It is easy to fall in love with a campus photo. Choosing where to study takes a little more thought. These questions can help you turn a long list of schools into a shortlist that works for you.
What do I want this course to help me do?
Write down the skills you want to learn and what you hope to do after studying. Read the course outline, not just the course title. Two programmes with similar names can have very different content.
- Look at the modules and how the course is taught.
- Check whether the course matches your previous studies.
- Write down what you still need to ask the school.
What can I realistically afford?
Tuition is one part of the budget. Accommodation, transport, food, travel and application-related costs also need space in your plan. Use figures from the institution and relevant providers, and leave room for changes.
Would this location suit my everyday life?
Think about the environment you enjoy, how you will get around and whether you have support nearby. A place that suits a friend may not be the best fit for you.
What does this particular school ask for?
Make a separate checklist for each institution. Do not assume an application requirement you saw for one course also applies to another. Keep the original school links with your notes so you can check them again.
Does the timing work?
Work backwards from your preferred start date. Include time to gather documents, ask questions and complete each stage. Avoid building your plans around an outcome that has not been confirmed.
Your next step
Pick three schools to compare using the same questions. A small, well-researched shortlist is easier to work with than twenty open browser tabs. Bring your shortlist and questions to a conversation with Sunkky Travels.