When I went to my first education fair organised by IDP, I WAS DISAPPOINTED…
I just imagined that some American dudes from universities would set up stalls about their universities and then, pitch why it’s best for us…
Guess what… Most of the universities had Indian representatives and back on that day, I talked to quite a lot of people to know a secret truth which most of these agencies don’t tell you.
The world runs on business and these agencies have their share of incentives to each of the universities they let to sit in the education fairs! And yes… if you think that this might be the best choice, you NEED TO THINK TWICE.
Suppose a real-life scenario…
Picture this: Ananya, a Class 12 student from Jaipur, is torn between two choices. Should she attend the U.S. education fair happening in her city, where she can meet university reps in person, or stick to the simplicity of filling out online applications from her cozy desk? Both seem appealing but also a little overwhelming.
After all, this isn’t just another form—this is about her future!
The number of Indian students heading abroad, especially to the U.S., has skyrocketed in recent years. With over 300,000 Indians studying in the U.S. in 2023, the dream of an international education is more accessible than ever.
But here’s the issue: Most of the students who wish to go abroad can’t navigate through the college admission process, whether online or in-person. Hence, some simply go to in-person applications via IDP, SiUK, LeverageEDU, etc. and then… they do it without careful thought. Bro, your life is gone… you can’t take this casually.
This blog dives into the pros and cons of both online and in-person applications to help you figure out what suits your needs best. And here’s a tip right at the start: no matter which method you choose, always do your own research.
This isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about building the foundation of your career.
Let’s break it down!
The Rising Trend of Studying Abroad Among Indian Students
Gone are the days when studying abroad was just a far-fetched dream for most Indian students. Now, it’s almost a rite of passage! There’s a huge brain drain that’s happening and yes, people are selfish so… the trend shows no signs of slowing down.
I’m patriotic as well but trust me, if a country is providing me with better opportunities, I would happily go there! 🙂
But here’s the catch: getting into U.S. universities is no walk in the park. With stiff competition and complex applications, many students feel overwhelmed. However, the growing number of success stories proves that with the right strategy and research, it’s more than achievable.
Did you know? The U.S. hosts the largest number of Indian students globally, thanks to its unmatched academic opportunities.
If you’re dreaming of Harvard or a solid STEM program at a state university, the journey starts with understanding the application process—and deciding whether online or in-person methods work best for you.
And yes, even in online, there’s a Common App, Scoir & then, Questbridge…
IMPORTANT: QUESTBRIDGE isn’t for non-US people. And if you are going through online mode then Common App is your BEST BET. Just avoid the common mistakes in common app by Indian Students.
Online Applications: Convenience and Accessibility
Applying online is the ultimate power move for students juggling board exams, coaching classes, and K-drama binges. Imagine this: you’re sitting in your room in Pune and applying to ten top U.S. universities simultaneously through a platform like the Common App.
No travel, no hassle—just a few clicks!
Why Students Love It:
- Anywhere, Anytime:
Apply from your couch, a café, or while binge-watching your favorite show. - Time-Saving:
With platforms like Common App, you can submit one application to multiple universities.
Track Your Progress:
Online portals let you monitor application status.
So no sleepless nights wondering if they got your documents.
Real Talk:
While it’s super convenient, it’s not foolproof. Priya from Mumbai once forgot to upload a required essay for her dream university—and she only realized after the deadline. Ouch.
Pro Tip: Before hitting submit, double-check every requirement on the university’s official website. Your future is too important for accidental slip-ups.
In-Person Applications: Personal (BIASED) Touch and Insights
In-person applications are generally visiting the consultancy or study abroad agency and then signing up with them for your applications. Hmm, education fairs are surely good but from a personal note… please understand the status & rankings of universities that are coming to the educational fairs before ensuring your spot there.
Visiting a study abroad fair or consulting an education counselor might feel a bit “old school” compared to online applications, but it comes with its unique perks.
