Are you considering pursuing a postgraduate degree abroad but unsure of which destination to choose? Continuing your education after obtaining a bachelor’s degree is a wise career strategy in today’s global economy. Many students opt to study overseas when searching for the right university to pursue their master’s degree. Studying abroad not only enhances your career prospects by providing access to high-quality internships and programs at top institutions with world-class resources such as libraries, labs, and technology, but it also looks impressive on your resume. Here’s what you need to know about obtaining a postgraduate degree in another country.

1.Eligibility Criteria for Postgraduate Studies

Eligibility criteria for postgraduate studies vary depending on the university, course, and country. However, the basic criteria usually remain the same.
You must have a bachelor’s degree, diploma, or equivalent certificate from a recognized university. Some foreign universities require four years of undergraduate education, while others may accept three years, depending on the bachelor’s course you completed.
If you are a non-native English speaker applying for a master’s degree in an English-speaking country, you must take an English proficiency test such as IELTS. Some master’s programs may require you to take a GRE or GMAT to assess your reasoning and analytical ability. Professional experience may also be considered in certain subject area.

2. Duration of Postgraduate Courses in Different Countries

The duration of the postgraduate course depends on the country you choose to pursue your master’s degree, as different countries have different education systems.
In Australia, postgraduate programs typically last between one to two years, depending on the scope and study of the program.
In Canada, postgraduate courses last between one to two years and often include theoretical classes, site visits, individual and group projects, and dissertations. PG diploma courses in Canada are also available, allowing you to earn a degree in one year while working part-time.
New Zealand universities provide PG Diploma options, which generally comprise a one-year full-time or extended part-time program of graduate papers. The research-based master’s program usually takes two years, but primarily taught master’s programs usually last for just one year.
In the UK, research-based master’s programs usually take two years to complete, while all other post-grad programs are completed with one year of full-time study.
In Ireland, research-based master’s programs usually take two years to complete, while all other post-grad programs are completed with one year of full-time study. In the US, it typically takes two years of full-time study, including structured training and regular assessments.

3. Scholarship Program for Postgraduate studies

Various university-specific scholarship programs are available for students to avail themselves of. Additionally, Indian students can apply for government scholarships such as the Chevening UK Government Scholarship, Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowship, Commonwealth Academic Fellowship, and Hubert-Humphrey Scholarship.

4. Student and Post-Study Work Visas Requirement

Each destination has its own conditions for student and post-study work visas. However, the basic requirements remain the same. You must have an acceptance letter from your desired institution, a valid passport, financial proof showcasing evidence of sufficient funds to live while studying in the country, proof of your English proficiency ability such as a decent score on your IELTS test, and proof of a welfare arrangement if you are under 18 (in some countries).

5. Advantages of Pursuing a Postgraduate Degree Abroad

Year after year, students choose to pursue their postgraduate degree abroad :-
It provides access to unique resources, training opportunities, and the chance to acquire new skills available in other countries.
Moreover, it enhances your personality and has the potential to transform your life.
If you are unsure about the destination, course, or university you should choose, feel free to reach out to Asian Overseas Education Consultant’s International education specialists, and they will be happy to help you accomplish your study-abroad goals.