One of the most critical aspects of study abroad plans is selecting a University / College and proper research is required while making a choice, there are some steps that will make this a bit simpler.

Research on the 'Web' is a good starting point websites providing excellent resources. Shortlist at least eight colleges that match your requirements and goals out of these, two should be your dream colleges - one which you have always wanted to be a part of. Select four colleges where you have 50-50 chances of getting admission. The last two choices will include sure best colleges where you have 100 percent choice of getting in. This selection can be made on the basis of your SAT scores for undergraduate programmers and GMAT / GRE scores in case of the graduate and postgraduate programmers.

Look at each institutions web site for information on programmer's selection criteria, eligibility, faculty, financial aid etc. Identify their academic programs and recognize the advantage and limitations of each. Focus on curriculum, teaching approaches, placement and financial aid.

Check out the school's accreditation. In the USA and certain other areas, the main accreditation body is the AACSB where as in the UK and parts of Europe AMBA performs the same role. Most accreditation is of programs, some schools may have some programs, which are accredited, and some, which are not accredited colleges after high academic quality and excellence. It is easier to transfer from accredited institutions and to get better job opportunities. So if a school has an accredited program it's a major plus point.

Though the various ranking of schools are widely disputed, they are largely used by many applicants for learning about schools. Remember ranking are not examine all program options available. Some schools by virtue of small size or age may not be ranked. Remember to keep ranking in perspective.

Studying abroad is a costly affair, consider both direct and indirect costs. Direct costs are those associated with your enrolment in a program and fees that you normally pay directly to the school ie housing, utilities, food and personal expenses. Also consider the availability of loan, scholarships, etc.

A small college would have an average of about 2,500 students where you could expect 100 percent participation, a personal environment, higher student - faculty inteaction but fever academic preferences and lesser diversity.

Medium sized colleges have an average strength of 7,000 students and offer bigger classes with more academic options and social opportunities and a fair amount of individualized attention. Large colleges average around 12,000 students and have a wider range of courses, strong international presence. Move possibilities of teaching assistantship and other jobs. But then you should not expect individualized attention from the faculty

Consider the factors like the climate geographical features and relatives residing in the state where the school is located.

The extracurricular activities like sports and cultural activities that may be on offer. Also make sure to check on the library and campus job opportunities to gain work experiences and pocket money. Students and recent alumni are valuable sources of information about the culture and learning environment of a particular school. Among the important questions that you must ask one how is faculty at the college. Did the program meet your expectations?

• ACCREDITATION STATUS
• ACADEMIC COURSES
• FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
• ADMISSION REQUEREMENTS
• RANKING OF COLLEGES
• SELECTIVITY
• SIZE OF COLLEGE (classes and faculty qualifications)
• GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATIONS
• STUDENT SERVICES
• SOCIAL ATMOSPHERE
• LIBRABRY, RESEARCH AND COMPUTER FACILITIES