Study abroad updates: U.K. has moved India from the ‘Red’ to ‘Amber’ list.

As the pandemic raged on, the United Kingdom (UK) was one of the worst affected countries. The UK was forced to announce a nationwide lockdown to contain the spread of a UK variant of Covid 19. Most universities in UK shifted their operations online so as to not disrupt the administration of its courses.

As India faced a very brutal second wave of infections, the UK put India on a ‘Red List’, which is a traffic light system for international travel. As a Tier 4 (student visa) has residential rights, aspiring Indian students were met with a sigh of relief for their education abroad as they could travel to the country, but however, the cost of quarantine proved to cause financial strain.

On August 5, 2021, the U.K. Transport Secretary tweeted, “The UAE, Qatar, India, and Bahrain will be moved from the red list to the amber list. All changes come into effect Sun 8th August at 4 a.m.”

Based on the rules issued by the UK Government for countries on the ‘Amber List’, here are the guidelines that arriving passengers have to adhere to:

With effect from August 8, 2021, for India:

- Arriving passengers have to take a COVID-19 test, a minimum of three days before departure, and book two Covid tests in advance, which will be taken upon arrival in the UK, and present a complete Passenger Locator Form on arrival.

- Arriving passengers will have to home quarantine at the address mentioned on their Passenger Location Form. They will be required to take a COVID-19 test on or before day two and on or after day eight of quarantine.

- Highlighting relief for fully vaccinated passengers, the UK Government also stated “fully vaccinated in the U.K. or under the U.K. vaccine program overseas; under 18 on the day, you arrive in England and resident in the U.K. or in a country with a vaccination program approved by the U.K. and part of a U.K.-approved vaccine trial”. Covid shield, the India-manufactured Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, is likely to be covered under this exemption.

This relaxation announced by the UK is a big win for students who want to travel for their study in UK. We strongly advise students to be fully vaccinated before they travel with vaccines approved by the respective study destination as this will exempt them from mandatory quarantine upon arrival.

Students can still apply to courses in UK and achieve their study abroad dreams. For further assistance or queries students can contact us, Edwise International, and avail for our wide range of services for students on destinations like Universities in USA, study in Germany, study in Canada, study in Australia, study in New-Zealand, Study in USA, study in Singapore and many other countries.

Making a Successful Application to Study in USA

Over the years the number of students who choose to study in USA has significantly risen. With this increased competition, students need to go the extra mile to make their applications stand out. If you too are looking to stand apart from the rest, here are some factors that you need to take into consideration.

Scholastic Ability

· A determining component of your application to study at universities in USA is your GPA and CGPA. Thus, offer immense prominence to your academics.

Scores in University Admission Tests

· To study in USA, students need to appear for certain admission tests. These include the likes of English Proficiency tests such as the IELTS/TOEFL/PTE and other admission tests such as the GRE/GMAT/SAT and ACT.

· IELTS score of 6.0- 6.5 for Undergraduates and 6.5–7 band for Postgraduate studies is usually sought after.

· A TOEFL score of 70–80 for Undergraduate studies and 80–90 for Postgraduate studies is considered decent.

· Scored out of a total of 340, a good score is considered that of 320 and above in the GRE.

· The GMAT is scored out of a total of 800 and a good score is of 650+.

· Scored out of 1600, students looking to study undergraduate courses in USA need to appear for the SAT. A good score is considered that of a 1250+, but that again depends on the university.

· All four-year universities in USA utilize the ACT to evaluate the undergraduate application, scored out of a total of 36, a good score is considered that of 30 and above.

· Courses in USA generally have an expected score that they expect their students to attain.

Application Documentation

· Two integral components of your application are the SOP and LOR.

· In your Statement of Purpose, apart from covering your academic and professional background, also offer insights as to why you wish to study in USA in that course at that particular university.

· Based on your academic and professional background, universities will ask for 2–3 LOR’s. Ensure that your LOR, speaks highly about your skills and attributes.

