Scholarships to study abroad for Indian students

A major road bump that students face in their decision to study abroad is that of costs. There is often a misconception that education abroad burns a major hole in the student’s pocket. However, when students look at the bigger picture do, they realise just how critical this decision is. Education abroad is one of the greatest decisions that a student can undertake for their future prospects and is the best investment for students. A major helping hand in their prospect to study abroad is that of scholarships.

Universities abroad offer financial aid to students to ensure that they are able to attain their dream of overseas education. If you as a student are looking for tips to attain a scholarship here are some hacks on how you can do just that.

Ameliorate your Passion

When universities or governments are allocating scholarships, they wish to know if their money is being spent wisely therefore, make sure to give them a peek into your passion. Talk about how much studying abroad means to you. Go on to highlight your passion for the field of study, country and university under consideration. Once they are able to see that you are a passionate student who is looking to make great leaps in the field of study, their confidence in your application will automatically increase manifold. Thus, let your passion flow and show them just how much study abroad scholarships mean to you.

Academic Background

A fundamental requisite that students looking to attain study abroad scholarships need to have is a strong academic background. In some cases, the academic grades that a student holds becomes a determining factor when assigning scholarships. Thus, students looking to make applications for scholarships should bear in mind to put immense focus on their academic grades. The reason that academic grades hold such prominence in the process is that it shows to the committee whether the student is serious in studies and will correctly utilize the money that has been allocated to them. Thus, scholarships to study abroad for Indian students is dependent on the academic background they possess.

Plan

When making your university application make sure that you are wary of the application deadlines for the scholarships as well. These seats tend to fill up fast thus, students should remember to stay on the clock for the same. Make sure that you have all your documents in order thus, when the opportunity comes knocking at your door you know how to deal with the same. Meticulously plan everything and make sure to give in your best shot in the application. Students often do not make an application to just one scholarship, thus, if you too are looking to make applications for multiple scholarships do so and increase your chances of attaining one.

Customise

Many students often make the mistake of copy-pasting the same content in their scholarship applications for various applications. The admission committee goes through a significant number of applications on a daily basis and thus, it only takes them a second to figure out when the student hasn’t put in the requisite effort. Make sure to not commit this mistake and create a negative impression on your application. Curate and customize each application, thus shows the committee that you are deserving and are interested in the scholarship. The committee likes to see when the student goes the extra mile to make their application shine. Different study abroad scholarships have distinct determining factors and thus, students should ensure to address the same in their application.

Scholarships to study abroad for Indian students can be divided into three main criteria:

Indian Scholarship

Indian Scholarships are usually introduced on the grounds of enabling the Indian students to work to their potential. Many students are extremely talented but due to lack of finance, they cannot proceed for higher education.

University Scholarship

University Scholarships are grants, tuitions waivers etc awarded by the institution on grounds of institution’s preferences. They are sought by students who indulge in a specific area or interest of study.

International Scholarship

International Scholarships are awarded to international students coming into the host country. Factors that influence international scholarships include quality statements of purpose, experience/expertise in extracurricular that the host country lacks.

Get the best chance to attain a scholarship with India’s Leading Overseas Education Consultants, Edwise

 

 

 

Study in Canada: Home for International Students

 

Through the years, an increasing number of students embark upon the decision to study in Canada. While the entry requirements at universities in Canada may be competitive, the quality of their programs is impeccable. Coupled with the economic nature of education, Canada becomes the number one choice for students seeking higher education abroad. Canada also offers alluring stay back opportunities which is why a significant number of students are further drawn there. Moreover, during the duration of their study in Canada, students are permitted to indulge in part-time work which acts as an excellent starting point to commence their professional journey as well as earn money to cover the costs of their education. Furthermore, a UN survey has found Canada to be the best place in the world to live in.

Top Courses to study in Canada

· Humanities and Social Sciences

· Engineering and Technology

· Biological and Life Sciences

· Business Management Studies in Canada

· Aviation

· Sports

· Tourism and Hospitality

· Law and Regulations

Intakes

Students looking to study in Canada should commence the process one year prior. Canada primarily has a Fall and Winter intake in the months of September and January respectively. Some universities may have a May intake as well. Students should also take into consideration the program and university they are making an application into.

Costs to study at universities in Canada

One of the most educated countries in the world, as per Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Canada is amongst the top 3 countries in the world, in terms of spending per capita for public post-secondary education.

