Category: SAT (page 1 of 19)

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New Digital SAT Exam: Everything You Need to Know

May 24, 2022 / / 0 Comments

On 25 January 2022, the College Board announced that the SAT will be going completely digital beginning Spring 2023. SAT will move from paper-based to entirely computer-based. Let us look at what the new digital SAT exam will bring.

As more institutions and students adjust to digital learning and assessment, the digital SAT is another step in that direction. International students will be taking the new computer-based SAT from Spring 2023 except students across the USA, where the digital SAT exam will be available from Spring 2024.

Here are the top universities that accept SAT scores along with their cut-offs.

IN THIS BLOG:

1.    Towards the Digital SAT
2.    What changes with SAT going digital?
3.    What stays the same in the digital SAT?
4.    Advantages of SAT going digital
5.    How SAT changed over the years

Towards the Digital SAT

In November 2021, the College Board conducted a pilot version of the digital SAT. The results showed that the computer-based SAT was less stressful for 80% of the students. 100% of the educators also responded positively to the digital version of the exam, meaning it is easy to administer.

Suggested Reads:

What changes with SAT going digital?

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With major parts remaining the same, the new digital SAT exam will come with some very significant changes that will impact the way students prepare and attempt the test. Mentioned below are some of the most significant changes in the digital SAT:

  1. Time-Duration of SAT

Trimming off an entire hour from the new digital SAT, the College Board has reduced the test duration from the previous three to just two hours. Test fatigue is a real thing, and this time cut comes as a relief to the students who found it tough to stay focused for three hours.

  1. Shorter Sections in SAT

With the total test-duration coming down, section-lengths will also be cut down. The new SAT exam will have more direct questions and shorter reading passages. Moreover, passage topics will be centered around what students are more likely to read in their college curriculum.

  1. Use of Calculators in SAT

Presently, SAT math is divided into Math with a calculator and Math without a calculator. The new digital SAT will allow a calculator for all math questions. An on-screen calculator will be available to students. They no longer have to worry about carrying the right calculator on the SAT exam day.

  1. Computer-Adaptive SAT

The digital SAT will be computer-adaptive, which means your performance in the first section will determine the difficulty level of questions in other sections. If you perform well in the first section, the questions in the second section will be more difficult.

  1. SAT Result Announcement

The results for the current paper-based version of the tests are announced between two and six weeks. The colleges you shortlist to send your free score, get it about ten days after you do. With the new digital SAT, the scores will be out within days rather than weeks, reducing the overall waiting time.

Does SAT give scholarship? 

Have you taken the SAT before?

 
The digital SAT has to be taken at a testing center and cannot be attempted from your home. If the internet connection is disrupted at the center, your test progress will be saved, and you won’t lose time on the test.

Students can take the exam on the computer of a testing center or bring their laptops (some centers may ask you to use their systems only). The College Board will loan computers or laptops to students who do not have access to either.

What stays the same in the digital SAT?

Though the new digital SAT comes with a lot of significant changes, some things remain the same as the older version, such as:

  • How students study for the SAT
  • How colleges use SAT scores
  • How students are evaluated
  • How students are scored
  • The content of the SAT

Advantages of SAT going digital

Standardized tests level students across different socioeconomic backgrounds and academic grading systems. High test scores reflect your cognitive abilities and college readiness and go beyond your grades, profile, and extracurriculars.

The digital SAT comes with its own set of advantages:

  • Reduced time duration decreases students’ stress
  • Increases time available to students per question
  • Early result announcements allow students to retake SAT and still meet the college application deadlines.
  • Students will be able to flag questions and revisit them later
  • It makes SAT accessible to a larger number of students

How SAT changed over the years

Change is not new to the SAT Exam. Since 2016, SAT has stopped penalizing the test-takers for wrong answers. In the same year, the total score on SAT went back to 1600 from the previous 2400. The College Board discontinued the SAT Essay and SAT Subject tests in 2021.

The SAT has evolved and adapted to the changing times. The exam’s structure, question types, and scoring pattern have all witnessed alterations. The SAT is moving towards a simpler test structure that is both student and administration-friendly.

With the simplification and increasing ease of taking the SAT exam, we might witness an exponential rise in the number of test-takers for the digital version of the exam in 2024. This means you will face more competition and work extra hard for an outstanding SAT score.

Students of Jamboree have been acing the SAT exam, scoring a complete 1600 on their test. Book a free fifteen-minute session and talk with our SAT expert.

Realistic cost of Studying in CANADA for Indian Students

Cost of Studying in Canada for Indian Students

April 27, 2022 / / 0 Comments

What’s not to love in Canada? There are top-ranking universities, high quality of life, easy visa & PR norms, and excellent post-education job opportunities. The only thing that concerns most students while exploring Canada as a study destination is the costs involved, and in this blog, we will address exactly that! Below is a detailed insight into the actual cost of studying in Canada for an Indian student and ways to balance it through scholarships, jobs, lifestyle choices, and more! Let’s go!

IN THIS BLOG:

1. Post Arrival Cost of Studying in Canada for Indian Students

2. Pre Arrival Cost of Studying in Canada for Indian Students

3. Scholarship Options in Canada for Indian Students

Post Arrival Cost of Studying in Canada for Indian Students

‘The post-arrival cost of studying in Canada for Indian students’ outlines all the expenses you need to budget to live in Canada. This section will cover all student expenses from out-of-state tuition to a loaf of bread in Canada (which costs CA$2.86, by the way) one by one. Here we go!

