How to select a course for studying abroad?
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How to select a course for studying abroad?

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Priya
Priya Garg
Study Abroad Expert
Updated on Apr 3, 2025 17:27 IST

How to choose a study abroad programme? This is one of the trickiest questions that students have before moving abroad for higher studies. After selecting the course one can move ahead with the university selection. Earlier, we discussed the best country for studying abroad. In this article, we will inform you on how to choose a university course that is best for you for studying abroad.

How to select a course for studying abroad?

Few students have an idea of what they want to pursue and how it is going to benefit them in their careers. However, a large section of aspirants is not sure which course to select and what importance it has in their career ahead. Because of the wrong selection of course areas, many students leave the course in between or leave it after the first year. In this article, we will help you make a better decision while selecting the right course area for studying abroad.

Must Read: Benefits of Studying Abroad

How to Select a Course to Study Abroad?

How to choose a study abroad programme? There are various factors that affect an applicant's choice of course to study abroad. But the following must be considered before selecting a course to study abroad:

1. Check your academic background

First of all, check what you have studied previously and whatever you are going to study further will sync with your academic background. Selecting the right course will be a life-changing decision. Almost every course will require you to have some background from your previous academic qualification. So sit back and delve into the choices you can have that are in sync with your educational qualifications.

2. Find your interest area

It is always important to choose a study area where your interest lies. So, give yourself some time and check where your interest lies. This will play an important part in learning new skills further. This will help you in better decision-making and choosing what is best for you. If you are interested in tourism then you can go for tourism management or hospitality management.

3. Research

Before choosing the right course it is always good to do research on it and then go for it. Studying abroad can be a rewarding experience, however, planning carefully for it will lead to better decision-making. Do extensive research on the course that you are going to pursue further. Check out the different types of courses available in that area. Make a list of universities offering that course or related courses. Also explore the prospects of that course, as that is your ultimate goal. Learn about the entry requirements for those courses and check whether you are eligible to apply for them. Whether you will be able to apply and get admission in this intake or you have to wait for another intake.

4. Financial viability

Check the cost of studying that course and whether you can afford it or not. Check whether you can study it in the country of your choice or whether you have to study the same course in a different or more affordable country/university. Find out whether any kind of scholarship or financial aid is available and whether you are eligible to apply for any of them. Getting a scholarship/financial aid can reduce the cost significantly and will ultimately ease your financial burden.

5. Future prospects

This is one of the most important factors in selecting the course. If you are from the IT field then Canada or the US can be perfect for you as you can get numerous opportunities for career growth. If you are unsure about the career prospects of the course then go for a more general degree that enables you to work in different industries. You can go for General Management or Public Relations, as these allow you to work in different industries.

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6. Study destination

Find out where the course is available to study. Whether it is available in the country you are planning to go to. Also, whether your preferred university/college is offering that course or you have to change the plan all over again. Check out everything about the best countries for studying abroad.

Make sure to consider these factors before deciding on the university course you are going to study abroad. If you still have any doubts regarding the application, then Shiksha Counseling Service and Shiksha Topper Counselling will help you in your admission journey.







Popular Courses to Study Abroad in 2025

The popular courses to study abroad that also pay well in 2025 are:

  1. Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (AI): With the increasing reliance on data, professionals skilled in data analysis, machine learning, and AI are highly sought after across industries.
  2. Cybersecurity and Information Security: As cyber threats become more sophisticated, the demand for experts in protecting digital assets is surging.
  3. Business Analytics and Financial Technology (FinTech): The ability to analyse business data and leverage technology in finance is crucial for modern businesses.
  4. Renewable Energy and Sustainable Engineering: With a global focus on sustainability, careers in clean energy and environmentally friendly technologies are gaining momentum.
  5. Digital Marketing and E-commerce: The rise of online businesses has created a significant demand for professionals skilled in online marketing strategies and e-commerce operations.
  6. Biotechnology and Biomedical Engineering: Advancements in medical research and healthcare technology continue to drive demand in these fields.
  7. Healthcare and Medicine: The need for healthcare professionals, including nurses, doctors, and healthcare administrators, remains consistently high globally.
  8. Engineering (various specializations): Traditional engineering fields like mechanical, civil, electrical, and aerospace engineering, especially when combined with new technologies, remain popular.
  9. Computer Science and IT: This broad field continues to be a popular choice due to the ever-increasing role of technology in all aspects of life. 

Other Useful Reads: 

Q:   What is the #1 university in UK?
A:

Based in Oxford, UK, the University of Oxford is the #1 university in the UK according to the latest Shiksha Popularity Rankings.  It also forms part of the top 3 universities in the world, securing a global rank #3 as part of the latest university rankings rolled out by Shiksha. 

The average tuition cost for UG courses is: INR 32.2 L-INR 69.6 L, while that of PG courses is INR 11.7 L-INR 98.4 L.

The University of Cambridge and Imperial College London round off the top 3 universities in UK.

Q:   What is the acceptance rate of Hertfordshire University?
A:

The University of Hertfordshire has 70% acceptance rate, making it easy to get into it. Good academic results, English proficiency, references, and many other conditions are taken into account for selection. 

Q:   How long does Hertfordshire University take to reply?
A:

After applying to Hertfordshire University UK, the applicants are going to receive an initial decision about their application within 2-3 working days. After the submission of the application and documents, the applicants are required to pay their tuition deposit. Then, complete the Sponsorship interview and the financial declaration. International students are required to pay a deposit of £5,000 before registration. The balance can be paid in line with the liability dates related to the year and entry of the semester.

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About the Author
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Written by
Priya Garg
Study Abroad Expert
Priya Garg is an experienced content writer and editor. With her rich experience in content writing, teaching and research & analysis, Priya believes in providing only the correct information which is also up-to-dat Read Full Bio
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