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Vashi2Panvel.Com: Navi Mumbai: July 27: Studying abroad is the option to which most of the graduates are open today. The trend of studying abroad is fast gaining ground. There are many universities, which provide the necessary course for the desired candidates. The most important aspect is to choose the right program and the appropriate country.

Step 1: When & What Works For You?
Write down your goals and constraints. In order to find a study abroad program that meets your academic, financial, and personal needs, you need to clearly define your goals and constraints. What is it that you want to accomplish? When can you go? What can you afford? There are different criteria’s for different universities and countries. For example you have to appear for GMAT to do a post- graduate management course in USA.

Step 2: Where To Go?
Select a location BEFORE you select a program. Atmosphere is a key ingredient in the overall learning recipe. You will learn more in an environment where you feel comfortable. Are you a big city person or do you prefer small towns? What do you like to do outside of class? Do you prefer a busy nightlife or fewer distractions from your studies? Are you interested in Latin American indigenous cultures, or are European cultures more enticing?

Step 3: Which Programs Meet Your Needs?
Research and compare program details. Not every international study abroad program is right for every student. When evaluating different programs, we recommend that you answer the following questions: - What are the deadlines, start dates, and payment policies? What are the requirements? (language, grade point average, etc.) - Are the selective courses taught in English or the local language? - How big are the language classes? - Where is the campus located? (near a city center, public transports, etc). - What facilities are offered? (on-site cafeteria, computer lab, library). - What are the housing options? - What out-of-class activities are offered? - What excursions are included? - Are volunteer or internship opportunities available? - What other services are included? (travel insurance, cell phone, etc.) - What type of transcript is provided? (US college or foreign university). One of the best tools for researching and comparing study abroad programs is surfing the internet.

Step 4: Who Puts It All Together?
Find the right study abroad provider. Independent organizations and private/state universities both provide study abroad programs at foreign institutions worldwide. In your research, you may find that the program you want is offered by several organizations. Therefore, you should select the one with the best service and value, and that you feel the most comfortable with. Remember that you will be studying far from home, or even overseas. Here are some questions for you to ask when evaluating different study abroad providers: -

Are they reputable?
Ask for references, how many students they send, and years in business. - Are your questions answered in a complete, friendly, and timely manner? - Do they demonstrate a good understanding of the location and the finer details of the program? What do you get for your money? Do they provide in campus placement options - Do they provide extra services? (excursions, cell phones, in-country transportation, extra activities, other lodging options, etc.) - Are the payment and refund policies flexible? (credit cards, late registration, postponements, etc.)
These are just the basic steps. Sure, there is more to think about before you study abroad, but if you follow the above advice you are on your way to selecting an excellent study abroad program.

Smriti Mishra