How to Study Abroad in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide
Studying abroad takes more than just shortlisting country and university followed by filling out the college application. It takes a lot of documents to be submitted and a lot of tests to be taken. If you wish to study abroad, check out this comprehensive guide that will help to ease your journey of getting to a university to study abroad.
For students who are aiming to study abroad in 2025 and have queries as to how to apply and make a choice between their selected options, here’s a guide catering to all these queries. Check out how to study abroad after class 12th, how to apply to foreign universities and the costs that must be borne along with funding options. A step-by-step guide on how to study abroad has been elaborated in this guide.
Related Reads:
- The Role of Education Consultants in Studying Abroad
- Consequences of Choosing the Wrong University Abroad
How to Study Abroad in 2025?: Step-by-Step Guide
To study abroad and apply for admission, applicants will have a list of things to do. To ease off the dilemma of where to start preparing to study abroad, a step-by-step guide has been curated for applicants given below:
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
Step 1: Research & Shortlist Universities & Courses
There are over 5,000+ universities abroad and each has a long list of courses they offer. Based on the applicant’s interest, applicants can first shortlist their courses followed by the universities and the country. Once the applicants choose the course of studying abroad and the university, they can check the eligibility criteria for study.
Applicants can choose based on their comfort, the type of opportunities available and how their goals will align after studying abroad.
Aiming to apply to the top-ranking universities in the world, check out the list below:
Top Universities Abroad |
QS World University Rank 2025 |
QS World University Rank 2024 |
---|---|---|
#1 |
#1 |
|
#2 |
#6 |
|
#3 |
#3 |
|
#4 |
#4 |
|
#5 |
#2 |
|
#6 |
#5 |
|
#7 |
#7 |
|
National University of Singapore | #8 | #8 |
#9 |
#9 |
|
#10 |
#10 |
For more details on recent global university rankings, check out the Top 100 Universities in the World 2024-25.
Also Check:
Step 2: Check Eligibility After Shortlisting University/Course
The eligibility criteria vary per level of course and universities in different countries. But a basic overview of the eligibility requirements to study abroad is discussed below for each level of study:
For Undergraduate Admission Abroad:
- Passed senior secondary education or high school with a certain minimum percentage and subject combinations.
- International students may have to comply with the existing standards of class XII qualifications for undergrad admissions in countries like the USA, Canada, Australia and the UK.
For Graduate Admissions Abroad:
- Applicants must have a bachelor’s from a recognised university.
- A diploma degree is also accepted in countries like Australia and New Zealand for graduate course admissions.
- Some professional courses like MBA and Law courses abroad may require applicants to have some work experience as well.
Step 3: Analyse Your Finances to Study Abroad
The cost of studying abroad along with the cost of living abroad plays a major role in deciding whether or not an international student should study abroad. The following table summarises the average tuition fee and the living expenses in the top abroad countries for international students:
Countries Abroad |
Avg Tuition Fee to Study Abroad |
Avg Cost of Living Abroad |
---|---|---|
INR 23.76 Lakhs |
INR 10.5 Lakhs |
|
INR 17.5 Lakhs |
INR 8.5 Lakhs |
|
INR 15.5 Lakhs |
INR 10 Lakhs |
|
INR 21.40 Lakhs |
INR 11.5 lakhs |
|
INR 15.5 Lakhs |
INR 12.5 Lakhs |
|
INR 20.5 Lakhs |
INR 12.5 Lakhs |
|
INR 15.5 Lakhs |
INR 9.5 Lakhs |
|
INR 10.5 Lakhs |
INR 4.5 Lakhs |
|
INR 11.5 Lakhs |
INR 8 lacs |
|
INR 13.5 K |
INR 11.5 Lakhs |
It is expensive to study in countries like the USA, Australia and Singapore whereas, the cheapest studying options can be found in countries like UAE and Germany.
Check: Affordable Countries to Study Abroad
While the average living costs for Canada and Singapore are the highest, the lowest living expenses were recorded for the UAE and Sweden. Hence, Sweden is the cheapest country to study and live abroad, while the USA is the most expensive country to study and live abroad.
Students must note that fees are subject to change without prior notice, hence it is advised that students calculate their expenses before processing to apply for the desired country and university.
Step 4: Check for Financial Aid to Study Abroad
International students are eligible for scholarships abroad or education loans. There are four types of scholarships offered in foreign universities for international students - merit-based, need-based, need-blind and external scholarships.
- Merit-based Scholarships: are offered to meritorious students who have performed well academically.
- Need-blind Scholarships: are offered to a handful number of students at a handful of US universities without assessing the applicant’s financial or merit background.
- Need-based Scholarships: are offered to promising students with good academic backgrounds but with financial constraints. Universities help students pay for their tuition costs through these scholarships.
