How To Prepare for Study Abroad: Things to Do Before Going Abroad

Studying abroad is an exciting trip that has to be well planned and prepared for. Whether your goal is to broaden your horizons, flourish academically, or experience a new culture, being well-prepared will guarantee a seamless transfer and a rewarding experience. Taking the crucial steps before embarking on a study abroad journey is the most essential part of the study abroad journey. 

Things to do when studying abroad

1.  Have all the academic and other relevant documents: 

It is essential to prepare all academic and other documentation in advance of studying abroad. This involves getting your admission letter from the host university or institution, making sure your passport is valid for the length of your stay, and acquiring the required visa or student permit. Additionally, obtain recommendation letters, academic transcripts, and, if necessary, documentation of language proficiency. It's also a good idea to include copies of any necessary financial papers for your stay, insurance information, and medical records. Planning ahead for the organisation of these documents can facilitate the application process and guarantee a seamless transfer to your study abroad location.

2.  Set a budget and manage your finances. 

Compute the entire cost of your education, taking into account living expenses, groceries, travel, insurance, and personal spending. To establish a reasonable budget, find out how much it will cost to live in the nation of your choice. Create a weekly or monthly budget that outlines your anticipated spending and income. Set aside money for luxuries like groceries and rent, as well as discretionary expenses like entertainment. After your lessons are over, think about the expenses of going home. Set up money for travel costs and any other costs associated with returning rental goods or terminating accounts. A percentage of your income should be set aside for unforeseen costs and emergencies. Having emergency funds set aside can help you avoid experiencing financial hardship while travelling.

3.  Research about the host country:

When studying abroad, you would be a guest in another country. There are a lot of benefits to studying abroad. But for this, it is good to know the culture of the host country.

4.  Pack efficiently:

Understand the baggage allowances and restrictions of your airline to avoid complications. Organise important decisions such as passports, visas, acceptance letters, medical records, etc. It is advised to keep copies in both digital and physical formats. Include a first-aid kit, travel-sized laundry detergent, a travel umbrella, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

5.  Health and safety preparations:

Maintain international health insurance coverage that would include evacuation and repatriation. It is advised to understand what medical services cover and the ways to access them in the host country. Also, it is preferable to bring an adequate supply of any prescription medications you need, along with a doctor's note detailing your condition and treatment. Before moving to the host country, research local regulations on bringing medications into the country. Practice common-sense safety measures, such as keeping your belongings secure, being aware of your surroundings, and using reputable transportation services.

6.  Learn about the host country’s culture: 

Understanding the cultural norms, values, and traditions of the host country helps in navigating daily interactions more effectively and respectfully. Cultural knowledge enhances effectiveness by helping interpret gestures and exposures accurately. It aids in understanding humour, sarcasm, and tone. Learning about local customs and traditions allows students to participate in social activities and events, fostering friendships and connections with their loved ones and other international students.

7.  Known about the safety and regulations: 

Familiarise yourself with the safety guidelines and regulations in the host country. This includes knowing the emergency procedures, local laws, and cultural norms that are related to safety. It is advised to stay updated on safety and travel plans. Follow travel advisories issued by the home country’s government. Know about the healthcare options available to international students. Also, know the ways to have access to medical services and health information requirements or recommendations.

8.  Know about the accommodations in the host country: 

Prioritising housing acquisition is crucial if you plan to study overseas. You'll have to make decisions about your spending limit, living arrangements (shared or private), location (city or quiet neighbourhood), and other things. There's only so much you can accomplish on your own, even while you can browse and conduct a lot of research online. The main options for study abroad housing include:

•     Homestay abroad

•     Student halls

•     Private apartment/housing

•     Shared apartment/housing

 The best countries to study in

Studying abroad not only gives global exposure but also develops personality. Here are the best countries to study in:

•     Canada

•     New Zealand

•     Australia

•     UK

•     USA

•     Ireland

•     France 

For further assistance or queries students can contact us, Edwise International, and avail our wide range of services for students on destinations like Universities in UK, study in UK, study in USA, study in Ireland, study in Canada, study in Australia, study in New-Zealand, study in Singapore and many other countries.

