How to Live on a Budget as an International Student

How to live on a budget as an international student One of the biggest hurdles an international student faces is the issue of expenses. On a tight budget, students are often expected to manage a list of tasks. With the constant struggle of having to manage finances, it becomes difficult for students to enjoy their education abroad. To ensure that you are not met with this issue on your journey abroad, it is best to plan ahead of time and lay a plan of action. Research goes a long way and this will help you ensure that you have a smooth experience abroad. 

Here are some tips on how you can have an enjoyable experience abroad and at the same time manage your budget. Outline a Strategy Depending on what suits you the best, make a weekly or monthly budget. List all the expenses that you are expecting to incur and list down provisions of how you are going to manage the same. It is great to plan your meals in advance and buy groceries ahead of time. Make sure that you also take into consideration the cost you will incur when traveling. It is best to take a pass and many services offer discounts to international students. 

Making a Budget As mentioned earlier, it is important that you set a budget. Planning your expenses ahead of time will go a long way in helping you. Don’t treat your budget like a piece of paper and make sure that you adhere to the same. It is important that you incorporate provisions for any unforeseen circumstances. Visit Local Stores Its rightly said that familiarity breeds contempt. It is natural to be drawn towards international stores and brands that you have earlier heard about. However, when in Rome be like the Romans. Keeping this thought in mind it becomes necessary that you interact with the locals. Visit the local stores, these stores tend to have great discounts and also offer great produce. It is likely that you have a local store near your accommodation, make sure to visit them. Since it is a local store you can expect to receive cheap products.

 As an international student set on the endeavour to study abroad, make sure you don’t splurge on outside food. By visiting these local stores, you not only ensure yourself economically, quality products but can make sensible decisions. Buy some of the staples that you need which will help plan meals at home. These stores also tend to have happy hours, so make sure to check them out as well. Use Apps As mentioned earlier, make sure to use passes that a range of transportation facilities offer. One such card includes the Oyster Card, which is a payment method for when using transportation facilities in London. Likewise, several study abroad destinations have their individual facilities. Moreover, several restaurants, shops and, a range of other establishments also have their own apps. By downloading these apps, you can make yourself privy to discounts, codes and coupons which come in handy. Remember to Have Fun While it is important to ensure that you remain on a budget, don’t forget to have fun. Enjoy your overseas education experience to the fullest.

 Ensure that you live beyond the walls of your class and the pages of your books. An integral component of your education abroad is the interaction you have with people. These interactions go a long way and come in handy when undertaking networking activities. It is rightly said that the connections you make at this stage in your life come in handy in your professional endeavours. Thus, it is very important that you indulge in going out, ordering takeaway and have fun as an when it permits. Other ancillary factors to consider are exchange rates, interacting with locals and curating your bank account.

 In most cases, your current local bank will have an international outlet as well. Keep a track of what your spending are. As an international student, you are likely to undertake part-time work as well. Part-time jobs are not only important because they allow you to put the knowledge you learnt in the classroom to practical use, but it also allows you to earn some extra money. The exposure you gain whilst working in a foreign country is unparalleled.

Purpose of Giving English Proficiency Tests

English is the official language in many parts of the world. Many international students are required to take an English language exam in order to gain entrance into a College or University. A primary challenge for international applicants seeking to work or study overseas is the ability to speak English. Strong skills are needed in writing, speaking and understanding English in order to work or study abroad.

English language tests are required by universities, immigration departments, professional bodies and employers. The experience of studying abroad is academically satisfying. It is also an excellent way to experience other countries’ culture through education and immersion. By taking a focused academic English language exam, you will learn the right kind of skills to succeed in your studies.

Academic English language exams develop real-life English language communication skills, in addition to a range of practical academic skills. There are a number of reasons why taking an English language test is helpful; Educational institutions require certain English language requirements for admission into universities; immigrants need to show they can use the English language in communicating with others. While some take the test just to know their level of English.