- External Scholarships: are also offered to students based on their academic performance or based on their financial background.
Some of the top fully funded scholarships to study abroad are as follows:
- Fulbright Scholarship
- Amsterdam Excellence Scholarship
- Commonwealth Scholarship
- MEXT Scholarship Japan
- Chevening Scholarship
Step 5: Begin Preparing Your Admission Application
Irrespective of applying to foreign universities as an undergrad or a graduate student, international students are required to submit the following documents as part of their application process:
- Transcripts and/or mark sheets of the previously attended academic institution.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Admission essays
- Work experience proof in CV or resume
- Letter of recommendation (LOR)
- Portfolio
- ELP test score reports of either: TOEFL / IELTS / PTE / Duolingo
- Standardised test scores of:
- If transcripts are in a language other than English, then they will have to be evaluated through agencies like WES or ECE or EP.
- Financial documents
- Health insurance
- Proof of funding like scholarships or loans if any.
The admission requirements while applying for admission will be mentioned on the university website. Applicants must check the requirements for SOP, LORs, essays and other documents and submit them in that format only. The cut-off for standardised scores or English proficiency tests may not always be available on the university website, thus, applicants can check the previous year’s admission trends of the university for that particular course.
Step 6 Select Your Intake & Deadlines to Study Abroad
After the student decides to study abroad to get higher education, they should check the intake to apply. There are usually three intakes abroad namely:
- Fall intake: Between September to December
- Spring / Winter intake: January to April or May
- Summer intake: May to August
While the Fall intake is the most preferred in top countries and witnesses maximum admissions, the Spring intake is mostly the second preferred intake. Students who are unable to apply in the Fall intake apply for the next intake. Summer intakes are for short courses or summer courses only, a lot of countries do not offer full-time course admission during this intake.
Deadlines will vary based on the university chosen for admission. Each university deadline abroad is based on the intake abroad. How the both are connected, is discussed in the table below:
Intakes Abroad |
Ideal Deadline Dates |
---|---|
Fall Intake (September-December) |
Early deadlines, because of its popularity. Universities often announce deadlines in the late winter or early spring. |
Spring Intake (January-April) |
Deadlines are typically announced way later during fall intake, but still earlier than summer months. Universities may announce deadlines by the fall or in early winter. |
Summer Intake (May-August) |
Deadlines are announced in the spring or early summer. |
Check: Different Types of Deadlines to Study Abroad
After deciding on the intake, the applicants should check the respective deadlines for the course and university to which they are applying. Intakes may also vary per country the applicant is choosing for his/her education. Usually, the deadlines vary for undergraduate and graduate courses and so does the application process.
Step 7: Choose the Application Submission Method
The process of applying to universities abroad can be very lengthy. A lot of details, documents, write-ups and supporting material are required to complete an admission application. There are two processes for applying abroad:
The students who are confident enough can apply on their own without anyone’s help. However, those who are required to apply through agents like Australian universities or those who are not confident enough to apply on their own can always seek help from Shiksha Counsellors for free to apply to foreign universities.
Step 8: Application Process to Study Abroad
Applicants can follow the step-by-step process for applying to universities abroad:
- Step 1: Log on to the official website and check where to apply for your desired course - through the university website, partnered application websites like Common or Coalition App or through the specific Department of the university.
- Step 2: Register first and then when you get your login credentials, begin filling out your application form.
- Step 3: Be accurate with the information you provide and work on your application section-wise.
- Step 4: Ensure to attach all your academic and personal documents plus your passport-sized photograph in the correct suggested format.
- Step 5: Keep your recommenders ready to fill an LOR for you if your application requires it. Also, make sure you share their details correctly and follow up with them so that they submit their recommendation in time.
- Step 6: If applying for Arts or Music or Dance-related courses, upload your portfolio wherever the university wishes you to submit it. Make sure you have everything in place before submitting it.
- Step 7: Check your details once more and then submit.
- Step 8: Pay the application fee online via a credit card and take a print of the receipt. Please note, that some universities, like Australian universities, do not charge application fees so check before you submit.
Check out: The Complete Application Process for Studying Abroad
Step 9: Patiently Wait for Admission Decision
Admission decision time varies with each university in question. While US universities may take up to 3-4 working weeks, UK universities can take up to 10 weeks to deliver admission decisions. Applicants during this time must check their mailboxes regularly, revert to college mail promptly if any and keep documents handy in case they are requested again.
Step 10: Securing a Study Visa to Study Abroad
Once the applicant submits their admission application to the respective foreign universities, they will receive a decision in the designated timeframe. In cases where applicants receive an offer, they can either accept or reject it, there is usually a limited time for this. Some universities also give the option to defer admissions.
