Studying abroad is an incredible eye-opening opportunity for students everywhere. Studying overseas helps you see the world, learn about different cultures, lifestyles, learn a new language, provide career opportunities, and teach you to be independent.
So, it is easy to understand why many Bhutanese students are getting into studying overseas. However, there are many things involved before taking off for overseas studies. Here are seven steps you need to take before you begin your study overseas.
There are hundreds of universities around the world that provide a variety of undergraduate programs for international students. It can be overwhelming, but it is the starting point. Choose your destination, where you want to study, and which university and city.
Tip: When looking for your study destination, look at the living cost in that area. Some areas are more expensive than others. If you know Bhutanese overseas, get in touch with them and ask about the living expense in that particular city and see if they have an excellent public transportation system.
Once you have narrowed down your choice of country, the next step is to choose your course. The choice of course largely depends on which stream you studied in high school. The best way to choose a course is by listing down the fields you are passionate about and then list out the courses you are eligible for.
Choose a course that suits your personal and academic needs because studying overseas is about personal development as much as it is about academics.
If you are looking for a long-term goal, then keep in mind what type of career opportunities you will find with the program after graduation. After you choose your course, get in touch with an education consultancy and begin the application process. Ensure that you apply to at least a few universities with the same program, so you have options.
IELTS is an English proficiency test that consists of Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking.
IELTS is the starting point to study overseas. Countries like the UK, New Zealand, Canada, and the USA require international students to appear for the IELTS exam. The IELTS score requirement depends on the course you want to study.
Overseas tuition fees vary depending on the country you are going to study in. The USA, Canada, and Australia have the highest tuition fees in the world, but the quality of education is also higher in those countries. While getting your funds ready, you have to keep the cost of living in mind.
Make an appointment at Global Reach Bhutan and discuss your funding options with the universities through the overseas education consultancy. After you have applied to a few universities, Global Reach will help you come up with an estimated cost for your course and living expenditure. With that, you will need to begin getting your funds ready.
You must also obtain health insurance for the duration of the course as part of the application process. There are numerous insurance options for international students. Insurance is an essential part of your application process, and it will cover you for the duration of the course.
Depending on the country you apply for, you might need to get certain vaccinations before entering the country.
The counselors at Global Reach help you apply for health insurance. Get a complete medical checkup and sort ongoing prescriptions and specific medical requirements with a doctor so that your insurance can be adjusted to any pre-existing medical condition.
Once you receive a letter of enrollment from the university, you need to begin processing your visa. A student visa is a must for Bhutanese students to study overseas. The counselors at Global Reach help you process your student visa.
The police agency will need to provide you with a No Objection Certificate (NOC), often known as a security clearance form. You will need the following things before applying for your student visa:
The education consultancy will notify of any other requirements. Gather all necessary documents and go through them to make sure everything is completed before sending them for assessment.
Ensure your passport is valid for your entire academic stay. It can be renewed while you are overseas, but it is a hassle, especially if there is no Bhutan Embassy where you will be studying.
After you have successfully acquired the student visa, book your flights and note down which airport you will be landing at and how to get to your university campus.
These are the seven steps you need to take before taking off for overseas studies. Take advantage of the chance to study abroad and discover a whole new world where you can learn and grow at the same time. It can be overwhelming with the processes and starting a new chapter, so it is advised that you go through an experienced overseas education consultancy.
The counselors at Global Reach have years of experience, so get in touch with them and make your dreams to study abroad a reality!