To begin studying as an international student, there are a range of entry requirements you may have to meet.

The academic requirements (including evidence of English language skills) you need to study abroad will vary depending on the level of education you want to pursue. For instance, some courses will require you to have done a foundation course before applying for a degree. All universities and schools can have different entry requirements, so it is important to read the course information very carefully.

Your OpToStudy advisor will help you assess your eligibility for different programs and guide you on the courses and locations that best meet your preferences.

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The costs associated with studying at a university or school abroad vary greatly. It depends on the nature of your chosen program, the length of your stay, the distance you travel and the kind of lifestyle you want when you get there.

Be aware that some student visas require you to have a certain amount of funds available in your bank account when you arrive in your chosen country. It is best to review the immigration websites for the country you wish to study in or speak to one of our counsellors.

Many students choose to carry out some part-time work alongside their studies to support their living or socializing costs. However, there are restrictions on the hours you are allowed to work to ensure you don’t lose your academic focus.

We recommend you to start as early as possible. This will give you enough time to ponder upon your interests and research according to your personal and academic goals and aspirations. Location, course duration, costs, accommodation, and living conditions are some of the other aspects that you need to figure out along with your program. Start planning at least one year or intake in advance. Of course, we are here to help you throughout the entire process.

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We recommend you begin your application process at least a year in advance to give enough time for your applications to be processed and to prepare for your time overseas. Remember, the academic year begins at different times of the year in different countries.

It’s natural for your family to be nervous about letting their child travel alone to a new country. Millions of students have done so and thrived, but this doesn’t make it less difficult for parents to accept.

We encourage you to involve your parents in any discussions or appointments you have with OpToStudy. With the reassurance of an international education specialist like OpToStudy, your parents would feel more confident seeing you being assisted by a professional and responsible organization in your applications and preparations.

Refer to our guide for parents to help put your family’s concerns at rest.

There are various scholarships and bursaries available for international students to help them fund their studies. The amount and availability vary by the level of study and institution. Since scholarships are competitive in nature, you will have to demonstrate exceptional academic achievements to earn them. Governments and other organizations also provide scholarships and awards to help international students fund their studies. Speak with your OpToStudy Advisor for details of various scholarships available for your chosen course and university.

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Working while you study can complement your educational and living experience when studying abroad. If you pursue a course at a degree level or above you may be permitted to work while on an international student visa. But before you undertake any paid work, make sure that your visa permits it. The opportunity for students to work part-time during their studies varies from country to country.

Many universities have a dedicated job center on campus for students that advertises job opportunities and internships to help students develop various skills. The university careers service is also a useful source of information.

The skills and qualifications employers and professional registration bodies require will vary from country to country. If, for example, you are working towards a career with strict entry requirements such as medicine, engineering, accounting or teaching, conduct some research with the relevant registration bodies in your country for advice.

Your career prospects will benefit hugely from your experience of studying, living and socializing abroad. It’s your opportunity to develop a wealth of new skills, perspectives and stronger English language skills and seek work experience from the kind of employers you’d like to work for.

A recent study conducted with more than 4,500 ex-international students explored the exact skills employers in the US value when it comes to recruiting people that have studied overseas.