The tuition fees to study at various educational levels in Canada can be understood as follows:

Program

Tuition Fees (Approx.)/Year in CAD

Diploma & Certificate Program

13,000–16,000

Bachelors Program

13,000–18,000

Master’s Program

17,000–25,000

Levels of study in Canada

There are several levels of study in Canada and the entry requirements for the same can be looked at as follows:

Advanced Diploma/Certificate/Diploma:

Along with a Higher second-class score in HSC, students should also have attained the requisite scores in IELTS/TOEFL. Other conditions by universities also come into play.

Bachelor’s Degree:

Colleges and Universities in Canada need prospective students to have First Class in their HSC and clear their IELTS/TOEFL. Other conditions by individual universities also need to be considered.

Postgraduate Certificate/Diploma:

In their Bachelor’s Degree, the student needs to have attained a Higher Second Class and clear the IELTS/TOEFL. Other entry requirements depend on the university under consideration.

Master’s Degree:

Only students with a First Class in their 4 years of Bachelor’s degree can make an application for the same. They also have an alternative route of pursuing their Bachelor’s (3 years in India) and then attain a Postgraduate Diploma or Certificate from Canada. Along with this, the student also needs to successfully clear the IELTS/TOEFL as the conditions laid down by the university.

Scholarships

Scholarships in Canada are of the limited nature and in some cases may not cover the entire cost component of education, coupled with this they are also extremely competitive in nature. A strong academic record plays a determining role when a student is seeking a scholarship and it also depends on the discrepancy of individual universities under consideration. Students need to make an application for their scholarships along with their admission applications. Community Colleges, Career Colleges, School Boards, most Private Schools do not offer scholarships in Canada.

Work Opportunities

Full-time students are eligible to work up to 20 hours per week and full-time during vacation. Several programs may even have a paid co-op term where one gets hands-on experience in working in the industry in their field of study. They can earn approximately C$ 10.50 onwards. Students can work full time off campus during co-op terms, amounting to earnings between C$ 700 to C$900 per month.

Stay Back Opportunities

On completion of their study in Canada, students graduating from a program of 2 years or more in length would be eligible for a 3-year work permit after graduation with no restrictions on the types of employment and no requirement for a job offer.

Get in touch with Edwise today to take your first step into a university in Canada.

Study Masters in UK

 

Increasingly, a large number of students have embarked on the journey to study their Masters in UK. The reason that UK is becoming a prominent study abroad destination can be attributed to a variety of factors.

Why study Masters in UK

Colleges in UK consistently rank among the best in the world and study in UK for Indian students is internationally valued and recognized. When you study in UK you meet people from different nationalities and share their multicultural backgrounds. UK universities are monitored regularly to ensure that they uphold the high standards of teaching, learning and research set by the Government. The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education is the key body responsible for maintaining these standards. If students look to study in UK from India for PG courses, they are met with shorter course duration than other countries with PG courses lasting for a year, which can help keep the cost of tuition fees and living expenses down. Numerous scholarships and bursaries are offered by UK institutions. The teaching and study methodology used in the UK gives students the freedom to be creative and develop skill sets and confidence. Students get the opportunity to be taught by the world’s leading academicians and experts.

Top Masters courses in UK

· Architecture Building Planning

· Business Management and Maths

· Computer Science

· Creative Arts

· Engineering

· Law

· English Literature

· Media

Costs to study Masters in UK

Subject

Tuition Fees (Per Year)

Arts, Humanities

£ 8,000 to £ 10,000

Engineering / Science

£ 10,000 to £ 13,000

Business

£ 12,000 to £ 16,000

MBA

£ 10,000 to £ 25,000

Scholarships Offered

Students who decide to study Masters in UK should be aware that there are special awards for Indian students besides the ones which individual departments may offer to those pursuing their further studies. Another important source of scholarships is the British Government sponsored awards like the Chevening Scholarship, Commonwealth Scholarship, DFID scholarship. These are extremely competitive and the deadlines are much in advance of the session.

Entry Requirements to study Masters

Most Universities in UK prefer an overall of 60% marks in the UG degree, whilst some also require 70–75% min for a Master’s course. Some Universities will accept 50–60%, any additional qualification or work experience also helps. Students with a low percentage can apply for a Pre-Masters course in an attempt to study in UK. MBA programs are one of the most sought-after programs in the UK. The duration of work experience required for an MBA program is from 0–4 years. Many Universities accept students without work experience as well. Most AMBA accredited University requirements will include GMAT with 25 years of age and minimum of 3 years of full-time work experience after graduation. Moreover, at least one year of Senior-level Management experience is preferred.

