Many Indian students opt to pursue their academic goals abroad. Studying abroad provides access to top global universities and exposes international students to multiple career development opportunities. Aspiring students can either apply individually or seek assistance from study abroad consultants. There are several claims and statements on study abroad consultants vs independent applications.
While both methods might work—study abroad consultants vs. independent applications—is a better understanding crucial? Read the blog to find out.
Independent Applications
Independent applications involve students taking matters into their own hands. It requires doing personal research, acquiring the contacts and necessary university information, and applying to their desired programmes. Some of the advantages and disadvantages of independent applications include:
Pros of Independent Applications
- Independence in selection: They are not influenced by third-party inputs, creating an independent selection process.
- Personalised research: Students get to customise their study to their individual needs.
- Cost-effective: It’s free, and you can do the process at your convenience.
- Learning experience: Doing the task helps students learn much about what transpires in university applications abroad.
Cons of Independent Applications
- Limited guidance and support: You will only know what to do or avoid to increase your chances of landing an offer to study at your desired university abroad.
- Language barriers: Language barriers are often a big issue. Even with a good proficiency score, you can only partially decode all the requirements and application procedure information.
- Overwhelming information: There is plenty of information out there, and it is essential to know what to consider, but independent applicants might not determine the difference.
- Potential pitfalls: First-time mistakes are inevitable and might lead to university rejection.
- Lack of expertise: With experience, you’ll have access to all the important information and resources that might change the dynamics of your application.
- Time-consuming: It will be tedious since they are doing it for the first time, and it might take longer than usual.
- Missed opportunities: Students may miss out on scholarships, accommodation, internships, or other opportunities.
Study Abroad Consultants
Study abroad consultants are agencies dedicated to helping Indian students who want to pursue higher education abroad. They have industry knowledge and experience that will be instrumental in the application process. They also expose students to their network and offer study abroad counselling for a comprehensive application procedure that yields results. Some of the advantages and disadvantages of using study abroad consultants include:
Pros of Study Abroad Consultant
- Expertise in multiple fields: You enjoy extensive knowledge of country policies, college history & ranking, programme information, entry requirements, and more.
- Qualifications checklists: You get the accurate admission requirements for a specific programme across various universities.
- Minimal costs: While most are free, some charge a minimal fee, but that’s worth the input you get.
- Visa guidance: You will be guided on applying for and acquiring your student visa for your studies abroad.
- Unique SOP: A statement of purpose is vital when expressing your interest in joining a university, and you’ll get help crafting a unique and convincing one. For instance, you must craft a stellar statement of purpose for masters with your past experiences.
- Faster and more straightforward process: With the right tricks and tips on the application procedure, you’ll have a faster and easier experience.
- Alumni networking: You enjoy access to former clients who will share their experiences in the desired country and institution you want to join to help you know the dos and don’ts.
- Scholarship data: With annual tuition fee revisions, scholarships have proven vital for funding the cost of studying abroad and study abroad consultants can help you land scholarships.
Cons of Study Abroad Consultant
Using study abroad consultants is not disadvantageous, as they make your work easier and more effective. They also increase your chances of getting offered to study in your dream university, which is the end goal. Some consultants may charge expensive fees for their services.
Study Abroad Consultants Vs Independent Applications
Significant differences exist between applying to universities abroad independently and using study abroad consultants. These differences pinpoint the loopholes of independent applications and study abroad consultation input. The table below shows the differences between study abroad consultants and independent applications.
| Study Abroad Consultants | Independent Applications |
| – They simplify your applications making them easier and faster due to experience – They give you access to accurate information about what you need to know, from the top universities to the best courses for the job market – They are cost-effective as the services provided can be free or charged minimal fees – They provide more guidance beyond application on topics such as accommodation, extracurricular activities, financial aid, and the cost of living in the countries. | – It is tedious and time-consuming due to a lot of necessary research and confirmation of information to get accurate response – There is an overwhelming flow of information that needs to be understood and simplified to understand all application dynamics – It is free – There is a lack of guidance, which makes the process prone to rookie mistakes that can cost you a space in a top university |
Study Abroad With UniScholars
FAQs
Are Study Abroad Consultants Good?
Study abroad consultants offer a professional approach when applying for your studies abroad. They provide resourceful materials on the best universities and programmes with prospects and can help you land financial aid. They are your best choice for landing admission to your desired university abroad.
Can We Go Abroad Without Consultancy?
Yes, you can go abroad without consultancy. However, challenges for independent applications are inevitable. This will reduce your chances of getting an offer to study abroad as you might not do things as per university requirements due to lack of experience.
How Much Do Study Abroad Consultants Charge?
Study abroad consultants such as UniScholars charge minimal fees. Consultation is often free from many agencies. However, access to information and counselling for making sound decisions about your education future can be charged.
Which Agency Is Best For Studying Abroad?
UniScholars is the best study abroad consultancy agency in India. It provides free consultancy and also helps students get scholarships in foreign universities.
How To Decide Which Agency To Work With?
Choosing a study abroad consultancy agency is a crucial step. You should choose one with a good reputation and a proven track record in studying abroad applications. You should also consider your needs and the fees charged.
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I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further