Why Students Looking to Study Abroad Should not Panic

 

Students onboard their journey to study abroad were left in a tizzy due to the current pandemic. While it is natural to feel lost it is important to not panic. As India’s leading overseas education consultants, Edwise is the perfect place to receive up-to-date information on the current happenings in the field of overseas education. As your most trusted agency, we ensure that we provide you with a plethora of options and stepping stones in these uncertain times.

Whilst nothing can be compared to the traditional means of education, attending classes in person had its own perks. However, uncertain times call for innovative solutions, and students at their disposal have just that.

Hybrid Classes

Universities across the globe are looking at the hybrid model of education. Meaning students will be met with an amalgamation of online as well as offline classes. Not only does this ensure the safety of students but enhances certain character traits in them. Students who are expected to complete a certain proportion of their classes online can see themselves becoming more independent and committed. 

Measures Undertaken by universities

Universities throughout the world are undertaking measures to ensure that whilst the education prospects of students are not halted their health also remains a priority. Large student gathering is prohibited and students when being attending their classes on campus will be required to adhere to social distancing norms. Certain universities are also offering quarantine facilities to its students. Moreover, the curriculum has also been updated to ensure that it can be seamlessly taught through the online framework. Students are supported through all possible means of support to ensure that their education prospects continue.

What should students do

The number one question on a large number of minds is what are students expected to do. Our biggest advice to students would be to remain calm and continue making applications. With online classes being heavily advocated by universities, one must consider the same since it doesn’t halt the education prospects of students. Those students looking to make an application in 2021 are to remain optimistic since it is expected that the situation may streamline till then. A temporary hurdle is what students are met with this they are urged to make the best out of the situation. With vaccine trials being undertaken on a war footing across the globe, everyone is waiting with bated breath for good news.

Students should undertake the decision of deferring their applications carefully after weighing the impact it will have on their profile. With online classes, students will have immense time in hand to undertake ancillary activities or engage in part-time work which will help them illuminate their application.

Digital learning is going to be the future and students must get with the times and prepare for what lays ahead of them.

Entry Requirements

Taking the current situation into account, universities have undertaken several measures to ensure that the application process of students can be as seamless as possible. Duolingo is being used as a method to test the English language proficiency of students. Moreover, certain application waivers have also been put in place to ensure convenience for students. Certain universities are also offering provisional offers to students, enabling them to submit certain documents at a later stage. Some universities have gone the extra mile and are conducting internal examinations to test the English language proficiency of students. Another novel solution is that some universities are looking at the scores attained in the said subject to determine the eligibility level. It is best that the student gets in touch with us, to receive the latest updates on the specific entry requirements of a university under consideration.

With application deadline likely to get extended students are urged to keep their applications going. Certain study abroad destinations have kept their post-study work rights intact while some are still in the midst of making a decision.

However, at the end of the day whether or not you want to study abroad is a personal decision that you need to undertake after weighing all the pros and cons. Universities abroad along with the assistance of the government are undertaking all the necessary steps to ensure that the needs of international students are protected. It is expected that things will normalize soon. It would be quite detrimental to decide against studying abroad. The best you can do is wait and watch to see how the situation normalizes.

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.

Online Classes: The New Future

The idea of the traditional means of education has radically transformed over the past few months. With the onset of the COVID-19 and rise in technological facilities, students are now required to study from their homes. Students who had decided to study abroad were either required to return home or stay back in their destination countries and complete the reminder of their courses online. Current Scenario At least temporarily, until things pan out and go back to normal, students are required to commence their programs online. Universities as well as the government are providing all possible means of support to international students. Students are reassured that they can commence certain proportion of their classes online and once thing go back to normal, move to their study destination. Moreover, universities have also informed students that this will not have a detrimental effect on their visa status and they will still be eligible for the post study wok rights. Support Offered by Universities in Australia and several other destinations are offering all forms of support, from laptops to internet modems. They are providing all means of support that will allow students to complete their courses online. To make sure that the interactive nature of the classes stay intact, online classes are incorporating mediums of discussions, so that the classes continue to remain reciprocal. Flexibility Online classes in some cases are more flexible when compared to the traditional mediums. 

Students may be given the preference to either set their own preference and work according to their schedule or work according to university timings. Flexibility allows students to incorporate time management skills, while on the other hand working according to a schedule allows one to be deterministic in their approach. Selection of Courses Certain universities in Canada are allowing students to switch their courses and study those courses that are offered online in case the program of their choice is not offered through the online medium. Accessibility With internet connectivity reaching each one of us, online classes become easy to attend. With an internet connectivity you are able to access online classes easily. Saves Time A major plus point of attending an online class is that it helps save on time. The time that you would earlier spend getting to and from class, with everything in between, means that you lost out on a significant amount of time. However, that will not be the case once you decide to enter the world of online classes. With just having to login to study, you leave yourself with a considerable amount of time to attend your online class Saves Money When compared to the traditional medium of education, online classes are significantly cheaper. 

