Countless students around the world envision the dreams of international education and global careers. They go the extra mile to achieve academic excellence, gather funds, and try their luck at international universities. But getting through is easier said than done, specifically after the pandemic. As a student, you can expect to face a fresh set of challenges in the new normal. Fortunately, you can address them with some wise moves and fulfil your dreams without letting the current situation get in your way. Let us highlight the challenges and suggest effective solutions to overcome them.

FINANCIAL PLANNING

Money is the top concern for international students as university fees and the cost of living can easily burn a hole in your wallet. When you start with financial planning, consider the country and university that fit into your budget. While the entire picture looks daunting, you can cruise through by exploring scholarship programmes. Likewise, you may address the concern with education loans, provided you are a step ahead with documentation. Seeking professional guidance is the best way to finance overseas education as these experts can help you find a loan provider and fulfil the eligibility criteria. You can even check it with an online tool. Base your budgeting on the university and country as the assessment process of financials may differ for them.

PROGRAMME SELECTION

After the financial planning for overseas education, identify the programmes you may want to pursue in the preferred destination. Consider different course curriculums in several universities so that you do not run short of options. Looking at your stream in only a single university can limit your chances. Alternatively, you can apply for multiple programmes in the same university according to your eligibility. Pick the ones where you have a good chance of getting accepted.

PAPERWORK

Paperwork is another challenge for aspiring international students as you will have to provide an extended checklist. It gets even longer in pandemic times when your vaccination certificates and test documents are added. The best way to simplify documentation is by creating a comprehensive document folder once and using it frequently for multiple applications. You may have to add more or skip a few documents according to university requirements, but the folder will cover most of your needs. Look to get final certificates well in time as some international universities do not consider provisional degrees. Other common documents you will need include entrance exam scores, work experience documents, letter of recommendation, passport size photos, passport, travel documents, health certificates, statement of purpose, and financial papers.

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

Besides the basic documents, you need to have an impressive Statement of Purpose to get into a university of your choice. Having a good one gives you a good chance of acceptance. Experts recommend seeking professional help to craft the statement. Plan it in advance to ensure you have a great one on time. Ensure it is not plagiarised and presents an authentic picture of your goals and strengths to get the attention of the evaluators. You will need SoP for visa applications as well. Also, gear up for your visa interview as you will need to clear it before flying abroad.

APPLICATION TIMELINES

Students often miss out on application timelines while applying for multiple universities. It can land you in trouble when preparing for English proficiency tests. Nothing gets worse than missing out on a preferred university only because you fail to do well in language tests. Proper timing and planning can help you overcome the challenge. Consider using a calendar for maintaining timelines for different countries and universities. Note down the essentials of application as well. Do not expect the university to give an offer letter without the test scores, so plan for it at least six months in advance.

The challenges of international education are daunting, but commitment and passion can keep you a step ahead of them. Follow these tips to fulfil your study abroad aspirations in the new normal and beyond.