Best Courses to Study Abroad after 12th

After 12th grade, education abroad offers numerous benefits, including global exposure, high-quality education, enhanced career opportunities, and personal growth. Popular courses span various streams, such as Medicine, Engineering, and Business, with top universities worldwide providing specialized programs and cutting-edge facilities. 

In this context, students need to meet academic qualifications, demonstrate language proficiency, and prepare for standardized tests depending on their chosen destination. Furthermore, financial planning is crucial, with options for scholarships and part-time work.

Therefore, since studying abroad is a valuable investment in education and personal development, one must know and decide about the best courses to study abroad after 12th.

Why Study Abroad After 12th

• Global Exposure

Intercultural awareness is an invaluable skill in today's globally connected world. Immersion in a foreign culture during a study abroad program promotes flexibility, tolerance, and global citizenship.

• Quality Education

Numerous international colleges are known for their outstanding academic records, which draw top-notch faculty and innovative research. You'll get access to cutting-edge facilities, engage in innovative research initiatives, and pick the brains of eminent academics.

• Career Opportunities

A foreign degree can unlock exciting international career opportunities. Employers increasingly value a global perspective and the skills honed through studying abroad, such as intercultural communication, adaptability, and problem-solving.

• Personal Development

Opting for an education overseas forces you to step outside of your comfort zone and develops perseverance, independence, and self-reliance. You'll learn how to handle new circumstances, successfully manage your time, and create a financial budget.

Best Courses to Study Abroad After 12th

Choosing the best course for an education abroad depends on what you enjoy learning, the career you aspire to, and how you prefer to learn. Here are some popular academic pathways to consider across different streams from abroad:

Science Stream

Course Name	Disciplines in the Field	QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024 (Top 5)	Job Prospects with Annual Salaries (USD)
Medicine	Medicine (MD), Dentistry (DDS), Pharmacy (PharmD), Nursing (BSN), etc.	Harvard University University of Oxford  Stanford University  Johns Hopkins University  University of Cambridge	Physician/Doctor (Emergency Room): $146,582 Physician/Doctor (Neurologist): $234,159 Physician/Doctor (General Practice): $127,028 Physician/Doctor (Radiologist):  $130,647 Obstetrician/Gynecologist: $105,077
Engineering	Mechanical, Chemical, Civil, Aeronautical, Electrical, Biomedical, Environmental, etc.	Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Stanford University University of Oxford University of Cambridge University of California, Berkeley (UCB)	Software Engineer: $105,453 Civil Engineer:  $91,173  Project Engineer: $88,814 Process Engineer: $91,171 Structural Engineer: $97,734
Computer Science	Computer Engineering, Information Technology, Information Systems, Software Engineering, Computer Science	Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Carnegie Mellon University Stanford University University of Oxford University of California, Berkeley (UCB)	Principal Software Engineer: $159,741 Security Architect, IT: $112,422 DevOps Engineer:  $126,667 Software Development Manager: $164,265
Biological Sciences	Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Zoology	Harvard University Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Stanford University University of Oxford University of Cambridge	Research Scientist: $102,896 Laboratory Manager:  $86,537 Project Manager: $89,027 Veterinarian: $129,077
Physical, Earth, and Marine Sciences	Earth Sciences (Geology & Meteorology), Physics, Chemistry, Astronomy	ETH Zurich Harvard University University of Cambridge University of Oxford  Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	Environmental Consultant: $601,561 Biologist: $82,304 EHS Manager: $101,850 Environmental Scientist: $66,591

Source: Indeed August 2024

Commerce Stream

Course Name	Disciplines in the Field	QS World University Rankings by Subject- 2024 (Top 5)	Job Prospects with Annual Salaries (USD)
Accounting and Finance	Banking, Corporate Finance, Investments, Institutions, Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting	Harvard University Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Stanford University University of Oxford University of Chicago	Finance Manager: $110,457 Finance Director:  $109,115  Business Manager:  $75,865 Payroll Manager:  $87,394 Associate Auditor: $73,607
Business and Management Studies	BBA or Business Administration, Business Studies, Business Information Systems, Management	Harvard University INSEAD London Business School Stanford University Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	Marketing Manager:$76,864 Director of Operations: $104,179 Human Resources(HR) Generalist: $64,227 Marketing Director: $104,372 Operations Manager:  $74,388
Economics	Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts programs, covering macroeconomics and microeconomics	Harvard University Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Stanford University University of Chicago Princeton University	Financial Analyst: $77,302 Data Analyst: $78,390 Project Manager: $89,027   Data Scientist: $123,023  Senior Business Analyst: $102,180
Marketing	Marketing management and both B.Sc and BA degrees.	HEC Paris ESSEC Business School IE Business School ESCP Business School Imperial College Business School	Marketer: $65,497 Marketing Manager: $76,864 Sales and Marketing Manager: $67,974 Digital Marketer: $65,384 Marketing Coordinator:  $52,892
Law	LLB with subjects like Labor and work laws, criminal law, consumer protection law, family law, human rights, international law, trade laws, and more	Harvard University University of Oxford University of Cambridge Yale University Stanford University	Lawyer: $93,646 Counsel: $120,970 Attorney: $108,439 Litigation Associate:  $135,428

