It’s interesting to note that over the years, the number of Indian students opting to study abroad has significantly risen. According to a recent report by credible sources (sourced from Business Standard), the number of Indian students studying abroad will reach an impressive 1.8 million by 2024.
Did you know that studying abroad after completing 12th grade has become a popular choice among students?
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There are several reasons for this trend. Many students want to explore new cultures and gain a competitive edge in the job market. Additionally, studying abroad provides opportunities for advanced research and innovation.
If you are considering studying abroad after 12th grade and are unsure about the process, this blog is for you. We have put together all the essential details that will help you confidently invest in a foreign education and embark on an exciting journey towards your dream career.
Let’s dive in and explore why studying abroad after the 12th is your perfect launchpad.
Benefits of Studying Abroad After 12th
Studying abroad after 12th has several benefits, such as studying in the best educational system, affordable fees, and working with experts.
Here is a list of the benefits that Indian students get from studying abroad after the 12th:
- Exposure to new cultures and experiences: Studying abroad provides the opportunity to immerse oneself in a new culture, learn a new language, and gain a broader perspective on life.
- Enhanced academic experience: Foreign universities offer a different approach to education, which can help students develop critical thinking skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.
- Networking opportunities: Studying abroad allows students to connect with like-minded individuals from different parts of the world, which can help them build a global network of contacts.
- Career opportunities: Studying abroad can enhance one’s employability by providing exposure to different industries, job markets, and professional cultures.
- Personal growth: Living and studying in a foreign country can be a life-changing experience that can help students develop independence, self-confidence, and adaptability.
- Improved language skills: Studying abroad provides a unique opportunity to learn a new language or improve existing language skills, which can be a valuable asset in today’s global job market.
Moreover, studying abroad after 12th opens up a world of opportunities for students, both academically and professionally, and can set them on the path towards a fulfilling and successful career.
General Admission Requirements for UG Study Abroad
Certain requirements must be met to pursue an undergraduate degree abroad. These include submitting academic transcripts, letters of recommendation (LORs), and a statement of purpose (SOP).
Here is a detailed list of the requirements for UG study abroad:
- Completion of 12th-grade education from a recognised Indian Board.
- Proficiency in English language: TOEFL (100) / IELTS (6.5) scores.
- Standardised tests like SAT/ACT scores (depending on the country and university)
- CV or a resume
- Application fees and required documents such as transcripts, recommendation letters, and essays.
- Financial support through scholarships, grants, or personal funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs
- Visa application process and meeting the eligibility criteria for the chosen country
These requirements will vary depending on the university and program you are applying to, so it is important to check the admissions website of each university you are interested in.
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Exams Required for Foreign Education After 12th
In order to apply for higher education programs at universities abroad after completing high school, students are often required to take standardised tests.
These tests evaluate a student’s academic abilities, language proficiency, and other skills relevant to their chosen field of study.
Here is a list of exams required for studying abroad after the 12th for Indian students, along with the required scores:
| Exam | Scores Required |
| English Language Proficiency Tests (TOEFL/IELTS) | TOEFL: 90-100 IELTS: 6.5-7.5 |
| SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) | 1200 or above |
| NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) | 50th percentile or above |
The score requirements for these exams vary from university to university and program to program, but generally, a higher score can increase the chances of admission.
Researching and preparing well in advance is important to ensure a successful application process.
Procedure to Study Abroad After 12th
If you are considering studying abroad after the 12th, you should follow a step-by-step procedure to ensure a smooth application process.
Let’s get into the 5-step procedure to study abroad after the 12th:
Step 1: Identify the country you want to study in and research eligibility criteria and entry requirements for the particular program you are interested in.
Step 2: Clear the required tests such as the English Language Proficiency Test, NEET for medical courses, GMAT/GRE for business courses, SAT for undergraduate courses, and MCAT for medical courses in the US and Canada.
Step 3: Fill out and submit the application form and submit relevant documents before the deadline.
Step 4: Apply for scholarships (if available) and arrange for funds to cover your education and living expenses.
Step 5: Finally, apply for a student visa.
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Cost of Studying UG Abroad
Studying abroad after the 12th can be an expensive affair, but the investment can be worth it. The cost of studying UG abroad varies depending on the country, university, and course.
Popular courses like engineering, business, and medicine can be more expensive compared to liberal arts and social sciences. Countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia are among the most popular destinations for UG studies and can cost anywhere between $20,000 ( INR 17L) to $50,000 (INR 46L) per year in tuition fees.
However, there are several scholarships and financial aid options available that can help reduce the burden of expenses.
Scholarship Opportunities to Study Abroad After 12th
Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience for students, providing them with a chance to explore new cultures and gain a global perspective. However, the cost of studying abroad can be a major barrier for students, especially those who come from low-income families.
Luckily, there are many scholarship opportunities available to Indian students who wish to study abroad after the 12th.
Top Universities to Consider for Foreign Education After 12th
While taking a step toward education abroad, finding the right university is essential. To help you with your search
Here are some top universities in different countries that you can consider for different courses:
| Country | University | QS World Universities Ranking 2024 |
| UK | The University of Oxford | 3 |
| The University of Cambridge | 2 | |
| USA | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 |
| Harvard University | 4 | |
| Canada | University of Toronto | 21 |
| McGill University | 30 | |
| Australia | The University of Melbourne | 14 |
| The University of Sydney | 19 |
- Other countries: ETH Zurich in Switzerland, the National University of Singapore, and the University of Tokyo in Japan are popular choices for foreign education.
Summing Up
While the process of studying abroad can seem challenging, thorough research and preparation can make it a smooth and exciting journey. Students must fulfil eligibility criteria, clear mandatory exams, and apply for scholarships and financial aid to cover expenses.
