You are determined to do a year of study abroad. However, where to go? Europe, the United States, and Asia: all these destinations make you dream and you do not know which one to choose. Rather than randomly pointing a country on the world map, here are some criteria that will help you make your choice.

Prefer the university to the country

Australia is generally dreamier than Sweden, no need to draw you. But the first criterion to remember – before the temperature curve – is the quality of the university you are going to visit. To do this, it is necessary to see broad: quality and recognition of teaching, life on campus, equipment, location, housing, etc. All these elements will make you feel right at home and that your stay will be successful.

Be consistent with your studies

“An important criterion is the consistency between studies and destination,” explains Caroline Torriero of the Paris-Sorbonne international service. If you are studying the history of the Maya, going to China is not very indicated … Truce of jesting, the idea is to verify that the courses offered in your specialty exist and that they are of quality. “I know that some universities are better in finance, others in marketing, I direct my students on the job,” explains Serge Guarino, director of international programs at DCI.

Anticipate your career

Even if your professional life seems far away, a stay abroad can be decisive later. Are you planning a career abroad? Go where you can boost your language skills. Are you an engineer or a business school? Make your choice among the universities most highly rated in the field, which will make a strong impression on your future CV. “I always advise my students to go where the crowd is not going, where it seems more difficult, as in Asia,” explains Serge Guarino. Risk taking is indeed seen by recruiters.

Make it your budget

There is no need to hide your face: some destinations are more expensive than others (Australia or Singapore for example) are. Even if you do not have to pay additional tuition fees – provided you stay in partnership with your school in France – you have to take into account the cost of living (accommodation, transport, food…). After, do not forget that you can apply for aid grants.