Against the backdrop of globalized education and diversified immigration policies, the question of “immigrate first or study abroad first” has become a classic dilemma for many families planning their overseas development. This choice not only concerns access to educational resources and financial investment but also involves balancing immigration status, career development, and the long-term interests of the family. Both paths have their advantages and limitations, requiring a comprehensive consideration of individual goals, family circumstances, and the policies of the target country to find the optimal solution. The core logic of studying abroad first lies in using education as a starting point to experience the target country’s education system and cultural environment through short-term study, thus building a foundation for subsequent immigration or career development. For students with outstanding academic abilities and clear goals, studying abroad allows direct access to top-tier educational resources, such as applying to prestigious master’s or doctoral programs, obtaining scholarships or research funding, and reducing financial burden. Simultaneously, the academic achievements, language skills, and local connections gained during studies may enhance future immigration applications—some countries’ skilled worker immigration policies offer additional support for highly educated individuals, such as fast-track programs for STEM doctoral graduates in certain countries. Furthermore, studying abroad allows families to assess the cost of living, social integration difficulty, and career development opportunities in the target country with a “testing the waters” mentality, avoiding long-term maladjustment due to blind immigration. However, the limitations of the study abroad path are also obvious: student visas typically do not grant work authorization, and after graduation, students need to change their status through highly competitive employer sponsorship or skilled migration programs. Without advance planning, they may face the awkward situation of “returning home immediately after graduation.” Furthermore, the high tuition and living expenses during their studies (approximately 200,000 to…

When planning for studying in the US, many students and parents often begin by asking, “What are some good schools in the US?” However, in the actual application process, the real factor influencing the decision isn’t “good” or “bad,” but rather “suitable.” The US higher education system is vast and diverse, with a wide variety of institutions and varying educational philosophies. Simply using rankings or reputation as a criterion often overlooks the core factor of the fit between the individual’s background and the institution. This diversity of US schools is both an advantage and a challenge. For families new to US education, a lack of systematic understanding can easily lead to information overload or choice anxiety: What are the differences between comprehensive universities, liberal arts colleges, community colleges, and professional schools? How do different types of schools differ in teaching methods, learning pace, and development? If these questions aren’t clarified early on, subsequent applications and planning can easily go astray. Therefore, understanding “what schools are there for studying in the US” isn’t simply about listing school names, but rather about gaining a holistic understanding from the perspectives of institution classification, educational characteristics, and suitable student demographics. In this process, gathering information through specialized platforms is often more efficient than searching piecemeal. Comprehensive exhibitions like the 2026 Wise Shanghai Overseas Real Estate, Immigration and Study Abroad Exhibition (March 29-31, 2026) provide students and parents with a window into the US higher education system.   Comprehensive Universities   Broad Academic Coverage, Flexible Choices Comprehensive universities typically offer a complete range of academic programs, covering humanities, sciences, engineering, business, and other fields. They are suitable for students who haven’t fully defined their major or wish to adjust their studies during their education. These schools have strong academic resource integration capabilities at both the…

The United States has always been one of the most popular study destinations globally, renowned for its high-level education system characterized by a large number of institutions, a wide range of disciplines, and a high degree of academic freedom. However, this diversity often leads to the misconception that “US study abroad requirements” are a uniform, fixed standard. In reality, the requirements for applicants vary significantly depending on their academic level, type of institution, and major. Relying solely on fragmented information or single experience often makes it difficult to develop a clear and actionable study abroad plan.For most students and families, the requirements for studying in the US are not merely a matter of “meeting the standards,” but rather about striking a balance between academic background, language proficiency, overall qualities, and long-term development. Many students, during the preparation process, tend to overemphasize one particular indicator while neglecting the overall match, resulting in an application strategy that deviates from their actual situation. Furthermore, studying in the US is closely related to visa policies, economic planning, and future career paths. In a context of highly fragmented information, understanding the requirements for studying in the US is particularly important. Obtaining information through professional channels helps students and parents avoid blind comparisons and anxious decision-making. Comprehensive exhibitions like the 2026 Wise Shanghai Overseas Real Estate, Immigration and Study Abroad Exhibition (March 29-31, 2026) provide families interested in sending their children to study in the US with a multifaceted opportunity to understand application requirements and plan their pathways.   Academic Background: A Fundamental Requirement for Studying in the US Matching Academic Level with Institution Type: US institutions encompass various types, including community colleges, comprehensive universities, and liberal arts colleges. Different institutions have different requirements regarding applicants’ academic backgrounds. Applicants need to choose institutions and programs that…