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.

 

 

GRE Training at Edwise

Edwise offers one of the most intensive, comprehensive and value for money training services for GRE in India. One of the most salient features of training at Edwise is a very strong focus on building the foundation of Mathematics coupled with rigorous practice. Our faculties devote a considerable amount of time strengthening the fundamentals of students.

Verbal focuses on making students work with different types of questions, guiding them with approach, reason and giving them ample of practice so that they are able to answer any type of question. The essay official topics are discussed in class and guidelines are provided with regard to ideas to be presented, organization to be followed and language used.

Test Format

• Analytical Writing (One section with two separately timed tasks) with 30 minutes per task
• Verbal Reasoning (Two sections) 20 questions per section, with 30 minutes allotted per section
• Quantitative Reasoning (Two sections) 20 questions per section, with a time of 35 minutes per section
•  Unscored (position varies) number of questions and time alloted varies
• Research (At the end of the test) number of questions and time alloted also varies

Test Preparation

For the Quantitative part, every session begins with explaining concepts of a particular topic. After the concepts are explained, teachers solve different types of problems, and show how the concepts can be applied. The students are given about 25 questions of Problem Solving and Quantitative Comparison types to solve in class. The teachers remain in class while the students solve these problems, and guide them if they face any difficulty. Home assignments are given, and include approximately the same number of questions. Towards the end of each session, time is devoted to discuss difficulties of previous home assignments.

The Verbal part starts with a detailed introduction to different question types such as Reading Comprehension and Discrete Questions, practice exercises are then assigned from the GRE Official Guide. After completion of individual exercises, our teachers engage in a detailed discussion with the students in order to understand the reasoning and approach followed by them, and in turn guides them with the proper approach.

The Essay topics for the GRE are chosen from the official pool, and are then discussed with the students. After these essays are discussed, guidelines are given for the composition of these essays.

Salient Features of the GRE training

• 100 hours of intensive and thorough training
• Training involves strengthening the fundamentals in Math, and guiding the students with approaching different types of questions at the same time helping students build reasoning skills and giving them sufficient practice
•  Maximum of 8 students per batch
•  Well stocked library
• 20 full length mock tests given to students
•  Availability of Weekdays and Weekend Batches (Tuesday to Friday, 2 hours per day OR Saturday and Saturday, 4 hours per day)
• Availability of Fast Track Mode (Tuesday to Sunday, 4 hours per day) for people who wish to complete the course quickly
• Facility of shifting to any branch throughout India
• Mathematics for MBA by RS Agarwal, GRE Official Guide and Barron's GRE issued as courseware.

 Student Testimonials

“I thank Edwise and the faculty who helped crack the GRE with great scores. The number of mock tests given to me, prepared me for the final test. It is only because of Edwise, I am currently studying in one of the best universities in USA.”

Aditi Avadh - GRE Coaching


“I was planning on preparing for GRE myself but then I found about Edwise and it was undoubtedly a very great decision. The study material is great and the course offers a lot of books to study from. Edwise was also very flexible with timing which really helps a student prepare. Moreover the study environment is great and everyone is very friendly. Edwise has a huge role to play in me getting a good score.”

Sheetanshu Tyagi - GRE coaching

 

 

“Teachers are very helpful, always there to guide you. There are plenty of practice books that can be very useful for the students. Tests happen every week, which aids the student to know if he/she is making enough progress.”

Aditi – GRE Coaching

About Us

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 abroad 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.

Advantages & Challenges of Studying Abroad

March 2016

For many students, going away to college is the first time that they will live away from their parents or hometown. University life affords freedom, independence, and an opportunity to gain life skills that will be used your day to day life while this certainly is a major event, getting the most out of your college experience may involve going beyond your university’s campus.

Off-campus volunteer and work opportunities may be the farthest you’ll want to venture from your college campus. But you may want to consider studying abroad.

Studying abroad offers a unique opportunity to grow academically, professionally, and personally while going on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. There are a number of other benefits to studying abroad; however, there are also numerous challenges. Consider the pros and cons, and decide if studying abroad may be right for you.

