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5 mistakes to avoid when choosing a university abroad

Every year the number of applications to enter a university abroad increases, but do you know everything you need to know to make the right choice? Studying abroad is an exciting experience full of benefits. At Plan Zero we want it to be unforgettable and to make the most of it, which is why we want to tell you 5 mistakes to avoid when choosing a university abroad based on our extensive experience.

⛔ Error 1. Missing the orientation days.

Get involved and make the most of all the information resources available to you. Orientation days are an opportunity to obtain more information, resolve doubts and meet the teaching staff.

Many universities offer online orientation days. Sign up for our newsletter and we will keep you informed. On the other hand, this is one of the experiences you can do during a Gap Year: take advantage of the opportunity to get to know the universities that interest you on the spot, participate in the orientation days and resolve any questions on the spot.

⛔ Mistake 2. Managing everything on your own

Trust the professional team behind each university and, if you want, also Plan Zero. Universities have international student departments and will be able to answer any questions you may have. Ask them whenever you need to. At Plan Zero we have extensive experience helping students with their studies abroad, we can make your choice of studies and university, as well as the enrolment process and procedures, quick and safe.

Did you know that we have a 100% enrollment rate? 🤓 One of the mistakes to avoid when choosing a university abroad is to focus on a single attractive option without evaluating your real possibilities. At Plan Zero we can help you find the best university for you, according to your needs and your profile. Maybe you don’t even know that the university of your dreams exists yet 😉

⛔ Error 3. Not carrying out a good prior study of the universities

Related to the previous point is this mistake to avoid when choosing a university abroad. It is important to find the perfect combination between a prestigious university and a realistic application. Make a short list of options. Never put all your hopes in one option! But don’t try all the possible universities either. Some of them charge fees to submit applications, and the cost of applying to too many can be high.


💡 Tip Plan Zero

Select a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 5 universities and find out all the options and branches available: 3 or 4-year degrees, Sandwich Degrees (1 year of internship), Foundation Year, Year One, Top Up, etc. At Plan Zero we can help you make this selection.

⛔ Error 4. Not doing enough research on the university and the procedures

From having the right visa to obtaining scholarships or funding, one of the most common mistakes to avoid when choosing a university abroad is forgetting the small, but essential, steps. Research and check everything about the chosen university because normally everything will be published. If you can’t find it, trust Plan Zero. We communicate with the Admissions departments of the universities. Sometimes not looking for all the information can lead to problems such as, for example, obtaining a degree that is not recognized within the regulatory framework of your country. Don’t let all your effort disappear because of the lack of a piece of paper.

⛔ Error 5. Underestimating the importance of some requirements

Universities have quantitative requirements that are easy to check if you meet or not. For example, if they ask for an IELTS level of 6.5, you either have it or you don’t, it’s that simple. But many universities also ask for subjective requirements! A motivation letter (Personal Statement) or a portfolio are examples of this.

A good motivation letter can make the difference in getting admitted to the university of your choice. And the same goes for your portfolio. At Plan Zero we attach great importance to the creation of a good Personal Statement and we can help you build your portfolio.

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