Studying abroad is possibly one of the most life changing opportunities students will ever experience. Apart from new opportunities, social experiences and the opportunity for personal growth, applying to study abroad for the first time can feel perplexing and extremely overwhelming. There are so many decisions to make, including which courses to take, which university to choose, budgeting, financial planning and choosing a visa. This is where study abroad counselling can be very helpful for students and families who are new to international education. Knowing where to start and partnering with the best abroad study consultancy Kerala can help turn your study abroad experience into a successful and stress free experience.
Understanding The Maze That Is Application & Admission
For first time applicants, one of the largest hurdles is understanding the application process. Each country has its rules, documentation requirements and deadlines and each university may have its own admission, scholarship and language requirements rules even if they are from the same country.
A professional abroad study consultancy Kerala can eliminate some of these hurdles. They can provide an effective and easy step-by-step process for applications and admissions by reviewing coursework that the applicant has studied previously and helps to identify suitable universities that fit for the applicants academic field and career aspiration. The consultancy will help with Statement of Purpose (SOP) writing and application submissions. They will also confirm that the applicant has given all the necessary information for the form. With all their experience, they will also be able to assist the applicant to avoid costly mistakes made through lack of direct experience (like not getting a completed application in on time).
Individualized Advice Grounded In Student Profiles
Every student is different. The academic record, interest and even financial backgrounds of a student, career aspirations, differ widely. Experienced study abroad consultants in Kochi bring under appreciated value in providing personalized counselling based on the students profile and their longer term goals.
They then provide suggestions of courses and university options that meet the students passions, but working within the practical limits of their profile. An example of this may be a student that is primarily interested in pursuing a career in data science might not recognize whether they should take a research based program or, professionally based course. An experienced and informed counsellor might be able to help the student based on any job market shifts, and industry trends as well as the students own strengths academically.
Financial Planning & Scholarships
Ideally, one of the biggest concerns for students or parents is affordability. Studying abroad is expensive - tuition, accommodation, travel and then some more living costs which are very substantial. First-time applicants may not understand the different financial aid or funding options that may be available to them.
Some study abroad agencies in Kerala offer complete financial education and counselling including information about scholarships, grants, and low-cost study abroad destinations. They can even help families budget and plan for expenditures over a long time. Additionally, they assist students in arranging financial support documentation for visa purposes, as this can limit the possibility of the visa being rejected due to inadequate or inappropriate proofs of financial documentation.
Visa Guidance & Interview Preparation
In reality, obtaining a student visa is arguably the most overwhelming element of the study abroad process. Each country's visa application process is different with various forms to complete, documents to demonstrate an applicant's qualification in regards to the funded studies, and interviews to complete.
This is one of the areas where study abroad consultants in Kochi assist prospective applicants fit with the applicant's academic course and career pathway. They provide advice on visa subcategories and visas in general, help you prepare all the documents and help prepare students for visa interviews. Many first-time applicants are anxious about going through the visa application process - especially the interview part - where they have to answer questions from a visa officer. To prepare for interviews, counselors conduct mock interviews where they anticipate questions the candidate may be asked and coach students how to respond confidently, openly and without embellishment.
Emotional Support & Confidence Building
Relocating to another country so far from home has an emotional element. Many students, especially first-time travelers, are afraid, hesitant and confused. A quality study abroad agency in Kerala, has more than paperwork; there's an emotional element as well.
The counselors serve as mentors, providers of motivation, reassurance and build students' confidence. They create clarity when students are doubtful and connect students with alumni or students who successfully transitioned. Without any judgement, the consultant counsel provides process and support that helps tremendously to ensure students take the next steps into their new futures with courage and readiness.
Post-Arrival Support & Continuing Support
The study abroad consultant's job does not stop with a visa stamp. Most trusted study abroad agencies in Kerala expand their support even after the student lands in the foreign country. They assist with airport pickup, temporary accommodation, local SIM card, banking, etc.
Further, they are in contact to support any challenges after arrival - adjusting to the local academic system - locating part time work. More significantly, continued support is necessary for first-time applicants who do not have relatives or contacts in the traveller's new country.
Conclusion
First time applicants may be apprehensive about the process of studying abroad. However, with proper guidance this process can be made a great and positive experience. Abroad study consultancy in Kerala can improve a student's study abroad experience and make it a little more seamless, comfortable and hopefully a successful one. One Doorway International offers extended knowledge, guidance and emotional support that is personalized for each student. It is something we can be happy to help students start their new global academic journey prepared and confident.
