application. Once again, requirements vary depending on the country and university, but international students are often asked to provide the following:
Visa Requirements
Student visas are a big question for those who want to know how to study abroad, though not all international students will need one. If you’re an EU citizen planning to study in another EU country, for instance, you don’t need a visa.
However, as a rule of thumb, if you come from outside of your chosen country’s geographical region/continent, you will probably need to apply for a student visa. This usually only applies to longer periods of international study; if you’re participating in a shorter exchange, last three months or less, a tourist or visitor visa may suffice.
Australia
Website: gostudy.com.au/australian-visa/student-visa/
Required Documents: Confirmation of Enrolment, Genuine Temporary Entrant, Financial Requirements, English Proficiency Requirement, Australian Health Test Requirement, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), Proof of financial support.
Canada
Website: canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees citizenship/services/study-canada/study permit/prepare/get-documents.html
Required Documents: Proof of acceptance, Proof of Identity, Proof of Financial support.
France
Website: france-visas.gouv.fr/en_US
Required Documents: Application form dated and signed, France-Visas receipt, ID photograph, Passport/Travel document, Commitment to present proof of compulsory vaccinations at the educational institution in France, Proof of health insurance and civil liability, Promise from an organization to cover costs.
Germany
Website: india.diplo.de/in-en/service/studentvisa/2004346
Required Documents: Passport, 3 Passport Pictures, Cover Letter, Letter of Admission, Proof of Payment, Proof of Language Proficiency, Proof of Financial means, Travel Health Insurance.
New Zealand
Website: immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/tools-and-information/forms-guides-and-checklists
Required Documents: A completed application form, Two-sized color photographs, Passport, Application fees, VAC Service Fee, Statement of purpose, Offer letter, English Language Proficiency Test, Proof of Financial support, eMedical Chest X-Ray certificate.
Russia
Website: studyinrussia.ru/en/life-in-russia/arriving-in-russia/visa/
Required Documents: Passport, Official invitation for entry to Russia, e-Application form, Photo, HIV-negative status certificate.
Singapore
Website: mfa.gov.sg/Overseas-Mission/Beijing/Application-for-Students-Pass
Required Documents: Overseas study plan of the applicant, Financial/bank statement, Applicant’s passport.
UAE
Website: government.ae/en/information-and-services/education/higher-education/student-visa
Required Documents: Admission letter from the university, Passing Medical Fitness Test, a Visa Sponsor either the university itself or a parent or relative, Approval of the relevant General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
Can I work during my studies abroad?
This will depend on whether or not your student visa allows you to work. In some countries there are restrictions on the amount of paid work you can undertake during your studies. Often there’s a limit of 20 hours’ paid work per week during term time, with full-time work permitted during holidays.
Scholarship
Search and apply for as many relevant scholarships as possible, keeping inmind that certain scholarships do not permit simultaneously availing other scholarships.