5 tips for Nigerian students who want to study abroad

You might have your reasons for choosing to study in a foreign tertiary institution, but without the right information, you can only go so far.

The right tips and tricks can help you make a more informed decision. Read on.

1. Know your course

Before choosing to study abroad, you need to have a concrete plan and what you want to study. Studying some courses abroad can even make it less likely that you will secure a job when you return to Nigeria. For example, if you study a course like Marketing or Law in a foreign land, you will be taught specifics that will only work if you are pursuing a Marketing or Law career over there. The difference in environment will affect what you learn and where you can practice. So, if you plan to return to Nigeria after studying abroad, then you should choose a course that can help you grow your career in Nigeria.

2. Extra-curricular activities are important

Most foreign universities looking to admit international students look for much more than grades. Your scores alone will not get you there. These schools will pay attention to activities you engage in outside of school. U.S. colleges, for example, look for well-rounded students. Showcase anything you've done outside of classes, from volunteering to work part time, or playing an instrument.

3. SAT, TOEFL or IELTS exams will be considered

Sure, you need more than scores, but your grades still have to be well above average for you to be considered in some Universities abroad. Odds are that universities will have a hard time interpreting what your transcripts mean, so some schools will use the SATs (or other alternatively accepted examination) to evaluate you. You also need to do well on the TOEFL or IELTS exams. International students' English-speaking abilities are scrutinized because it affects how well you can participate in class and keep up with the work.

5. Make the decision wisely

Before your pack up and leave for your 'dream' school, first, you must find out if there are no local Nigerian universities offering your course of choice, and if they are offering it, find out if they have a proven good record in that course. Are their graduates employed in good places? How are their performances after graduation? Do employers value their graduates? If your findings says yes, then why go abroad to waste resources? Do not make an ignorant decision based on what others say. Be sure your chosen course of study is a smart investment and studying abroad is worth it.