When a student comes to our counselling desk, we like to pop the question: Which country is your dream destination for higher education? The answers we get are often predictable, such as “I want to follow the crowd and go to the USA,” “I am eyeing Canada for its easy PR prospects,” and “I think Germany suits me well, because I have an engineering degree,” and the worst one is the blank stare of confusion on the student’s face.
Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience, offering you the opportunity to gain new skills, broaden your horizons, and explore different cultures. However, choosing the right country to study abroad can make all the difference in terms of academic success, career prospects, and quality of life.
Students as well as their parents often overlook the importance of understanding what a country specializes in. Here are a few reasons why choosing the right country to study abroad is crucial:
Academic Excellence: Different countries have different educational systems and strengths that reflect their culture and values. For instance, if you’re fascinated by engineering, Germany is the place to be for its world-class engineering schools. If you aspire to become a business leader or manager, then the United Kingdom has some of the finest business schools on the planet. France for gastronomy, Italy for design, Switzerland for hospitality, Ireland for pharmaceuticals, the USA for STEM courses and the list goes on. Picking a country that excels in your area of study can give you access to high-quality education, expert guidance, connections in the right network and training that will equip you for a successful career.
Job Prospects: Most students don’t just want to study and go back home, they want to work and upgrade their lifestyle if they get a chance. Choosing a country that specializes in your field of study can help you land better job opportunities. For example, if I were a winemaker, I would have a higher chance of finding a job in France or New Zealand than in Germany. Similarly, if I were an engineer with excellent skills and the German language, I would have a better chance of getting hired by my dream company in Germany. But you should also know that not all countries are eager to hire you, but they allow you to complete your internships and prepare you with the expertise that no top company can ignore. A student we sent to Switzerland was disappointed that she would never get the chance to work there, but then her college’s compulsory internship turned the table for her. Today she is working with one of the top hotels in France because of the valuable internship she attained. So filter your country to improve your profile, not just to get a job!
Lifestyle: It’s important to consider the lifestyle and cultural fit of a country before choosing to study abroad. If you’re someone who loves the outdoors, then New Zealand, Australia, or Canada might be the perfect fit for you. If you’re interested in art and culture, then France or Italy might be the ideal destination. The lifestyle and culture of a country can greatly impact your overall study-abroad experience.
Choosing the right country to study abroad can make all the difference in your academic and career success. Take the time to research the strengths of different countries and consider how they align with your goals and interests. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you in your decision-making process:
Q: Can I change my mind and switch to another country after I’ve already started studying abroad?
A: Yes, it’s possible to transfer to another country or university if you decide that your current location isn’t the right fit for you. However, it’s important to consider the financial and academic implications of transferring before making any decisions.
Q: Should I choose a country based solely on job prospects?
A: No, it’s important to consider other factors such as academic excellence, cultural fit, and lifestyle when choosing a country to study abroad in. While job prospects are important, they’re not the only factor to consider.
Q: Can studying in a foreign country help me gain permanent residency?
A: Yes, some countries have programs that make it easier for international students to gain permanent residency after completing their studies. However, it’s important to research the immigration policies of the country you’re interested in and understand the requirements for permanent residency.