Tuition Fees

Tuition fee is the most significant expense, especially for international students. The good news is, although Canada runs with the big leagues of the most preferred study destinations in the world, the tuition fees in Canadian universities are competitive as compared to the top study abroad locations like the US and the UK.

Tuition fees in Canada depend on several factors, from the choice of your program to your degree level. The average tuition fee for an undergraduate degree program in Canada for international students is CA$ 33,623, which is close to INR 20.3 lakhs.

Also, the tuition fee for a program differs from university to university. Given below is an overview of average tuition fees for popular programs in Canada:

Undergraduate Tuition fees in Canada

Given below is the overview of the cost of studying in Canada for Indian students in terms of average tuition for major undergraduate courses:

Courses

Weighted Average Tuition (for International Students)
Medicine CA$ 32,450
Arts and Humanities CA$9,134 – CA$ 60,150
Engineering CA$ $33,703
Law and legal studies CA$ $33,192
Mathematics, Computer, and Information Sciences CA$ 33,012
Business and Management CA$26,680
Social and Behavioural Sciences CA$27,647
Architecture CA$ 26,457
Dentistry CA$ 56,621
Nursing CA$ 21,922
Pharmacy CA$ 40,960
Veterinary Medicine CA$ 63,323
Agriculture, Natural Resources, and conservation CA$ 26,208

Source: Statistics Canada

Graduate Tuition fees in Canada

Given below is the overview of the cost of studying in Canada for Indian students in terms of average tuition for major postgraduate courses:

Courses

Weighted Average Tuition

Regular MBA CA$ 38,950
Executive MBA CA$ 66,665
Arts and Humanities CA$ 14,737
Engineering CA$ 19,301
Law and legal studies CA$ 17,237
Mathematics, Computer, and Information Sciences CA$ 16,647
Business and Management CA$ 24,693
Social and Behavioural Sciences CA$ 15,032
Architecture CA$ 23,992
Dentistry CA$ 22,472
Nursing CA$ 16,168
Pharmacy CA$ 12,876
Veterinary Medicine CA$ 10,099
Agriculture, Natural Resources, and conservation CA$ 14,452

Source: Statistics Canada

Are you looking for a loan with low-interest rates and easy payback options?

Have you taken the GMAT before?

Cost of Living in Canada for Indian Students

The next significant expense for students when studying abroad is – the cost of living. What exactly is the cost of living in Canada for Indian students? We hate to sound like a wet blanket, but the cost of living in Canada is also very subjective since it includes variables like the city you will live in, whether you are going for private accommodation or university dorms, your meal plans, mode of transportation, lifestyle, and spending habits etcetera.

Types of Student Accommodation
Homestay CA$ 4,800 – 9,600 p.a. (INR 1,62,000- 4,05,000/-)
On-Campus Accommodation CA$ 3,000 -7,500 per year (INR 1,81,554 – INR 4,53,886)
Private/ Shared Accommodation CA$ 8,400 per year (INR 4,54,000/-)

Source: QS Top Universities

Finding a suitable place to live is the next biggest concern after getting an admit but renting a home through online portals or references can be risky and unfruitful. If you are an Indian student looking for accommodation in Canada, Jamboree has partnered with safe, trusted, and affordable accommodation providers that can help you find living spaces accessible to your university. Visit here for more information.

Other Living Expenses

With accommodation sorted, let us look at other expenses that count towards the total cost of living in Canada for Indian Students. Living cost depends on a variety of factors. For example, in this section, we will hash out the monthly living expenses of an average University of Toronto student.

  1. An average student’s housing can range from $1,000 to $2,700 per month based on their location, amenities, appliances like dishwashers or washing machines, and services like a gym, pool, or concierge. Generally, utilities like water and gas are included in rental costs.
  2. With the house comes the bills! Students are typically required to pay the cost of electricity. Although there is no cap on how expensive the electricity can be, the baseline delivery cost is a minimum of $50 a month and can increase depending on how much electricity you consume.
  • Your internet and phone bills can be $50 – $100 per month and $40-$100 per month, respectively. It’s a bit much, but you can undoubtedly use student discounts and affordable mobile service provider options.
  1. Renter’s insurance only costs $15 – $30 per month but saves you a lot in crisis. In Toronto, it also acts as insurance to replace your belongings if they get lost, stolen, or damaged. Additionally, it may also cover the expenses incurred during temporary relocation if a repair is being done in your apartment.
  2. Food & grocery is another key expense. This amount can range from $40 – $100 per week depending on your personal needs, choice of grocery stores (since some are cheaper than others), meal plan, etc.
  3. Typically, if you live on campus, there is no such need for transportation, but if you live farther from your college, you need to budget for your traveling expenses. In Toronto, you can easily access buses, subways, and streetcars, which offer per-use prices as well as unlimited monthly plans. Your average transportation can range anywhere from $0 – $128.15 per month.
  • Finally, your books and supplies can cost you around $500 per semester.
  • Other expenses include your shopping and entertainment expenses which are highly subjective but can generally cost you between $20 to $150 per month. This expense includes restaurants and take-out, hobbies, social activities, movies, monthly subscriptions, and anything else not covered in the other categories.

