We know how hard it can be to figure out where to start when applying to university. So, in order to make sure you’ve covered all the steps, you can take a deep breath and make sure you’ve checked off all the basic points to consider, on our handy checklist. And remember, the internet can be a wonderful tool – but so can talking to people - do as much research as possible before narrowing down your decision.

1. Figure out whether you know what you want to study or whether it’s going to be a Liberal Arts course until you know what you want to do. It’s toughest to find a place to start, but this is the most important:
   • If you have determined what you want to study, skip to 2.
   
   
   • If you’re not sure what you want to study, start asking a lot of questions around you and consider a few broad-ranging options. Perhaps researching a Liberal Arts program may be a good idea.


2. Narrow down what country you want to go to study in. Ask yourself these questions:
   • Does that country offer options for the course of study you are interested in?
   
   
   • Does that country offer you value for money/potential financial aid?
   
   
   • Is the possibility of staying on to work in that country after your studies important to you ? – If yes, then check into your visa and work permit options from the start.
   
   
   • Also do consider the distance from home, if being far away from your family is likely to be tough for you. Sometimes researching flight schedules can make you feel more comfortable.


3. Now that you’ve decided what country you want to study in, start researching universities which offer the course of study you want to pursue.
   • Select a range of institutions that offer the program – and check what the admissions requirements are.
     • Make sure you’re scheduled to take or have taken any standardized or other testing requirements for admissions at the institutions you have selected.
     
     
     • Check you are able to get your school grade transcripts prepared and sent away in time.
     
     
     • Make sure you have noted down several teachers or other individuals who know you well from an academic standpoint – to ask to write you letters of recommendation. Some teachers may say no – don’t be disheartened, it’s all part of the process. You want somebody who feels they can give you a good recommendation to write one.
     
     
     • Start considering your personal statement essays.


4. Another important point in your search: Financing your studies. Start looking into scholarships and financial aid available through the institutions you are looking into. Request information from the admissions offices of these institutions. Also see if the government of your country or the country you are applying to offers specific scholarships that may be applicable to you.


5. Now you’re almost there. You need a visa. Make sure you check out the official government or embassy page of the country you are applying to – and follow the instructions they give for required documentation for your application. Also be sure to ask the university you will be attending if they offer any assistance with visa applications (sometimes they do) – or if they can provide an often-necessary document required for foreign-student visa applications.
6. 
   Now you’re just left to prepare for departure! Packing 101 is next!