With college tuition costs in the United States reaching astronomical heights, many students and families are exploring alternatives that offer quality education without the crushing debt. Enter Beyond The States, a college admissions consulting service that has carved out a unique niche helping American students discover affordable, English-taught degree programs in Europe. But is this service worth the investment? This comprehensive review examines everything you need to know about Beyond The States.
What is Beyond The States?
Beyond The States is a specialized educational consulting service founded by Jennifer Viemont, author of “College Beyond the States: European Schools That Will Change Your Life Without Breaking the Bank.” The company focuses exclusively on helping students find and apply to English-taught bachelor’s and master’s degree programs across Europe.
With the largest directory of English-taught, accredited college (and Master’s degree) courses in Europe, at a fraction of the cost of US tuition, Beyond The States positions itself as the go-to resource for students seeking international education alternatives.
Services Offered
Core Services
College Admissions Consulting Packages Beyond The States offers comprehensive college admissions consulting for bachelors or masters programs through tiered service packages: Platinum Package, Gold Package, Silver Package. Their Platinum Admissions package includes guaranteed admission, personalized guidance, strategic planning, and a supportive community to ensure your success.
Best Fit List™ Matching Service The Best Fit List is a tailored guide to finding your ideal university in Europe. Their expert team meticulously researches and selects universities that match your academic goals and personal preferences. They go beyond online information, directly contacting universities to gather specific details about admission requirements and unique opportunities for international students. The Beyond the States Best Fit List is a totally personalized list of the best 5-8 specific schools/programs for your high schooler.
Key features include:
- Customized university recommendations
- Detailed program information
- Admission requirements and tips
- Campus life and accommodation insights
University Database and Research Tools Their DIY Database subscription options provide access to a vast, professionally curated database of accredited universities and English-taught programs you can’t find anywhere else, empowering you to independently explore your options and make informed decisions. With Beyond the States, you get access to 12,600+ European bachelor’s & master’s programs across 870 universities, 550 cities, and 212 areas of study. Recent updates include real Google ratings and reviews for universities, up-to-date housing costs, food and dining prices, internet and phone pricing, and local transportation information.
Community and Support Network Beyond The States provides a supportive community where members can connect, learn, and succeed with students worldwide. Members can log in to access universities, connect with peers, and continue their global journey through their dedicated member platform.
Application Support Beyond The States provides guidance and support with their college admissions packages throughout the European college application process, which differs significantly from the US system.
Webinars and Educational Content The company regularly hosts webinars on topics like taking gap years in Europe and navigating the European admissions landscape.
Gap Year Programs and Guidance Beyond The States recognizes that taking a gap year in Europe offers a unique chance for personal growth and learning opportunities unlike any other experience. While they don’t operate their own gap year programs, they provide comprehensive guidance and resources for students considering this path. Their approach emphasizes how the continent’s rich history, diverse culture, and multitude of languages provide a great opportunity for educational enhancement, skill development, and cultural immersion.
Internship and Work Abroad Programs Beyond The States provides comprehensive guidance on work abroad opportunities in Europe. Working abroad is an opportunity to discover new cultures and have unique experiences. Plus, working in another country can make your resume stand out, according to their resources. While they acknowledge that it’s not always easy to find your dream job in the country of your choice, they offer different options to explore for students interested in gaining international work experience.
Their work abroad guidance covers various programs and opportunities across Europe, helping students understand visa requirements, application processes, and how to make their resumes competitive for international positions.
Teach Abroad Services As part of their work abroad offerings, Beyond The States provides specific guidance for students and graduates interested in teaching opportunities in Europe. This service helps individuals explore teaching positions, understand certification requirements, and navigate the process of securing teaching roles in various European countries.
Language and Cultural Immersion Resources While Beyond The States doesn’t directly operate language immersion programs, they provide guidance on finding the ideal program and understanding how language learning and cultural immersion can enhance a student’s European education experience. Their resources help students understand the language requirements for various programs and how to prepare for life in non-English speaking countries.
Pros and Cons
Advantages
Specialized Expertise Beyond The States fills a genuine gap in the market. Few other services focus specifically on European education for American students, making their niche expertise and overall experience valuable.
College Admissions Cost Savings Potential The core value proposition is compelling. European universities often charge significantly less than American institutions, even for international students. Some programs cost as little as €3,000-€10,000 per year compared to $50,000+ at many US colleges.
English-Taught Programs The focus on English-taught programs removes the language barrier that might otherwise prevent students from considering European education.
Growing Database New Features Just Added: – Real Google Ratings & Reviews for every university – Up-to-date Housing Cost Info – Food & Dining Prices, showing the company continues to expand and improve its offerings.
Disadvantages
Limited Geographic Scope While Europe offers many opportunities, students interested in other regions (Asia, Australia, etc.) would need to look elsewhere. That being said we’re told they’re working on expanding to additional areas, there’s just no ETA.
Who Should Consider Beyond The States?
This service is ideal for:
- Students and families seeking significant cost savings on higher education
- Students interested in international experience and cultural immersion
- Those who have strong academic records but may not qualify for significant financial aid in the US
- Students pursuing fields where European universities excel (engineering, business, certain liberal arts)
- Families willing to navigate the complexities of international education
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
Beyond The States may not be the best fit for:
- Families who prioritize the traditional American college experience
Extended Services and Resources
Cost Considerations
While specific pricing isn’t publicly available, the investment should be weighed against potential savings. If a European degree costs €30,000 total compared to $200,000+ for an American degree, even a substantial consulting fee represents significant net savings.
The consultation fees likely vary based on the level of service required, similar to other educational consulting services that typically range from $150-$500 per hour for specialized expertise.
Bottom Line
Based on the positive feedback across the web and the extensive resources they offer, it certainly offers a valuable service for students looking to get their degree abroad. Beyond The States addresses a real need in the market and can potentially save families tens of thousands of dollars while providing students with valuable international experience.
Final Verdict
Rating: 4.7/5 stars
Beyond The States offers a valuable service for the right student and family. If you’re open to international education, prioritize cost savings, and don’t mind navigating some additional complexity, this service could be transformational.
The company has helped many families achieve their educational goals at a fraction of the cost of American higher education.
