Prospective student to Australia: Beware of shonky 'Study Abroad Consultants'

Most students who end-up studying in Australia are advised and counseled by educational consultant. There is absolutely nothing wrong in taking professional advice from them; however, you need to establish the credibility of these people before you act on their advice.  Some of the factors to take into account;

1. Who owns the agency and what is their background?

You will be surprised that most people who own study abroad agencies have not well qualified let alone having experience in overseas education. Most may not have even visited a country where they counsel the students for.  So ask the counselor about his/ her experience and education and his/her owners background.

2. Always use a credible study abroad agency such as an 'eVisa' agent in India - look for the eVisa logo.  These agents meet the high benchmarks set by the Australian High Commission and are constantly audited for their practices. Most reputed institutions (such as universities) generally prefer working with eVisa agents. 

3. Do not be pushed into institutions and/or courses. If you feel you are been forced to attend a particular institutions, be cautious as there may be inducements given to them by these institutions. 

4. Do not feel hesitant to contact the institutions directly if you need some information that the agents are not able to provide.

5. Never believe an agent if they guarantee you an admission and/or visa.  The fact is, the institutions are in-charge of the admissions and the High Commission is the final authority on the visa.  An agent is simply a facilitator.

Finally, it is important that your intentions to come to Australia are genuine or else there are very high risks that you will end-up being cheated by one of the 'shonky' agents.

Good luck and hope you will have an enjoyable Aussie learning experience - something I'm really proud of.

For further help with your decision to study abroad visit us on www.WhyStudyAbroad.com