Study Abroad: Application Timeline
The ideal time to start a study abroad application is 12-18 months before the intended admission intake or the application window for which a university remains open to international applicants. The process is lengthy and begins with researching and shortlisting courses, countries, and colleges and budgeting accordingly. The next steps involve meeting exam and document requirements for the application, leading to the final steps of visa processing, house hunting, and departure preparation.
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Researching and Shortlisting
Choosing the Right Course and CountryResearching for a suitable country and shortlisting the best courses for your academic success is the crucial first step in your study abroad journey. Explore countries, universities, programmes, and their fees. Narrow down courses and check specific entry requirements.
Standardised Exam Prep
About a year before your application intake, understand the university and course requirements and start preparing for the standardised language tests, such as IELTS Academic or TOEFL, and aptitude tests, such as GRE or GMAT, for a strong candidature.
Finance & Scholarship
As you build your academic profile to study abroad, you must also start budgeting your expenses to meet the heavy tuition and living costs. Set a budget, explore loan options, and research international student scholarships.
Admission Timeline
The admission process of international universities is carried out differently in different countries. Each country offers different intakes, and for each intake, the admission windows open 5-6 months or 2-3 months. Prepare well in advance.
Intakes in Australia
The largest intake is February (Semester 1), with the substantial secondary intake occurring in July (Semester 2).
Intakes in USA
The primary intake is Fall (September) for the most course options and funding, while the secondary is Spring (January).
Intakes in Canada
The main opportunity is the Fall (September) intake, with the notable alternative being the Winter (January) intake.
Intakes in UK
The major intake is September (Autumn), followed by the significant secondary intake that begins in January (Winter).
Intakes in Germany
The primary window is the Winter Semester (Sept/Oct), with the much smaller alternative being the Summer Semester (April).
Intakes in Ireland
Most students begin with the main September (Autumn) intake, though a limited number of courses are available in February (Spring).
Intakes in Dubai
The most common start is the Fall (September) intake, with a strong secondary intake available in Spring (January).
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Application Documents
A set of application documents is required by universities to handpick the best international brains. Besides transcripts, a strong application is best supported by SOPs, LORs, CVs, and university or course-specific essays. This is also when you write your scholarship essay.
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Your personal essay detailing your academic history, career aims, and suitability for the chosen course and institution.
Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
A reference from a tutor or employer that validates your skills and character to the admissions board.
Scholarship Essay
A persuasive piece arguing why you should be awarded funding, typically focusing on merit and financial necessity.
Visa Process
Student Visa ServicesThe next crucial step in the application process is waiting for the offer, accepting it, and applying for the student visa. Ensure that you get guidance from professional visa experts, as they can offer valuable insights into reducing your chances of rejection.
Accommodation & Pre-Departure
From house hunting to booking your flight tickets and packing to travel, there is a lot to prepare before you fly abroad for the college orientation. Book your accommodation before reaching the destination and give yourself a good 2-3 weeks before your course commencement.