Identifying your Goals & Self-Evaluation

The first step is identifying your goals and needs which can be done by self evaluation.

Identify your reasons for pursuing higher education abroad
Are you motivated by career goals, job prospects, academic interest, personal satisfaction? What particular specialization are you interested in?
It is important to match your objectives with what the universities offer. If your aim is to pursue a particular field, you should apply to universities with specialized departments in that field. If you are interested in practical experience, you should apply to universities located close to the commercial centers and important cities.

Realistically assess your academic and professional background
Are you a competitive student? Are you dedicated and hardworking? How good is your academic record? Do you have any work experience or research work related to your field of study? Do you have any credentials in extracurricular activities?
Only if you have a good academic background, you should apply to highly ranked universities. If you feel you are moderately placed, you should apply to mid ranked universities.

Get an academic focus
Do you have a relatively clear idea of your field of study? Have you spoken to your professors if you are a research student, read journals to know more about your field and other new fields?
Most universities abroad have a very flexible system where you can select your courses and focus more on your field of interest. There are also many specialized courses which may suit your needs.

Realistically assess your financial abilities
Will you get a financial assistance from the university? Can you or your family finance your education and stay? Do you have an overseas sponsor? Are you eligible for funds from educational trusts?
Please take into account the process, examination, postage & university application fees etc. Tuition and living expenses depend on the course and the duration. For a visa, you must be able to demonstrate your ability to fund your education and stay abroad.

Choosing the University/College/Institution

It is better to narrow down your choice by looking at the following:
 

Program Offerings (BA, BS, BE, MS, MBA, DA, Ph.D).

Specialization, faculty, thrust of the programs.

University Rankings.

Program Length.

Cost -- Tuition, living expenses etc.

Availability of Financial Assistance to International

      Students.

 

Entrance Requirements (Bachelor degree in same field,

      work experience etc.).

 

Tests ( TOEFL, IELTS,SAT, GMAT, etc and minimum

      scores).
 

Accreditation status (Professional accreditation for some

      programs).

 

Student Profile ( Percentage of international students,

      average work experience levels, etc).

 

Enrollment -- Total available seats and the size of the

      school.

Facilities -- Library, housing, student associations etc.

Type of Institution -- Public or Private.
 

These are the usual criteria. You could prioritize your criteria out of this list and shortlist the number of universities on that basis.