Cost of living in Canada for Indian Students
Living Expenses Amount in CAD
Housing $1,000 – $2,700/month
Electricity $50/month
Internet $50 – $100/month
Phone bill $40 – $100/month
Tenant’s insurance $15 – $30/month
Food & grocery $40 – $100/week
Clothes & Shoes $25/month
Health Insurance $600 – $800 per year
Transportation $0 – $128.15/month
Books & Supplies $500/semester
Emergency Funds $500

Source: University of Toronto website

Pre-Arrival Cost of Studying in Canada for Indian Students

As the name suggests, the pre-arrival cost of studying in Canada for Indian students outlines the expenses made even before you actually set foot in Canada. Sounds rough, right? But it isn’t!

Pre-arrival cost of studying in Canada for Indian students includes all the expenses that make sure you eventually study in Canada. It includes costs of appearing for a language proficiency test, university application fees, flight tickets, Canada student visa fees, etc.

Most of these expenses are one-time expenses. Take purchasing a GIC or Guaranteed Investment Certificate as an example. GIC is a document required to get a student permit as a part of the financial proof, which is entirely a one-time expenditure for studying in Canada.

Pre-arrival cost of studying in Canada for Indian Students
Expenses Approximate Amount (in INR)*
IELTS/ TOEFL 15,500/14,700
Purchase of GIC 6.15 lakhs
University Application Fee (varies from university to university) 9,000 – 11,000 or more
Application for Study Permit 8,880
One way flight tickets 50,000 – 1,00,000
Health insurance 39,000 – 50,000 annually

*As per current exchange rates

Standardized Tests

Based on your choice of program, the university you apply to, and your degree, test scores on different standardized tests are required to study in Canada. These test scores make up for the eligibility of international students to study at a Canadian University.

Pre-arrival cost of studying in Canada for Indian Students
Standardized Tests Amount (USD)
SAT $104
ACT $ 155-$166.5
GMAT $275
GRE $150 -$213
CAEL $280

Canada Student Visa Fees

According to CIC, a study permit for Canada costs CA$ 150, which is roughly equivalent to INR 9,054 as per the current exchange rate. The Canada student visa fee doesn’t include value-added and service charges.

Visa type

Applicable fees (CAD)

Applicable fees (INR)
Study permit for Canada (including extensions) CAD$ 150 per person Rs. 9,054

Scholarship Options in Canada for Indian Students

Well, it’s not a secret that Canada is a little on the expensive side, but some ways to fix that, and one of the most popular ways is through scholarships. According to Statistics Canada, the average tuition fee in Canada for international students is CA$ 33,623 (UG), and scholarships can significantly cut down this amount.

When looking for scholarships, your first natural stop should be the official website of your chosen university itself. Next, list external scholarships you can get your hands on, including InternationalScholarships.com or FastWeb.com. Given below is a list of some of the top Canadian Scholarships that Indian students can apply to:

Scholarship

Type of Funding

Open for Indian Nationals

Programs
Education Future International Scholarship 2022 Partial Funding ✓ Bachelors and Masters
Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds PhD Fellowships 2022 Partial Funding ✓ Ph.D. (Biomedical Research)
University Of Westminster Undergraduate Distant Horizons Awards In the UK Partial Funding ✓ Bachelors
ASM Materials Education Foundation – Undergraduate Scholarships, 2022 Partial Funding ✓ Bachelors
Richard A. Freund International Scholarship Partial Funding ✓ Masters and PhD
Byron Hanke Fellowship 2022 Partial Funding ✓ Masters
Scotiabank International Partner Entrance Scholarships Partial Funding ✓ Bachelors, Diploma, Training & Short courses
JN Tata Endowment For The Higher Education Of Indians Partial Funding ✓ Masters, Ph.D., Post Doc
Manulife Life Lessons Scholarship Program 2022 Full Funding ✓ Bachelors, Masters, Ph.D., Post Doc
Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarship Partial Funding ✓ Masters
Ontario Graduate Scholarship 2022 Partial Funding ✓ Masters, PhD

These scholarships can help you cover your tuition fee. And, once your tuition is covered, you can simply take up a part-time job at your university to manage your living expenses.

If you have more questions about studying in Canada or how to get a study permit for Canada, connect with our counselors for a free 15-minute session to get all your doubts resolved.

Bachelors-in-Canada-Everything-You-Need-to-Know

Bachelors in Canada: Everything You Need to Know

April 7, 2022 / / 0 Comments

Undergraduate education in Canada begins after finishing senior secondary or high school, with a typical undergraduate programme spanning three to five years (and concluding in a bachelor’s degree). While Canada has long been recognised for its certificate and post-graduate diploma programmes, which grant students a three-year work permit, bachelor’s degrees have lately gained popularity among students who want to study for three to five years in order to improve their employment chances. A bachelor’s degree (primarily offered by universities and a few organizations) in Canada provides a broader choice of courses, such as sciences, mathematics, humanities, history, engineering, etc.