Source: Indeed August 2024 

Arts Stream

Course Name	Disciplines in the Field	QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024 (Top 5)	Job Prospects with Annual Salaries (USD)
English Literature	Literary analysis, critical theory, creative writing	University of Oxford University of Cambridge Harvard University University of California, Berkeley (UCB) Yale University	Writer/Editor:  $65,723 Content Marketing Manager: $68,795
Psychology	Human behavior, mental processes, abnormal psychology, social psychology	Harvard University University of Oxford University of Cambridge Stanford University University College London (UCL)	School Psychologist: $56,753
Media and Communication	Journalism, filmmaking, mass communication, public relations	University of Amsterdam The London School of Economics and Political Science University of Southern California Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) University of Texas at Austin	Public Relations Specialist: $86,187  Digital Marketing Manager: $74,605
History	Studies past events and their impact on the present	Harvard University University of Oxford University of Cambridge The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) Yale University	Historian/Archivist: $59,006 to $69,213  Museum Curator: $64,555
Fine Arts	Painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, photography, etc.	Royal College of Art (London) University of the Arts London The New School Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	Fine Artist: Varies Art Director: $82,290

Source: Indeed August 2024

Specialized Programs

Beyond traditional academic disciplines, universities offer exciting specialized programs that combine theoretical knowledge with real-world application. Here are a few examples: 

Course Name	Description	QS World University Rankings	Job Prospects with Annual Salaries (USD)
Culinary Arts	Develops culinary skills and restaurant management expertise	EHL Hospitality Business School Swiss Hotel Management School César Ritz Colleges Switzerland University of Nevada - Las Vegas Les Roches Global Hospitality Management Education	Chef: $54,832
Data Science	Combines programming, mathematics, and statistics to extract insights from data	Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Carnegie Mellon University University of California, Berkeley (UCB) University of Oxford Harvard University	Data Scientist: $123,023
Graphic Design	Training for the creation of visual content for print and digital media	Royal College of Art University of the Arts London The New School Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	Graphic Designer: $60,994
Hospitality Management	Trains students for careers in the hotel and tourism industry	EHL Hospitality Business School SHMS - Swiss Hotel Management School César Ritz Colleges Switzerland University of Nevada - Las Vegas Les Roches Global Hospitality Management Education	Hotel Manager: $63,314
International Relations	Studies the relationships between countries and international organizations	Harvard University Sciences Po University of Oxford Princeton University The London School of Economics and Political Science	Regulatory Affairs Specialist: $95,938
Project Management	Develops skills to plan, execute, and monitor projects	Harvard University INSEAD London Business School Stanford University Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	Project Manager: $89,027

Source: Indeed August 2024

Eligibility Criteria for Studying Abroad after 12th

Make sure you meet the prerequisites outlined by universities before starting your study abroad experience. These typically include:

Academic Qualifications

Strong academic performance in your 12th board exams is crucial. Specific percentage requirements could change based on the country, program, and university. For example, the University of Cambridge requires applicants to achieve five or more A1 grades in relevant subjects. University College London (UCL) typically requires CBSE scores between 85-95% for admission.

Language Proficiency Tests

You'll likely need to demonstrate English language proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Minimum score requirements are set by the university. For example, a reputable institute like the University of California, Berkeley, requires a score of 100 on the TOEFL or a 6.5 minimum band score on the IELTS. 

The London School of Economics requires a minimum band score of 7.0 on the IELTS or a score of at least 100 on the TOEFL.

Some universities might require proficiency tests in the local language of the study destination as well. For instance, Heidelberg University in Germany requires a Level 2 proficiency in the German language.