If you had decided to attain an education abroad but are now required to undertake an online class you will save a considerable amount of money in terms of travel and accommodation, which helps bring down the cost of your education to a considerable level. Faculty Just because you are attending an online class doesn’t mean that you will be speaking to a screen. Faculty members are equally involved in these classes and conduct lectures with the same amount of enthusiasm as they did with the traditional mediums. The faculty also remains extremely proactive in solving all doubts and make sure to put their best foot forward in order for the students to have a smooth experience through the online medium. Learning Resources As a student you should be well aware of the various resources that are available online that allows them to have access to a considerable amount of information. Online Classes at Study Abroad Destinations USA has always been renowned for its online courses. And even before the outbreak occurred, a considerable number of courses were conducted online. 

Online classes are heavily advocated by universities in Canada, the major advantage students receive from attending these courses is that they can begin their classes on time, and that to from the comfort of their homes. Online classes will also have no effect on the Post Study Work right of students. Once things go back to normal, they can also attend the next semester in Canada itself and still be eligible for the Post Study Work Right. Certain universities in Australia are expected to start their courses online, so that students can attend classes from their homes. Student Testimonials Edwise is excellent, the counselors are very co-operative and understanding towards your needs, and accordingly provide the best solutions, Thank you Edwise!!! Name - Areen Kaur Singh Country - Canada University - Fanshawe College Experience has been wonderful, right from the scratch to the final touch-ups, the guidance has been just amazing, thank you so much Edwise. Name - Arbaaz Farooqu Country - Canada University - Fanshawe College Edwise has been very informative, helpful and cooperative. The counselor has helped in complete planning of my studies. Thank you Edwise!! Name - Vaseem Khan Country - Canada University - University of New Brunswick Edwise 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 725 universities in 16 countries, hence giving us a unique insight into the finest educational establishments worldwide. For Complete Information About Overseas Education, Contact Edwise Overseas Education Consultants, on 1-800-102-0336 (Toll Free)

Skills studying abroad helps you acquire

 

The experience a student has when they decide to study abroad is hard to encapsulate in a few points. Apart from the quality of education imparted the social implications are profound. As a student looking to study abroad, there are certain skills that one must expect to learn.

The process of attaining education abroad is a bag of mixed emotions, the excitement and nervousness all come as a part and parcel of the overall experience. However, as a prospective international student, there are certain aspects that you must consider.

The experience you have in a foreign country is much more than the education you attain, there are certain skills that also get harnessed in the process. You must ensure that you capitalize on these opportunities that will enable you to have a fruitful experience abroad.

Communication

One of the major benefits of studying abroad is the opportunity to get to interact with international students. Interacting with students from all corners of the world will enable you to hone your communication skills. Tackling all these barriers will help increase your confidence and you will come out as an enhanced student. An important trait that a significant number of employers look for in their candidates is the ability to communicate effectively. Once it brought to light that you have attained an education abroad, the confidence that an employer has in your skills automatically increases.

Networking

A part and parcel of your communication activities is your networking experience. The connections you make at the university level go a long way in the future. Interacting with the faculty as well as with alumni will help you later. Make sure to forge these connections, because when you dive into the professional sphere yourself, these may come in handy.

Cultural Acceptance

Respect and appreciation of other’s culture have become the need of the hour. With an increasingly globalised nature of the market, students are expected to become global citizens. And there is no better way to become a global citizen than to be in a global environment, and education abroad provides you just that. When you study abroad you become increasingly aware of several communities which enable you to hone your skills.

Adaptability

Being away from your loved ones, and being in a foreign land yourself is an excellent way to enhance your skills. Since you have put yourself out of your comfort zone, you will be expected to enhance your adaptability skills. Being in a foreign country enables students to become independent and diligent. Someone who is used to having things done for themselves will find it an arduous task to be by themselves, however, education abroad is all about that experience. Becoming flexible in your approach will come in handy in your professional endeavours.

Problem Solving

Since you have decided to study abroad you will be expected to fend for yourself. Which means you become responsible for your own actions. Therefore, when a problem strikes it will become the need of the hour that you find a solution for the same. Thus, working for the same, it is natural that your problem-solving skills will get enhanced.