With increasingly frequent global educational exchanges, more and more students and parents are turning their attention to prestigious overseas universities. Choosing to study abroad not only means academic improvement but also a holistic development encompassing life experiences and cultural immersion. However, many families still have questions about the “interview stage” in the application process: Do all schools require interviews? What are the formats and contents of interviews? How should students prepare in advance? Understanding the necessity and characteristics of interviews can help applicants prepare application materials more effectively, increase their chances of admission, and reduce psychological pressure. Not all schools require interviews Many students mistakenly believe that applying to overseas universities inevitably involves an interview, but this is not the case. Different countries and types of schools have different requirements for interviews. For example, some American liberal arts colleges and British private universities consider interviews an important part of the admission process, while most comprehensive universities or public universities rely more on application materials for evaluation. Whether an interview is necessary usually depends on the school’s admission philosophy and the number of applicants: schools with limited enrollment and high competition tend to use interviews to understand students’ comprehensive abilities and personality traits, while some institutions with larger enrollment sizes and more flexible admission processes may directly evaluate applicants based on written materials. For students, understanding the interview policies of their target schools is a crucial prerequisite for planning their application strategy in advance.   Diverse Interview Formats If the target school requires an interview, the format varies. Common formats include online video interviews, telephone interviews, in-person interviews, and group interviews. Online video interviews are increasingly adopted by schools due to their convenience, especially for international students. Telephone interviews focus more on assessing a student’s communication skills and logical thinking, and…

While academic and living arrangements are important in studying abroad and planning for overseas life, career development is often the core concern for students and parents. The job market structure, industry demands, work culture, and visa policies vary significantly between countries. These factors not only affect international students’ job opportunities after graduation but also directly impact their future career growth and long-term development. However, fragmented information is a major challenge for international students. Online resources are often scattered, outdated, and even biased by personal experience; job information shared by some agencies or online communities also lacks systematicity and authority. Many students only discover after graduation that their ideal job goals are not applicable in the actual market environment or do not match visa restrictions or industry requirements. Therefore, understanding the differences in job markets across countries is crucial for studying abroad and career planning. Reasons for Job Market Differences   Differences in Industry Structure and Demand The job market in different countries is often determined by their industrial structure, stage of economic development, and talent policies. For example, countries with a high concentration of high-tech industries have abundant job opportunities in IT, engineering, and finance, leading to fierce competition for talent; while countries dominated by manufacturing or services offer more opportunities for blue-collar and service-related positions. Understanding industry distribution and market demand is a primary consideration for international students when choosing a major and planning internship paths. Visa Policies and Work Permits Students’ post-graduation employment opportunities are largely constrained by visa policies. Some countries allow graduates to work for a specific period, even offering fast-track pathways to long-term work visas; while others impose strict restrictions on foreign talent, requiring graduates to find employer sponsorship or enter specific talent programs. Differences in visa and employment policies directly determine the feasibility of…