In this blog:

1.    Canada’s Best Bachelor’s Degrees
2.    Bachelor’s Degree Programs at Canada’s Best Universities
3.    Cost of Bachelor’s Degrees in Canada
4.    Scholarships available at Canadian Universities
5.    Bachelor’s Degree Application Process in Canada
6.    Work-Permit in Canada

Canada’s Best Bachelor’s Degrees

Some of the most common bachelor’s degrees that candidates can pursue in Canada are listed below:

Commerce

  • BBA
  • BCom
  • BA LLB
  • BSc (Information Technology/Software Engineering)
  • BSc in Nursing
  • BTech
  • Bachelor of Hotel Management
  • Bachelor of Interior Design
  • Diploma in Business Administration (HR)
  • Diploma in Office Administration
  • CA
  • CS

Commerce without Math

  • BBA
  • BCom (Marketing/Accounting/Finance)
  • BA LLB
  • Bachelor of Journalism
  • Bachelor of Fashion Designing
  • Bachelor of Hotel Management
  • Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA)
  • Cost Accounting

Engineering & Technology

  • BSc
  • BTech
  • BEng

Medical Science

  • BSc Nursing
  • MBBS/MD
  • Dental Courses like BDS
  • BA/BSc Psychology
  • Pharmacology
  • Physiology

Arts

  • Journalism
  • Fashion Design
  • Language and Linguistics
  • Human Rights
  • Music
  • Political Science
  • Filmmaking
  • Philosophy
What should you know before studying in Canada?

Have you taken the GMAT before?

Bachelor’s Degree Programs at Canada’s Best Universities

Take a look at the finest institutions in Canada for bachelor’s degrees:

Name of the University QS World University Rankings 2022 THE World University Rankings
University of Toronto 26 18
McGill University =27 40
The University of British Columbia 46 34
University of Montreal 111 =73
University of Alberta 126 =131
McMaster University 140 69
University of Ottawa 230 = 145
University of Calgary 235 = 200
University of Waterloo =149 201-250
Western University 170 201-250
Dalhousie University = 272 251-300
University Laval =414 —
Queen’s University =240 251-300
Simon Fraser University =298 251-300
University of Manitoba 601-650 351-400

Cost of Bachelor’s Degrees in Canada

The cost of a bachelor’s degree in Canada varies depending on the course and university you choose and can range from CAD 12,000 (INR 6,46,000) to CAD 30,000 (INR 16,15,000). Below is a list of the most common bachelor’s degrees cost in Canada:

  • CAD 22,000 in engineering and medicine (INR 11,69,000)
  • Courses in the humanities, business, and management range from CAD 5,500 (INR 2,96,000) to CAD 6,500 (INR 3,50,000)

Scholarships available at Canadian Universities

Many institutions in Canada assist students in budgeting for their studies. The list of undergraduate scholarships is extensive. The following are the different types of scholarships:

  • Tuition fees are waived.
  • Provincial Government Scholarships
  • Scholarships awarded based on merit
  • Grants based on need and college bursaries
  • Scholarships provided by commercial companies

Bachelor’s Degree Application Process in Canada

  • Make a list of all the courses and choices that best fits your requirements.
  • It is critical to conduct research before enrolling in a bachelor’s degree programme in Canada. Research the courses you want to take, scholarships and financial aid alternatives, and, of course, a list of colleges you want to attend.
  • After you’ve chosen your target schools, read and evaluate the prerequisites, such as the admission deadline, required documents, and language competence tests, among others.
  • Prepare the necessary documents: a copy of your high school diploma or certificate, a completed application form, a statement of purpose, and an English proficiency test score such as the IELTS or TOEFL, proof of financial competence, evaluation of educational credentials, and an updated CV. You can also take a proficiency exam in French, such as the TCF/TEF/DELF/DALF for Canadian regions where French is the preferred language.
  • Submit your applications. Now comes the tough part- waiting! You’ll receive an acceptance letter if you’ve been accepted to a bachelor’s degree programme in Canada. To begin the Visa application procedure, you must first get an acceptance letter.

Work-Permit in Canada

Another significant benefit of earning a bachelor’s degree in Canada is the option to work while studying. International students must apply for a work permit to work while studying in Canada. Students have the option of working either on or off-campus. In any event, having a Canadian work authorization is required. Candidates are allowed to work 20 hours per week under the terms of the work permit, which is valid for the duration of the course. During the vacation season or semester breaks, the number of hours worked each week might be increased. Working while studying has dual benefits- managing your finances in Canada and gaining the necessary field experience.

Completing a bachelor’s degree entails more than just three years of study. It is about a person’s abilities being explored and honed. Canada is the most sought-after study destination by students because they want the best, and Canada delivers. A large number of students have found their way to top Canadian universities with Jamboree, and you will too! Book a free fifteen-minute session with our counselor.

Prepare a roadmap to study abroad with an admission consultant

Prepare a Roadmap to Study Abroad with an Admission Consultant

April 6, 2022 / / 0 Comments

A goal without a plan is just a wish. The decision to study abroad is not an easy one, multiple questions start to pop-up. The entire process is quite intense but doesn’t get fidgety. All you need to do is consolidate your study abroad decision with immaculate planning, research, execution and the expert guidance of an admission consultant.

The admission consultant can prepare a personalized road map to study abroad well in advance, to give aspirants ample time to prepare. The various factors like affordability, university programs, university requirements, visa process, pre-departure arrangements etc. need to be precisely considered before preparing a roadmap to study abroad. It’s almost a year long process. So, You need to know when to start, how to prepare, and what to target. A clear goal and perspective is needed along with professional help.