Advantages of Studying Abroad

Experience a Foreign Culture

Visiting foreign lands in person, however, is an entirely different experience. When you study abroad, you participate in the day-to-day life of a new locale, gaining first-hand understanding and new appreciation of the culture.

Improve Your Second Language Skills

You may already be fluent in a second language, or you might study abroad in one of the many countries where English is spoken as a first language. However, studying abroad can provide you with a perfect opportunity to learn a new foreign language.

Being surrounded by native speakers affords you the chance to immerse yourself in the language, which can expedite your retention and fluency. Furthermore, if you travel to a country in which the primary language is one you’ve studied in school, you can add to your vocabulary colloquial words and phrases that may not appear in the textbooks.

Explore Your Own Heritage

Students whose familial heritage stems from abroad will often choose to explore their ethnicity and ancestry. In fact, reports show that minority students benefit both personally and academically when they have studied abroad in the country of their family’s origin.

Pursue an Activity You Wouldn’t at Home

Studying abroad is a chance for you to be adventurous, explore the unknown, and try your hand at activities that may not be offered in your home state. For example, if you’re studying abroad in Argentina, you can try numerous adventure sports, from zip-lining, to rafting, to mountain biking. If you enjoy heights, you can try paragliding. No matter what you choose, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Learn How to Communicate Across Cultures

In today's increasingly global society, it’s important to possess the skills to communicate across cultures – and this means understanding more than just a different language. Studying abroad helps you become familiar with the customs and traditions of the country in which you are studying, in addition to the language. By interacting with locals, you can develop an appreciation for the culture and its differences from your own.

Become More Independent

Studying abroad removes you from the normal support network that you are accustomed to back home. While on the one hand, being away from friends and family can seem daunting, it is also a chance for you to hone your own skills and gain some independence.

Whether it’s washing your laundry or buying groceries, you will learn to take responsibility for your actions. When you return home, your increased independence will be very useful – it can help you in your job search, at home, or in your day-to-day routines.

Manage Your Own Finances

One major aspect of being an independent adult is having the ability to manage your own finances. Regardless of whether your study abroad program is financed by a scholarship, grant, or another source of income, chances are that it will be your responsibility to pay the bills.

Furthermore, living in a new country will help you learn and understand a new form of currency, and familiarize yourself with the various living expenses. Understanding how to manage your expenses will especially be beneficial when you no longer rely on the support of your family.

Increase Your Employment Prospects

Employers value prospective candidates with international experience, foreign language skills, and the ability to communicate across cultures. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in international relations, diplomacy, or government, these skills will be especially useful.

Use your experience studying abroad to expand your set of abilities, and make these a determining factor that will separate you from the others in a pool of applicants.

Form New and Rewarding Relationships

Without your regular support group of friends and family, you will be confronted with new situations on a daily basis. However, studying abroad offers you the chance to meet new people and form friendships that may last a lifetime.

Whether you’re living with a host family or in a student residence, make an effort to form relationships with those around you. Not only will you have someone around to console you when you are homesick, you will also know people that you can have fun with. Recreation is an important part of the studying abroad experience, and you will likely enjoy sharing your experiences much more than spending your time alone.

Network for Your Future

In addition to making friends, you can also form professional contacts while abroad. Generally speaking, course loads tend to be comparatively lighter while studying abroad, so this can be an ideal occasion to intern, work part-time or volunteer while you’re studying.

Consult your college or university to see whether they help you find internships or work placements abroad. Sometimes, you can even get credit from your home institution. When you’re finished working abroad, be sure to ask for a recommendation letter to testify that you worked abroad, and to share with future prospective employers.

Challenges to Consider

Though there are a myriad of benefits to foreign study, consider some of the drawbacks before you decide whether it’s right for you:

Homesickness Can Occur Frequently.

If you have never spent much time far from home, this could be a serious issue. You may find yourself missing the people you left back home, and the less outgoing you are the more of a problem this can become.

Academic Programs Abroad May Be Less Rigorous

Of course, this comes down to where you currently study and the program in question. Ask other students who have participated in the program you’re interested in, to see if it will be worthwhile from an academic standpoint.

It May Be Difficult to Get to Know Locals.

