Postgraduate
Wondering which destination to choose for your PG abroad?
In the current global economy, continuing your education after your bachelor’s degree looks to be a no-brainer in terms of a career strategy. When looking for the right university to pursue their masters, many students choose to study overseas. Not only does it enhance your career by allowing you to participate in high-quality internships and programmes at top institutions with world-class resources such as libraries, labs, and technology. These accomplishments look fantastic on your resume. Here’s all you need to know about getting a postgraduate degree in another country.
Eligibility criteria may differ for each university, course, and country. However, here’s basic criteria that usually remains the same:
- UG degree: bachelor’s degree, diploma, or an equivalent certificate from a recognized university. Some foreign universities require 4 years of your undergraduate education while others may accept 3 years depending upon the bachelor course you completed.
- English language proficiency test: If you are non-native English speakers applying for masters in natively English-speaking countries then you must take any of the English proficiency tests like IELTS.
- GRE or GMAT: Some masters programs will require you to take a GRE or GMAT to assess your reasoning and analytical ability. The test’ scores requirement vary as per the university and program.
- Work experience: Professional experience may also be considered in certain subject areas.
The duration of the postgraduate course depends upon the country shortlisted for pursuing masters as different countries have different education systems. Here’s an overview:
- Australia: All Australian postgraduate programsspan between one to two years depending upon the scope and study of the program.
- Canada: PG courses in Canadaspan between one to two years and often include theoretical classes, site visits, individual and group projects, and dissertation. Also, PG diploma courses in Canada are available allowing you to earn a degree in a span of 1 year while working a part-time
- New Zealand: New Zealand universities provide PG Diploma options which generally comprise of a one-year full-time or extended part-time programme of graduate papers. The research-based master’s programme usually takes 2 years but primarily taught master’s programme usually last for just one year.
- The UK: All British universities research-based master’s program usually takes 2 years to complete otherwise all other post-grad programs are completed with 1 year of full-time study.
- Ireland: At Irish universities, research-based master’s program usually takes 2 years to complete. Otherwise, all other post-grad programs are completed with 1 year of full-time study.
- The US: It will take you around two years of full-time study including structured training and regular assessments.
University-specific scholarship programs are available for you to avail. However, as an Indian student following government scholarships are also offered:
- Chevening UK Government Scholarship
- Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowship
- Commonwealth Academic Fellowship
- Hubert-Humphrey Scholarship
Every destination has its own conditions for student and post studies work visa. However, the basic requirements remain intact:
a) An acceptance letter from your desired institution
b) A valid passport
c) Financial proofs showcase evidence of sufficient funds to live while you are studying in the country
d) Proof of your English proficiency ability such a decent score in your IELTS test
e) Prove you have a welfare arrangement if you are under 18 (in some countries)
Year after year, students choose to pursue their PG degree abroad as it helps them with the advantages of unique resources, training opportunities or acquiring new skills available in other countries. Moreover, it enhances your personality and has the potential of transforming your life.