In the global field of psychology education, professional programs centered on the theories of Alfred Adler, the founder of individual psychology, are attracting increasing attention from international students. These master’s programs not only deeply integrate theory and practice but also provide cross-cultural learning opportunities for those aspiring to work in fields such as psychological counseling and educational guidance through unique curriculum designs and internationalized training models. Some universities have even established mature overseas study systems for their Adlerian counseling master’s programs, serving as bridges connecting Eastern and Western psychological wisdom. The core of Adlerian psychology lies in its emphasis on cultivating individual social interests and constructing goal-oriented thinking patterns. This concept is being deepened in master’s programs at many universities worldwide. For example, a public university’s counseling and psychotherapy master’s program explicitly uses Adlerian theory as its core framework, covering modules such as attachment theory, trauma awareness practice, and expressive therapy. Students are required to choose a clinical or research direction based on their interests starting in their second year. This “theoretical foundation + personalized development” training model ensures both academic depth and provides international students with practical opportunities to adapt to different cultural contexts. The program’s official website indicates that graduates can find employment in fields such as youth work, relationship counseling, and group therapy. Some clinical students even obtain industry certifications through internships, a career-oriented design that significantly enhances the program’s international competitiveness. An international faculty and multicultural practice are another major advantage of such programs. While a renowned university’s Master of Arts in Art Therapy program is based on Adlerian psychology, its faculty comprises scholars from North America, Europe, and Asia. The curriculum incorporates cross-cultural psychological intervention and community-based practical activities. Students are required to complete 200 hours of social justice internships, applying their theories in real-world…

During the study abroad planning process, questions like “Can I work?”, “How long can I work?”, and “Will it affect my visa?” are common concerns for almost all international students and their parents. For many students, part-time work not only provides financial supplementation but is also seen as an important way to improve language skills, integrate into local society, and gain practical experience. However, this demand is accompanied by strict and complex regulations on part-time work for student visa holders in various countries. A lack of understanding of these policies can, at best, affect academic progress, and at worst, cross visa compliance lines, leading to irreversible consequences. In reality, many international students’ understanding of part-time work policies often comes from online experience posts, word-of-mouth recommendations from senior students, or even vague statements from agencies. While this information has reference value, it rarely covers policy details and the latest changes, and it cannot be guaranteed to apply to all countries and visa types. Given the significant differences in visa systems, labor laws, and regulatory environments, applying “others’ experiences” to one’s own situation carries considerable risk. This is why more and more families are realizing that whether international students can work part-time is not a simple “yes or no” question, but rather a comprehensive judgment requiring a systematic understanding of visa rules, academic requirements, and compliance boundaries. So, can a student visa actually allow part-time work? And can attending professional expos truly help international students gain a clearer understanding of the policies of different countries?   The Relationship Between Student Visas and Part-Time Work   A Student Visa is Not a “Work Visa” Regardless of the country, the primary purpose of a student visa is always study. Part-time work is usually considered an additional permission, not a core right of a student…

In study abroad planning, schools and majors often receive the most attention, while housing is frequently relegated to a “wait and see” position. However, for international students, housing is not simply “where to live,” but a crucial factor directly impacting learning efficiency, quality of life, safety, and even psychological adaptation. Housing systems, rental rules, living costs, and cultural differences vary significantly across countries. A lack of systematic understanding can increase financial burdens and, in severe cases, affect academic performance and visa compliance. Meanwhile, fragmented information is a major challenge for international students when choosing housing. The authenticity of listings on online platforms is difficult to verify, the quality of agents varies greatly, and legal and tax regulations are complex. Many families only realize the hidden risks of insufficient preparation after arriving overseas. Therefore, more and more students and parents are beginning to realize that housing decisions are an integral part of study abroad planning, not an additional issue. The Core of Housing Choices for International Students   Housing Types Common housing types for international students include on-campus dormitories, off-campus shared accommodation, apartments, and homestays. There is no absolute superiority or inferiority in housing choices based on different stages, personalities, or national systems; the key lies in the suitability. Students newly arrived overseas with limited language and environmental adaptation skills are often better suited to well-managed and well-established on-campus dormitories; while students with a certain level of independent living ability may value the space and freedom of off-campus housing.   Commuting Issues The distance of housing from the university not only affects commuting time but also social circles and lifestyle. Some students choose housing far from campus to save on rent, neglecting transportation costs, time consumption, and safety issues. A reasonable housing choice should comprehensively consider the convenience of studying, living…