More schools are developing English as a Second Language program to support the increasing numbers of international students. There are a number of English language tests that are accepted by schools and institutions across English speaking nations. The exam commonly used throughout the United Kingdom, Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand is the IELTS. This English language exam is jointly managed by the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations, the British Council and IDP Education Pty Limited: IELTS Australia. While the most commonly accepted test in Northern American Universities is the TOEFL, this exam tests one’s ability to understand North American English as it is spoken, written, and heard. The TOEFL exam is administered by the Educational Testing Service. The Pearson Test of English Academic is another English language test that is now widely accepted in a number of countries. It tests English language abilities in a three-hour exam, which involves a number of real-life settings. In this test, students will be listening to a range of accents and academic language which they are likely to encounter at English-speaking institutes.

Since there are a number of English tests available, it can be hard to decide on a particular one. While some are more widely accepted than others, ensuring that you choose the right test is just as important. Measure your English level before you choose a test, keeping in mind the test requirements of the University.

What Edwise Students Say...

“I clearly remember the day I started my TOEFL coaching, after seeing the different sections of TOEFL I was sure I won't pass the test. But my faculty's support and personalized attention helped me. TOEFL being an internet based test, practice was very important. Edwise provided me with number of mock tests which boosted my confidence. I thank the entire Edwise team for the same.”
Shabbir Khambati - TOEFL Coaching

“My TOEFL class here at Edwise has been started great. I have experienced good changes in my performance. Good attention is given on individual students and the students weakest points are worked upon really well. Totally satisfied! My faculty is awesome teacher and a guide. Learned a lot of things and would surely look forward to my bright future. Thank you Edwise.”
Reshmi Bhaduri – TOEFL Coaching


“The Edwise mock test for the PTE was amazing and really helped me understand the format of the test and the coaching helped me to thoroughly prepare for the test."
Saher - PTE Coaching

“I am writing this testimonial to Edwise International and especially to my tutor for PTE. I was tensed before giving my PTE exam because I got my passport late and I had to clear the exam in a single attempt. I explained the situation to her. She helped me a lot. Those two sessions were really very very crucial for me as I scored 77/90 in PTE with 90/90 in speaking. This score has also helped me in getting a part time job in Australia as well. My tutor was very calm, understanding, I am really thankful to Edwise and for the overall experience with a Coaching Dept.”
Siddhesh Lad - PTE Coaching

“I am very thankful to Edwise for helping me score an 8.0 band in my IELTS. I joined the IELTS classes with a lot of apprehensions. But from the first class itself I felt extremely comfortable. The faculty here has provided me with personal training and this has helped me clear my examination with flying colors. I would once again like to thank the entire staff of Edwise who helped my dream come true.”
Shruti Preman - IELTS Coaching

“My experience with Edwise was very good, my counselor was very helpful. I had given IELTS and had taken coaching from Edwise.”
Nazia Parekh - IELTS Coaching

“My experience with Edwise coaching was very good! I started coaching with 5 other students and with no appropriate knowledge or idea about IELTS, its procedures and protocols. My faculty was a boon to us by giving us not only the thorough insight of the IELTS, but made it a fun process for us. To me personally, I couldn't have expected a better teacher for it. The faculty at Edwise not just makes us feel involved, but gives us a good support especially in disciplines that we lack in. The teaching pedalogy at Edwise helps us find our strengths and weakness & ace the exams. The job and concern not just ends after IELTS, but also follows up with us on our exam and our results.”
Vizak Gagrat -IELTS Coaching

“After enrolling in Edwise I felt that I am at the right place to pursue further higher education, because the knowledge and the guidance given by the faculty here gave me a positive look towards my goal. The coaching was well planned and proper attention was given by the faculty guiding me. I have already suggested few of my friends to go forward with IELTS through Edwise coaching.”
Krishna Dussera – IELTS Coaching

Overseas Education Consultant

We at Edwise streamline and personalize the process for each student irrespective of the destination, institution, course or any level of study. Our team of experienced professionals will provide you individual attention and exceptional guidance throughout your process of application. We provide assistance related to course selections, admission, visa, bank-loan and scholarships. We also host University delegates for direct student interaction and all these services are provided free of cost. We have established since 1991 and have been maintaining strong networks with over 575 universities in 16 countries, hence giving us a unique insight into the finest educational establishments worldwide.

Start your education overseas with valuable information on everything you need to know about studying abroad from study permits, temporary resident visas and how much it costs, to finding a program.

Do visit your nearest Edwise branch & choose your university carefully under our expert guidance and ensure that you have all your paperwork in order. Once you apply, and the wait is over, you can really begin to look forward to not only studying in a beautiful and vibrant country, but also to a life experience quite like no other.

