Advice to young Zambians wanting to study abroad
If you wrote your Grade 12 exams last year, you’ve likely received your results by now. If they’re strong, you may be considering studying abroad—a goal shared by many young Zambians. Given that tertiary education in Zambia leaves much for improvement, it’s no surprise that students look for opportunities elsewhere. I made the same decision myself.
However, studying abroad is highly competitive. Many other talented Zambians are also applying for scholarships, making it crucial to have excellent results to stand out. If you’re serious about studying overseas and have good grades, here’s what you need to do:
Research your target countries
Different countries have different requirements for international students. Good Grade 12 results alone may not be enough—you may need to take additional exams or meet specific qualifications.
United States: Many students dream of studying in the U.S. If this is your goal, visit the American Embassy in Ibex to learn about available scholarship programs. American universities require students to take the SAT or ACT for admission. These exams can be expensive, but the embassy provides study materials for free.
Russia: Another popular destination for Zambian students. Scholarships may be less competitive than in the U.S. because Russian universities often require students to study in Russian—a challenge many are unwilling to take on. If you’re open to learning a new language, this could be a great opportunity.
Evaluate your results honestly. If your results are not exceptional, you may have better chances securing a scholarship in Russia than in the U.S. China, Canada, the UK, and Australia are some of the countries you may want to consider.
Don’t just rely on the scholarships advertised in Zambia. Research individual colleges in the US or Canada that offer need-based financial aid.
Prepare for required exams
Depending on your destination, you may need to take one or more of the following tests:
- SAT or ACT (for U.S. universities)
- TOEFL or IELTS (for English proficiency)
Start preparing early and take these exams as soon as possible. This gives you time to retake them if needed. Since these exams are costly, study diligently to avoid retaking them unnecessarily.
You can download order prep books for these required tests in pdf online for free.
Simply google SAT prep book free pdf.
Take a gap year and focus on applications
Don’t rush your college applications. Use this time to craft a compelling application that stands out. Remember, you’re not just competing with Zambian students but with talented students worldwide who want to study in the country you’re interest in.
- Organize your documents (passport, transcripts, visa)
- Prepare and ace your required tests
- Write a strong application. Make it so good it can’t be ignored.
Consider applying to lesser known colleges. Since most people overlook them, you’ll stand a better chance of getting accepted.
Securing a scholarship abroad may seem challenging, but with dedication and effort, it’s possible. I completed all my tertiary education abroad, and the experience has been invaluable. Zambia is home, but stepping outside allows you to see the vast opportunities the world has to offer.
Good luck with your application journey.