Selecting the Right University

· Whilst through the entire process you’re trying to fit into your university, what is also important to consider is whether the university is the right fit for you.

· Though university rankings hold prominence, what you also need to check is the survey, student-faculty ratio, courses offered, research activities and alumni network to name a few.

Course Specific Requirements

· Students looking to pursue Ph.D. programs in USA are required to submit a research statement.

· On the other hand, those students looking to study MBA in USA should pay special heed to their essays as well as GMAT scores.

· Another prominent course is the Masters of Science programs and here your performance in the GRE plays a major role.

· For undergraduate courses, the SAT and ACT scores are critical.

Many students find the application procedure the most challenging aspect of the overseas education process. But with Edwise, India’s Leading Overseas Education Consultant, you will be able to realize your study in USA dreams seamlessly.

UniversitiesStudent Visa to Study in Canada

 

Through the years an increasing number of students decide to study in Canada owing to its vibrant culture, quality education, and multicultural lifestyle. Universities in Canada focus on research and development activities as well, thus, it comes as no surprise that students flock there.

To be eligible to study in Canada, however, students are required to attain a Canadian Study Permit. Here are some of the steps you need to undertake to secure a student visa.

Getting an Acceptance Letter

Once you are accepted into a Canadian educational institution, you will receive an Acceptance Letter. This letter comes in handy when making applications for a student visa.

Application for the Canadian Student Visa

Once you secure your Acceptance Letter, it is time to commence the application process for a student visa. The process occurs online, however, there are provisions made to send physical documents if you are at a dearth of internet connectivity.

Documents Required

· The complete application form along with the visa application.

· A valid Passport.

· A Letter of Acceptance from the respective university.

· The Certificate of Acceptance from the province of Quebec (If applied for Quebec).

· IELTS score sheet/ TOEFL or English proficiency test score result.

· GRE/GMAT score sheet (As per the student’s case).

· Visa processing fees — Bank Draft.

· Proof of Funds

Where to Apply

Students may deposit their application at the Canada Visa Application Centre (CVAC), India operated by VFS Global Services Pvt. Ltd. Once deposited at the Visa Application Centre, the VAC staff will perform a complete check, based on IRCC requirements and will then submit the application on the student’s behalf on the following business day. Applications may also be submitted to Canadian Immigration and Citizenship by using the online application system of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)’s website at www.cic.gc.ca

What is the SDS

Under THE SDS proposal, the student has an advantage if they apply to colleges that are under the Association of Canadian Community Colleges (ACCC) members. The student visa will be processed faster with a lot more positive response from the High Commission. To qualify for a Study Permit Application under SDS the student should hold an unconditional offer letter from one of the institutions that are included under this scheme and meet the requirements of the Canadian Immigration Act and Regulations. The study permit is a document issued, that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLI) in Canada.

Ancillary Factors

A visa interview is not mandatory, but if required the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada may ask students to attend an interview. Once the Visa Office has assessed an application, they will make a decision and affix a visa counterfoil in the passport or otherwise issue a letter explaining why a visa could not be granted to study in Canada.

Summary of the Complete Process

1. Obtain an Unconditional acceptance letter from the University/ College.

2. Paying the tuition fee for 1st year as requested by the University / College.

3. Demonstrating the proof for purchase of Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution to cover the living expenses for the first year in Canada.

4. Complete the medical examination before submitting the study permit application by visiting one of the panel physicians in India.

5. Submission of the visa application forms along with the relevant documentation.

6. Collecting the passport from the nearest Canada Visa Application Centre after the application gets processed and receive a notification to get the passport collected.

The visa application process is seamless with the services of Edwise, overseas education consultants. For assistance get in touch with us today!

Study Abroad: How to get into your dream school

 

Through the years an Indian student’s approach towards university applications has drastically transformed. Whilst academics continue to hold immense significance what has also gained trajectory is the extra-curricular aspect of the student’s profile. With the application season now looming upon students, they are in seek of tips that help them shine above the rest.

