Scholarships, grants and financial aid may be utilized to offset the cost of tuition for studying abroad.Â
However, even a generous financial aid package does not cover all unforeseen expenses.
It may mount up when you factor in the increased cost of living, travel, housing, dining out, and other expenses.
In this case, scholarships for studying abroad can help with that.
That’s why there are so many scholarships available; experiences like this shouldn’t be reserved for the wealthy.
I’ve put together an overview of study abroad and scholarships here to guide you in your quest to find financial support for your international journey.
The top 5 items to be aware of and prepare for are as follows:
– Set a budget
– Select the appropriate university and nation
– Studying for the necessary examinations
– Student work opportunities
– A post-graduation career
Check out various sources of financial aid tailored for Nigerians seeking to study abroad.
1. SET A BUDGET IF YOU INTEND TO STUDY ABROAD
Making judgments based on the budget for your international education will, of course, be healthier for you or your family.
International education can be costly, but there are various ways to study abroad on a tight budget, such as the following:
 – Look for nations with reasonably low tuition fees
– Look for scholarships in the nation you’ve selected. Some scholarships are fully funded, others are only partially funded.
A roadmap to obtaining a scholarship is provided here;
How do you submit a scholarship application?
Start gathering your materials once you’ve identified a study abroad scholarship for which you can apply.
This is what a typical application procedure looks like:
– Start your scholarship application by filling out an online form.
– Make sure the confirmation email arrives in your inbox.
– Compose an essay or personal statement.
– There are plenty of samples available online but be original and avoid plagiarism.
-Tell your own story!
– Obtain official documentation of your creative, athletic, and academic accomplishments.
– Document translation is generally necessary.
– Or provide official documentation of your nationality or low income (for region-based scholarships).
– Send the documents to the scholarship provider after thoroughly checking them to be sure that there are no errors.
– Submit the university’s letter of acceptance (or an official document from the university proving you’ve been accepted).
– You won’t be awarded the scholarship without a confirmation that you will start your studies.
– Await the outcome.Â
– As a student, look into employment opportunities and alternatives.
– Some nations permit part-time employment while you are a student there.
Check out the top destinations for students seeking to study abroad and why
2. SELECT THE APPROPRIATE NATION AND UNIVERSITY
The best country for your study abroad experience will rely on a variety of criteria.
This includes living circumstances, cultural differences, spoken languages, distance from your home country, weather conditions, accommodations, costs of living, and chances for post-study employment.
Countries like Canada, the United States of America, and New Zealand are good countries that international students can consider for study.
These countries have a high acceptance rate and are welcoming.
The most crucial decision when deciding to study abroad is picking the proper university and course.
You can obtain free assistance with this selection from IDP consultants, who will direct you in selecting the appropriate course at the appropriate location.
3. STUDYING FOR NECESSARY EXAMS
Make sure you are fully aware of the entrance standards for the university or college you choose when you choose an international institution, including the academic records, credentials, etc.
You should also confirm whether the school or organization requires particular exams as a requirement for admission.
Some of the tests you might need to take are listed below:
International universities frequently require the IELTS test and other English proficiency exams.
Visit the university website to find out the score you must obtain to be accepted.
Additionally, you may need to take the TOEFL or GRE.
Check out this guide on understanding the IELTS exam, especially for Nigerian students.Â
4. VERIFY OPPORTUNITIES IF STUDYING ABROAD
As an international student attending school abroad, you may have the opportunity to work part-time.
This will enable you to pick up some experience, interact with the neighbourhood, and make some money.
While some nations exclusively permit on-campus employment during the first year of study, others permit off-campus employment.
The following are some of the most popular jobs held by international students abroad
 – Waiter
– Babysitter
– Retail employee
 – Call centre phone operator
5. SET UP A CAREER PLAN AFTER GRADUATIONÂ
Even before you begin your education abroad, you should consider your future career.
Most international students desire well-paying job prospects abroad, however, some are open to the idea of staying in the countries where they are studying.
In light of this, you may find amazing prospects in social and professional networks, internships, and joint projects with most colleges and businesses.
Explore opportunities like the Creative Intern Virtual at Sony Music Entertainment Internship Program for valuable experience.Â
CONCLUSION ON ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT STUDYING ABROAD AND SCHOLARSHIPÂ
To pursue a study abroad or obtain a scholarship, one needs determination and diligence.
This manual will make things simpler for you.