1. Why should I pay for counselling when I can get free advice at school?
School counsellors are indispensable. However, they can also get overwhelmed with requests and cannot give the personalized advice and counsel that a student sometimes needs. Even if you work with an IEC, as a team you would still need the help of the school counsellor to help with the process. But they cannot always guarantee you the time and attention that you may feel you need.
2. What is the difference between an IEC and an agent?
Agents are remunerated by universities once a student enrols so they will take their benefit into account as much as yours. An IEC should offer you their unbiased opinion and help you achieve your goals, not theirs. There are many highly reputable agents out there but the choices they offer may not always be the best one for you.
3. Why should I hire an IEC when I can do everything by myself?
Any student or parent can navigate the application process without any help, the problem today is the huge amount of information, the thousand possibilities, the different application formats, deadlines and processes. An IEC removes the stress, offers personalized counsel and makes sure the right student finds the right path.
4. How do I pick the right IEC for me?
Even if an IEC is reputable, they may not be the right fit for you. Many IECs offer a free initial consultation where you can ask any question to help you see if you’re comfortable. If the IEC does not outline their way of working make sure to ask them. You will spend precious time with your counsellor so it’s important that you connect.
5. I’m too shy to ask for the IEC’s credentials. What do I do?
Reputable IECs have worked long hours to achieve their credibility and would be more than happy to share their credentials with you. Don’t be shy to ask.
6. What if I don’t get admitted anywhere?
It is highly unlikely that you do not get any of your offers provided the right preparation has been done with your counsellor. There’s always an educational option out there, the IEC’s job is to find the right one for the student.
7. Can’t I just apply anywhere and transfer?
Technically, yes. Practically, it is becoming increasingly difficult to transfer between institutions. If the proper preparatory work has been undertaken, then there is no reason why you shouldn’t be more than happy with your initial choices without the need to transfer.
8. Can you get me into [insert university name here ]?
No one can predict or guarantee that you get accepted anywhere (and if they do, make sure it’s legal). It is not only the student who is looking for a university, universities are also looking for students. If a university is the right fit for you and you are the right candidate then your chances of acceptance are increased.
