How to Choose the Best Destination for Overseas Education - Australia, UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand & Ireland

How to Choose The Right Country for You!

Here are a few things you should consider and plan upon to choose the best destination for overseas education -

Career Goals

It would help if you considered future career options and plans before deciding the best destination for overseas education for yourself. Overseas education makes the CV excellent and gives you an upper hand over students considering staying in India. On the other hand, setting up a career in the destination you choose to study is an equally good option.

What Course is the person thinking of

According to a study, more students choose MS courses at the graduate level than MBA courses. We cannot overlook places like Germany and Australia, which offer high-quality education at far lower costs than the USA, which is the best destination for overseas education. As French-speaking countries, France and Canada offer better study abroad prospects and credibility for French language courses than any other destination.

Return of Investment

Return on investment is the difference between predicted earnings following a course and the cost of obtaining the required knowledge. To further explain, the benefits of earning an MBA are much more significant even though the expense is noticeably higher. 

An effective technique is looking for national employment and wage data by industry. Therefore, when choosing the best destination for overseas education, research the pay scale of the position you hope to land after completing your studies. 

Passport/visa

To study abroad, you might also require a visa and a passport. Look out for the rules for your planned study abroad destination on the website of the State Department, as different countries have varying visa requirements. Apply as soon as possible because, like passport applications, visa applications might take several months to process.

Here is a pros and cons list of the most famous study abroad locations to help you pick the best destination for overseas education for yourself -

UK

Pros

The UK has continually set international standards and given many students access to a top-notch education. It is evident because the UK has top-notch institutions that dominate global rankings. The University of Cambridge, Oxford University, and Imperial College are among the top 10 universities in the world. They are a part of this exclusive group.

You might have a variety of life-changing experiences while studying in the U.K. The educational system therapeutically supports interaction, learning, and choice exploration, making it the best destination for overseas education. More than 100,000 courses are available to assist you in selecting the best area of study. Undergraduate and graduate degrees are only a few years long (about one to three years programmes), which is advantageous because you can finish school fast and go to work on your ambitions.

Cons

Although financial aid may be available, some of you may have trouble meeting your needs. Over time, the cost of living has likewise increased. Valid sources state that a single individual's average monthly cost of living in the U.K. is £2,249, depending on where the university is located.

Relocating to the UK might initially present linguistic and cultural challenges since the country is perceived as a diverse nation.

It could be challenging to further your studies in the U.K. because of the rigid visa requirements and harsh immigration regulations. However, you can apply for a visa with all the required paperwork. 

USA

Pros

Most US academic institutions have well-equipped computer labs, libraries, technical facilities, and other research spaces that let students explore and be aware of the applied theoretical concepts. These have the required safety, heating, and cooling systems, making it the best destination for overseas education for students and their safety.

The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) is an organisation certifying business schools worldwide, including US ones. Most people agree that the most esteemed accreditation for business schools is AACSB. Universities must meet stringent requirements to receive AACSB accreditation, including those related to the calibre of its professors, students, research activity, infrastructure, etc. Data from the previous year indicates that only 531 colleges and universities worldwide hold AACSB accreditation, more than 400 of which are American.

Many well-known enterprises, factories, hospitals, financial institutions, etc., are in the US. The largest economy in the world is that of the US, making it the best destination for overseas education for students who wish to settle there.

Internationally, degrees from American universities are respected and esteemed. Many receive more pay, perks, and better chances for professional and personal development than students who receive an equivalent education from institutes of higher learning in their own country.

Cons

Admission requirements include passing tests like the GRE, TOEFL, GMAT, SSAT, IELTS, and others, which can be difficult for students who do not speak English as a first language or who score below average on general aptitude and quantitative assessments.

In the US, schooling is costly. You might need to take out student loans to cover the cost of the tuition abroad if you or your family (parents) do not have sufficient financial security.

It is not guaranteed that you will find a job after you finish your studies. Your chance of finding work in the US depends on several variables, including the economy's state, study topic, university's reputation,  personality, communication skills, etc.

Australia

Pros

Pursuing your studies at an Australian institution could greatly benefit your career because the label " Australian graduate student" is highly valued. The institutions work on numerous live projects with corporate businesses to guarantee that the students also receive better exposure making it the best destination for overseas education for students interested in research. As a result, the student's résumé now includes professional experience in addition to their internships.

Last but not least, the Australian Qualification Framework (AQF), which has a solid international reputation and presence, governs most courses and training overseas students pursue in Australia.

To encourage international students to finish their studies, the Australian government has set aside a financial budget of 200 million for scholarships. 

Another factor that makes Australia the best destination for overseas education is permanent residency. The Australian government provides a variety of immigration alternatives for students who wish to settle there permanently.