Why In-Person Works:
- Direct Interaction: You get to meet university representatives or alumni face-to-face, which means instant answers to your questions about courses, campus life, or scholarships.
- Tailored Guidance: Consultants or fairs often provide personalized advice on applications, visas, and financial aid, saving you from drowning in Google searches.
- Pro Tips Straight from the Source: Just imagine what if someone attended an education fair where he spoke with a university rep and found out about a hidden scholarship that wasn’t widely advertised online.
But Keep These in Mind:
- Costs Can Add Up: Travel, event tickets, and other expenses can be significant, especially if the fair is in another city.
- Limited Time: Fairs are often one-day events, so you may not get answers to every query in one go.
Pro Tip: Combine in-person visits with online applications. Go to fairs for advice and networking but use online platforms like Common App for convenience.
Comparing Online vs. In-Person Applications
Let’s break it down to help you choose:
Feature | Online Applications | In-Person Applications |
Convenience | Apply from anywhere, anytime | Requires travel to fairs or consultants |
Interaction | Emails, webinars, virtual meets | Personal, face-to-face connections |
Time Efficiency | Quicker submissions, updates, and tracking | Slower due to physical interactions |
Cost | Low (just application fees) | Higher (travel, fair tickets, etc.) |
Neither method is “better.” It depends on what you value: convenience or personalized advice.
Another thing about in-person applications is that… BIAS WORKS A LOT.
What I mean is… if you are sitting face to face and if the other guy is talking a lot about only that university, you might get biased about that university.
IDP ALERT – Some personal experience about this ‘in-person’.
This thing happens with Arizona State University (ASU), IDP and others have marketed this university so much that even some of my friends who know that they can’t afford even 10000$ a year have applied to ASU. Why? They said that IDP told them that it’s amazing 🙂
WOW…
One thing good is that for those students who don’t have the good nice extracurriculars or at least decent extracurriculars… it’s ok. But it’s only ok if they have a good amount of money around 25L in hand for studying abroad.
Nothing comes without a price to be honest. And yes, you need to work hard in order to build a decent student profile in order to get the university you want.
When I first got on a call with IDP…
They first asked me how much money I had with me because I wanted to go abroad.
I told them I wanted to go with financial aid… My consultant laughed.
That really pissed me off.
ikAnd then, when I just messaged her that I have applied, she went crazy to get my passport number and proof that I have applied to university. And yes, I blocked her on WhatsApp 😊
And finally, I was free from all the troubles.
Hybrid Approach: Combining the Best of Both Worlds
The sweet spot? A hybrid strategy.
Start with online platforms for efficiency.
But don’t shy away from in-person opportunities for deeper connections.
Examples:
- Apply to multiple universities via Common App, then attend a study abroad fair to meet university reps.
- Schedule virtual counseling sessions with education consultants if travel isn’t feasible.
Now… what if instead of consultancies…
WHAT IF YOU COULD TALK TO STUDENTS who aren’t biased because they don’t receive incentives… ???
That’s where a study abroad community could crazily help your applications…
And yes, we have Abroad For Better Future to help you with it.
You can join us for free. All you have to do is fill out this form. And then, it’s done.
We don’t ask for money afterward as well! And yup… that’s the thing 🙂
Some Essential Tips for Indian Students Applying to U.S. Universities
Start Early:
Begin researching universities at least 6-12 months before deadlines.
For application part…Don’t slack off.
If you are a crazy rich lazy kid then it’s fine. You can pay but for the majority of the people who are dependant on financial aid, work hard.
Create a Checklist:
Stay organized with deadlines, documents, and fees.
Start writing the essays… The supplemental one especially.
And if you are wondering on the college list still, we have this free google sheet which you can duplicate… this sheet has over 50+ college which provide 100% financial if you are accepted.
Stand Out:
Write a strong personal essay, gather glowing recommendations, and showcase extracurricular achievements. You can use our free extracurricular writer tool to write an awesome Ivy League-type extracurricular! Hm… please don’t fake 🙂
Double-Check Everything:
Whether online or in-person, always verify application requirements directly on university websites. And read the conclusion… you will know.