For complete information on Studying Overseas, Contact Edwise on 1-800-200-3678 (Toll Free) / 08600911333.

How to score high in SAT?

The SAT Exams are widely used for College and University admissions. SAT measures literacy and writing skills that are needed for academic success. These scores are used by more than 4,000 undergraduate programs, and are held six times a year in India, in October, November, December, January, May, and June. The test is administered under 3 hours and 50 minutes. Some guidelines on how you can score higher on the SAT are:

Begin your SAT test prep with a diagnostic test, you will know exactly what to expect on test day.. A diagnostic test will help you know the sections you're good at and what areas you need work on. After the test, make note of the questions you answered incorrect. Start a study plan, you should know what, when, and how you're going to study. Sticking to your plan will help you score high in the SAT. The most important step in scoring high on the SAT is preparing yourself to sit for the duration of the test. One way you can prepare for test is by practicing tests of similar duration in a similar setting.



Critical Reading

• Reading the passage strategically will help you find the correct answer
• Focus on the topic and purpose of the passage
• Keep track of the different people and their opinions in the passage
• Understand the question before eliminating answer choices
• Predict an answer BEFORE you look at the answer choices
• For long passages, read the passage first, and then answer the questions. For short passages, read the question first, and then the passage
• Manage your time, if you find yourself spending too much time on a particular question, move on to the next one. You can always come back to question if you have the time later
• The new SAT does not penalize for wrong answers. If you are unsure of an answer, make an educated guess, ruling out an option or two will improve your chances of selecting the right answer

Writing and Language

• Do not begin by reading the entire passage—instead, read the first question and know what you need to answer
• Take the tone of the passage into consideration, improve on making the passage more concise
• For graph related questions, check if the statement matches the data given
• Revise your grammar rules, this will prevent you from selecting the wrong answer choice
• When more than one choice seems to work well grammatically, work towards shorter choices to eliminate wordiness
• Know your punctuation, questions on the Writing & Language section will test you on this

Math

• Mark up geometry diagrams. Keeping track of your work directly on the page will help you avoid careless mistakes
• Look at the information provided in the question and the answer choices
• When you eliminate an answer cross it out! Don't let it confuse you
• Check to make sure that you answered the specific question that was asked.
• Translate the words in the question into math so that you can solve more easily.
• Know the difference between values, ratios, and percents
• Find common shapes on the SAT to help you break complex figures into simple polygons. Look in particular for triangles!
• Be on the lookout for common trap answers on the SAT. This includes oddball answers and answers that are too small or too big.
• You may be more familiar with some concepts than others. Take some time out to work on your weaknesses
• Practice your concepts regularly

Essay

• Include an introduction and a conclusion
• Use effective language and word choice
• Only use information from the passage
• Make use of the author's examples and direct quotes in your essay
• Ensure that you clearly explain how the author builds the argument
• Stay clear of giving your opinion, avoid “I ”and “You”
• Ensure that your handwriting is neat

What Edwise Students Say...

“When I entered the classroom for coaching I had no clue about SAT. My faculty gave me personalized attention and guided me till the exam which helped me not only pass my test but pass it with great scores. I am really thankful to Edwise.”
Mazhar Bagasrawala - SAT Coaching

“My experience with Edwise coaching was very good! I started coaching with 5 other students and with no appropriate knowledge or idea about SAT, its procedures and protocols. My faculty was a boon to us by giving us not only the thorough insight of the SAT, but made it a fun process for us.”
Sachin Shah - SAT Coaching

Overseas Education Consultant

We at Edwise streamline and personalize the process for each student irrespective of the destination, institution, course or any level of study. Our team of experienced professionals will provide you individual attention and exceptional guidance throughout your process of application. We provide assistance related to course selections, admission, visa, bank-loan and scholarships. We also host University delegates for direct student interaction and all these services are provided free of cost. We have established since 1991 and have been maintaining strong networks with over 575 universities in 16 countries, hence giving us a unique insight into the finest educational establishments worldwide.

Start your education overseas with valuable information on everything you need to know about studying abroad from study permits, temporary resident visas and how much it costs, to finding a program.