Team Work

When at a university abroad, students are expected to deal with a significant task at hand. These tasks in many cases usually include assignments. In some cases, these assignments may be individual or in some cases may require you to work in a group. Working in a group enables you to harness your team-building skills. This also teaches you that apart from considering one’s own perspective it becomes equally important that you also consider an opposite person’s perspective. Exchanging ideas, put your points across the table and coming up with a range of creative solutions to a problem at hand are skills you learn. Therefore, when working in a team, you are preparing yourself for the professional environment where you will be expected to work with a diverse group of people at hand.

At the end of the day, an education abroad allows you to assess your own strength and weakness and teaches you to work on the same. It also enables you to understand your own capabilities all of which will go a long way in your future endeavours.

 

 

Hurdles of selecting the perfect course to study abroad

 

One of the most critical components of your journey to study abroad is selecting the perfect course. You have to put in a great deal of time and effort to ensure that you pick a course that fits your inclinations the best. Selecting the perfect course hold immense significance in your future since it’s on the basis of your attained education that you will be able to climb the ladder of professional success. You don’t want to be stuck in a wave of confusion. Thus, to ensure that you have an enjoyable experience abroad it is necessary that you put in a great deal of thought when choosing your course.

Trust your Instincts

The foremost consideration to undertake when making the decision to study a course is your inclinations. It is important that you take into consideration what you are good at. Whilst a significant number of us have faced the issues of having to study a said course only because our parents wanted us to, it is time to break out of those shackles. Parents are increasingly becoming receptive to the needs of their children and are enabling them to trust their guts. It is best to have a discussion with them in regards to your aspirations for the future and how studying the said course will let you get there. At the end of the day, you must remember that every parent wants what is best for their child. Whilst making this decision, it is important to also consider the future prospects of your field of study.

Research

This cannot be emphasized enough, but research is the most important aspect of your decision-making process. Before embarking upon this journey, it is important that you consider what your likes and dislikes are. Don’t stop at just that, go one step further. Understand as why you are inclined towards a certain aspect. This will enable you to determine where your strengths lie. Once you have an understanding of where your strengths lie it will be easy for you to determine which course to study.

Financial Constraints

Another major hurdle that a large number of students face is finance. It is invariable that your journey to attain an education abroad is going to burn a hole in your pocket. However, it is important to not lose sight of the many advantages it possesses. Therefore, when taking into consideration an array of factors you must ensure to pay heed to the financial aspect as well. Analyze the various funding avenues that you have at your disposal and make appropriate preparations for the same. There is a range of funding avenues for overseas education that a student can consider such as scholarships, grants, loans, bursaries and much more. If you required to make an application for a scholarship, make sure that you have adhered to the deadline.

Social Aspects

Another factor that students need to consider is the social constraints. Certain societies refrain from sending their children outside. However, through the times’ people are becoming more accepting of the concept of education abroad and have come to terms with the many benefits it possesses. An additional hurdle that students often face is the expectation of having to stay back at their study abroad destination. People are of the widespread opinion that students should settle in the country that sought to study in. However, it is important that you undertake your own decision. If you wish to return to your home country and put to use the knowledge gained abroad here, then follow your instincts. On the other hand, if you wish to stay back then do so. Therefore, it is important to remember that you must undertake a decision that is best suited for your career prospects.

Eligibility Hurdles

Another obstacle you may face are entry requirements. Universities abroad expect students to possess certain years of education. Moreover, students are also expected to appear for entrance exams. These include those such as the SAT/ACT/GRE/GMAT or English language proficiency tests such as the IELTS/TOEFL/PTE. Make sure that you look at the entry requirements of the specific course of the application enabling you to adhere to the same.

Like these, there may be other hurdles that you face, however, Edwise India’s leading overseas education consultants help you through the entire journey to study abroad.

 

Study in UK Application Procedures

UK application process varies greatly between different levels of education and types of institution, so make sure you find out all the details for your chosen course.

First, ensure you meet the entry requirements – don’t waste time applying for a course that you’re not eligible for! These requirements will relate to your qualifications, your English language skills, and whether you will be able to secure a visa.

Give yourself enough time. Many English language courses and shorter further education courses have start dates throughout the year, but most other courses start in September or October, and the deadline for applications can be up to a year in advance.

The application process can be nerve-wracking, but if you complete everything you’re asked for – and ask for help if you need it! – then this is just the beginning of your UK Education.

Intakes

The main intake offered by all Universities is September / October Few universities offer select programs for the Jan / Feb intake.

English Language Requirements

• IELTS minimum score of 6.5 for Postgraduate courses and 6.0 for Undergraduate Studies.
• TOEFL minimum score of 90 (Internet Based Test) for Postgraduate and 80 (Internet Based Test) for Undergraduate Studies.
• Successful completion of a degree through the medium of English or 70% in English in std. XII may help you to get Exemption.