An overseas education consultant like Jamboree, can guide you on every step, and prepare a personalized road map for you to study abroad from scratch. Still thinking about how hiring abroad education consultants could be helpful? Alright let’s clear the clusters of questions and give you the answer to why you need a study abroad admission consultant.

In this blog:

1.    Stay Ahead
2.    Know Your Target
3.    Explore your options-Pick the right for you
4.    Prepare a Road Map
5.    Ask the right question

Stay ahead

Be prepared for the stiff competitive environment to study abroad as thousands of applicants apply in top universities around the world for the limited number of acceptance. Do not get discouraged by the low acceptance rate. You need to be very precise and understand what universities seek in terms of a student’s profile, test score, language proficiency score, letter of recommendation, essays, and academic transcripts etc. A study abroad consultant could give you an edge over other applicants and make your profile stand out. At Jamboree, we not only provide best preparation for standardized tests like SAT, GRE or GMAT and language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL, we also help you in preparing your profile and a lot more!

Here are the acceptance rates of the best universities in the U.S.A*.:

  • Stanford University – 4.34%
  • Harvard University – 4.92%
  • Columbia University – 6.1%
  • Princeton University – 6.5%
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – 6.7%
  • Yale University – 7%
  • University of Chicago – 7.9%
  • California Institute of Technology (Caltech) – 8%
  • University of Pennsylvania – 10%
  • Cornell University – 15%

*Based on the acceptance rate for the year 2020,

Source: usnews.com

Always keep in mind that a low acceptance rate doesn’t mean that the university is the right one for you. It is about your career and education. Finding the academic program that interests you is important as it will keep you going and lead you to a brighter future.

How do I start preparing for study abroad?

Have you taken the GMAT before?

Know Your Target

The next step after deciding that you want to study abroad is to decide upon which country, university, program you want and what kind of score would get you there. Deciding that could be really difficult and stressful. An admission consultant could help you, segregate  your choices based on academic profile, affordability and preference.

Once you have your Test score the admission consultant will guide you to which colleges and programs you could apply, and most likely to get accepted. Every college or university abroad has its own set of requirements and criteria for acceptance. You need to prepare yourself for the rigorous process. The study abroad consultant will keep you focused on your target, with valuable on time information and support. You need to be meticulously aware  about the timing on every step. The admission consultant will guide you to an early decision process which can boost your chances, inform you about dates and deadlines to send applications, and even help you with a post-acceptance process.

At Jamboree we encourage you to take advantage of our pre-departure value added services such as study loans, student accommodation, sim card, air ticket, local bank accounts abroad, Forex card, and getting insurance, etc.

Explore your options- Pick the right one for you

The most difficult part of studying abroad is deciding which is the right program for you. The decision needs to be made based on your choice and various factors like affordability and future job opportunities after finishing the program. The post- study visa extensions, future prospects of your trade in the countries you wish to study, exposure, alumni network  and global opportunities are the various factors that need to be considered before making a choice.

Study abroad programs could be exciting, empowering, challenging, life changing but they are certainly not cheap. Affordability of the program tuition and living expenses could be crucial factors curtailing your options. A study abroad consultant plays a major role in deciding which college and program to choose based on your preferences and situation. Jamboree helps you with career counselling and planning by assessing your profile and unbiased career exploration, Jamboree counsellors and admission consultants help you know yourself, explore your strengths and weaknesses, areas of interest, and chalk out a roadmap for admissions abroad by picking a program that align with your potential and stream that provide return on investment.

Want to know about universities abroad and their courses?

Have you taken the GMAT before?

Prepare a Road Map

The study abroad consultants provide personalized guidance on each step with on time deliverables that help you edge ahead. The experienced professional experts at Jamboree prepare a personalized road map for study abroad aspirants considering their profile, academics, Test scores and financial.

Here are some steps to study abroad that could be part of your road map –

  • Assess your profile, assess what programs you are eligible for? Is your academic profile good enough? How much score do you need to make up for any competitively weak academic?
  • Choose a program, university and country to target
  • Register and take the standardized test based on your qualification and program you want to pursue
  • Get a good standardized test score
  • Pick the language proficiency test based on its acceptance in the country you are targeting
  • Clear a language proficiency test
  • Measure your finances, seek scholarships, grants etc. if you require financial support
  • Re- assess your preferences based on your SAT, GRE or GMAT score and IELTS or TOEFL score
  • Prepare your profile, transcript, LORs, Essays or SOPs
  • Send scores along with complete profile to the colleges of your choice, where you are most likely to get accepted
  • As when you get a letter of acceptance – apply for student visa – target to attend university orientation program and on time arrivals. Also apply for loans if needed. Jamboree also helps its students get student loans at affordable rates
  • Prepare for departure – get ticket, book airport pickup, accommodation, currency, local bank accounts, Forex card, and pack appropriately depending upon the country, and program duration

Ask the right question

So, rather than asking why you need to hire a study abroad consultant? You should ask – what do you need to look for in an overseas study consultant? The answer is quite simple actually – all you need is experience, facilities and support at one stop. Jamboree has it all – we have been there since 1993 with massive networks of Jamboree students worldwide. We provide top-notch test  prep for GRE , GMAT and SAT with hundreds of admits in top universities across the globe and most of it we care for you with personalized guidance, support in preparation, application process and staying abroad.

