JOIN USWhile studying abroad is, by and large, associated with undergrads, it’s become a growing trend among graduate students as well. An overseas graduate degree, besides presenting you with a global familiarity, brings in a host of additional benefits.
Recent trends suggest that an increasing number of Indian students are going abroad for undergraduate programmes, the high costs not being an impediment. Admission to postgraduate studies in top-ranked universities is considered to become somewhat trouble-free for those who already have acquired their undergraduate degree overseas.
In a poll conducted by the US Census Bureau, more than 80% of the respondents agreed that studying abroad have enhanced their interest in academic associations. Also, many believe that a stint in studying abroad adds that extra value to their resume and enhances their future professional opportunities.
The painstaking application procedure to world-renowned universities emphasises about your personal ambition and determination besides showcasing your academic accomplishments. More employers are seeking out culturally aware and experienced employees who can work effectively in an increasingly global workplace. While applying for postgraduate studies overseas, a student is to manage the added responsibilities of finding an appropriate housing, budgeting down to the last detail, and chart academic course in a foreign place, which is most likely to help them realise their life goals.
All universities require students to submit letter of recommendation from individuals who have had some role in shaping the applicant till date. After completion of education overseas, a student assimilates a completely different outlook about the real world. An affirmative university experience often influences their subsequent educational or professional endeavours.
In vogue
Some of the courses in demand for undergraduate programmes are:
Engineering/Science-related courses
Business/Management
Liberal Arts/ Humanities
Psychology/Economics
Most undergraduate degrees overseas are of 4 years, whereas Master degrees are of 1 or 2 years, depending on the country. The 1-year programmes are immensely popular nowadays as it saves a year of education along with saving living expenses for that duration.
USA and UK still remain the most sought after destinations for higher education. To consolidate the claim, we may note that the number of Indian students at the US colleges and universities reached an all time high during the academic year 2007-2008 — a total of 94,563 students, an increase of 12.8% from 83,833 students in the previous year, thus constituting about 15% of the total US university foreign enrollment.
Students educated overseas return home with an amplified enthusiasm towards academic pursuits and a renewed interest in lifelong learning. Nearly 63% of students say that the experience had influenced their decisions to expand or change their academic concentration. In fact, nearly 90% of students indicated that their experiences abroad had influenced all their subsequent life experiences.
Almost all overseas degrees provide superior industry interface with leading business and professional organisations. One can gain world-class qualifications and unforgettable student experience by studying in overseas educational institutions.
(The author is co-founder, Collegify)