10 Questions You Must Ask Before choosing a University Abroad consultancy

December 6 2025

10 Questions You Must Ask Before choosing a University Abroad consultancy

Choosing the right university abroad consultancy is a pivotal step for Indian students planning an international education. But are you confident that your chosen consultancy can deliver complete guidance for your entire overseas education plan? The right partner simplifies everything from planning and documentation to financial guidance, visa preparation, accommodation and post arrival support. With the right team, a complicated journey turns into a structured and stress-free experience. This blog breaks down 10 questions to ask before choosing a university abroad consultancy. Each point gives you clear insights and practical checkpoints to help you assess expertise, understand their process and make confident choices for your global education journey.

1. How Experienced is the Consultancy in Overseas Education?

Consultancy experience can strongly influence the quality of guidance you will receive. Start by checking how long they have been operating and how many students they have supported. An experienced consultancy usually has deeper insights into admission trends, university expectations and country specific processes. Confirm whether they have active partnerships with global universities, as this often signals stronger credibility. Review testimonials, ratings and success stories to understand how well they have guided students in the past.

How to Verify Consultancy Credentials

Ensure the consultancy holds valid registrations, certifications or memberships with recognized overseas education bodies. These credentials protect you from unverified agencies and confirm that you are working with a professional team.

2. Which Countries and Universities Can They Assist With?

A capable consultancy should provide guidance across major study destinations such as the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, Japan and other emerging options. Beyond providing lists of universities, they must explain country specific admission rules, eligibility criteria, popular courses and the academic culture of each region. Among the study abroad consultancy questions, they should help you compare universities using global benchmarks like QS World University Rankings, program strength and employability outcomes. Their insights on cultural fit, career opportunities and long-term prospects ensure your choices align with both your academic goals and personal preferences.

3. What Are the Eligibility Requirements for My Course and Country?

Every country and university follows distinct admission criteria. Your consultancy should clearly outline required academic scores, prerequisite subjects and program expectations. They must also guide you on standardized tests such as SAT, GRE or GMAT. For English speaking destinations, check if they support IELTS or TOEFL preparation. If the country requires a local language, they should clarify those requirements as well. Understanding these factors forms an essential part of the questions to ask before choosing a university abroad consultancy and ensures you only work with teams that can support your full profile.

How They Assist With SOP, LOR and Application Essays

A skilled consultancy helps with brainstorming, structuring and refining your SOPs and LORs. They ensure your story is clear, compelling and aligned with the expectations of global universities.

4. How Do They Support the University Application and Visa Process?

Applications and visas require precision and proper timing. Being a key question to ask before choosing abroad consultancy, a good one has to offer all the assistance in the selection of the university, submission of the form, handling of the documentation and handling of the deadline. They also assist you with visa paperwork, embassy applications and interviewing. Good direction during this phase will cut down delays and will go a long way in minimizing the possibility of rejections.

Tips for a Successful Student Visa Application

Experienced consultancies offer practical suggestions on organizing financial proofs, preparing for interviews and presenting documents correctly. Their insights can make the difference between approval and avoidable denial.

5. What Scholarships and Financial Aid Opportunities Can They Help With?

A good consultancy helps you identify scholarships for Indian students, along with university-funded and government-funded grants. They should also counsel you on standardized examinations like SAT, GRE or GMAT. In the case of English speaking destinations, enquire whether they are IELTS or TOEFL preparation centers. They should also explain the needs of the country in regards to a local language. They should also help you to make effective SOPs, LORs and resumes which show your best qualities.

6. Can They Help with Accommodation and Living Arrangements Abroad?

As one of the key questions before choosing a study abroad consultancy, early accommodation planning helps you settle in smoothly. Your consultancy should explain dorms, shared apartments, private rooms and hostels in detail. They should assist with booking, documentation and orientation on arrival. Good accommodation guidance ensures safety, comfort and a smoother adjustment to your new environment.

7. Do They Offer Career, Internship, or Work Guidance Abroad?

Many students plan to take part-time jobs or internships during their studies. A reliable consultancy provides clarity on work rules, available roles and relevant opportunities. They should also help with resume building, interview preparation and country-specific employability guidance. This support strengthens your career foundation even before you graduate.

8. How Do They Support Students After Arrival?

Strong post-arrival support helps you adapt faster. Look for consultancies that offer orientation sessions, cultural integration help and connections to student groups. They assist with essentials like SIM cards, bank accounts, local registration and basic healthcare. Continuous support in the first few months builds confidence and reduces the stress of adjusting to a new country.

9. Are Their Fees Transparent and What Are the Refund Policies?

A trustworthy consultancy provides a clear breakdown of fees, payment schedules and refund rules. Ask for written documentation to avoid hidden charges. Transparency ensures you know exactly what you are paying for before committing. Clear financial terms reflect professionalism and protect you from unexpected costs.

10. Can I Connect with Former Students for References?

Contacting previous students gives you an authentic understanding of the consultancy’s performance. Ask for alumni contacts, testimonials or documented success stories. Alumni can share firsthand insights about the application and transition experience. Their feedback helps you judge whether the consultancy delivers what it promises and gives clarity as you evaluate key study abroad consultancy questions.

Conclusion

Choosing the right overseas education consultancy plays a major role in shaping your study abroad experience. These best overseas education consultant questions to ask before choosing a university abroad consultancy help you evaluate credibility, compare services and make a confident decision. For dependable, structured guidance, Berakahelite, the Overseas Education Consultants in Kochi, supports students across every phase of their international education journey. To know more or get personalized assistance, contact us today and request a call back from our experts.

Author : Jasmin Joseph

I’m Jasmin Joseph, Regional Manager at Berakah Elite Education, with over 11 years of experience in international student recruitment and counselling. As a British Council Certified Counsellor, I hold an MBA in Human Resources, along with certifications from ICCC and ICEF.I have successfully facilitated student placements across the UK, US, Canada, Europe, and Asia, while leading our regional operations and business development network. My focus is on building strategic partnerships and providing tailored guidance to help students achieve their global education goals.