Most-valuable-college-majors-in-the-USA

Most valuable college majors in the USA

April 6, 2022 / / 0 Comments

It’s not hard to make decisions once you are clear about where you want to be. Every step on your journey towards a prosperous career is filled with tough decisions to make. If you decide to take up higher studies in the United States you are on the right path . The USA has some of the most flexible study programs but deciding upon what to pursue could be tricky.  One of such major decisions that could shape your future is deciding upon which concentration or major to choose. The most valuable college majors could provide lucrative jobs and career opportunities. The most valuable degrees in the world are available at top universities across the United States of America, all you need is to fulfill their requirements.

In this blog:

1.    List of most popular majors
2.    Things to consider – while deciding a major

Choosing the best college majors can be a taxing task as there are pathora of major and minor areas to pick from but don’t you worry we are here to help you. Still wondering, how many majors are there in US colleges? Let’s go through some of the most popular college majors in the USA.

List of most popular majors in the USA

Architectural Engineering

Architectural engineers are professionals that take up the design,  planning, operation of engineered systems and construction for various types of buildings. These are similar to civil engineers in terms of specializations and tasks, but also feature differences which make the career in the architectural engineering field distinct. The median annual income for architectural engineers stays around $90,000.

Biomedical Engineering

Biomedical engineering could prepare you for fields such as manufacturing, medical device development, and research. They are developers that solve medical problems with development, design and manufacturing of medical devices. The requirement in the field is on an all time high and expected to boost upto 4% worldwide in coming years. The median annual income for biomedical engineers is around $88,550.

Computer Science and Information Technology

The most widely popular college major in the USA and around the world and in the United States is computer science. Most of the top universities in the USA offer  one of the best college majors – computer science as the industry is set to get a massive boost and influx with constantly rising requirements. It is projected to grow by 12 % in the next 5-6 years. The median annual income of a student with a computer science major could be around $83,320. The students who choose the major in computer science use various computational processes to build websites, programs and various complex tasks.

Computer science engineering and software engineering may seem similar but they are quite different. Both are  majors with high -income prospects. A student with a computer engineering major learns to create, assess, and implement a wide range of computer software and hardware with the use of mathematics, physics, and computer science. Computer science engineering is one of the most valuable degrees in the world. The annual median annual income of Computer science engineers is $114,600.

To those you just want to be focused on software with a major in software engineering turn into high in demand software engineers. The field which grows at a rapid rate is expected to be around 21% growth in the upcoming 5-6 years. An average income of a high level software engineering graduate stays around  $103,620. Software engineering is one of the most valuable college majors.

What is the #1 major in the US?

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Finance

A major in finance provides multiple  career opportunities for graduates with job opportunities as an accountant, financial advisor, or  financial analyst. The students could further opt for MBA specializations and executive MBA’s to propel their career growth. The financial sector is expected to grow at the rate of 7% in the next 5-6 years which is much faster than most other careers. The median annual income for finance professionals is estimated to be around $68,350.

Civil Engineering

The ever growing infrastructure and construction sector provides massive opportunities for Civil engineers. Students with civil engineering majors learn to develop, build and oversee the creation of infrastructure systems like construction projects. The civil engineer employment is expected to grow by 6% in the upcoming 5-6 years. The average annual income of civil engineers stays around $86,640.

Remember, the purpose of this list is not to discourage someone to choose a career in the field they are passionate about, instead we are just informing the aspirants about the steps that could lead to a secure financial future. The key is striking a balance between financial benefits and your passion.

As STEM  majors provide best return on investment, they should be your preferred choice but for those who are from arts background could choose various art and alliteration majors which could lead to a stable and profitable career in your area of interest. Consider field like

  • Communication and journalism
  • Foreign languages, linguistics and comparative literature
  • English language and literature
  • Liberal arts and humanities
  • Visual and performing arts

These could be wonderful options if you are looking for subject majors other than the popular  STEM majors.

Things to consider – while deciding a major

The most popular majors are mostly in the STEM fields – Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Consider pursuing a major in a subject related to these fields to get best return on your investment, and high paying jobs opportunities. The rest depends upon your personal choice, background and what you aspire to be in the future.

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Here are some of the major factors that need to be considered before deciding upon the subject major.

Educational Availability –

The availability of courses is important. You must know which university offers your desired concentration, along with the details of the major subject  and what could be the minors that will work well with the selected concentration.

Educational Affordability –

Based on the program and major you choose the tuition fees may vary depending on the university. While targeting a particular university you must be aware of the financial affordability of the desired major.

Know more about the top universities in US and various programs and major available.

Have you taken the GMAT before?

Earnings Potential –

The earning potential of the most popular college major in the USA is pivotal to the choice of major by most international students. The return on investment is what makes them the most valuable college majors.

Employment Opportunity –

The most important factor on which selection of major depends upon is employment opportunities available. The STEM major provides a maximum number of job opportunities with a high pay scale. But as the United States is the land of opportunity there are massive opportunities in other majors as well, all you need to do is explore your options and be clear about your purpose for choosing a major.