What is also important to note is that over time, the competition to get into these established universities abroad has also risen significantly. Thus, it becomes the need of the hour to do everything to get one step ahead.

Certain study abroad destinations continue to remain prime options for aspirants, these include the likes of the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and much more. If you too are looking to make a place at universities abroad, here are a few factors to consider when making applications to your dream school.

Academics

The focal point in any admission process is the grades and scores that a student hold. Universities abroad, tend to have a minimum criterion that students need to uphold when making an application.

Entrance Exams

There are certain English proficiency tests that students are required to appear for when looking to study abroad. These include the likes of IELTS/TOEFL/PTE. Other than these, SAT/ACT/GMAT/GRE are also requisite university examinations, depending on the course of application.

Extra-Curriculars

This part is one where you will be able to stand apart from others looking to study abroad. Focus on the projects undertaken, social services done, and bring to light the many attributes you possess other than being a diligent student. This shows to the admission committee that you have a holistic personality.

Interviews

In some cases, students might also be required to appear for an admission interview. This enables the university to judge what your aspirations are and thus, enabling them to understand whether you will be a right fit for the program. Meanwhile, it is also a great opportunity for you as a student to understand whether the university is the right fit for you.

Track Record Outside the Classroom

What a lot of competitive schools look at is a student’s track record outside the classroom. Therefore, an internship or work experience in the course of the application comes in handy. What might also take things up a notch is endeavoring on activities by yourself. It shows to them that you as an overseas education aspirant possess an entrepreneurial drive.

Highlight your inclination towards the college or program

Another factor that has gained traction now is the student’s interest in the program or college. Taking virtual tours, interviews, interacting with delegates, and showing other signs of interest, brings to light the fact that you have the drive and zeal to enroll in the program.

Application Documents

Your Statement of Purpose needs to be a perfect balance of professional and personal endeavor. Find your voice and be unique and authentic. Proofread and edit your documents before sending them across. Letter of Recommendation helps the admission officer to attain an alternative viewpoint on your application. Ensure that you get it from someone who can speak credibly highly of your attributes.

There is no magic formula, however, keeping these factors in mind will take you the extra mile. For more such tips, get in touch with Edwise.

Covid 19 relaxations for study in UK and study in USA

With the world finally turning a new leaf in its battle against COVID 19, countries across the world are making provisions to lift restrictions imposed to curb the spread of the virus. In about to restore normalcy and allow economies to recover from the aftermath of the virus, countries like UK and USA have announced new relaxations that will come or have already come into effect for their populations. For students who have secured admission in UK, this is a big relief.

Here are country-wise relaxations that students enrolled at universities abroad can look forward to:

United Kingdom

As of July 5, 2021, the United Kingdom is sticking to its 4 Step Roadmap created to ensure a systematic unlocking of the country to help its citizens adjust to the new normal and facilitate normal life, amid rising infections in the country.

In the Step 4 section of this roadmap, premises, and establishments, like clubs, gyms, non-essential shops, etc., whose operations were curbed till Step 3, will be allowed to open and function normally.

People will be allowed to meet and interact socially without the limitation on the number of individuals and households. However, they are encouraged to meet in outdoor settings rather than indoors

While social distancing is not imposed, people are advised to maintain a 1-meter distance among themselves in public and avoid crowding.

While wearing masks is not mandatory, the decision to wear masks is left to the individuals.

While vaccinations abroad have been ramped up, the people are encouraged to take their jabs whenever it is made available to them. International students enrolled to study courses in UK and have not been vaccinated can receive their jabs on campus by registering on the NHS app.

Students will also be welcomed to study their courses in UK on-campus in face-to-face classes and lectures.

United States of America

As cases in the USA see a downward trend and the vaccination drive continue to vaccinate a large population of the country, it was announced that from June 2021, the compulsory mask mandate will be lifted in the USA along with the indoor mask mandate.

