01Start by defining your study project
Before comparing institutions, start by defining what you are really looking for: your field of study, the level of degree you want, the skills you wish to develop and the career you have in mind afterwards.
A school can be excellent without necessarily matching your project. Your goal should therefore be to find the institution that best fits your path and your ambitions.
02Check the recognition of the institution and the degree
This is one of the most important checks. An attractive presentation or a professional website does not automatically guarantee that an institution or a degree is recognised.
Find out about the institution's status, the recognition of the degree it awards, any accreditations and the value of the degree in the country where you wish to continue your studies or work.
03Look closely at the programme content
Two programmes with almost the same name can offer very different curricula. Look at the subjects taught, the specialisations available, the weight given to practical projects, internship or work-study opportunities and international exchanges.
The goal is not only to earn a degree, but also to develop skills that will be useful for the rest of your path.
04Review all the admission requirements
Criteria can vary considerably from one institution to another: required academic level, prerequisite degree, language level, interview, documents to provide and application timeline.
Check these points early enough to avoid discovering an important requirement after you have already started your application.
05Work out the real cost of your project
Tuition fees are only part of the budget. You also need to plan for housing, transport, food, insurance, administrative procedures and everyday expenses.
Drawing up a budget forecast will tell you whether your project is financially realistic before you commit.
06Think about the city as much as the school
Your experience will also depend on your surroundings. The cost of living, transport, housing options, student life and job opportunities can vary greatly from one city to another.
A school in a major capital and a school in a smaller student town can offer two completely different experiences.
07Consider the prospects after the programme
Ask yourself what this programme can bring you after graduation: internships, work-study, a first job, further studies, a professional network or international opportunities.
The goal is to choose a programme that is consistent with what you want to build in the medium and long term.
