10 Things You Must Consider While Choosing the Right University to Study Abroad

Choosing the right university to study abroad is a crucial decision that goes beyond rankings. While the idea of studying in a new country is undoubtedly exciting, the process of shortlisting the right university can quickly become overwhelming. Factors like a university’s global reputation, program strength, faculty expertise, and research opportunities all play a key role.

Making a fair decision means investing your time and resources mindfully, thereby enhancing your global learning experience. In order to help you make a better choice, here are 10 things you must consider while choosing the right university to study abroad. 

#1 University Reputation & Academic Excellence 

As a starting point, you should check university reputation and academic excellence, which are based on the following:

• Subject-specific Rankings: Some universities excel in particular fields despite lower overall rankings. 
• Curriculum Connection: Make sure that the university offers an updated curriculum relatedto the latest industry/academic trends in a particular field. 
• Faculty Credentials: Look into the qualifications of professors, including their research publications, academic achievements, and real-world industry experience. 
• Research Output and Facilities: Explore the university’s research strength through funded projects, high-quality publications, labs, and innovation centers that support academic inquiry.

#2 Faculty Profile & Research Output 

The quality of faculty directly impacts your educational experience. At any prestigious institution, you will get a variety of academic roles that support your learning route. For instance, INSEAD features a variety of faculty positions, such as assistant professors of strategy, associate professors of entrepreneurship and family enterprise, professors of economics, finance, and marketing, professors of accounting and control, and professors of management practice and information technology.

Moreover, INSEAD faculty is also known for its thorough research that advances business knowledge and informs both practice and policy. Their research output includes regular publication in top-tier business journals, award-winning case studies, and books authored by faculty. 

#3 Campus Facilities & Infrastructure

When you are choosing a university abroad, campus facilities plays an important role in shaping your academic success. Here is what you look for: 

Labs & Research Facilities

• Find out does the university has labs for STEM, medicine, or engineering
• Are there specialized research centers like AI labs, biotech hubs, and design studios 
• Check if the equipment is up-to-date for VR labs for architecture, and Bloomberg terminals for finance. 

Libraries & Study Spaces

• Check if the library has 24/7 access, it is crucial for exam seasons!
• Digital resources like online journals, e-books, and thesis databases. 
• Find out collaborative spaces like group study rooms, silent zones.

 Tech & IT Support

• High-speed Wi-Fi across campuses. 
• Software access for Free licenses for tools like MATLAB, Adobe Suite, CAD.
• Tech loans – Laptops, cameras, or lab equipment for students.

#4 Career Support & Alumni Outcomes

What is your reason for studying abroad? It's definitely to add an edge to your career and personality. So, it's essential that you evaluate your university’s career support system. This factor comes most in use when you are looking for internships, placements, and long-term employability.

Find out about the alumni of the university you are going to take admission in, 

You can find alumni strength: 

• LinkedIn Presence: Do alumni hold senior roles at target companies 
• Mentorship Programs: Can you connect with alumni in your field
• Geographic Reach: Strong networks in your target job market (e.g., Silicon Valley for tech).

#5 Location and Learning Environment

Studying abroad is an experience. The country, city and even the campus vibe can significantly impact your life abroad. Choose metropolitan cities like London, New York, or Sydney, in case you want to experience the bustle of city life. However, if you are looking for a quieter space, consider a nature-rich setting like Uppsala, Heidelberg, or Wellington.

#6 Crime Rate & Transportation Access

Safety must be a priority for everyone. So, investigating the local crime rate provides essential context for your decision. A lower crime rate in the city and the community will certainly ensure peace of mind. Another factor you must consider is the availability of transportation, which can account for nearly 20% of college living expenses, making cost-effective options crucial. Plus, bike- or public transport-friendly places can offer you ease when it comes to commuting to and from off-campus accommodation or even balancing between college and part-time jobs. 

#7 Tuition Fees and Financial Aid

Tuition fees are just a part of your total expenses when studying abroad. You will also have to budget for accommodation, daily expenses, health insurance, and travel. Many public universities offer education at low or no cost, while private universities can be quite expensive. 

Additionally, look into whether the university offers merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, or opportunities for part-time work on or off campus. These can significantly ease your financial burden and make your study experience more manageable.

#8 Rely on Student Reviews, Not Brochures 

It is obvious that university pages will portray a glorifying image of the university, but real insights come from students who have studied in these universities and their lived experiences. Read student testimonials, YouTube vlogs, Reddit threads, or Instagram takeovers. Reach out on Linkedin or the alumni network. 

Remember, alumni experiences tell what brochures won’t–whether the support systems are effective, whether academic is collaborative, whether the experience is lived up to the experience or not. 

#9 Attend Virtual Fairs or Campus Tours 

If visiting campuses is not a viable option for you, then many universities offer virtual open days, webinars, and online counselling sessions. These events allow you to interact with faculty and admissions teams and get a better understanding of what studying there might feel like. 

Getting to a final decision regarding which university you are going to opt for requires careful consideration of academic, financial, and personal factors. From evaluating a university’s reputation and program strength to assessing career support, location safety, and real student experiences, each aspect plays a vital role in shaping your future. 

However, by making an informed decision, you’ll invest wisely in your education but also set yourself up for a fulfilling experience. 

#10 Post-Study Visa & Immigration Options

Completing your degree from abroad invites many global opportunities. Many countries offer post-study work visas and streamlined immigration pathways to retain skilled graduates. 

Below are key options for international students in top destinations:

Immigration Options for International Graduates

Post-Study Work Visas (PSWV) in Top Study Destinations

Let Us Help You Make the Right Choice with GetGIS Assistance!

Still feeling overwhelmed about finding your perfect university? GetGIS' expert advisors can help you in shortlisting universities that align perfectly with your goals, navigate application and visa processes, connect with alumni for firsthand insights, secure scholarships and financial aid 

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