How to Evaluate a University Abroad Beyond Rankings

What rankings do and do not tell you

University rankings combine measures such as research output, citations, reputation surveys and staff-to-student ratios. They can be a useful starting point, but they rarely measure the quality of a particular taught master’s programme or how well it fits your goals.

Questions to ask about the programme

• Which modules are compulsory and which are optional?
• Is there a project, dissertation, placement or industry component?
• Is the programme accredited by a relevant professional body, if that matters for your field?
• How is the course assessed — exams, coursework or projects?

Questions to ask about the university

• What support is available for international students?
• What careers support does the university offer, and does it publish graduate outcomes?
• Where is the campus, and what are living costs in that city?
• Is accommodation guaranteed or easy to find?

Check that the institution is recognised

Confirm that the institution and programme are properly recognised in the destination country — for example CRICOS registration in Australia or Designated Learning Institution status in Canada.