Final Thoughts: Which Mode is Right for You?
Both online and in-person methods have their strengths. Choose based on your priorities—cost, time, and access to resources. Or better yet, combine the two for maximum impact. Good luck with your applications!
I am a fan of online. I’m lazy and conscious that I can get more UNBIASED INFORMATION by searching through Google instead of contacting an agent or consultant.
No matter what you prefer and even if you have already paid IDP or SiUK or any other consultancy for everything, PLEASE ALWAYS DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH.
Especially at the universities where they send your applications.
And also go through the details that they send to universities. Some agencies make your application so that you won’t require aid. Sometimes they think it would increase your chances. But the students don’t know that NO MATTER HOW MUCH THEY PLEAD, THEY WON’T RECEIVE ANY NEED-BASED AID.
That’s why always double-check things. Even if you are paying lacs to them 🙂
FAQ: Online vs In-Person Applications for Studying Abroad
1. What’s the main difference between online and in-person applications?
Online applications let you handle everything from your computer, saving time and money, while in-person applications involve consulting agencies or attending fairs. The online route offers convenience, but in-person interactions provide personalized guidance that’s helpful for complex questions like financial aid.
2. Which method is better for students applying for scholarships or financial aid?
Online applications give you direct control over highlighting your financial needs, unlike some consultants who may avoid emphasizing it to increase acceptance chances. Research universities with need-based aid and tailor your application to their requirements.
3. Are online applications reliable for first-time applicants?
Yes, but you need to be cautious. Platforms like the Common App are user-friendly, but errors like missing documents or essays can cost you. Double-check each university’s requirements and don’t rely solely on automated updates.
4. How can I avoid biased advice from consultants during in-person applications?
Consultants may push universities they partner with, regardless of your preferences or budget. Always do your own research on university rankings, programs, and costs. Talking to current students or alumni can help you get unbiased opinions.
5. What’s the biggest mistake students make with online applications?
Forgetting to upload key documents or submitting incomplete applications is common. Many also underestimate the time required to write standout essays. Start early and cross-check everything directly on the university’s official website.
6. Do education fairs really help in making the right choice?
They can, but only if you go prepared. Research the universities attending and ask specific questions about scholarships, program details, and career opportunities. Remember, not every fair showcases top-ranked universities, so prioritize your research.
7. Can I rely entirely on a consultant for my application?
No, even if you hire a consultant, stay involved. Some agencies may inaccurately fill forms, especially financial details, which can impact aid eligibility. Always review applications and ensure they align with your goals and needs.
8. Are online applications cheaper than in-person ones?
Yes, online applications only require fees per university. In-person applications add costs like travel, consultancy fees, and fair tickets. For budget-conscious students, sticking to online platforms is usually more economical. You can even get a full waiver on your common app application fees… I got it myself. Saved 285 bucks 🙂
9. Is it possible to combine online and in-person methods effectively?
Absolutely! Use online platforms like the Common App for convenience and in-person events to clarify doubts or network with university reps. A hybrid strategy gives you the best of efficiency and personalized guidance.
10. Do U.S. universities prefer one method over the other?
Universities don’t care how you apply as long as your application is strong and complete. Focus on making your application stand out with compelling essays, accurate details, and strong recommendations, regardless of the method.
11. Is there any downside to in-person applications?
Yes, they can be costly and time-consuming (and consultants can be BIASED). Consultants sometimes over-promise or push specific universities based on their incentives. Plus, fairs often have limited university options, which may not match your aspirations or budget.
12. What should I do before choosing an application method?
Start by assessing your priorities—budget, need for guidance, and level of comfort with technology. Go to YouTube, there is a ton of content on how to study abroad. We even have an Application Roadmap to help you out! Research universities thoroughly, shortlist options based on your goals, and decide whether online or in-person (or both) aligns with your needs.
