Studying abroad is totally a different experience with different styles of teaching and learning. In India, theoretical teaching and exams are held once a year, but the foreign education system emphasizes on group discussions, practicals and presentations. Also, regular attendance, research, project work and continuous testing of students on the basis of their performance are quite important in their system of education. Indian students get easily adapted to this system.

The main factor in getting admission to institutions abroad is the individual’s capabilities along with good academic record. The extracurricular activities, the test scores, the personal statements and the letters of recommendation also are important in getting admission. Based on the adaptability to the culture of the country, the courses and the colleges can be selected. Even though initially, there would be some difficulties about the accent, there are other advantages of lesser pollution, better libraries and laboratories.

Planning is another important factor while studying abroad. Proper planning well in advance can save lot of money. There are number of universities and colleges which offer financial aid in the form of awards, tuition waivers, teaching and research assistantships. Even various agencies and institutions offer loans, scholarships, gift scholarships etc. But the aid is limited and is available only to deserving candidates. Little planning reduces the cost of living expenses, which include boarding, books, clothing, transportation, health insurance and other personal expenses.

Criteria for admission

Criteria for selection in universities abroad are as follows.

· The undergraduate institute attended.

· GRE, TOEFL score.

· Grade Point Average (GPA) or cumulative

· Percentage, rank in class.

· Letters of recommendation.

· Overall coherence, work experience, etc.

· Research interest.

· Skills: programming, summer work experience.

· Degree selection to work towards Ph.D./MS.

· Personal qualities, motivation, reliability, sincerity maturity, integrity, communication skills.

· Extracurricular activities, volunteering leadership roles.

Application Components

· Application form must be complete in every respect

· Covering letter

· Application fee cheque

· (In case the fee is waived or deferred, enclose a photocopy of the letter)

· Statement of purpose.

· Letters of recommendation

· Photocopies of test score reports

· Financial statement

· Photocopy of important certificates

Statement of Purpose (SoP)

The Statement of Purpose is one of the essential components of application procedure for getting admission in a foreign University. It mainly consists of personal details and factors that have defined the career path so far, interests and future plans. The SOP must reflect the student’s confidence, motivation and ability to successfully pursue the intended course of study.