How to Find Colleges For International Study

Researching colleges is an important but overwhelming part of the application process. You’ve probably listened to hundreds of admissions officers, all with exciting facts about their colleges and now you are a bit confused.  Your college will be your home for 3+ years and you must find a place you can thrive socially and academically.

This guide will guide you on how to research colleges like a pro. You will learn to diversify your college list in three easy steps:

1. Create a pro and cons List
2. Analyze your admission chances
3. Network with alumni and existing students at your preferred colleges

Create a pro and cons List

You will need a word document, an excel sheet or the good old notebook for this section. You will have to get your hands dirty and actually take note of what you like about the universities. Figure out the deal breakers and things that make you most excited about the schools as you narrow down your list. Don’t hesitate to make your own ranking system based on what matters most.

The following factors about the school should influence your pros and cons list:

• Academics-How does the school perform academically?
• Reputation- How will attending this school affect your credibility as a graduate?
• Specific programs – Does it offer programs that cater to your academic needs? How are they ranked?
•  Location- Would you like a school that is near or far from home?
• School size – Do you think you would thrive more in a small or big college?
• Cost- is cost a potential obstacle? If so, does the school offer a generous financial aid package or scholarships?
• Social life- Would you like a lively party scene with clubs and bars? Are school clubs and Greek life important to you?
•  Accommodation- Would you like to live on or off-campus?

Analyze your admission chances

Having the right combination of safety, reach, and match schools is a big deal!

It is crucial to factor in metrics like your GPA, test scores, academic and extracurricular activities, essays, and background. This strategy ensures you have realistic expectations by comparing your academic profile with that of the average student in your preferred university.

Remember that it is totally okay to dream big and try a college that seems out of reach, but analyzing your chances helps to manage expectations while making sure you don’t miss out on college.

Network with alumni and existing students at your preferred colleges

It is important to get honest opinions from people that actually went to the colleges you are interested in. You are likely to get unbiased reviews from close friends, acquaintances or even strangers that have or are still attending these universities. 

The key thing to remember is you must use this information to inform rather than make solid decisions-you are still different individuals with varying interests.

The following methods will help you network effective

• Use LinkedIn

LinkedIn is one of the largest networking platforms in the education and career industry. Millions of people have indicated their alma maters and you could leverage this factor into your college research journey. Search your schools and get details on alumni whereabouts and careers. You can also message your favorite alumni and ask for feedback on their college experiences.

• Use social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube

Unlike LinkedIn, sites like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube have a more informal and laidback approach. Here, you will learn more from comments and observing the social and professional lives of your favorite alumni. Be bold and send a cold message asking about their college experience.

• Attend campus visit or meet and  greets

This is the last investigative tactic that should be reserved for your top choices. This means you have narrowed down from fifty to about seven or so colleges that you are really eager to attend. It is time-consuming and relatively pricey (if location is a factor), but an effective way to corner professors and students for a face-to-face interaction.