If you鈥檙e thinking about studying abroad, chances are you鈥檙e looking into working with a professional study abroad consultant. That’s why having one comes with many benefits! They’re usually local, easy to work with, and can make sure you don鈥檛 miss important steps in the application process. These experts have the knowledge and experience to answer common questions such as:
鈥淲hich country should I study abroad in?鈥�
鈥淲hat course or program should I study?鈥�
鈥淗ow do I successfully apply?鈥�
You can do your own research to answer these questions. However, your best bet is to have an experienced study abroad consultant to guide you. These education experts are also sometimes called counsellors or study abroad advisors. To make sure you choose the right study abroad consultant, here are five essential questions to ask.
Want us to make it easy by matching you with a trusted consultant? ApplyBoard鈥檚 own network of knowledgeable advisors can help guide your study abroad application. Learn more about how 星空影视helps students in our blog.
Question 1: 鈥淲hat is your experience in study abroad advising?鈥�
One of the most important factors when choosing your study abroad consultant is understanding their experience in the field. A consultant’s experience informs their understanding of the many overseas study options out there. Each consultant has their own approach to different study abroad programs and destinations.聽
Related questions to ask about their experience can include:听听
- 鈥淭ell me about the last student you advised.鈥澛�
- 鈥淲hat are some of your credentials and qualifications?鈥�
- 鈥淗ow long have you been advising students?鈥�
Look for consultants with a proven track record of successfully assisting international students like yourself.聽
Question 2: 鈥淲hat resources and services do you offer?鈥�
Ask your study abroad consultant about what kinds of services they can provide for:
- University or college selection
- Program and course guidance
- Visa assistance
- Scholarship information
- Pre-departure support聽
What separates a good consultant from a great one is their support throughout the study abroad journey. This starts with your initial application process and usually ends as you’re settling into your host country. It鈥檚 important to have someone you can trust to answer your questions throughout the full process!
Tip: While asking about available resources and services, also think about your specific needs and requirements. Then, see if they match what your consultant offers.
Want to know if you鈥檙e ready to study abroad? Take our quiz to find out!
Question 3: 鈥淐an you provide testimonials or references from past students?鈥�
Hearing honest feedback from others in similar situations to yours can help you make a more informed decision. Ask for information about previous students who have worked with the consultant. Then, see if you can get in touch with one of them for feedback. When speaking with former clients, pay special attention to details like the consultant’s:
- Communication style
- Responsiveness
- Overall ability to guide students successfully听听聽
In any case,聽 this ensures you鈥檒l gain exclusive insights about a consultant. Doing so will help you make a more educated decision.聽
Question 4: 鈥淗ow do you stay up-to-date with current study abroad trends and regulations?鈥�
Study abroad rules and regulations are constantly evolving. And for this reason, it鈥檚 important your study abroad consultant’s knowledge of these things is current. Your consultant should be familiar with topics like:
- Visa requirements
- Admission procedures
- Changes to the education systems in different countries
It can be helpful to ask about a consultant’s professional development activities. For example, do they attend conferences, or participate in regular training sessions? Are they a member of any relevant associations?聽
Question 5: 鈥淲hat are some of the challenges I might have while I鈥檓 abroad? What are my solutions?鈥�
Lastly, there’s no getting around it: studying abroad is wonderful, but it comes with plenty of difficult moments. Because challenges may be inevitable, a good consultant can help you prepare in advance. They make dealing with problems a lot smoother.聽
Some common challenges international students face 颈苍肠濒耻诲别:听
- Language or cultural barriers
- Managing finances
- Homesickness
Ask a consultant if they鈥檝e helped students deal with any of these challenges. Then, ask what kinds of solutions they have to address them. How confidently they respond should tell you whether they鈥檝e spent time thinking about and dealing with these matters in the past.听听聽
Finding the right study abroad consultant is critical in planning your international education journey. By asking these essential questions about a consultant’s experience, resources, and knowledge, you can assess their suitability and find the support you need.
Best of luck on your journey!
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