University/College Pathway

Considerations When Researching Universities/Colleges

Country

  • Distance from family and/or support networks
  • Language of study
  • Travel & living costs
  • Culture

Type of Institution

  • Highly specialized
  • Liberal arts
  • Interdisciplinary programs
  • Public or private
  • Highly academic or more practical

Size / Location / Environment

  • Large or small
  • Urban or rural
  • Class sizes
  • Public transportation
  • Climate / weather

Area of Study

  • Curriculum requirements
  • Availability of project-based learning
  • Majors & minors
  • Study abroad opportunities
  • Internships and work opportunities
  • Interdisciplinary / student-designed programs

Faculty / Facilities

  • Professor to student ratio
  • Are faculty dedicated to teaching or focused on their own research?
  • Do graduate students teacher many courses?
  • Do students get to use the research labs and equipment as undergraduates?

Student Body

  • How large is the international student population?
  • Is there special support for international students?
  • What is the fraternity and sorority presence on campus?
  • What student activities and clubs are active on campus?
  • Do most students live on or off campus?

Housing

  • What are the on-campus housing options?
  • Is there an international house or other ‘theme’ housing?
  • What are the dorms like, e.g. students per room and coed or single sex?
  • What are the dorm rules?
  • Where do freshman live in their first year? Are there requirements?

Costs

  • How much is tuition at the school?
  • How much are living and travel costs per year?
  • Does the school offer financial aid?
  • What kind, e.g. need-based, merit-based, sports, etc? Loans or grants?

Special Programs

  • Does the school offer study abroad programs?
  • Are there work-study options?
  • Are there intramural or competitive sports?
  • Creative or performing opportunities?
  • Do students do internships? How well are these networked and supported?

Admissions Requirements

  • Are your grades good enough for admission?
  • Do you have or can you get the necessary test scores?
  • Are your test scores good enough to meet the entry requirements?
  • Is the university accredited/recognized?
  • What if you want to transfer?