Choosing the right university and course is important, and students can explore options across different countries based on their preferences and budgets.
Don’t hesitate to explore this exciting opportunity and take your first step towards a fulfilling and successful career.
If you still require assistance in terms of knowing more about studying abroad, you can book a free session with our professional counsellors at LeapScholar, and get on this exciting journey!
To Sum Up:
Studying abroad after 12th grade is an excellent choice for Indian students who want to gain exposure to new cultures, enhance their academic and professional prospects, and embark on a fulfilling career path.
While the process of studying abroad can seem challenging, thorough research and preparation can make it a smooth and exciting journey. Students must fulfil eligibility criteria, clear mandatory exams, and apply for scholarships and financial aid to cover expenses. Choosing the right university and course is important, and students can explore options across different countries based on their preferences and budgets.
So, if you’re considering studying abroad after 12th grade, don’t hesitate to explore this exciting opportunity and take your first step towards a fulfilling and successful career.
If you still require assistance in terms of knowing more about studying abroad, you can book a free session with our professional counsellors at LeapScholar, and get on this exciting journey!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. How do I go abroad for studies after the 12th from India?
A. To study abroad after the 12th from India, students must first choose the country they want to study in and research eligibility criteria and entry requirements for the particular program they are interested in. They must clear the required tests such as the English Language Proficiency Test, NEET for medical courses, GMAT/GRE for business courses, SAT for undergraduate courses, and MCAT for medical courses in the US and Canada. They must then fill out and submit the application form and submit relevant documents before the deadline. Finally, they must apply for a student visa.
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Q. How to get admission to foreign universities after the 12th?
A. To get admission to foreign universities after the 12th, you must research the eligibility criteria and entry requirements for the particular program you are interested in and clear the required tests such as the English Language Proficiency Test, NEET for medical courses, GMAT/GRE for business courses, SAT for undergraduate courses, and MCAT for medical courses in the US and Canada. You must then fill out and submit the application form and submit relevant documents before the deadline. Finally, you must apply for a student visa.
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Q. Can I go abroad after the 12th?
A. Yes, students who have completed their 12th grade can opt for studying abroad. To study abroad, you need to do thorough research about the eligibility criteria and entry requirements of the course you are interested in. Apart from that, there are a few mandatory tests that you must clear, like the English Language Proficiency Test, NEET for medical courses, GMAT/GRE for business courses, SAT for undergraduate courses, and MCAT for medical courses in the US and Canada. After clearing these tests, you can fill out the application form and attach the required documents before the deadline.
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Q. Which 5 countries are best for study abroad after 12th?
A. Choosing a country to study abroad after 12th depends on various factors such as budget, language, culture, and course preferences. Some of the popular destinations for international students include the USA, Canada, Australia, the UK, and Germany. These countries offer high-quality education, globally recognised degrees, and diverse cultural experiences. However, it’s important to research and compare different options before making a decision.
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Q. How much does it cost to study abroad after the 12th?
A. The cost of studying abroad after the 12th varies depending on the country, course, and institution. Generally, studying in countries like the USA, Canada, Australia, and the UK can be expensive, with tuition fees ranging from $20,000 (INR 17L) to $50,000 (INR 42L) per year. However, there are also affordable options in countries like Germany, where public universities offer free tuition and other European countries like Spain, Sweden and Denmark, where tuition fees are comparatively lower. It’s important to research and plan finances accordingly before making a decision.
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Q. What are the required exams to study abroad after the 12th?
A. There are several exams required to study abroad after the 12th, depending on the country and institution you are applying to. For example, in the US, you may need to take the SAT or ACT, while in the UK, you may need to take the A-levels or the International Baccalaureate. In addition, you may also need to take English language proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS. It’s important to research the specific requirements of the universities you are interested in to ensure you are adequately prepared.
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Q. How to get a scholarship to study abroad after 12th?
A. There are several ways to get a scholarship to study abroad after 12th. You can apply for scholarships offered by universities, governments, or private organizations. The eligibility criteria and application process vary from scholarship to scholarship. It is important to research and apply for scholarships well in advance and meet all the requirements. Additionally, maintaining good academic scores and having a strong profile can increase the chances of securing a scholarship.
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Q. What is the minimum mark in 12th to study abroad?
A. The minimum marks required in 12th to study abroad depend on the country and the university or college you are applying to. Some universities may require a minimum of 60% marks, while others may require a higher percentage. It’s important to research the specific requirements of the university and program you are interested in to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria.
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Q. What are the scholarships Indian students get for studying abroad?
A. Indian students can avail of various scholarships to study abroad, such as the Commonwealth Scholarship, the Inlaks Scholarship, and the Fulbright-Nehru Scholarship, among others. These scholarships offer financial aid to cover tuition fees, travel expenses, and accommodation costs, making it easier for students to pursue their dream of studying abroad. Students can research and apply for these scholarships based on their academic profile, field of study, and country of choice.
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Q. What are the requirements for UG study abroad?
A. To pursue an undergraduate degree abroad after 12th grade, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation (LORs), and a statement of purpose (SOP) must be submitted. A valid passport and a student visa are also necessary. A strong CV or resume highlighting academic and extracurricular achievements, proof of funds to support education and living expenses, and age limit verification may also be required. Additionally, certain exams such as the English Language Proficiency Test, NEET for medical courses, GMAT/GRE for business courses, SAT for undergraduate courses, and MCAT for medical courses in the US and Canada are mandatory.
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Q. Is studying abroad a good idea for Indian students?
A. Studying abroad can offer Indian students a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth. It can expose them to new cultures, academic and research opportunities, and different ways of thinking. However, students should carefully consider the costs, eligibility requirements, and challenges of living in a foreign country before making a decision. Ultimately, it depends on the individual’s goals and priorities.
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