The most popular majors don’t guarantee high paying jobs, it’s your skill, knowledge and temperament that does. So, choose what you feel inclined towards but keep in mind the financial aspect as study abroad is quite an investment and a prosperous career should be your return. Jamboree is with you on every step of the way from getting a good score in SAT, GRE or GMAT to pondering upon universities, programs and majors to select. Talk to our admission counsellors to know more about what program and major to target and what you need to do to get into top universities in the United States with Jamboree.

Last-minute-Sat-prep-tips

Last-minute SAT Prep Tips

March 9, 2022 / / 0 Comments

After months of preparation, your SAT exam is finally here. To ace this prestigious exam, here are some last-minute SAT prep tips.

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In this blog:

1.  Brushing up on basics
2.  Sleep Schedule
3.  Checklist for the exam day
4.  Plan your strategy
5.  Relax

Applying for colleges and preparing for exams all together could be daunting and overwhelming. It is easy to miss out on important things during this frenzy. Read on for a checklist of last-minute SAT prep tips.

Before we begin, a quick look at the SAT structure-

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Brushing up on basics

You’ve studied well for your SAT exam, practiced a lot of questions and taken mock tests. It may seem like you still have a lot left to study, but for your last-minute SAT preparation, brush up on your basics. Revise the fundamentals, formulas and basic concepts. Check out common grammatical errors, and revise the basic grammar principles. It is advisable not to pick up something you won’t be able to master in the last few days.

Sleep schedule

Due to a tight study schedule, your sleep cycle might be disrupted and out-of-sync. Just a few days before the exam, you would want to fix your sleep schedule so that you don’t find yourself sleeping in the middle of the exam. Plan your days around the SAT exam slot–study during that time slot so that your mind stays active on the day of the exam. It is also essential that you take proper sleep in the days preceding your SAT exam.

Checklist for the exam day

It’s good to have a checklist of the things to carry on your SAT exam day so that you don’t find yourself in a frenzy the day before your exam. List down all the essentials you are going to need for your SAT exam. Put together the items on the list, and make arrangements for the ones you are missing. Here is a list of some of the things you are going to need for your SAT exam-

  1. Photo ID proof
  2. Calculator
  3. Printout of registration slip
  4. Sharpened pencils (carry extra!)
  5. Pencil Sharpener
  6. Eraser
  7. Test-site directions
  8. Snacks for in-between exam breaks
  9. Bottled water (or a hydrating drink)
  10. Tissues

In addition to this, also check out what ‘not’ to bring to the SAT exam center-

  • Cell phone- Try to leave your cell phone at home or in your car. If you do happen to bring it to the center, it will have to be turned off and submitted with your exam proctor.
  • Electronics- Make sure that you leave your smartwatches, fitness devices and other electronics at home. Carrying unnecessary electronics has the chance of invalidating your SAT exam score.
  • Other stationery- Unless otherwise accommodated for, do not carry unnecessary items such as a ruler, highlighter, etc.
Know about US colleges accepting SAT scores.

Have you taken the SAT Exam before?

Plan your strategy

One of the crucial components of last-minute SAT prep is planning and revising your strategy. Time management is essential for acing the SAT exam. While practicing, examine questions for the time spent on different types of questions and check for areas of improvement. Also, check for the efficiency of your planned strategy and see if it needs any changes. But do not make any major changes to your strategy at the last-minute as it may become too confusing for you. Also, read up on essay content and prepare 2-3 good topics that you are confident in.

Relax

Preparations for the SAT exam can be a little overwhelming. In the middle of all this, don’t forget to relax! Do things that unwind you, take shorter breaks, go out for walks or short meet-ups with friends; anything that helps you get rid of stress. It is important to appear for your SAT exam with a relaxed mind.

In recent years, the number of students taking the SAT exam has gone up owing to its acceptance by some of the most prestigious universities. If you too are planning your higher education abroad, book a free fifteen-minute session with our counselor and get help with your college applications.

Study abroad pre-departure checklist

Study abroad A to Z: The Pre-departure Plan & checklist

March 7, 2022 / / 0 Comments

Congratulations on getting accepted! In this journey you have crossed many hurdles, from getting a good test score, cracking the language proficiency test, getting accepted by the university and the nerve wrecking visa interview.

Now, what’s next? It’s time for the departure. As exciting as it sounds, can be daunting as well. Are you wondering about how to get study loans? Currency exchange? Managing finances? How to prepare for hassle-free transition & smooth living abroad? Finding a safe accommodation? To stay connected with your loved ones, what do you need?

We have got answers to all these questions and many more. Here, we have a checklist of activities that you must accomplish before moving abroad, and how Jamboree can help you with it.

Let’s start with study abroad 101: The Pre- Departure Plan & Checklist.

IN THIS BLOG:

1. Apply for a student loan
2. Find an accommodation
3. Prepare a travel plan
4. Open a Bank account
5. Use FOREX for day-to-day expenses
6. Get covered by a student insurance plan
7. Stay connected – Get a local number pre-departure
8. Pre-departure Checklist

Most of the students are first-time overseas travellers; therefore, anxiousness is quite obvious. Even those who have previously travelled abroad, find it difficult to prepare for 2-4 years of living in a foreign country. To make things smoother, Jamboree provides full support and guidance to the students travelling abroad as a part of our value added services.  So, what are the things you need to do before you depart?

