'My son wants to pursue Big Data in the US'

"The choice of the schools/universities should be made based on the candidates grades and standardised test scores."

"Your grades, your work so far, portfolio etc matters in your school selection.

Overseas education consultant NNS Chandra offers advice on how to pick the right course and college.

In an online chat with readers every Friday, international education consultant NNS Chandra addresses queries and offers advice on college admission, eligibility criteria, related entrance exams and more.

For those who missed the chat on September 18, here's the unedited transcript:

gomathi m: Sir I had asked about job prospects in US after finishing MS in Renewable energy or after finishing MS in material science?

NNS Chandra: Renewable energy sector produces data on career options and that is quite bright for those who are working in master now.

Unfortunately we do not have access to data on opportunities in material science professionals.

kunika: sir I want to pursue my career in fashion designing, I will complete my B.A this year, can you suggest me some good universities in US for fashion designing

NNS Chandra: Institute of fashion tech in NY to Rhode Island School of design is coming to my mind, Kunika. Your grades, your work so far, portfolio etc matters in your school selection.

mustafa: Sir, i am pursuing my engineering in Electronics, and I am planning to my masters from UK , can you suggest me some good universities? thanks

NNS Chandra: The choice of the schools/universities should be made based on the candidates grades and standardized test scores.

Do prepare and send your statement of purpose. In my opinion these are key in your decision on university list.

Seema Dutt: After completing 12th in India, what are the options available in the US for further studies?

NNS Chandra: Studying for undergraduate programme in US should be the top choice option for some one finishing secondary school.

The liberal Art Program in American University should be exciting, take a look at them. Good and top schools in US schools are open to international students.

sheetal: Sir I am currently studying is TYBCom I want to do to do my PG in banking in US, can you suggest me some good universities for the same...thank you

NNS Chandra: It is a three year bachelors course, right, Sheetal -What about your grades and scores from your standardized test scores -- university lists should be based on where you are now.

Madhumita Gosh: Sir, is journalism a good career choice, i am final year BA student, can you just guide what should i do next, once i have done my graduation?

NNS Chandra: Dear Madhumita, journalism has evolved into one of the most exciting and rewarding careers this new age.

How good are you with your language, I mean are you a good writer, good communicator -- next step I would recommend is working on those area.

kamala jain: My son is interested in big data in the USA. he is a BE in comps. Can you tell me about Big Data and a few universities in USA?

NNS Chandra: Hi Kamla Jain – Talking about Big Data is beyond the scope of this chat. But I assure you there are tons of info online, it is an exciting topic.

Please give me his current grades and GRE score etc. That is the starting point of discussions on University.

Sheeja RNAIR: My son is in 12th grade now he wants to do his graduation in the US. He is a US citizen,I would like to know engineering courses available.

Please let me know if we can get student loan.

NNS Chandra: Hi Sheeja, As a citizen your son should be eligible for several funding options, including loans.

The approval depends on several factors including residency, credit scores, course approval etc.

gopalrao ms: [SKB] My son wants to do MS in US in Controls and please advise if it is better to do MS after getting 2-3 years industrial experience or it will not matter.And also I would like to know the Budget for Complete course in good university.Gopal Rao

NNS Chandra: Hi Gopala Rao, Where did he graduate from? If he is keen on going for further studies and advanced degree, straight to school application is what normally recommend.

The budget would be around 30-45 K USD an year depending on school, city and location.

Lead image used for representational purposes only.

Have questions for NNS Chandra? Post them here! He'll answer them every Friday between 3 pm and 4 pm IST.