A counselling session becomes more useful when you arrive with a starting point. You do not need all the answers, but a little preparation helps the discussion focus on your real decision.
Your nine-question preparation
- What subject or type of problem do I want to study?
- What study level am I considering?
- Which academic results or qualifications do I already have?
- What is my realistic total budget?
- Which destinations interest me, and why?
- What intake or start period am I aiming for?
- What kind of city, climate and campus setting suits me?
- Which documents or tests have I already completed?
- What is the biggest uncertainty stopping me from moving forward?
Bring evidence, not just memory
Have your academic results, draft budget and any researched course links available. This makes it easier to identify realistic next steps and spot missing information.
Ask how advice was reached
A recommendation should come with reasons. Ask how the option fits your academics, budget, interests and location preferences. Be cautious if the answer depends only on popularity or urgency.
Your decision stays yours: guidance should clarify trade-offs and next steps, not pressure you into an option.
Leave with three next actions
End the session with a short written plan: what you will research, what you need to prepare and when you will review the decision again.
