With more than a thousand of degree-granting institutions to choose from, students may wonder if
it matters which university they pick. Will they all offer flexibility, access to a wide variety of
subjects, and valuable opportunities? It depends. But choosing the right college means they get the
right opportunities.
Do they need to go to a top-ranking school? Not necessarily. College rankings are based on many
factors. Just because a university is ranked in the top ten, doesn’t mean it’s the right university for
them. Top-ranked schools tend to be much more expensive. They offer limited spots for
international students. Students should not base their college decision making process on rankings
alone.
What should Students consider when choosing a university? The most important thing to consider
when choosing a university is whether its degrees, programs, atmosphere, and opportunities fit their
needs. Your best-fit university is a place where they can feel comfortable and supported while they
work toward their degree. It meets their needs and expectations by offering the right mix of
program, support, location, and opportunities at a price that fits their budget.
Before they can decide if a university is the right fit, students first need to decide what they want to
get out of their college experience. Here are some points to consider:
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What do they want to study?
Every university offers a different mix of subjects and degree programs. Knowing what students
want to study and what type of degree they are working toward can help them narrow down their
choices immediately.
- What is their budget?
Tuition, room and board, and fees all vary depending on the university. A university may meet all of
their other criteria, but still be outside their budget. Fortunately, there are many schools to choose
from, so they will almost certainly find one that meets their needs and budget.
- Do students want a big school or a small school?
A big school means more people, a more diverse range of programs, and potentially, more activities
on campus. Meanwhile, a small school usually offers smaller class sizes and the opportunity to build
close relationships with classmates and teachers. Consider which size of school better meets
student’s needs and temperament.
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Do they want to be in the country or the city?The hustle and bustle of city life might make some of them feel energized or overwhelmed. Going to
college in the city means there’s always something to do off campus and they can use public
transportation. The country is likely to be quieter, with more opportunities for outdoor activities.
Decide which environment would make them most comfortable and choose the university
accordingly.
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Are there any clubs or organizations they want to be a part of?
While not the most important consideration, clubs and organizations can make a difference to
student’s college experience. If they feel strongly about becoming a member of a school-based
organization, make sure their college has that option.
Finally, make sure that the university they choose is international student-friendly. While many
universities welcome international students, some have better support systems and international
student services than others. Ask about the types of support the university will offer them from
application through graduation. Join UA Networks to resolve the hassle and get connected with
highly qualified European Universities!!