In the wave of globalized education, studying abroad has become an important way for more and more students to improve their academic level and broaden their international horizons. However, language, as a bridge for cross-cultural communication, remains a core hurdle that cannot be avoided in the application process. Whether it’s IELTS or TOEFL for English-speaking countries, or specialized tests for countries with less commonly taught languages, language scores not only directly determine whether an applicant can gain admission, but also affect their academic adaptation and integration into life during their studies. A deep understanding of the language requirements for studying abroad in different countries and the development of targeted preparation strategies are the first hurdles that every applicant must overcome. Language requirements in English-speaking countries are centered on standardized tests, but the standards vary significantly between different countries, institutions, and programs. British universities generally accept IELTS scores. Undergraduate courses typically require an overall score of 6.0-6.5, while postgraduate courses require 6.5-7.5. Some top universities, such as Oxford and Cambridge, even require an IELTS score of 7.5 or higher with no individual section score below 7.0 for certain programs. US universities tend to favor TOEFL scores. Undergraduate applications generally require a score of 80-100, while graduate applications typically require 90-110. Some top universities, such as Harvard and Stanford, may require a score of 105 or higher for popular programs. It’s worth noting that some US universities also accept scores from emerging language tests like Duolingo, providing applicants with more options. Australia and Canada have similar language requirements to the UK, but some universities allow students to first enroll in language courses (such as ELICOS in Australia and ESL in Canada). After passing an internal test, students can enter their main courses, providing a buffer period for students with weaker language skills….

In the context of increasingly fierce global competition in education and employment, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) has become a key term for studying abroad and career development. Whether it’s artificial intelligence, quantum technology, sustainable energy, big data, medical breakthroughs, or engineering innovation, almost all the core forces driving the world forward come from STEM fields. These majors are not only a key area of ​​investment for universities but also a strategic area that governments around the world are vying to attract talent. Therefore, more and more students are prioritizing STEM when planning their future. The advantages of STEM are not only reflected in the academics themselves but also in the corresponding industry ecosystem: strong global demand, rapid technological updates, strong corporate demand for talent, wide range of career choices, high salaries, and great opportunities for international development. This makes STEM not only a “hard skill” for academic pursuits but also a “safety net” for employment. For students who want to acquire “globally applicable skills,” STEM is undoubtedly the most advantageous, has the greatest upward mobility, and offers the most international opportunities.   Wider Employment Opportunities   STEM talent is in short supply globally. Technology companies, engineering firms, R&D centers, biomedical institutions, and data analytics teams are all actively seeking individuals with relevant backgrounds. This is primarily reflected in: consistently high demand exceeding supply; diverse career options across multiple fields; and companies’ willingness to offer higher starting salaries for STEM graduates. Regardless of economic cycles, students with technical skills rarely worry about job scarcity.   Higher Salaries   Multiple global career reports show that average salaries in STEM fields are significantly higher than the general average, especially for technical, engineering, and data-related positions. Reasons include: high technical barriers to entry; companies’ strong reliance on specialized talent; and job content…

With the flow of global educational resources, more and more students are focusing on which majors are more competitive when studied abroad. Choosing an overseas institution is not just about a different learning environment; more importantly, it’s about access to a more mature teaching system, more research resources, broader industry recruitment opportunities, and a more international career development platform. Certain majors, due to mature industries, leading technologies, or well-developed education systems, do indeed have a far greater chance of success overseas than domestically. In today’s more transparent information environment, students and parents are gradually realizing that choosing a major is more decisive for the future than university rankings. Therefore, when discussing studying abroad, instead of blindly pursuing popular countries or prestigious university titles, it’s better to focus on “where this major is strongest” and “where the employment prospects after graduation are broader.” Every country has its own strengths, and every industry has its own ecosystem. Understanding these differences allows for more precise investment in studying abroad and a clearer return on investment. The following will focus on several majors with significant international advantages to help you quickly grasp which majors are more worthwhile to complete your studies abroad.   Science and Engineering   Science and engineering majors have always been a “core strength” for foreign universities. Whether it’s computer science, artificial intelligence, and software engineering in the US, mechanical engineering and precision engineering in Germany, or electronic engineering and materials science in Japan, all possess mature industrial chains and technological systems. Why are they stronger abroad? Higher R&D investment and a more comprehensive research environment; denser connections with corporate resources and more internship opportunities; faster technological updates and curriculum closely aligned with industry needs. For students aiming for a career in the technology industry, overseas education often provides more advanced…

