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Country Expert : USA
I understand that selecting the right university for studying abroad can be a bit difficult but there are some major points which you should always consider. I have tried to create a list for you.
Interest
This is perhaps the most important factor to consider while narrowing down the universities to be considered. Find out which universities are good in your field of interest. Use internet, read about the professors' research projects at those universities, and understand about the many projects that those universities are working on in your subject of interest. If the specialization or university that you choose for your MS does not align with your interest, you won’t be happy doing it and it will eventually show in your grades.
2. Return Of Investment
International students' tuition fees for graduate level courses vary from $8000 to $20000 every semester. Instead of dismissing a course or university because of its high cost, it is important to understand the Return on Investment and Value for your money. A low fee structure does not necessarily indicate poor educational quality, and the opposite is also not true. So you need to make sure that whatever university you choose, it guarantees the best ROI.
3. Location
The location of the institution plays a huge role in building the potential of a student. It's critical to understand what opportunities are available as well as the most relevant corporate demand in that area. You should always choose a location which has the most people from your own field. This will help you in developing a connection that will benefit you in the future if you pursue a position n the similar field.
4. Internships
Internships throughout the summer may be available somewhere between classes. Internships help you establish a connection that will help you land a full-time job after your course is over. And this is why you need to make sure that whatever university you chose, should provide you the ability and freedom to intern.
5. Eligibility
Each university has specific requirements for candidates and that is why you need to make sure that you fulfil all of them while choosing your university. To make this process easier, you can do a profile evaluation and check for yourself, which all universities you are eligible for by the help of the FREE School Explore Tool here. It will generate a list of schools based on your profile and preferences.
If you consider all these points, I’m sure it would be a lot easier for you to pick the right university for your masters.
Study abroad expert
When advising students on where to pursue their Master’s, I always highlight the importance of aligning their choice with their field of study, financial considerations, and long-term career goals.
Here’s a breakdown by popular study destinations:
- United States: Best for fields like technology, business, and research. Offers extensive networking opportunities and potential for high returns on investment, but at higher tuition and living costs.
- United Kingdom: Known for excellence in fields such as business, literature, and social sciences. The education system is intensive but shorter in duration, which can mean lower overall costs despite high annual fees.
- Germany: Ideal for engineering, computer science, and renewable energy. Most programs in universities are tuition-free or have very low fees, even for international students.
- Canada: A popular choice for its high-quality education, relatively affordable tuition, and favorable post-study work and immigration policies. It’s particularly good for fields like environmental sciences and engineering.
- Australia: Known for its strong programs in fields like public health, environmental sciences, and education, coupled with a high quality of life and straightforward post-study work visa options.
Your decision should also factor in the visa requirements, possibility of scholarships, and the economic and political stability of the country. Research thoroughly, perhaps connect with alumni through forums or social networks, and consider visiting education fairs to gather more insights before making your decision.