Standardized Tests

In the US, some universities require the SAT or ACT. Check what each university needs. For example, the University of Chicago looks for an ACT score between 21 and 36 or an SAT score between 1080 and 1600. Purdue University typically accepts students with 1210 to 1450 on the SAT and 27 to 34 on the ACT.

How to Choose the Right Course and University

1. Know Yourself: What subjects are you good at, and what do you like? What kind of job do you want?
2. Research Options: Check websites, rankings, and programs. Consider professors, location, and student life.
3. Money Matters: Look into tuition fees, living costs, and scholarships to help pay for it.
4. Pick Your Top Choices: Narrow your list to universities that fit your plans and budget.
5. Connect with Universities: Talk to admissions offices and current students to learn more.

Application Process

Once you've finalized your choices, it's time to navigate the application process. This typically involves:

1. Transcripts & Tests: Send your school records and test scores (if needed) to the universities you picked.
2. Essays & Recommendations: Write about yourself, your goals, and why you want to study abroad. Get strong recommendation letters from teachers.
3. Prove Financial Eligibility: Submit financial documents to prove you have sufficient funds to pursue your education. 
4. Don't Miss Deadlines: Make sure you submit everything on time!

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of getting into your dream program abroad. Studying abroad is an investment, but with planning, you can make it happen.

Financial Planning for Studying Abroad

An education abroad can be an enriching experience, but it's essential to approach it with sound financial planning. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Tuition Fees

Research the cost of tuition at the university and program of your choice. Costs can differ dramatically depending on the organization, area, and kind of program. For example, universities in Canada cost an average of C$36,100(Rs 2,190,188.75) per year for international undergraduate students. 

In the United States, private non-profit colleges may cost students an average of $35,830(Rs. 30,07,512.87), while public universities may cost about $26,290(Rs. 2206714.25). International undergraduate fees in the UK range from £11,400(Rs.1217319.25 to £38,000(Rs. 40,58,111.20).

• Living Expenses

Factor in accommodation, food, transportation, books, and other living costs associated with your chosen destination. Utilize cost-of-living calculators to estimate these expenses. To paint you a picture, international students coming to the UK may have to pay £1300 to £1400 per month in London or £900(Rs 96,182.36) to £1300(Rs1,38,998.06) in the rest of the UK to cover accommodation, bills, groceries, and other expenses. 

The cost of living in the US is usually around $1,168 without rent. An apartment within a city center will cost you about $4,507 on average. Remember, there may be cheaper options available for these. 

• Part-time Work Opportunities

Depending on the country's rules, you might be able to work part-time to help pay for things. Look for jobs on campus or ones allowed for international students. By carefully planning your money, you can make studying abroad a reality.

Visa Process for Studying Abroad

The visa process allows you to enter and reside in your chosen country for study. Here's a breakdown of the critical steps:

• Visa Requirements

Visas depend on how long you'll be gone, what you're studying, and where you're from. Check the government website or your university's international student office for the latest info.

• Interview Preparation

Gather the necessary documents, such as your acceptance letter, transcripts, proof of financial support, and a valid passport, to prepare for a visa interview.

Identify and prepare for common visa interview questions by practicing your responses. Demonstrate clarity about your educational goals and financial plans.

• Post-Visa Approval

Conduct the final health checks required by the country you’ve chosen for your education abroad. 

Scholarships for Indian Students to Study Abroad After 12th

Some of the scholarships you can apply for while pursuing best courses abroad after 12th are:

Scholarships	Benefits
QS Impact Undergraduate Scholarships	Up to $5,000 in aid, depending on the scholarship
The International Scholars Program Awards (UBC)	Possible coverage of full tuition and living fees, depending on the scholarship awarded
France Excellence Charpak Bachelor scholarship	Monthly living allowance of €860, student visa waiver, fee waiver, social security, and accommodation assistance
Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship	$10,000 fee remission for the first year of an undergraduate degree or 50 to 100 percent fee remission for the three-year duration of an undergraduate degree.
UCL Global Undergraduate Scholarship	33 full tuition fee awards with 3 aimed specifically at students from India. The others waive full tuition fees or the fees and additional costs.
Reach Oxford Scholarship	Course fees for 3 or 4 years, grant for living costs, one return airfare per year
The Deutschlandstipendium for German Universities	€300 per month stipend

There are many more scholarships out there. Choose the ones that fit what you're studying, how much money you need, and your grades.

Conclusion

Studying abroad is an investment that pays you back forever. You'll learn tons, gain unique skills, and see the world! It's your chance to challenge yourself, explore new things, and meet people from everywhere.