Study abroad pre-departure checklist Infographics

Apply for a Student loan

Thanks to the easy and flexible study abroad education loans, now getting quality education abroad is accessible to all. Jamboree supports your ambition by helping you secure study loans through education loan partners. We offer on-time, low-interest loans with easy payback options. Jamboree’s education loan partners like HDFC Credila, Avanse Financial Services, Prodigy Finance, Auxilo Finserv, MPower Financing, Nomad Credit and more are there to help you with financing solutions.

Want an education loan to study abroad?

Have you taken the GMAT before?

Find an accommodation

The next step, as soon as you get accepted by the University, is deciding the accommodation. This could prove to be a tedious process, as factors like safety, security and affordability need to be ensured as per the needs of the student. Jamboree has partnered with several international accommodation providers like Casita, University Living, UniAcco, GoBritanya, and student.com to make this process easy and safe for the students.

Prepare a travel plan – Ticket booking

Cost of travelling tickets and extra luggage cover are the biggest obstacles faced by the students after securing admission in their dream college. Thus, an efficient travel advisor and ticket provider is a must, who can facilitate discounts on bookings, alternate flight options, provide extra luggage coverage, etc. This is where we come in picture! Jamboree, with its travel partners, Travel money – FCM and Remitx provide much-needed support and guidance to the students.

Open a Bank account

As an international student opening a bank account can be a multi-fold massive hassle. Thus, opening an account beforehand could facilitate smooth fee payments, rent payments and expense management. Jamboree has partnered with Aeldra, which offers open pre-departure zero-fee U.S. bank accounts, just using your Indian passport and HSBC, which provides complete international banking support.

Use FOREX for day-to-day expenses

Having a FOREX card can manage your day-to-day expenses, helping you track your expenses. Jamboree provides FOREX options from partners like EbixCAsh, REMITX, and Travel Money – FCM, which fulfill all foreign exchange needs and offer a wide range of services abroad.

Get covered by the student insurance plan

Most universities require students to have a compulsory insurance plan. It safeguards students during unforeseen events within or beyond the University campus and provides effective health insurance covers. Jamboree has partnered with insurance agencies like TrawellTag and Juno (formerly LeverEdge) to help students with options in insurance plans.

Stay connected – Get a local number pre-departure

Keeping constantly in touch with your friends and family while studying abroad is essential to fight home-sickness and fatigue.  Getting a local number beforehand is cost-effective and could prove vital for safe travel. Jamboree provides a budget-friendly plan through our partners like Bigkarts Corporation, which offers prepaid solutions in the USA, Canada & UK.

Pre Departure Checklist for Study Abroad

a) Pre departure orientation to do list

  • Make sure your passport is valid for additional six months after the end of the course. If not, you must apply to extend the validity
  • Provide the required pre-departure documents to the University – official transcripts, language proficiency test score, etc.
  • Decide upon accommodation – Make arrangements for your accommodation whether you choose to live on-campus, rented apartment or room, or family-stay
  • Apply for a student visa as soon as you get accepted, a minimum of 2 months before you are supposed to fly out to your study abroad destination
  • Book for Airport pick in advance if you have chosen to live on-campus
  • Take up a student mentor program. Student councils at various universities arrange these programs to guide students during enrolment and help adjust to a new environment
  • Prepare a budget plan. Monitor your spending
  • Make sure you activate your student account
  • Apply for a University Photo ID card
  • Find out about the orientation program or fresher week that takes place at your university and plan your departure accordingly

b) Things to do before you depart –

  • Buy currency. Keep at least $1000 in currency and the rest can be carried in a FOREX card for managing day-to-day expenses
  • Wire transfer the tuition fee to the university before departure
  • Pay an accommodation deposit
  • Shop for appropriate clothes, utensils, etc., which may not be easily available abroad
  • Prepare the documents needed for international student clearance at university

c) Documents you need to keep with you.

  • SEVIS fee receipt. (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System fee is the one-time fee, for students pursuing a full course in the US for each continuous, uninterrupted period of F-1 Visa or J-1 status
  • Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status)
  • Immunization documents (as applicable)
  • Letter of Recommendation
  • Forms
  • Scholarship or Aid documents (if any)
  • Original Transcripts – Attested mark sheets, degree certificate, project report, test scores and language test mark sheet
  • Xerox (at least 3 copies) of all relevant documents like mark sheet, visa, and scorecard etc.
Want to know about top universities admission requirements?

Have you taken the GMAT before?

d) When you arrive at the University

  • Get international student clearance by the university
  • Attend academic induction sessions at your college
  • Attend international sessions during the orientation week
  • If you haven’t opened a bank account, open it with a local bank that has a branch on-campus
  • Register with the local police (if required)
  • Register with doctor/health center
  • Collect your ID card
  • Complete online registration on the student portal website

Relocating to a different country could be very challenging, but if well-planned, can keep you safe & secure abroad. A pre-departure plan will help you settle easily, and let you focus on studies rather than getting distracted by paperwork, locating accommodation or managing finances. Jamboree value-added services provided along with SAT, GRE or GMAT, prepare candidates for such hassle-free quality foreign education. Get in touch with our counselors to know about the several services that we offer to the students.

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