Many states across the country have announced that they will be relaxing other curbs imposed to control the virus. New York will be removing its midnight curfew and will allow establishments to remain open at night. In Massachusetts, all business-related restrictions will be done away with, which will allow businesses to function at their full capacity. This will help students, during their study abroad at US colleges and universities, to find part-time employment during term time.

Gatherings will not see a curb, and restaurants and dining establishments will also be reopened to the public. Social distancing and wearing of masks in public will be recommendations to the general public but not imposed upon.

The country has not made it mandatory for students traveling to the USA, for their courses abroad to be fully vaccinated, but however, it is has given autonomy to universities abroad to mandate the same for their students. Students can also receive their vaccination jabs on campus, mostly free of cost.

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

Why universities in USA are the holy grail of education?

 The United States of America is one of the most popular study destinations across the globe to study courses abroad. Home to some of the best universities abroad, the USA welcomes a large number of students each year to their wide range of courses.

With excellence at the core of its courses and teaching methodology, the USA is at the helm of advancements and technological developments. Every year, the USA makes sure it has secured its position among the best with the high employability of its graduates.

Here are some reasons why universities in USA are considered to be the best for education abroad.

1. Globally renowned universities

Being a pioneer of education, the USA boasts one of the most advanced and elaborate education systems in the world. Among the top 100 universities in the world, a large number of these are based in the USA. Placing high in global rankings released by organizations like Times Higher Education, QS World Rankings, and US News, Universities in the USA have cemented their position as one of the popular study destinations for aspiring international students.

2. Wide range of study options

Universities in USA offer a wide range of study options and courses abroad for international students to choose from. These courses range from Architecture to Finance, Engineering to Computer Science, and Sociology to Aerospace. The USA offers these subjects and allows them to pick and choose the combination they prefer. With flexible study curriculum, students find their grounding academically to flourish professionally.

3. Globally recognised degrees

Colleges in USA offer a number of degrees that are internationally recognised and accredited. As the education system offers an advance and practical learning approach, the knowledge imparted is of a higher calibre, hence these degrees are also considered to be a class apart and superior across the globe. These degrees, qualifications and certificates from USA, give their graduates an upper hand on the competition and are preferred by large multinational companies and industries across the world, especially in India.

4. Extensive Research programs

With a wide range of subjects and study areas, along with taught courses abroad, the USA also offers programs that focus on research in respective fields. This allows students to develop their research skills and associated research skills, while focusing on a specific unit or field within the program. In these programs, students focus on independent projects and do not have time tables or set schedules. Students also receive support and guidance from an expert supervisor on an independent project but the focus of the program is on their own research work.

5. Multicultural Campuses

Each year, the USA welcomes a large number of international students from across the globe, with a large portion being students from India, to study at their universities. Being a hub of education and preference for international students, universities in USA have multicultural and multi-ethnic campuses, where students can interact with each other and develop an international perspective. These campuses also make students feel welcomed and helps them ease into living abroad for the duration of their courses.

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

5 Steps to Study in UK

 

 

Looking to study in UK? But not sure where to start from? From selecting the course to study to make your student visa application, we have everything covered for you in this article.

Universities in UK are revered as one of the most prestigious across the globe and the country's multicultural milieu acts as icing on the cake. To ensure that your dream to study in UK starts on the right foot, we have complied an all-encompassing article.

Here are 5 steps you need to undertake to study in UK:

 

Selecting amongst universities in UK

·         Since the UK is home to a great many universities, it can become nerve-wracking to pick just one. Universities in UK offer a stupendous opportunity to students to ameliorate their skills, thus allowing them to develop to their full potential.

·         Make sure that your chosen program is best suited for you amongst the many courses in UK, not only research about the said course, but also compare it between different universities and see which is best suited to you.

·         Universities have a comprehensive website through which you can gather all the information, other than that, you can also interact with the delegates at Edwise overseas education fairs and gain assistance from our counsellors as well.

 

Making your Applications

·         If you are making an application for an undergraduate course in UK, your process is streamlined, since you have to do so through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).