Do visit your nearest Edwise branch & choose your university carefully under our expert guidance and ensure that you have all your paperwork in order. Once you apply, and the wait is over, you can really begin to look forward to not only studying in a beautiful and vibrant country, but also to a life experience quite like no other.

For complete information on SAT Coaching, Contact Edwise on 1-800-200-3678 (Toll Free) / 08600911333.

Why IELTS is required?

Anyone who wishes to work overseas or study abroad may have to give the IELTS at some point. Many institutions and organisations rely on the IELTS to select the right people. It is the most widely accepted English language test that uses a one-on- one speaking test to assess your English communication skills. The International English Language Testing System, evaluates the language ability of candidates that need to study or work, where English is the language of communication. This test is also approved by UK Visas and Immigration for customers applying both outside and inside the UK as well as for immigration to Australia, New Zealand and Canada.

There are two modules to the IELTS- Academic and General. IELTS Academic is for those who wish to seek admission to higher educational institutes or for professionals who want to study or practise in an English speaking country. Some universities in Non English speaking countries also require the IELTS, since English is the language of instruction. The General training is for those who intend on studying at below degree level and for immigration purposes

IELTS avoids cultural biases, and ensures that all test takers are treated fair, regardless of any special needs that they may have. However, a medical certificate has to be issued within the last two years at the time of registering for the exam. The test consists of questions that are relevant to how people need to use English in their studies or work. In terms of spelling, grammar and choice of words, IELTS covers both British English and American English. Whether it is studying in the US, UK or another English-speaking country, IELTS gives you the chance to train your ear to different native English accents.

Scored on a nine-band scale, no minimum score is required to pass the test, each institution sets a different threshold, where each band corresponds to a specified competence in English. Institutions will not consider a report older than two years to be valid, unless the user has worked to maintain their level. The IELTS has administered over a million tests, making it the world's most popular English language test for higher education and immigration. The convenient dates and locations in over 140 countries provide a range of options on where to take the test. You can also choose to book your tests with the flexible payment options available online. The results for these test scores are available online within just 13 days of your exam date.

What Edwise Students studying Say...

“I am very thankful to Edwise for helping me score an 8.0 band in my IELTS. I joined the IELTS classes with a lot of apprehensions. But from the first class itself I felt extremely comfortable. The faculty here has provided me with personal training and this has helped me clear my examination with flying colors. I would once again like to thank the entire staff of Edwise who helped my dream come true.”
Shruti Preman - IELTS Coaching

“My experience with Edwise coaching was very good! I started coaching with 5 other students and with no appropriate knowledge or idea about IELTS, its procedures and protocols. My faculty was a boon to us by giving us not only the thorough insight of the IELTS, but made it a fun process for us. To me personally, I couldn't have expected a better teacher for it. The faculty at Edwise not just makes us feel involved, but gives us a good support especially in disciplines that we lack in. The teaching pedagogy at Edwise helps us find our strengths and weakness & ace the exams. The job and concern not just ends after IELTS, but also follows up with us on our exam and our results.”
Vizak Gagrat -IELTS Coaching

“After enrolling in Edwise I felt that I am at the right place to pursue further higher education, because the knowledge and the guidance given by the faculty here gave me a positive look towards my goal. The coaching was well planned and proper attention was given by the faculty guiding me. I have already suggested few of my friends to go forward with IELTS through Edwise coaching.”
Krishna Dussera – IELTS Coaching

Overseas Education Consultant

We at Edwise streamline and personalize the process for each student irrespective of the destination, institution, course or any level of study. Our team of experienced professionals will provide you individual attention and exceptional guidance throughout your process of application. We provide assistance related to course selections, admission, visa, bank-loan and scholarships. We also host University delegates for direct student interaction and all these services are provided free of cost. We have established since 1991 and have been maintaining strong networks with over 575 universities in 16 countries, hence giving us a unique insight into the finest educational establishments worldwide.

Start your overseas education with valuable information on everything you need to know about studying abroad from study permits, temporary resident visas and how much it costs, to finding a program.

Do visit your nearest Edwise branch & choose your university carefully under our expert guidance and ensure that you have all your paperwork in order. Once you apply, and the wait is over, you can really begin to look forward to not only studying in a beautiful and vibrant country, but also to a life experience quite like no other.

For complete information on IELTS Coaching, Contact Edwise on 1-800-200-3678 (Toll Free) / 08600911333.