Most students appear for competitive exams such as JEE, GATE, CAT, NEET, GMAT, GRE, IELTS and many others after completing their 12th class or graduation. It is obvious that you want to enrol your child in the best coaching institute for them to get admission to a top college or university. However, given that coaching institutes have mushroomed in every nook and corner of the city, it could be challenging to choose the right one for your child.
Here are some useful tips to make the decision easier for you.
- Brand Reputation
A coaching institute with a good brand reputation generally means that it has a proven track record. Check the results of previous years of the institute to get an idea about the performance of former batch students.
- Testimonials
Even if the institute has a proven track record, it might be possible that it lacks in certain areas. For example, there may not be sufficient seating arrangement for students or a particular faculty might have rude behaviour. Talk to the alumni and current batch students or their parents of that institute or read online reviews to get information.
- Faculty
If the coaching institute doesn’t have experienced or qualified faculty, it can adversely impact the quality of education. Hence, ask the institute to share details of faculty in terms of the subjects they teach, experience, education, etc.
Find out if the faculty visits other schools, colleges, or coaching academies. If the faculty is pressed for time, then they would rush through the syllabus instead of giving dedicated attention to students.
- Infrastructure
Does the coaching institute have enough classrooms and study desks? Do the classrooms have windows for natural light and ventilation? Does the institute have air-conditioning, washroom and drinking water facility? These are some questions that will ensure that your child doesn’t face any physical or mental health issues for the want of good infrastructure.
- Course Content and Methodology
While the course content of each competitive exam remains the same across the country, coaching institutes design a curated curriculum based on general guidelines. Check whether the coaching institute offers relevant and updated study material.
It is also important to understand the teaching methodology of the institute. It should be a blend of theoretical and practical knowledge. The institute should provide multiple assignments and conduct regular mock tests as a part of its methodology. Also, check if the institute relies only on verbal lectures from faculty or uses audio-visual elements like videos and PowerPoint presentations to maintain the interest of students.
- Distance
Even if the coaching institute meets all your parameters but it is far from home, college or hostel, the commute could stress out your child. Try to pick an institute that saves commuting time for your child.
These days, many institutes also provide an option for online learning. You could consider that also. However, offline learning offers more opportunities for faculty-student and peer-to-peer interaction and problem-solving.
You can request the coaching institute to allow your child to sit for one or two demo classes before taking the decision. Explore coaching institutes near you here.
