Tag: Undergraduate (page 1 of 4)

Cost of Studying Undergrad in Canada

Realistic Cost of Studying Undergrad in Canada (For Indian Students)

November 23, 2022 / / 0 Comments

A multicultural bouquet of a crowd, top-ranking universities, a wide variety of courses, and most importantly, less anxious parents! You really can’t go wrong with Canada. In this blog, we are going to outline all the expenses you need to budget for studying undergrad in Canada, starting from out-of-state tuition to a loaf of bread (which costs CA$2.86, by the way). Here we go!

IN THIS BLOG:

  1. Tuition Fees for International Students
  2. Undergraduate Tuition Fees in Canada
  3. Cost of Living in Canada for Indian Students
  4. Other Expenses to Study in Canada

Tuition Fees for Undergrad in Canada

Universally, tuition fee is the most significant expense, especially for international students. Tuition fees in Canada depends 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. So, in the next section, we will discuss the average tuition fees for popular undergrad 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

 

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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. To give you an idea of what the expenses are, we have listed three types of student accommodation in Canada and their prices here:

Types of Student Accommodation

Homestay CA$ 4,800 – 9,600 p.a.
On-Campus accommodation CA$ 3,000 -7,500 per year
Private/ Shared accommodation CA$ 8,400 per year

Source: QS Top Universities

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.

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

Scholarship Options in Canada for Indian Students

Well, it’s not a secret that Canada is a little on the expensive side, but we’d like to end this blog on a happy note. So let’s talk about ways to fix that, and one of the most popular ways is through scholarships.

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
University Of Westminster Undergraduate Distant Horizons Awards In the UK Partial Funding ✓ Bachelors
ASM Materials Education Foundation – Undergraduate Scholarships, 2022 Partial Funding ✓ Bachelors
Scotiabank International Partner Entrance Scholarships Partial Funding ✓ Bachelors, Diploma, Training & Short courses
Manulife Life Lessons Scholarship Program 2022 Full Funding ✓ Bachelors, Masters, Ph.D., Post Doc

 

Here is a happy thought: 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 counsellors for a free 15-minute session to get all your doubts resolved.

 

10 Most Affordable Universities in UK

August 31, 2020 / / 0 Comments

Do you know one thing Indians and British have in common? We both love tea! Do you know what else is common? Our rich and diverse cultures. A standout feature of UK’s culture is its educational excellence. With renowned brands like Oxford University, University College London, and the University of Cambridge among many others, UK is globally recognized for its quality of education and is said to produce the finest leaders of the world. So, if you’ve decided to study in the UK, then congratulations on making a fantastic choice. But if you’re still a little unsure, read on to find out why else UK is a great destination for international students.

Quality of Education: This is a well-known fact. The teaching methodology is one of a kind and encourages students to get their hands dirty, instead of just keeping their ears open. The expertise of UK’s faculty is unmatchable. You’ll probably find at least one Nobel Laureate in every university.

Flexible: Another key feature of universities in UK is the flexibility of their courses. As a student, you will have a compulsory learning path, but you are free to build your electives around it. Interested in Engineering but want to explore world literature as well? No problem. Universities here are multidisciplinary and offer modules in many subjects, just pick literature. And if you like it enough, you can even try to get a minor degree in it.

Is it better to study in USA or UK?

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Diversity: The universities in UK are super diverse and have students coming in from all over the world. In fact, you might find that over 30% of your class isn’t British at all. As an international student, you can see, learn from and interact with different kinds of people. And this exposure is greatly valued by top recruiters.

Quick to study, Quick to work: Most of the top universities in UK have much shorter degree durations. You can get a bachelor’s degree in 3 years and a master’s degree in 1 year. This means that you can start working much quickly in UK than in countries like the US, Canada or India.

Employment: UK is literally in the centre of the globe. For this reason, it is the 6th largest economy in the world. Many reputed companies, both from the east and the west recruit directly from universities in UK. They offer great salaries too; the average graduate salary is almost £30,000.

All right, now to the technicalities. The UK is a great study abroad destination, but unfortunately, it’s also one of the most expensive. The expenses associated with studying in the UK is less about tuition and more about living costs. But it is often manageable through the many scholarships and student jobs available (students make between £112-£200/week). Apart from these, there are many low-cost universities in UK for international students to study on a budget.

Here’s a list of the 10 most affordable universities in the UK for international students, with their annual fees.

1. Coventry University

Coventry is one of the most affordable public universities in UK. It has a satellite campus located at the heart of London’s financial district and is known for its high-quality business-related degrees.

Undergraduate: £11,250

MSc: £12,800

MBA: £15,000

Guaranteed Awards for international students, up to £2,000 tuition fees reduction.

