Architect is a creative profession closely related to art. However, professionals in this field are certified professionals trained in the science of building design.
The profession of an architect is one of the most sought after in the world. In the future, this trend will increase. Architectural education at a foreign university today is practically a guarantee of a successful international career.
Studying as an architect or engineer abroad is an opportunity to get a relevant and fundamental education. Foreign education is famous for its high quality. Universities abroad use effective approaches to learning, developing students as competent professionals. It will allow you to work in large companies and creative studios around the world.
Statistics confirm that academic programs in English are in great demand among future specialists, compared with training in local languages. Naturally, in this case, to enter a university abroad, one cannot do without an international certificate of knowledge of the language, for example, TOEFL.
First of all, the TOEFL certificate determines the level of English proficiency and is necessary for further successful admission to universities in the United States and European countries. The test results will allow the admissions committee to make sure that the student is able to speak a foreign language fluently, understand speech, as well as read educational literature and correctly write abstracts, diplomas and other qualifying papers.
Ways to prepare for the exam
The best preparation option is a combination of different methods.
Whether you are taking courses or a tutor, it is worth paying attention to self-preparation as well.
Specialised courses
Studying on the courses is the best option for those who want to systematically prepare for the exam and make sure that their knowledge of the Speaking and Writing sections is at the proper level. Training takes place in a group under the supervision of a specialist, who can be contacted individually for clarification and advice.
Lessons with a tutor
This method is the most expensive, but also the most effective. It is usually chosen by busy applicants who cannot fit into the routine of group classes. A TOEFL tutor is often chosen by applicants whose level of English knowledge is lower than Intermediate in order to quickly "pull up" in the program. TOEFL training under the guidance of a tutor has objective advantages: a personal approach, an individual programme, convenient clastimes, and, the possibility of a detailed analysis of incomprehensible topics and aspects.
Self-preparation
You should know that self-studying TOEFL on your own is the most risky method. Here, the entire responsibility falls on the shoulders of the dealer. You will have to look for answers to all unclear questions on your own in your textbooks or on the Internet. If you are not sure that you will do well on the TOEFL without help, then it is better to choose one of the above methods.
What to think before foreign study admission?
1. The location of the university for studying abroad is one of the most important points in making a decision. Trends towards globalisation provide more opportunities for future students, but also make it more difficult to choose.
Western European countries and the USA are the most popular destinations for studying abroad. Here you can get a prestigious education, which is widely demanded by modern employers. However, you should not start only from the popularity of a particular educational institution. Consider your individual preferences, available knowledge. It is essential that the study abroad program you choose expands your skills and opens up new possibilities.
2. Portfolio
Before admission, you must create an electronic portfolio for consideration of your candidacy. It is very important before starting a portfolio to study the specifics of the university - you need to show the university that you are the right fit for it. This does not mean that you need to redo the graphics, but you need to understand what the specifics of a particular university are and what should be emphasized: show more research, texts, or just beautiful pictures. Carefully read the information on the site: the universities themselves unequivocally hint at what they like.
3. Compare different offers
Many students choose programs at foreign universities located in different places or countries. There is the practice of obtaining a double diploma and popular exchange educational projects that allow you to study at several partner universities. These opportunities contribute not only to acquaintance with different cultures and foreign languages, but also to the search for common problems and solutions. Such study abroad programs should be chosen only by sociable people, as you need to be prepared for a complete change in the circle of friends, finding housing and getting used to a completely new environment.
4. Consider your skills
A necessary condition for obtaining an education in the field of architecture is artistic ability. Successful learning also requires aptitude for mathematics and geometry. Foreign universities offer degree programs, undergraduate and graduate programmes in architecture. How much you need to study to become an architect depends on the country and the conditions of study at a particular university.
5. Learn local rules and regulations
Even before admission, you should find out the current laws and documents for legalization in the country of admission.
The question of how to choose a program at a foreign university is as important as the issue of obtaining a student visa and employment opportunities before and after graduation. In some countries, students have the right to work on and off campus, enjoy benefits in medical facilities, transportation, libraries, etc. In some places, when studying at universities abroad, foreign students are prohibited from working without special permission.
In conclusion, the profession of an architect is not only creative and interesting, but also in demand. Currently, there are options to choose a country and university to study at a higher level and in the country that you like. This requires effort and a very strong desire.
