How College Process is different in India and Abroad

Most parents and students do not have a full understanding of how the admissions process is different in foreign colleges in comparison with Indian colleges. It is improtant to have a good understanding of the differences early on in the process or else you may not be able to do much to impact the chances in your favor.

Whenever I counsel students early on in the process, I try to impress on them and their parents how the admission process is different in different countries compared to how it is in India. This really helps them plan their approach.

Rekha Pillai, CEO, MyLaunchpad

Here is a comparison of the key aspects of college admissions in India and abroad:

Difference 1: Application Process

India: The application process in India usually consists of filling out a centralized application form, submitting required documents, and sometimes writing an essay or statement of purpose. Students typically apply to specific courses or programs within a college rather than the college as a whole.
Abroad: In many countries, particularly the US, students apply to colleges or universities themselves rather than individual programs. They are required to submit a common application or an institution-specific application form, along with essays, recommendation letters, and standardized test scores (e.g., SAT, ACT). Applications often focus on the student’s holistic profile, including extracurricular activities, leadership, and community involvement.

Section 2: Entrance Tests can Make or Break

India: Admission to Indian colleges is often based on entrance exam scores or board examination results, such as JEE Main, JEE Advanced, NEET, and CAT, among others. These exams are highly competitive, and students’ performance is a major factor in determining their acceptance into a particular institution or program.
Abroad: While entrance exams like SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT may be required for admission to colleges and universities abroad, they are usually just one component of the application. Many institutions also consider other factors like GPA, essays, recommendation letters, and extracurricular involvement. In recent years, some institutions have even adopted test-optional or test-flexible policies.

Section 3: Timeline

India: The college admissions process in India typically follows a set timeline, with entrance exams and application deadlines occurring at specific times of the year. Admissions decisions are generally released in a short time frame, and students have limited time to accept or decline offers.
Abroad: The timeline for college admissions abroad can vary significantly depending on the country and institution. In the US, for example, students can apply through Early Action, Early Decision, Regular Decision, or Rolling Admissions, each with different deadlines and notification dates. Students often have more time to consider and accept offers from institutions.

Section 4: Cost and Financial Aid

India: The cost of higher education in India is generally lower than that in many foreign countries. Financial aid options, such as scholarships and grants, may be limited or offered based on merit or financial need.
Abroad: The cost of education abroad can be significantly higher, particularly in countries like the US, UK, and Australia. However, many institutions offer financial aid, including scholarships, grants, work-study opportunities, and loans, to both domestic and international students.

Difference 5: Program Structure and Duration:

India: In India, undergraduate degree programs typically last three to four years (e.g., B.A., B.Sc., B.Com, B.Tech), while postgraduate programs (e.g., M.A., M.Sc., M.Com, M.Tech) usually last two years. The curriculum is often more focused on the chosen field of study.
Abroad: Program structures and durations can vary depending on the country and institution. For example, in the US, undergraduate programs usually last four years and allow students to explore various subjects before declaring a major. Postgraduate programs can range from one to several years, depending on the degree and field of study.

Difference 6: Option to Change Subjects

The option to change course or subjects is most often not possible in Indian colleges. There are many factors as to why. 

For example, if you are pursuing a BE in Mechanical Engineering in India, but are also interested in Economics, you are not able to study both. However, in colleges abroad, the options to change majors, minors have been streamlined. 

Due to the lack of proper career guidance, many students in India choose a course and must stick with it. However, with the increased exposure to career counselling, students are more clear about their career choices.

Difference 7: Flexibility

In foreign colleges, a well-structured college admissions process allows students to select both a major and a minor subject. Conversely, in India, the concept of major and minor subjects is relatively new, and the majority of colleges have yet to adopt this approach.

As a result, students often grapple with deciding on their primary subject and struggle to determine the appropriate minor subjects to pursue during their academic journey.

Difference 8: Course Options

A significant aspect to consider when comparing college admissions processes is the variety of course options available. Until 2019, students in India were typically only aware of seven career paths. This limited awareness, combined with a restricted number of course options, made exploration challenging for students.

In contrast, colleges abroad offer a vast array of courses, providing students the freedom to select areas that genuinely pique their interest. This approach empowers students to acquire knowledge across diverse subjects, enriching their academic experience.

Difference 9: Student Profile and its Importance

In recent times, the significance of a student’s profile has been on the rise in India. Previously, the college admissions process primarily focused on a student’s marks, which sometimes caused deserving students to miss out on opportunities to study and excel in their desired fields. Fortunately, this scenario is gradually evolving.

Abroad, college admissions have consistently adopted a holistic approach, emphasizing the comprehensive development of a student. Factors such as participation in extracurricular activities, contributions to school events, and more have long been integral components of the admissions process in foreign institutions.