Cons

Australia's public transportation networks are insufficient and difficult to use. As a nation, Australia primarily uses highways for transportation and road travel is typically more expensive. You can lower your travel expenses by finding accommodations close to your university. Additionally, most courses offer on-campus housing, which will significantly reduce your commuting time.

Australia has many different cultures, yet some native Australians are not as accepting of other races. Due to the prevalence of racism in this nation, Australian colleges have strict policies in place to prevent discrimination. 

Summers and winters in Australia are notoriously harsh. For students from cooler climates, the extraordinarily long and hot days are practically intolerable, and you might find yourself sticking inside where it's fantastic. Students from tropical nations find the winter chill in Australia's upper regions to be harsh, with temperatures falling below freezing. However, pupils adjust to these climatic extremes over time by dressing appropriately and staying inside when necessary.

Canada

Pros

There are several reasons why overseas students decide to pursue their higher education in Canada. Canadian degrees are respected throughout the world. The highly qualified research faculties give students plenty of pedagogical exposure and research opportunities, making it the best destination for overseas education.

Global Peace Index ranks Canada 6th out of 172 nations for peace, tranquility, and friendliness. The nature of Canadians is one of extreme cultural and racial tolerance. Universities in Canada place a high priority on the safety of all students, especially foreign students.

It is also advantageous for international students studying in Canada to work part-time jobs. International students with valid study permits may work up to 20 hours per week, with no restrictions during major holidays and breaks.

Cons

Studying in Canada can still be expensive due to the substantial value of the Canadian dollar, even though Canadian Universities offer many financial benefits to the students.

Cities like Montreal, Calgary, and Halifax are pretty reasonable, in contrast to major cities like Toronto and Vancouver, which are quite pricey.

To use the healthcare system, you must pay monthly or annual premiums. The Medical Care Plan (MCP) is free for international students enrolled in programmes lasting at least 12 months.

New Zealand

Pros

First and foremost, having a top-notch education is a benefit of studying in New Zealand. The 8 New Zealand institutions are consistently ranked highly in the significant university rankings by Q.S. and Times Higher Education.

New Zealand is the best overseas education destination for students interested in research and innovation. They are urged to learn everything there is to know about their subject and contribute to their field's growth with each assignment.

New Zealanders are known worldwide for their relaxed attitude and welcoming nature. As a student in New Zealand, you will be surrounded by supportive peers, which will make group projects in college more enjoyable.

Cons

The average annual cost of tuition is between 15k and 20k New Zealand Dollars, making it difficult for many students to pay this amount independently. There are several options for financial aid, and students can take advantage of university scholarship opportunities.

In New Zealand, housing options are not particularly plentiful. This may result in a marked increase in the price of adequate housing in popular areas. Fortunately, students in New Zealand can get housing homework assistance from their colleges, which frequently have on-campus housing or can help with finding student housing.

New Zealand is blessed with scenic landscapes and wildlife, but some may be unappreciated by its remote location. Because imported items are frequently expensive, international students may pay a premium price for their home comforts.

Ireland

Pros

Irish universities provide a wide range of postgraduate and graduate programmes with top-notch facilities and amenities for learning. The teaching staff is friendly and knowledgeable about various subjects. The curriculum of the Irish education system is also well structured and tailored to the needs of different businesses.

Irish universities typically urge their students to work part-time to cover their basic expenses, making it the best destination for overseas education who want to earn while studying. Courses in Ireland are frequently flexible and structured, so you have time for learning and working. You can also locate internships that pay stipends if you are a promising student.

Ireland has relatively low education costs because the government pays for most of its universities. Although tuition fees vary depending on the course and university, they are still relatively low compared to other countries.

Cons

Ireland has a lot of rain and darkness, and the weather changes throughout the year. It could be difficult for students from warmer climates to adjust to Irish temperatures. 

Ireland is a country of many accents. The Irish never cease to astound visitors with their many accents, ranging from a southwestern Irish accent to Irish English spoken along the east coast, which may be difficult to understand. You will eventually be able to follow them as the days pass, though

Despite Ireland's relatively low cost of living, some areas, such as Dublin, may be pricey if you desire a separate apartment to live in on your own. Universities provide various housing options, including dorms and hostels, but most are challenging to get because they are few and fill up rapidly. However, you must reserve this lodging quickly before they are all taken. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q.1) How do I choose a study abroad destination?

It would help if you considered future career options and plans before deciding the best destination for overseas education for yourself. Make sure you see yourself doing something worthwhile in that country in the future.

Q.2) How do I choose a country for international education?

Choosing a country includes a lot of factors, Employment Opportunities, Costs, Culture, and Educational Standards. Make sure you select a country that meets your needs in all aspects.

Q.3) Which country has the best education system for international students?

While the USA and UK remain the leading study abroad options, with numerous top-ranked universities, we cannot disregard places like Germany and Australia, which provide high-quality education at a far lower cost. Ireland and Canada also offer prospects and credibility in the study abroad genre.