Part Time Job Opportunities

Students in UK can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during vacations. Students planning to study in UK can expect to earn around £ 5 — £ 7 per hour i.e. approximately £375 — £525 per month during the term.

Work Opportunities

International students from a range of countries which include India can stay back in the UK two years upon the completion of the course. Until recently, those who study in UK from India received a stay back of mere four to six months respectively. The new visa applies to students studying any subject at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The new visa will be a distinct one that requires a new application, compromising of payments of visa and health surcharge. A major benefit to study in UK for Indian students is that it gives them an opportunity to look for jobs. Once the graduate finds an appropriate job, they can switch to the skilled work segment which is a route towards settlement. Another major pro of the said regime is that it doesn’t restrict the type of jobs students are permitted to undertake. The new route is set to be launched in the summer of 2021, meaning eligible graduates in the summer of 2021 (Academic Year 2020–21) will be able to apply for this route. This also includes students who have already commenced their course.

If you wish to furnish further details about Masters in UK, get in touch with Edwise and commence your journey.

Tips for your IELTS

 

International English Language Testing System, famously known as the IELTS, is a globally recognized, standardized English Proficiency Test that assesses English Language Skills. The tested areas include Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

This test is recognized by over 9000 organizations worldwide. Students can appear for the examination either through the paper-based medium or through the IELTS online test method.

Modules

IELTS exam preparation can be undertaken in two types of modules - Academic and General Training. Academic Module is required to be given by test takers who plan to study abroad at an undergraduate or postgraduate level. While the General Training Module is generally a prerequisite for candidates who either want to pursue vocational studies or plan to immigrate.

Grading Parameters

Graded on a parameter known as the Band score, the total scale ranges between 0-9. Our IELTS coaching ensures that the students are able to perform to the best of their abilities and meet the required admission criteria. The scores students are required to attain depends on the level of study, course, and university under consideration. The results for the IELTS test are available within 15 working days.

Scores required at study abroad destinations

The English language proficiency of students is tested when they wish to study in UK, and thus, they are required to appear for the IELTS. The minimum score for PG courses is 6.5 and 6.0 for UG studies.

Several top-ranking universities in USA, accept IELTS as a medium of testing a student's proficiency skills. IELTS score of 6.0- 6.5 for Undergraduates and 6.5-7 band for Postgraduate studies is usually sought after.

International students looking to study in Canada, are required to possess certain levels of fluency in the English language. In an attempt to highlight the same, they can appear for the IELTS exam. An IELTS band of 6.0-6.5 for undergraduates & 6.5-7 for postgraduate courses is desirable.

Applicants for Australian universities are required to adhere to certain English language requirements, and in the same effect can appear for the IELTS. A band for 6.0-6.5 is usually sought after by the universities.

If students wish to succeed at a university in New Zealand, they are required to possess competency in the English Language and thus, can appear for the IELTS. A band of 6.0/6.5 for undergraduate & 6.5 / 7.5 for postgraduate courses is suitable.

Tips for IELTS preparation

While the IELTS may seem nerve-wracking at first, with a few tips and tricks you can ace the same and have a smooth sailing experience.

Be Receptive to Accents

A major problem students face, when they appear for the Listening Section of the IELTS, is the accent. A range of native accents is used in the test; therefore, it is of crucial significance that for your IELTS preparation you train yourself to listen and understand the various accents. Watching shows or movies can come in handy since it will help you understand the language.

Understand Instructions

The IELTS is curated in such a manner that it provides specific instructions on what is expected from the candidates. Therefore, students have to be very wary and make sure that they take into consideration the instructions given. Some questions have the maximum word count mentioned, thus, it is of extreme importance that students follow the same, because in case they don’t they will lose marks for the same.

Practice

It is rightly said that practice makes a man perfect, thus, make sure that you keep yourself in constant touch with the language. From reading, writing to even listening and watching make sure that you surround yourself with the language during your IELTS preparation. Keep a track of all the new vocabulary you learn and make sure that you incorporate the same in your writing.