After the applicant accepts his or her offer, he or she can wait for an official document like the:
- I-20 form (in USA)
- CoE in Australia and New Zealand or,
- Letter of Enrollment or Acceptance
Once the student visa is granted after the check at the Embassy of the respective country of study, international students can begin prepping for studying at the university of admission abroad.
Finally, it is time to prepare yourself to fly! There are certain checklists which Indian applicants must keep handy when preparing to depart to study abroad. Check out:
- Pre-Departure Checklist for USA
- Checklist before going to study in Europe
- Your Checklist Before you Leave for Australia
- Indian Student’s Checklist Before Studying in Canada
By following the steps outlined in this guide, applicants can navigate the abroad application process, secure funding, and successfully embark on their international academic journey. The key to a successful study abroad experience lies in thorough research, meticulous planning, and a positive mindset. So, take the leap, embrace the adventure, and let the world become your classroom. Have more queries? Write to us in the comments below.
How to Study Abroad FAQs
Q. Why should I study abroad?
A. The number of international students taking admission abroad is touching around 6 million, thus, the numbers will increase annually.
Why applicants wish to study abroad can vary. While some may look for specialised course options, others may look at research scope. Some may be interested in internships abroad, while others may be interested in working abroad full-time. Thus, reasons will vary, it is up to the student what is his/her calling to study abroad. Once they have their reasons to study abroad, they can get ahead and plan their admissions abroad.
Q. What is the difference between Fall & Spring intake abroad?
A. For the majority universities abroad, Fall and Spring are the major intakes. While Fall is the most preferred, Spring is the next best option. Check out the difference below:
Feature |
Fall Intake |
Spring Intake |
---|---|---|
Begins |
September or October. |
January or February. |
Competition Level |
Very high, bigger class size |
Lesser than Fall, smaller class size |
Popularity Level |
Higher |
Lower than Fall |
Accommodation |
Higher competition for housing (on and off campus) |
Easier to find housing |
Visa Processing |
May have longer visa processing times due to higher demand. |
Generally shorter visa processing times. |
Ideally, Fall is a more popular intake abroad, in comparison to Spring intake. More applicants apply for Fall, more courses are offered for admission in Fall and most of the top-ranking universities offer admission in Fall intake only. Spring intake is for those who have either missed their Fall application deadlines or those who have deferred their admissions.
Q. How can I study abroad for free?
A. In order to study for free abroad applicants will be eligible, if they fall into the following scenarios:
- Students who qualify for a need-blind scholarship irrespective of his/her financial background.
- Those international students who show exemplary performance in academics can also receive a fully-funded education abroad.
- There are also options for students to study at public universities in Germany and Italy which offer cheap education and further waive the tuition fee for students so that they pay only for their living costs.
Finally, the Indian Government also sends some of the top academic performing students to its abroad-partnered universities for exchange program.
Q. What are the steps of studying abroad?
A. Applicants can follow simple steps to study abroad:
- Research and shortlist course and university
- Check eligibility and finances
- Understand admission requirements
- Check if funding is available
- Apply yourself or through a certified agent
- Wait for admission decisions
Q. How to get a scholarship abroad for studying?
A. In order to get a scholarship, students will have the following options to consider:
- Express interest in the admission application for receiving funding.
- Some universities, like US universities, will automatically consider international students for a scholarship while others may require Indian students to fill FAFSA.
- Other foreign universities may or may not have a separate form for scholarships.
- Universities abroad in some cases also offer scholarships to first-year students based on their overall first-year performance.
- Also, some universities abroad offer scholarships to international students after they enrol for their respective courses and begin attending college.
Thus, there are numerous ways of getting a scholarship to study abroad.
Q: How can I get admission in the University of Manchester?
The application process at the University of Manchester may vary depending on the course and level of study. However, here is the application process for UG and PG courses:
The Undergraduate Application Process:
Step 1: You can apply through the UCAS common application portal.
Step 2: Go to the website and select the course you are interested in.
Step 3: Ensure you meet the Entry requirements (Academic qualifications, English proficiency, etc.
Step 4: Once you decide on the course, submit documents such as SOP, Transcripts and personal statements.
Check out: tips to improve your SOP.
Step 5: You can track the application's progress through your given credentials by UCAS.
Step 6: Once the applicant submits the application to UCAS, it forwards to the University, and the admission teams carefully analyse the application document.
Step 7: The university will send you an offer letter once selected. Hence keep checking your UCAS portal for your application status.
The Postgraduate application process:
Step 1: Select the postgraduate course you are interested in from the University of Manchester.\
Step 2: Ensure you meet the entry requirements for the chosen program, as they vary depending on the course.
Step 3: Complete the online application by providing your personal information.
