Anum Ali Khan
CEO/Founder
ZS Study Advisors, Lahore
(Education & Career Advisor for International Universities),
Member, WCCI Lahore
Pull Quote:
“The Flare panel interviews the CEO/Founder of ZS Study Advisors and a member of WCCI Lahore. In the discussion, she explained that our process begins with evaluating the student’s grades and figuring out the family’s realistic budget. Next, we look into suitable universities, any scholarships on offer, tuition breaks, and other ways to fund education. We also consider the overall cost of getting an education, which includes housing and living expenses.”
Interview Transcript
Flare: Please share your professional background and the motivations behind founding ZS Study Advisors.
Anum Ali Khan: The inception of ZS Study Advisors took place in 2022, driven by a clear mission: to offer genuine, practical, and tailored support for students pursuing international education. I aimed to create a platform that empowers students and their families to make informed choices instead of merely following popular trends. Since its establishment, ZS has expanded through partnerships with universities, personalised counselling for students, and a dedicated effort to assist individuals in accessing suitable global educational opportunities.
Flare: What is the fundamental vision of ZS Study Advisors, and how do your services stand out from other education consultancy agencies in Pakistan?
Anum Ali Khan: Our mission is to enhance the accessibility of international education through effective guidance. At ZS, our approach involves more than just handling applications. We take the time to assess each student’s academic background, career aspirations, and financial capabilities before suggesting suitable options. We prioritise transparency, ensuring that students have a clear understanding of both the opportunities and responsibilities associated with studying abroad.
Flare: What key factors should Pakistani students evaluate when choosing a university and degree programme abroad?
Anum Ali Khan: Students must look past rankings and popularity. It is essential to evaluate how well the programme aligns with their career objectives, the university’s reputation, costs of tuition and living, available scholarships, location, employability prospects, and visa prerequisites. Above all, the decision should reflect the individual student’s profile and future ambitions rather than merely following the choices of friends or relatives.
Flare: Which countries and study destinations are generating the highest levels of interest among Pakistani students, and what trends are you noticing?
Anum Ali Khan: The regions of the UK, Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand remain highly appealing. Concurrently, locations like Malaysia, Turkey, and the UAE are gaining high popularity. A noticeable shift is that students are more critical about assessing costs. They are carefully evaluating scholarships, tuition costs, living expenditures, visa regulations, and potential job opportunities before reaching a decision.
Flare: There is a significant concern among students and parents regarding inaccurate information and deceptive practices in the study-abroad consulting industry. What steps can students take to recognise a trustworthy education consultant?
Anum Ali Khan: It is essential for students to confirm the qualifications of the advisor, their university collaborations, physical office presence, and relevant professional associations. They should request an explicit breakdown of fees and clarify the specific services included. Most importantly, students must be wary of individuals who promise a visa or offer unrealistic guarantees. A reputable advisor will provide honest advice instead of fostering false hopes.
Flare: Scholarships and affordability remain challenges for Pakistani families. How do you help students find scholarships, financial aid, and affordable education options?
Anum Ali Khan: Our process begins with assessing the academic qualifications of the student and establishing the family’s practical budget. We then investigate appropriate universities, available scholarships, tuition discounts, and other funding options. The total cost of education is also taken into account, including housing and living costs. Occasionally, a programme with a slightly higher tuition might be the more economical choice if it provides better financial aid opportunities.
Flare: What are the common errors made by Pakistani students when applying to universities abroad, and how can these be mitigated?
Anum Ali Khan: A frequent error made by students is selecting a university or programme without adequately assessing its compatibility with their personal profiles and career aspirations. Additionally, many wait until the final moments to arrange their documentation and financing. Through proactive planning, thorough research, and obtaining professional advice, students can evade several of these challenges.
Flare: What role do women entrepreneurs play in Pakistan’s education and consultancy sector, and how have you navigated it as a woman in business?
Anum Ali Khan: Women have a significant role to play in the educational and entrepreneurial framework of Pakistan. Establishing ZS Study Advisors as a business led by women has highlighted to me that entrepreneurship demands persistence, resilience, and assurance in one’s vision. I am convinced that women should not only engage in professional fields but also generate opportunities, establish businesses, and assume leadership positions.
Flare: As a representative of the Women Chamber of Commerce & Industry Lahore, how vital are professional networks and business platforms in bolstering women-led ventures?
Anum Ali Khan: Professional networks hold substantial significance, especially for women entrepreneurs. Membership in the Women Chamber of Commerce & Industry Lahore creates avenues for connecting with fellow businesswomen, sharing insights, and cultivating valuable professional relationships. These platforms enhance visibility for women-led businesses and promote collaboration and growth.
Flare: What are your aspirations for ZS Study Advisors moving forward, and what message would you wish to convey to Pakistani students aiming to pursue higher education abroad?
Anum Ali Khan: I aim to continue the expansion of ZS Study Advisors as a reliable education and career consulting service, fostering robust relationships with international universities and broadening opportunities for students. I wish for ZS to maintain its emphasis on transparency, tailored guidance, and student achievement.
My advice to students is straightforward: conduct thorough research, inquire appropriately, and select an educational route that truly aligns with your future aspirations. Avoid making such a significant choice solely based on current trends.
