To study abroad for graduate school is definitely an experience with many positive outcomes. You could be living in a new country, advancing your career, or expanding your global network, just to name a few.
While it’s not the same as studying abroad for your undergraduate degree, earning a master’s degree abroad will give you an advantage in an increasingly globalized world.
If you enjoyed your time as an undergraduate and want to continue your studies after graduation, doing a postgraduate degree abroad is a great idea. Not only will you be able to continue your education, but you’ll be doing it in an exciting new environment.
Master’s level coursework typically requires you to think critically and think outside the box to solve complex problems. If you enjoy academic challenge and stimulation, a postgraduate degree could be the perfect fit.
Why Study Abroad For Graduate School?
A great advantage of pursuing higher education abroad is that it will give you the opportunity to gain advanced knowledge in a particular field, especially if the country or institution you choose is known for it.
Whether you want to study fashion in Italy, science in the UK or political science in the US, you’re sure to find the perfect graduate course abroad that paves the way for you to become the specialist of your dreams.
Having a postgraduate qualification in a particular subject in a particular country can also make you a more attractive candidate in the world of work – you will be seen as having a quality education with in-demand skills.
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Is It Cheaper To Study Abroad For Graduate School?
Many international students assume that the cost of studying abroad is high, but this is a common myth about studying abroad – you can save a significant amount of money in several ways if you choose to enrol in graduate school abroad.
Depending on where you choose to study, postgraduate tuition fees at universities abroad may be lower than at institutions in your home country. You may also be eligible for scholarships to help you finance your studies, or even free study abroad.
Living expenses such as food, rent and travel may also be cheaper at your new place of study, saving you money. Learning how to budget will also help you financially. If you can work, the extra money from your job will certainly make living abroad more affordable.
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How To Study Abroad For Graduate School
The type of program you participate in depends largely on your personal preferences and goals. You can complete your master’s degree abroad. This provides different cultural perspectives on a topic and can look great on a resume.
For students who do not wish to spend two or more years in a foreign country, shorter programs such as internships, summers abroad, or volunteer programs may be available.
If your ultimate goal is simply to improve your language skills, there are even intensive language study programs.
First, you need to do some research. Research school programs, costs, language requirements, host country culture, and consider your budget.
If you need an advisor or guide for the process, find one. Student Services or the study abroad department should be ready to help you make the best choice.
If you have not attended school in several years, please contact the Alumni Services office and ask for assistance. Second, check the visa requirements and get the visa form.
Give yourself at least six months – ideally a year – to pull it all together so there are no loose ends when you make the leap to a new graduate school. Do everything early. Do you need to contact the embassy? Do It
Finally, think about your career. What do you want this degree to give you? What do you want to do with your degree? Make sure your career goals align with your choices. Then act!
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Visa Requirements To Study Abroad For Graduate School
In many countries, you will need a visa if you are going to study abroad for a semester, a year or longer. To find out about the specific requirements of your chosen country, visit the website of the embassy or consulate.
Each country will have its own visa requirements. However, you will usually need:
- Latest photo
- Commission
- Confirmation of the availability of funds for maintenance abroad
- Confirmation of registration
- Confirmation of housing availability in the selected country
- Fingerprints or other biometric data
- Data verification
When you apply, the visa application process can take anywhere from a few days to a few months depending on the country, so it’s a good idea to apply early.
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What Does It Cost To Study Abroad For Graduate School?
In some countries you can attend school at a much lower cost, and in some cases your education can be almost free:
- Austria: Students from countries outside the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA) can attend and pay €726.72 ($784.50) per semester.
- Czech Republic: Higher education in the Czech Republic is free for programs taught in the Czech language. If you want to study in another language, such as English, you will have to pay additional fees.
- Germany: Most programs at German public universities are free, even for international students. Some schools and regions do charge a small tuition fee to non-EU nationals, but this is a fraction of what you would pay to study in the US.
- Norway: Most Norwegian universities are publicly funded and do not charge tuition fees, even for international students.
When deciding where to go to school, be sure to consider the cost of living in each country. While a country may offer free or reduced tuition, it can be an expensive place to live that offsets your savings.
For example, relocation assistance company InterNations reported that Norway is an extremely expensive place to live — you can expect to spend between $2,176 and $4,352 per month to live in the country.
ALSO CHECK: Best Places To Study Abroad In Europe 2023
Conclusion
Studying abroad as a graduate can help you stand out from the crowd when it comes to applying for jobs. As the world becomes more connected, more employers are looking for specialist candidates with overseas experience, so studying abroad can be a great way to boost your career prospects.
The thought of studying abroad may seem daunting, but it can pay off in a big way. Employers will see that you can step outside of your comfort zone and adapt to a new environment, which is a highly sought-after quality in the world of work.
References
studentloanhero.com –Graduate School Abroad: Consider These 6 Factors