In some countries, the locals will be warm and inviting, while in others, it might take a little more effort to make friends. If you’re concerned, find out in advance how Americans are typically received and treated in the area.

You May Experience Culture Shock – When You Return Home.

Once you become used to a foreign environment, your home might actually seem foreign to you. This effect will be most notable when returning from countries where cultural differences from your home are numerous.

Programs Can Be Expensive

While there are study abroad scholarships opportunities specifically designed for students who wish to study abroad, you may not be eligible. Is it worth racking up more student loan debt? If you don’t qualify for a scholarship, weigh the pros and cons to make the best decision, and be sure to expand your search – consult government-sponsored initiatives for further grants, if possible.

Credits May Not Transfer

If you’re planning to conduct research abroad, be sure to mention it to your college or university, as you may be able to transfer credits to your home institution. However, credits may not always transfer. This may not matter to some students, but to others it could be vital – especially when you consider the financial costs.

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

March 2016

The Next step you take Matters!

The world is filled with various career choices ranging from Medicine to Mass Communications, Engineering to Event Management, Marine Biology to Information Technology. The confusion that students face over which career to pick is understandable.

Are you unsure about your career path?

A large number of students continue to choose a career based merely on the fact that their friends are doing the same thing or because their parents told them to do so. This, however, may not be the best way to go about it.

We at Edwise understand the dilemma of the students while choosing the pathways for higher education. To cater to such needs, Edwise has designed the Academic Pathway Planning Program.

Academic Pathway Planning (APP)

Academic pathway planning is the process of helping individuals know their strengths and weakness, their interests and their abilities in the world of work in order to reach a mature career decision.

It involves assessment in 3 areas:

Aptitude: It is the ability to do well in a given field.

Interest: It defines your likes and dislikes for certain kind of activities and the kind of work you would like to do.

Personality: Our Personality is who we truly are, our character traits, qualities and shortcomings. Awareness of our personality helps us make a career choice.

APP can be undertaken by:

• Students of class X, class XII to decide which stream to select
• Under graduates
• Graduates and above
• For any adult who is planning a career
• For anyone who is uncertain about future academic direction

Advantages of APP:

• Right information in a structured way. It provides the student with the right information in a structured way, so that the student can use the information promptly, enabling them to choose the best career course.
• Open up Choices. APP will open up choices about which the student may not be aware of.
• Gives Confidence. APP gives confidence to the students while making a decision on their future career course.
• Helps understand personality. APP helps students to understand their individual personality that influence their academic decisions.
• Self improvement plan. APP is a self improvement plan for personal development and growth.

What Edwise Students say…

“Prior to the APP test, the only interest I had was Aviation. After undergoing the APP test, I realized, I was not fit for Aviation. The tests showed me that my aptitude, interest and personality was leaning more towards Business Management. I liked the option and in consultation with Edwise, I am pursuing Bachelors in Business Management from LIBT, UK.”

- Shweta Hanspal

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“After my graduation, hundreds of emerging career options and different criteria’s admission by different institutions came as a nightmare to me. But after the APP test from Edwise I got a clear view about my career goals. The test helped me decide to go for a designing course which best suited my personality. So after consultation with a counselor from Edwise I am applying for Post Graduate Diploma in Designing in UTS Insearch, Australia.”

- Yazhad Gheesta

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“After passing my 10th grade, I found it extremely difficult deciding my future aspirations. The Academic Pathway Planning Program test proved to be an excellent ‘guide’ in leading me to the right direction. Using the information the test provide, I was able to choose subjects in the International Baccalaureate program. I would recommend the APP test for all those who are uncertain about their future interests."

- Yash Somani

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“I was in my last year of graduation and was confused between choosing MS in Computers or a MBA for my higher studies. Then I underwent the Academic Pathway Planning Program test and my results showed me that my aptitude and interest is more inclined towards MBA. So now I am applying for MBA in Northeastern University, USA. APP test really cleared all my confusion and showed me the right path.”

- Sonam Jain

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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 in Canada 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 & enrolment on Overseas Education process, Contact Edwise on 1-800-200-3678 (Toll Free) / 08600911333.

March 2016