education consultants for USA

Selection Criteria

Understanding Academic Background Requirements for Graduate Programs

  • Graduate programs require alignment of prior academic qualifications with university criteria.
  • MBA programs have a less rigid academic framework compared to other fields.
  • Universities set qualifying conditions to ensure candidates are suited for the program.
  • It’s important to choose a college that recognizes and values your academic background.
  • image-12

    Standardized Test Scores

    Standardized Test Scores: Consider your current test scores and choose universities with compatible requirements or aim for higher scores to increase your options.

    Program Ranking

    University Reputation vs. Program Reputation: Ensure the university's reputation aligns with the specific program you're interested in.

    Intended Major

    Program Rankings: Consider program rankings only as a supplementary factor. Prioritize the university's reputation in your specific field of interest.

    Acceptance Rate

    University Acceptance Rates: Avoid applying to highly selective universities if your academic profile doesn't meet their rigorous standards.

    Public/Private University

    Private vs. Public Universities:

    • Private Universities: Higher costs, potentially better education and job prospects.
    • Public Universities: Lower costs, standardized education.

    Financial Aid/Scholarship

    Financial Aid: Prioritize universities that offer significant merit-based financial aid if you need financial assistance.

    Geographical Preferences

    Urban vs. Rural Campus:

    • Georgia Institute of Technology (GA Tech) in Atlanta: Higher living costs due to urban location.
    • University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (UIUC): Lower living costs due to rural location.

    Average starting salary

    • University Support Services:
      • Housing assistance
      • English language support
      • Health insurance guidance
      • Tax advice
      • Personal and career counseling

    Campus Size

  • Large Campuses: Higher costs, more competition, lower placement rates.
  • Small Campuses: Fewer resources, limited opportunities, intimate learning environment.
  • Right-Sized Campus: Balanced resources, good opportunities, strong community.
  • Number of International students enrolled

    A good number of International students means two things :

    • The school is already a hit with International students, and
    • The school and its location provide facilities and services catering to the needs of the International student community.

    Student/Faculty ratio

    Placement rate

  • When considering a university for a career in research, prioritize institutions with strong placement records for graduate students.
  • A high placement rate indicates a strong academic program, strong industry connections, and a successful track record of preparing students for research careers.
  • Accreditation

    Before applying to any University, check its accreditation.

    Other Factors

    Safety issues:

  • University of Southern California (USC) is a great university with a high acceptance rate.
  • It offers good job placement opportunities.
  • However, it is located in a high-crime area of Los Angeles.