Step 4: Upload the required documents, such as Academic transcripts and proof of English language proficiency ( TOEFL/ IELTS). experience in your fields and references (depending on the course). You also may require Two LORs depending on the course.
To make your admission better, check out the following: How Admission Officers Evaluate your application.
Step 5: If your application is successful, you will receive an offer from the University of Manchester.
Q: Is university of West of Scotland good for international students?
The University of the West of Scotland has five modern and diverse campuses in United Kingdom. The University has welcomed more than 3,000 international students which are representing 1/3 of the globe. They also have 130 European partners who are actively in global study and exchange options through the Commonwealth universities programmes. The University also offers study abroad opportunities for UWS who are eligible for the same and also have more than 20 transnational education partners worldwide which helps them deliver UWS Bachelors and Masters Degrees around the world.
Q: What rank is Wolverhampton University in UK?
The University of Wolverhampton is one of the best universities in the United Kingdom. The university is consistently ranked among the best universities nationally and globally. For nearly 200 years, the University of Wolverhampton has been consistently providing a quality of education to students and producing highly skilled graduates. The national rankings of the University of Wolverhampton are given below:
Ranking Body | Ranking |
---|---|
The Guardian University Guide 2024 | #101 |
The Complete University Guide 2024 | #117 |
Q: Why indian students choose to study at Hult International Business School - UK?
Indian students choose to study at Hult International Business School in the UK for several reasons, including its highly ranked programs, global outlook, and career support. Hult offers a range of full-time master’s degrees, immersive bachelor's programs, and MBA options that prepare students to excel in the global job market. The school is the largest and top-ranked global business school, providing students with an incomparable universal outlook. Additionally, Hult's focus on experiential learning, extensive career support, and the opportunity to study at multiple campuses around the world are attractive to Indian students seeking a global business education. Furthermore, the school's emphasis on innovation and meeting the needs of students and employers may also contribute to its appeal to Indian students
Q: How to prepare for UK 10th board exam 2025?
Those who are preparing for the UK Class 10 exam 2025 are recommended to follow the tips below.
- Know the exam pattern
- Make a proper time table as per the syllabus
- Solve previous year question papers
- Make short notes of important formulas and theorems
- Revise regularly
- Figure out weaker areas and learn them well
With proper planning and hard work, students can easily clear the UK 10th board exam.
Q: What are the job opportunities after doing MIM from Aberystwyth University, UK?
Graduates who complete Aberystwyth University's Master's in International Management (MIM) programme have a broad spectrum of job prospects across diverse sectors and industries.
They can step into roles like:
Business Development Manager: In this capacity, MIM graduates are responsible for spotting and pursuing fresh business opportunities, forging partnerships, and expanding the company's clientele.
International Marketing Manager: Those with an MIM can take on the role of devising and executing marketing strategies on a global scale, conducting market research, and overseeing international marketing campaigns to promote products or services.
Supply Chain Manager: Armed with an MIM, graduates can excel as supply chain managers, overseeing the movement of goods and services from suppliers to customers. They focus on optimizing logistical processes and managing international supply chain operations.
Q: How to download UK Board 12th date sheet 2024?
Following are the steps to download the UK 12th date sheet 2024.
- Open the Uttarakhand Board's official website at ubse.uk.gov.in
- Click on 'Examination Scheme' available on the homepage
- A new window will appear on the screen containing a link of the UK Board 12th date sheet 2024
- Click the link and download the Uttarakhand 12th date sheet 2024
Q: How good is the University of Chester (UK)?
University of Chester is surely a good option for international students mainly beacuse of a diverse range of excellent academic programs.Below are some reasons why University of Chester is good:
Academics: The University of Chester offers over 200 undergraduate, postgraduate, and research degree programs to international students. The University of Chester University offers undergraduate major and minor courses. Students can also pursue master’s or doctoral programs at the University of Chester University.
Location of the university - The University of is in a location where arts & culture, technology industry and entertainment industry providing endless internship. International Students have access to beaches, outdoor activities, live music/performances and attractions which makes their make campus life more enjoyable. The location gives University of Chester students an additional mark to study at University of Chester.
Ranking: Many global ranking sources like THE (Times Higher Education), etc., have ranked University of Chester among the top universities in the world since 2021. These bodies consistently rank it among the top universities in UK.
Fees: : The cost of attending University of Chester for Indian students can vary depending on several factors. Tuition fees for international students at University of Chester are typically higher than for Uk citizens. However, it is important that the tuition fee can change over time, and it is recommended to visit the official website to recheck the fees and accommodation. Indian students should also consider other costs such as housing, health insurance, meals and transportation attending University of Chester.
Aishwarya is a professional Writer currently working as a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. She has over 5 years of experience and is skilled at creating Online Content with leveraged knowledge i... Read Full Bio
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