University is an important step for any student. It’s a place that will become more meaningful than your home. It’s a place where you’ll study, work and make memories. It’s not just an institution; it’s an important step towards your future. Which makes choosing the perfect one even more necessary. How does one choose the perfect university that’s absolutely, 100% meant for them, and they’ll most likely get in? What should you, as a prospective student, look out for?
The most important thing you should look for when you’re researching universities is the academic criteria. Does the university offer the program that you’re interested in? If not, then what variations of it does it have? Does the university have a reputation for producing excellent academic results and other achievements within that program? Where is that university ranked for the course you want to study? Does the course content interest you? What are the admission requirements for the program and do you fit the criteria? What services can the university and that department offer to ensure you succeed?
Then you should probably look at the financial aspect of attending that university. Finances can have long-term impacts on your future, so you want to make sure you get the best quality education for the best price possible. What are the tuition fees for the program you’re applying to? How much is it for international students? Does the university offer merit-based or finance-based scholarships to international students, and if so, what is the criteria for acquiring a scholarship? What financial-aid opportunities are available? Are you able to pay off the balance, and would it put you in student-debt? What else do you have to pay for, e.g., residence, textbooks, lab coat? How much would you be paying for student accommodation, food, student services, etc.?
Once the list has shortened after making it past the previous two rounds, you should look at the location of the university. Do you want to live close to home, or farther away? Is the university too far? What’s the climate like in the region? How will you commute to your university? How close is it to transportation that will get you home (airports, train stations, etc.)?
Look at the student facilities offered by your university. What sports do they offer? Do they have a gym for students? What societies and clubs are present? Is there anything related to some of your hobbies? What event weeks do they have? Do they have good academic facilities? Do they have a good library with sufficient resources? Do they have cafes and other hang-out spots on-campus or near the campus?
These are just some questions that you can ask yourself while researching for universities that would suit you. These should make your decision much easier for you and just provide a push towards what’s right for you. In the end, the choice you make is your own, and should prove to be the best for you.