Practice Tests

Another hack to ensuring that you attain a great score in your IELTS is practice tests. Make sure that you undertake these practice tests within the stipulated time frame. This will ensure that on the test day you are able to match up to the time. Moreover, it will also bring to light the places where you are lagging and thus, will help you work on the same.

Use Edwise IELTS Coaching

Edwise offers comprehensive IELTS training services to students looking to give the exam. Taking the current scenario into consideration, we now offer these services from home. This means you can now ace these exams when preparing for them from home with the help of our education experts.

 

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.

What it Means to Study Abroad Now

 

 

What it means to study abroad now

 

The world is now during grappling with the effects of COVID-19. It is safe to say that study abroad plans in 2020 will be affected, however, one cannot predict its impact and there exists an air of uncertainty.

 

Current Situation

 

USA: There are some international students who are still in the USA, due to the unavailability of flights and have decided to stay back to complete the rest of the semester online. Like most countries, the USA is also following the trend of working from home. IT companies especially, are increasingly seeking work from home interns.

 

Canada: The IRCC has recently announced that those students who are planning to study in Canada for the May/June intake, can begin attending online courses from their home country. Those students, who have a study permit for the May/June intake but cannot travel due to the travel restrictions imposed can commence their classes online and complete 50% of their course, without having a negative impact on their visa status. Even though international students will have to attend online classes, they will remain eligible for the Canadian Post Graduation Work Permit.

 

UK: Most international students in the UK, decided to return to their home countries. Universities were at the threshold of completing their semester or were on Easter break. A major trend was either online courses or students returning home. Universities are currently offering COVID-19 related scholarships, tuition fees, discounts, and waivers to prospective students.

 

Ireland: Dates for the different levels of the admissions process are being revised. Students who have applied for visas for the April intake have now been deferred to the September intake. Some universitiesare processing student applications without certain application documents. The 2-year stay option opportunity that Ireland offers, continues to remain intact.

 

Australia: Universitiesin Australia, along with the government has announced hardships funds for everyone, to mitigate the COVID-19 risk. Universities are offering and encouraging online programs and all forms of technical aid are provided.Interactive scholarships are also offered. Some universities have taken the decision to waive off accommodation fees for up to 4-8 weeks. Those students who have received their ECOE after the payment of the stipulated fees are recommended to wait till the High Commission of Australia provides an update. 

 

New Zealand: Classes in NewZealand universities were shifted online. Those who are part-time workers in the health care sector, were permitted to work for more than 20 hours per week. It is a widespread speculation that this trend will continue even after the lockdown has ended.Furthermore, even those students who are working in supermarkets can put in the extra hours, without having a detrimental effect on their visa status. 23^rd April onwards, New Zealand is on alert level 3, which means that 50% of individuals can resume work, provided social distancing norms are adhered to.

 

 

Proficiency Tests

Entrance exams such as TOEFL, GRE, GMAT are now conducted online. Duolingo is becoming an increasingly used platform by universities for English proficiency tests. Apart from this, there are a significant number of universities in the UK that are conducting these tests by themselves. Some universities in Canada are accepting applications without the IELTS scorecard and final year marksheet. Certain universities in Ireland are accepting IELTS scores of 3 years instead of the usual 2 years. Moreover, TOEFL ibt home edition tests are also considered. Whether or not these online tests will be accepted by the immigration authorities is something clarity is sought after. Students who are looking to study in New Zealand but face the risk of their IELTS expiring before they make an application for the July intake can make an application irrespective because such applications will continue to be considered. However, this does not apply to those students who extend beyond 12 months.

Visa

The I-20 form which was earlier sent to prospective students looking to study in USA by courier is now sent in an electronic format and is now referred to as the eI-20. Visa centres in the UK are hoped to remain open and students can expect their applications to be kept under review. Those who will travel by air to study in Canada will have to undergo the necessary medical testing. Students are also required to self-isolate themselves for a period of 14 days. However, students who do not have a place to self-isolate will not be permitted to enter Canada. Those students who hold a student visa in New Zealand or a Post Study Work visacan extend their visas till the 25^th of September provided that their visas were on the verge of expiring. Students can make applications for visa to study in Ireland online, these applications will be valid until the application centres open.

Future Predictions

In most probability, the scheduled intakes will commence with the online study option for most courses, even for international students starting from semester one. Students could consider this as an option. However, we recommend that each student carefully weigh the options and take decisions after reviewing the terms and conditions.

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

 

 

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.