What should I consider when choosing a University?

Choosing what to study and where to study is undoubtedly a difficult process. Our counsellors with more than 20 years of experience have come up with the following questions and answers to help with your decision-making process.

1. What course should I study?

It is difficult to pinpoint the exact subject students should study, whether it is commerce, political science or music. Take some time to think thoroughly about the interests that you are familiar with or activities that you have been involved with. This may have subconsciously pointed you in the right direction. Once you’ve chosen the course that you wanted to pursue, check with us to see if there are universities that offer the course you wish to pursue.

If you are still undecided on which course to pursue, use our course comparison to decide if it is suitable for you.

2. What are the strengths of each University?

Every university has individual assessed academic rankings, based on research, teaching staff, subject and other factors. It is important that the universities you have shortlisted are well recognised for their overall rankings, but also in your intended area of study.

Therefore, parents and students should consider an all-rounded point of view when deciding on a University to go to.

• Are Rankings important?
  Overall rankings are decided largely by research quality, which may not be relevant to subjects which require practical experiences such as Journalism or Finance. Rankings by the subject may indicate where your child will be able to get a better experience in their study area.
• Aside from rankings, how is the campus environment?
  Larger institutions may have better resources and provide networks for specific industries after graduation. However, smaller institutions offer individualised attention for students to focus on their studies and students will be encouraged to participate more in class.
• How are the teaching staff?
  From the University’s website, you can determine where the teaching staff originate from. If they are internationally diverse, it generally means students can establish a more global mindset from day to day interactions.
• Where is the institution located?
  Do you want to be enrolled in a competitive program, where top-notch students aim to be the best or be focused on learning in a cohesive and inclusive environment? Would you like to be in a quiet and relaxing town with a close-knit culture or a vibrant city with arts and culture at your doorstep? Take part in study tours in order to meet friends from different cultures and have new experiences! AUG will arrange for your accommodation and itinerary.

3. How much are my tuition fees and living expenses?

Studying overseas can be expensive and finances should definitely be of one’s concern. It would be helpful to estimate how much one would need for the entire duration of your entire undergraduate programme overseas (including tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses and other expenses).

Scholarships are often offered for international students and study loans can be your possible source of funding.

In addition, currency exchange rates should be part of your considerations when determining if you are able to fund your children’s overseas education.

4. How will the school or study location I choose impact on my career?

Do you plan to forge a career back home or dream of working overseas?

• VISA & Job Opportunities
  Does the country you want to go to have suitable visas for international students to stay back and work after graduation? Furthermore, what can you contribute to the industry you wish to work in, as an international student?
• University Alumni
  Have Alumni of the university managed to achieve success after graduation and is it similar to what you wish to accomplish?
• Home Country
  If you plan to return home, do they have job opportunities in the field you are planning to study in?

5. Who should I speak to?

Speak to alumni from the same university or city you are considering so that you are able to obtain different perspectives and receive advice that may help you to make a decision.

Communicate with your family to understand their thoughts and concerns as they are an integral part of your decision-making process.

Attend AUG Education Fairs in your home country so that you can speak directly to University Representatives.

Let AUG Student Services guide you towards the education best suited for you.