2. Leeds Beckett University

This university is one of the most affordable in the country and offers great benefits for minimum fees. A well-established career development centre, all-round student support, exceptional faculty and a huge alumni network are just some of Beckett’s perks.

Undergraduate: £12,000

Postgraduate: £13,000

Leeds Beckett international scholarship up to £3,000 available.

3. Leeds Trinity University

Leeds Trinity has made the list of top 10% universities in the UK for its teaching excellence. It is an ideal choice if your interest lies in the psychology, sports or nutrition fields.

Undergraduate: £12,000

Postgraduate: £11,500

4. Royal Agricultural University

This is England’s first agricultural university, and it was founded in 1845. Royal Agricultural University is a good choice if you are looking to pursue an agricultural education. The other programs they offer are in land management, real estate and business.

Undergraduate: £13,124

Postgraduate: £20,000 (non-consecutive)

MBA: £17,276

5. Staffordshire University

This public university was founded with an aim to provide students with industry-focused education and now has over 15,000 students. Perfect for students looking to pursue science courses like psychology, biochemistry or other biosciences. It also offers well known Law and MBA programs.

Undergraduate: £14,000

Postgraduate: £14,500

Law: £10,900

MBA: £15,500

6. Teesside University

Teesside is one of the best universities in UK in terms of international student satisfaction. With the university mission being to foster innovation and creativity, this university offers exceptional facilities at very low fees.

Undergraduate: £13,000

Postgraduate: £7,500

Scholarships up to £1,500 are available to international students.

7. University of Cumbria

This relatively new university was founded in 2007 and has expanded to 4 campuses across the UK. The best courses they offer are in the fields of healthcare, sports, arts, business, forestry and teacher training.

Undergraduate: £12,800

Postgraduate: £12,800
MBA: £14,500

8. University of Suffolk

This public university has 5 campuses and 6 notable schools, including Health Sciences, Psychology, Arts, Law, Engineering, and Business. With over 5000 students, Suffolk is a popular choice among local and international students.

Undergraduate: £12,150

Postgraduate: £12,150

Master of Business Administration: £1,530 per 20 credits

Scholarships ranging from £1,000 to £3,500 are available to international students.

9. University of West London

Voted as the most modern university in London by the Guardian University League. The University of West London has great research opportunities and rightly calls itself the career university for its after-graduation support.

Undergraduate: £12,500

Postgraduate: £13,000

10. University of Wales Trinity Saint David

This employment-focused university focuses on developing its students with both academic knowledge and practical skills in order to thrive in the corporate world. With innovative teaching and world-class equipment, the University of Wales has been ranked #1 by Whatuniv’s Student choice awards for courses, lecturers and accommodation.

Undergraduate: £13,500

Postgraduate: £15,000

Looking for more affordable university options in UK? Connect with our expert UK counselors for hands-on guidance on how to apply successfully with scholarships.

Study in Singapore: How to apply for a Bachelors in Singapore

August 7, 2020 / / 0 Comments

Halfway from the east and the west of the world lies a tiny island nation – Singapore. Originally, about two centuries ago Singapore was a famous trading post for the East India Company and it enabled economic relations between both sides. Today, Singapore has come a long way from being just a mere economy connecting node. It has a self-sustaining and thriving economy, it’s ranked as the most open economy in the world and has one of the highest GDP globally. Singapore isn’t just an economic powerhouse; it is also an educational hotspot. With its world-class and quality education, Singapore has established itself as a popular study abroad destination. This diverse little country is a foreign student paradise with currently over 50,000 international students from around the world.

Why study in Singapore?