With the increasing openness of global educational resources, more and more families are regarding studying abroad as a crucial step in their children’s future development. From improving language skills to broadening international perspectives and striving for a more competitive academic background, studying abroad is no longer a choice for a select few, but a life plan that ordinary families are seriously considering. However, when actually starting to research study abroad options, people are often surrounded by various terms: direct application, combined bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, international courses, foundation programs, language classes, exchange programs, visiting scholars… Each route sounds good, yet it’s difficult to determine which one is most suitable. In fact, a more complex study abroad route isn’t necessarily better; a better fit is more important. Different countries, different stages, and different majors all have the most suitable planning methods; and different students’ language proficiency, learning ability, financial situation, and future goals will also influence their choices.   Direct Application   This is the most common and applicable path. Direct application refers to students completing their studies in their home country and then applying directly to overseas universities for undergraduate or graduate programs using their transcripts, language scores, letters of recommendation, and application essays. Suitable for: Students with strong language skills, stable academic performance, and a clear academic focus.Advantages: Clear and transparent application process; Controllable timeline; Direct entry into main courses, saving transition time; High degree recognition.Direct application is supported by most countries and is currently the mainstream mechanism for university admissions worldwide.   Foundation Program   Foundation programs are often a buffer for students who are not yet ready in terms of language skills or academic background. Foundation programs typically last 6-12 months, helping students adapt to the local language, teaching methods, and academic requirements. Upon successful completion,…

More and more international students, after completing their studies abroad, seriously consider a common question: Can I smoothly transition from international student status to permanent immigration status? Behind this idea are very practical considerations—is career development more promising? Is the status more stable? Can it allow for longer-term life plans? This is why the topic of “international student to immigrant” has become a frequently asked question at various study abroad planning events, immigration fairs, and education consultations. From a macro perspective, many countries do indeed regard international students as the most ideal potential immigrant group. The reason is straightforward: you have already received education locally, adapted to the language, understood the culture, and are willing to work, and the overall integration cost is far lower than “direct immigration.” Therefore, many countries have specifically designed policies such as “post-graduation work visas,” “fast-track programs for international students,” and “points for local qualifications” specifically for international students, aiming to retain those educated locally. However, whether one can successfully transition to immigration status is not a simple “yes or no.” Different countries have different rules regarding post-graduation work visas, job requirements, salary thresholds, professional categories, and years of local experience. A student’s major, language skills, age, and internship experience directly impact their eligibility for changing their immigration status.   Why are international students more likely to stay?   Many countries consider international students an “ideal immigration pool.” Local qualifications signify language integration, cultural adaptation, and professional training, leading to a higher job success rate. For governments, this is more reliable and less stressful than directly selecting unfamiliar applicants from overseas. Furthermore, international students are generally younger and have a stronger desire to work, which often carries higher weight in immigration point systems. Local study experience also provides additional points; for example, Canada emphasizes “local…