·        On the other hand, since postgraduate courses in UK have varied entry requirements, their application process tends to be distinctive. For this, students have to check the individual university webpage to make applications.

Receiving an Offer

·         Through UCAS it becomes simple to track the application status through the portal, anytime. In the case of postgraduate programs, students tend to receive an email regarding their Offer Letter.

·         The Offer Letter that students receive tend to be of two kinds, one is the Unconditional Offer Letter which states that you have managed to bag a place in the course. Another kind is the Conditional Offer Letter, which means that your place in the course is subject to certain requirements which are either language proficiency or academic scores. In some cases, students are also asked to come in for an interview.

 

Financials

·         When you make your application, the universities in UK themselves check if you are eligible for scholarships. Other than that, you need to make arrangements for financials required during the period of study in UK.

 

Student Visa

·         To be able to study in UK, as an international student you will be required to attain a student visa. The immigration route for students was altered by the British government on 5th Oct’2020. The Tier 4 route is now being called the Student Route.

·        The new points-based immigration system comprises students needing to highlight that they have an offer from an approved educational institution. They should be able to support themselves financially during their study in UK and must possess adequate English language proficiency. In totality, students need to attain 70 points to be able to get a student visa.

 

Once you have your acceptance and other documents in order, all that you are left to do is get packing. Figure out your travel itinerary, accommodation and other COVID protocols that you need to adhere to.

 

To ensure that your steps to study in UK are smooth sailing, get in touch with Edwise.

 

Part-Time Jobs During Your Study Abroad

 

During your overseas education endeavour, you will be permitted to work part-time. This is not only an excellent opportunity to practically apply the knowledge learnt, but also work on your finances to ease your economic burden. If you are seeking to study abroad and look to understand the part-time job scenario, you have come to the right place.

 

Here are the rules of part-time jobs at popular study abroad destinations.

 

 

UK

Students can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during holidays.

 

Students pursuing a course below the degree level will only be able to work 10 hours a week (this has been reduced from 20 hours). However, this does not include Foundation Degree students. Students planning to study in UK from India can expect to earn around £ 5 - £ 7/hour i.e., approximately £375 - £525/month during the term.

 

As UK education consultants we advise students to look for part-time jobs by browsing local newspapers and job shops as well as the Universities and Colleges career cells. However, please note that students are not guaranteed part-time employment by the University.

 

USA

 

Students are allowed to work 20 hrs per week during the semester (on-campus). On-campus jobs may include teaching assistantship or research assistantship where a student is paid on an average of $8 to $10/hour.

 

Thus, students can approximately earn $ 500-$ 600/month or can get a waiver on their tuition fees. With this, a student who decides to study in USA can also undertake an internship in the related field which may be paid. During vacation, the student is allowed to work for 40 hours per week.

 

Canada

 

Full-time students are eligible to work off-campus without a work permit for up to 20 hours per week and full-time during vacations during their study in Canada. Several programs may even have a paid co-op term where students get hands-on experience in working in the industry. 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.

 

Australia

 

Students can work part-time – 40 Hrs/fortnight during course sessions and full time during vacation and holidays during their study in Australia.

 

On average a student can earn around 15-16 AUD/hour. Casual Jobs are available (A$15-20 per hour) as a PT work option.

 

New Zealand

 

International students who decide to study in New Zealand are eligible to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year. Students can work full time (40 hrs) only during the summer holidays. The average wage for part-time jobs is between NZ$12 - NZ$15 per hour.

Popular Part-Time Job Avenues for students

 

·      Research Study Assistant

·      Teaching Assistant

·      Barista

·      Store Associate

·      Translator

·      Waiter

·      Content Editor

·      Tutor

 

How to Find Part-Time Jobs as an International Student

There are many social media sites and university pages which enables students to network with one another when it comes to finding a job. Universities, moreover, tend to have a Career Cell which is an excellent avenue through which you can get your foot into the door. There part-time job websites and listings that you need to take advantage of when seeking employment.

 

For more assistance for your study abroad get in touch with Edwise and let us make the process easier.