Planning to study abroad is one of the most exciting yet overwhelming decisions in a student’s academic journey. With numerous countries, universities, and courses to choose from — not to mention the complex documentation and visa procedures — this process can be daunting. That’s why choosing the right best study abroad consultant in Chennai becomes crucial.
At Walk International, we understand the aspirations and concerns of every student and their family. This blog aims to provide a complete, step-by-step guide to help you choose the perfect overseas education consultant who aligns with your goals, budget, and preferences. Whether you are planning to study in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, or any other country, this guide will help you make an informed and confident choice.
Why Do You Need a Study Abroad Consultant?
Before diving into the selection criteria, it’s important to understand the value a study abroad consultant brings to your journey.
Key Benefits:
- Personalized counselling based on your profile
- Guidance in selecting the right course, university, and country
- Assistance with SOPs, LORs, and application submissions
- Coaching for IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT
- Visa documentation and interview preparation
- Pre-departure and post-arrival support
With expert help, you save time, avoid costly mistakes, and improve your admission and visa success rate significantly.
1. Define Your Study Abroad Goals
Before selecting a consultant, you should first be clear about your own goals. This helps in filtering out the agencies that specialize in your target country and course type.
Ask Yourself:
- What course do I want to pursue?
- Which countries am I considering?
- What is my academic background and career goal?
- Do I need scholarships or financial aid?
- Am I looking for part-time work opportunities during my studies?
Having clarity allows you to match your needs with the specialization of a consultancy firm.
2. Check Experience and Credibility
Experience speaks volumes. A well-established consultant will have years of experience, multiple success stories, and professional affiliations.
Things to Check:
- Years in business: More than 5+ years is a good benchmark
- Affiliation with reputed universities and government bodies
- Certifications from the British Council, ICEF, etc.
- Student testimonials and reviews (Google, Justdial, Sulekha)
At Walk International, we take pride in our transparent legacy of helping thousands of students study in their dream countries with a 98% visa success rate.
3. Look for Country and Course Expertise
Not all consultants are experts in every country or course. Some specialize in the USA and Canada, while others may be strong with European destinations like Germany, France, or the Netherlands.
What You Should Do:
- Ask which countries they specialize in
- Inquire about success cases in your desired country/course
- Check if they have updated knowledge of the immigration and visa rules.
At Walk International, our team offers country-specific counsellors who are trained to advise on admissions and visas for each destination, ensuring accurate and personalized advice.
4. Evaluate Their Counselling Approach
A good consultant listens first and speaks later. They must understand your needs before recommending options.
Red Flags to Watch:
- Consultants who force you to choose a particular university
- Promising “guaranteed admission” without reviewing your profile
- Pushing countries based on their commission benefits
Choose a consultant like Walk International, where student-first counselling is a core principle. We provide free initial counselling and only recommend options aligned with your interests and qualifications.
5. Understand Their Service Portfolio
You should know exactly what services are included. A full-service consultant should offer the following:
Must-Have Services:
- Profile evaluation and university shortlisting
- SOP/LOR writing assistance
- Application submission and follow-up
- Test preparation (IELTS, GRE, GMAT, TOEFL)
- Visa filing and interview training
- Scholarship and financial aid help
- Pre-departure briefing
- Post-arrival assistance
At Walk International, we offer a 360-degree solution under one roof so that students don’t have to run from one office to another.
6. Check Transparency in Fees and Process
Transparency builds trust. Avoid consultants who are vague about pricing or hide charges.
What to Look For:
- Mentioned service charges.
- Any hidden costs for application, visa filing, test prep, etc.
- Transparent refund policy (if applicable)
- Written agreement on services offered
Walk International provides a transparent breakdown of all service charges during your first consultation, so there are no surprises later.
7. Evaluate Test Preparation Facilities
Many consultants also offer coaching for tests like IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT, or SAT, which are often needed for admissions.
What to Consider:
- Are coaching classes in-house or outsourced?
- Quality of trainers and study material
- Flexibility in class timings (especially for working professionals)
- Access to mock tests and performance feedback
At Walk International, we offer personalized test coaching programs with flexible batch timings, expert mentors, and high success rates.
8. Visit the Office & Meet the Counsellors
It’s always best to visit the office in person if possible, especially since your education and future depend on their guidance.
Why This Matters:
- You get a feel of their professionalism.
- Meet the actual team that will be handling your application.
- Verify credentials and check authenticity.
- Avoid being scammed by fake online-only consultants.
Walk International welcomes students to visit our branches across Chennai and meet our friendly and experienced team face-to-face.
9. Read Student Testimonials & Reviews
Student success stories offer real proof of performance.
Where to Check:
- Google reviews
- Video testimonials on YouTube
- Success stories are posted on the consultant’s website or social media.
At Walk International, we proudly share genuine student testimonials from Chennai students who are now studying or working in countries like Canada, the USA, Germany, the UK, and Australia.
10. Explore Their Network and Partnerships
Strong consultants have global connections with:
- Universities and colleges
- Immigration lawyers
- Education loan providers
- International alumni networks
Walk International partners with 300+ top universities globally and has tie-ups with top financial institutions for student loans and forex assistance.
Bonus Tip: Ask These Key Questions Before Signing Up
- What is your success rate for admissions and visas?
- Can I talk to a past student who went through you?
- How many universities will you help me apply to?
- Will I get help with accommodation, travel, and part-time jobs?
- What if my visa gets rejected? Will I get post-rejection support?
A genuine overseas education consultant in Chennai will be happy to answer all your questions without hesitation.
Why Walk International is the Right Consultant for You
Here’s why students across Chennai choose Walk International as their trusted study abroad partner:
✔ Personalized Counselling
We treat every student uniquely and offer one-on-one mentoring.
✔ Country-Specific Experts
Specialists trained for each destination’s admission and visa process.
✔ 360-Degree Services
From coaching to visas, we offer everything under one roof.
✔ Transparent Process
Clear pricing, open communication, and ethical practices.
✔ 1000+ Success Stories
Our alumni network spans top institutions globally.
✔ Flexible & Supportive
Weekend coaching, virtual sessions, and 24/7 support.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Consultant
❌ Falling for fake guarantees of admission or visas
❌ Not checking credentials or reviews
❌ Choosing only based on low fees
❌ Not understanding what services are included
❌ Signing up without a proper written agreement
Avoiding these can save you from loss of time, money, and opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right study abroad consultant in Chennai is perhaps the most important decision you will make in your overseas education journey. The wrong choice can lead to confusion, rejection, or financial loss — but the right one can open doors to world-class universities, new cultures, and successful careers.
Walk International is committed to walking every step of this journey with you — with integrity, experience, and care. From your first consultation to your flight abroad and beyond, we are here to make your dreams come true.
📍 Ready to Get Started?
Visit Walk International in Chennai or book a free consultation today.
📞 Call: +91 91764-23454
📍 Locations: Anna Nagar | T. Nagar | Velachery
🌐 www.walkinternational.com