After the National College Entrance Examination (Gaokao), many students and parents begin to look overseas, seeking broader development opportunities and more diverse educational choices. However, facing the complex application process and information gaps, efficient planning becomes crucial. At this time, a study abroad expo that gathers high-quality educational resources from around the world acts as a bridge, providing students with a fast track to world-renowned universities and helping them accurately match suitable study abroad paths. The core value of the study abroad expo lies in its “one-stop” information integration. At the expo, hundreds of institutions from popular study abroad destinations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia gather, covering diverse types including comprehensive universities, art schools, and polytechnics. For example, admissions officers from prestigious universities such as the University of Manchester in the UK and the University of Sydney in Australia are present to explain the latest admission policies and program features in detail; representatives from American community colleges showcase the “2+2 transfer” model, providing more cost-effective study options for families with limited budgets. In addition, the exhibition features a special “Scholarship Zone,” where some universities offer exclusive scholarship opportunities to participating students. For example, the “1+3 Undergraduate Direct Entry Program” in partnership with Arizona State University, offered by Maple Leaf Education Group, simplifies the application process and provides tuition fee reductions for outstanding students. Addressing the urgency of studying abroad after the Gaokao (National College Entrance Examination), the expo has outlined five fast-track pathways to meet the needs of different students. First, direct application to undergraduate programs based on Gaokao scores. Currently, some universities in the UK, Australia, and Canada accept direct applications based on Gaokao scores. For example, the University of Sydney’s business program requires a Gaokao score of 75%-80%, and the University of…

In an era of global educational interconnectivity, study abroad expos have become important benchmarks for understanding the value of international education and planning one’s future. In 2025, study abroad expos held in Shanghai, Wuhu, and other cities attracted global attention. From in-depth dialogues among top universities to the rise of emerging study abroad destinations, from a focus on STEM fields to exploration of a “salary + immigration” dual-track model, these expos not only showcased the global flow of educational resources but also revealed the deeper logic of the return on investment in studying abroad—it is both a numerical game on the economic scale and a strategic layout for personal growth and career development. Economic return is the most direct quantitative indicator of investment in studying abroad, but the choice of region and major directly affects the return curve. Taking the UK, US, and Australia as examples, the total cost of a one-year master’s degree in the UK is approximately £40,000-£60,000; if one works in the London financial industry, the cost can be recouped within three years. The total tuition for a two-year computer science master’s degree at Stanford University in the US is approximately RMB 800,000; a job as a programmer in Silicon Valley can cover the cost in 3-5 years. The total cost of a two-year nursing master’s degree in Australia is AUD 80,000-120,000; graduates can earn a profit within 2-3 years. However, the returns are significantly divergent: 31% of higher education programs in the US have negative returns, with seven bachelor’s degree programs suffering from investment imbalances due to high tuition fees and a saturated job market; while STEM fields such as engineering, computer science, and nursing have an average return exceeding $500,000, and professional degrees in medicine and law also offer excellent value. This divergence is vividly…

Driven by the wave of globalized education, studying abroad has become an important choice for many students to enhance their competitiveness and broaden their horizons. However, the economic situations of different families vary significantly, making it a focus for many students and parents to develop a scientific and reasonable study abroad plan based on their budget. Study Abroad Expos, as comprehensive platforms that gather global educational resources and financial services, not only offer a wide selection of institutions but also help families with different budgets find the most suitable study abroad path through professional consultation and case sharing, ensuring that educational dreams are not thwarted by financial constraints. For families with limited budgets, study abroad programs in Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe are often a cost-effective option. Taking Malaysia as an example, tuition fees at public universities are approximately 20,000-40,000 RMB per year, and the cost of living is similar to that of a second-tier city in China, with overall annual expenses kept below 80,000 RMB. These institutions offer engineering and business programs with high international recognition, and some courses are taught in English, eliminating the need for additional language training fees. At study abroad expos, many Southeast Asian institutions offer “scholarship + part-time job” packages, such as scholarships that reduce tuition fees by 50% for outstanding students, while allowing students to legally work 20 hours per week, further alleviating financial pressure. In addition, Eastern European countries such as Poland and Hungary attract international students with their lower tuition fees and the advantage of EU degrees, with total annual costs around 100,000-120,000 RMB, suitable for students with tight budgets who wish to receive a European education. Families with moderate budgets can typically focus on Japan, South Korea, certain regions of Australia, or smaller cities in Canada. Tuition fees at national…