*Please note TOFEL and PTE are accepted by selected institutes.

Entry Requirements / Eligibility

Undergraduate

• 65% and above for humanities in XIIth.
• 70 - 80% and above for Science, Commerce, Engg in Std. XII / Diploma.
• 2nd class could also be considered by some Universities if there is some additional qualification / experience. (Foundations and Diploma programs are available for students who have secured below 60%)
• Student must complete 18 years of age before commencement of program

Postgraduate

• 60 % and above in 1st Bachelors Degree is required by most of the Universities for Masters and Research courses.
• Some universities may even accept student at 55% and above in the 1st Degree along with a GMAT scores ranging between 600-700 for Management Programs Full time work experience of 2-4 years after Bachelors degree may required by many Universities for Management Programs (MBA). The duration of work & GMAT vary from University to University.
• All AMBA accredited universities require a minimum of 3 years or above work experience and an age criteria of 25 years plus as a minimum age requirement.

Documents

• Attested copies of mark sheets of Std X, XII, and all the Bachelors degree semester wise marksheet and degree certificate. Edwise counsellors can attest these for you, on sighting the originals.
• At least, 2 Academic reference letters from professors who have taught you most recently. Once reference in case of UG application on the UCAS application form itself.
• If you have work experience then at least one work recommendation from the employer who knows you well and can comment on your professional abilities.
• Statement of Purpose
• Curriculum Vitae / Resume.
• Photocopied score reports of IELTS / TOEFL / PTE / GMAT if available / required.
• Portfolio (in case of Students applying for art and design courses & Architecture programs).
• Others (Certificates / Achievements at the State and National Level and Miscellaneous extra curricular activities).

The Process

Applying for Undergraduate Courses

Applications are made only through UCAS (only 1 application can be made in an academic year).

It is an online application method.

One can apply to 5 different UK Universities on the same UCAS application form.

UCAS application fee and deadlines: The fee for applications is £12 for a single choice or £23 for multiple courses for most courses, the deadline to submit your application to UCAS is 15 January.

Final Deadline:

• Art and Design - 24th March
• Oxford / Cambridge -15th October
• Other Programs - 1st Deadline - 15th Jan : 2nd & Final Deadline - 30th June

Sandwich and Foundation Programs: Sandwich programs are made up of combinations of periods of study and time spent in industry. So the course duration extends to 4 years instead of the usual 3 years.

Foundation programes are of 1 year duration and are generally tailored for students as an alternative route to bridge between one own qualification and that which is required for entry for a degree program in a university / college.

Please note that it is advisable to meet the 1st deadline which is 15th Jan.

Students are strongly advised to apply sooner as the application process may take time due to Universities getting an overwhelming number of applications.

Applying for Post Graduate Programs

Application forms available at Edwise offices free of cost.

One can apply to numerous Universities with free guidance and assistance from expert counselor at Edwise Very few Universities charge an application process fee.

Deadlines

• Certain universities have deadlines
• Most Universities do not have deadlines but it is advised to apply at least 6/8 months in advance (especially if applying to a Popular University).

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What Edwise Students say...

“Hi, I am Pooja Das going for my Masters in Fashion Retail Management at University of Arts London (LCF) this year. This is the biggest opportunity for me and would not have been possible without EDWISE. When they say “Edwise is one stop solution for all international study needs” they are 101% correct. I decided to go for my masters while I was working with an organisation. It was quite challenging for me to manage my MA applications and my official work. So I heard about EDWISE from one of my faculties from NIFT and went to their office for assistance. I was determined to apply for UAL, but the advisers guided me to choose other top universities as well . My counselor was from Delhi South Ex branch. She has been a great adviser and mentor to me; she helped me to apply for all the universities, informed me about the events related to my chosen universities, updated me with the interview dates and their results. She also helped me to apply for my visa and was always there to answer my queries very promptly. The counselors are very professional, friendly and helpful. The best part is that the relation with EDWISE doesn't end here; you are always welcome to seek advise even after you get selected at your desired university. My experience with EDWISE has been wonderful.”
Name : Pooja Das
Country : UK
University : University of Arts London

“Edwise has been really helpful right from helping me selecting the college to getting through the university of my best interest and guiding me for my pre-departure preparations. I recommend it to all students planning to study abroad.”
Name : Shruti Shukla
Country : UK
University : University of Sheffield

“The city is heavenly beautiful and the university is amazing. It is like living in dreams but you are actually living the dream life. Being very thankful to Edwise for making my dreams come true.”
Name : Amit Kedia
Country : UK
University : University of Bedfordshire

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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 in UK, Contact Edwise on 1-800-200-3678 (Toll Free) / 08600911333.