    1. Innovative economy – Singapore holds third place in the global competitiveness report by the WEF (2018) and is known to have a fabulous economy. Many companies have regional headquarters here, all thanks to Singapore’s business-friendly atmosphere and booming startup scene.
    2. Return on investment – Universities in Singapore offer a rounded education with both practical and theoretical aspects, making it a great study abroad location. This country is relatively more affordable than its partners in the west, with a comparatively lower cost of living for Indians. There are both expensive and inexpensive institutes, but the salaries after graduation make taking the leap worth it as students here usually breakeven before three years.
    3. Geographic Center – Singapore is at the center of the world, and education here has an eastern aspect along with a western viewpoint. Thus, allowing students to explore both global and Asian markets. Singapore is an entrance to South East Asia and an excellent choice for people looking to settle down there.
    4. Scholarships – Singapore is nicknamed the world’s greatest city, but it’s also the world most expensive city. However, tuition fees are relatively cheaper than in the west, and scholarships, fellowships and grants are plenty if you know where to look. Some of those available to bachelor’s students grant financial support in the form of tuition reduction, allowances, travel funding and living expenses like:
      1. ASEAN Foundation Research Scholarship
      2. United World Colleges (UWC) International Youth Scholarships
      3. The Singapore Scholarship of the Embassy of the Republic of Singapore
    5. Quality of education – Singaporean government focuses on education innovation and its progressive education systems follow this vision. With universities in the global top 100 list, this country has outstanding programs that focus on innovation and technology teaching both, practicality and theoretical knowledge.
    6. Career prospects – Another reason that complements Singapore’s education system is the placement record. Universities in Singapore have strong industry connections and a global education network, employers actively seek out students that graduate from top schools here.
    7. Student life – Here comes the fun part. Singapore is a gem for foreign students, with its exotic cuisine, diverse people and strict safety policies. Although it is an expensive city, the cost is worth it for the quality of life you get. There are many tourist destinations in the city and it’s also a traveler’s paradise because of easy access to southeastern vacation spots. Students can also easily get a part time job that pays from $1000 to $2500 a month with added incentives.
    8. Culture – Singapore is one of the most diverse countries in the world, with a large number of them being international students alone. This island-nation has four official languages including Tamil and English. The locals here are extremely friendly especially to international folk, so you’ve got nothing to worry about.

Now that we’ve got the ‘why’ out of the way let’s talk about the ‘where’ and ‘what’. Where can you do a bachelor’s degree? How much does it cost to study in Singapore? And what are the undergraduate programs offered?

Here are some of the best universities in Singapore for undergraduate studies, some of them even made it to the world’s top 100 list.

  • Nanyang Technological University

Nanyang is Singapore’s top technological university and has been #1 on the list of young universities in the QS world rankings since 2015. It offers many undergraduate programs in several fields such as science, management, computer science, IT, engineering, medicine, humanities and social studies.

This research-intensive institute has 33,000 students across all schools and is one of the most diverse and global universities of Singapore with every 8 in 10 of its students going abroad at least once. It is also known for its beautiful university campus that is constructed sustainably. NTU offers students multiple types of programs like double degree programs, double major programs and undergraduate research programs. Some of the most popular courses at NTU are:

Course

Duration (Years)

Cost
Material Science and Engineering 4 $13,000
Electrical and Electronic Engineering 4 $13,000
Bachelor of Business with Minor in International Trading 4 $13,000
BFA in Art, Design and Media 4 $13,000
Chemistry and Biological Chemistry 4 $13,000
Aerospace Engineering 4 $13,000
Civil Engineering 4 $13,000
Medicine 5 $55,000
Computer Science 4 $13,000
Psychology 4 $13,000
Communication Studies 4 $13,000

  • National University of Singapore

NUS is the oldest research university in all of Singapore and holds #1 in the country. So obviously the competition is fierce. This university is currently ranked 11th in the QS world university rankings 2019 and rightly so. It has the largest university campus on the island spanning over 490 acres. It’s so huge that they have their own bus network, multiple university housing systems and many academic buildings that are sleek and modernly designed. Another cool thing about NUSs campus is the University town. UTown is the hub of all student life, with study spots, round the clock activities, a gym, an infinity pool and countless food canteens, this is NUS’s exclusive campus club house. Apart from the amazing student life, NUS is also known for its academic rigor. Here are some numbers to prove it.

– #7 in the world for engineering and technology subjects

– #6 for civil engineering

– Top 10 for social sciences and management programs

The top courses at NUS are:

Course

Duration (Years)

Cost
BBA 3 $15,000
Civil Engineering 4 $13,000
Electrical Engineering 4 $13,000
Chemical Engineering 4 $13,000
Computer Engineering 4 $13,000
Law 4 $20,000
BA Architecture 4 $14,000
Global Studies 4 $13,000
Social Science 4 $13,000
Psychology 4 $13,000
Communication Studies 4 $13,000

  • Singapore Management University

At the center of downtown Singapore, lies a big beautiful green campus with 10,000 students. SMU is Singapore’s third institute to make it to the global list of top universities. This university offers undergraduate, graduate and PhD programs across all 6 of its schools including schools of accountancy, business, economics, information systems, law, and social sciences. SMU has also been ranked the 8th best young university in the world and it is gaining a lot of popularity among young business aspirants.

Course

Duration (years)

Cost
Bachelor of Business Management 4 $18,000
Bachelor of Accountancy 4 $18,000
Bachelor of Science (Economics) 4 $18,000
Bachelor of Science (Information Systems) 4 $18,000
Bachelor of Laws 4 $20,000
Bachelor of Social Science 4 $18,000

  • Singapore University of Technology and Design

With a design centered, multidisciplinary curriculum, SUTD recently topped the list of emerging engineering universities in the world. The university is relatively new, it was established in 2009 and is closely associated with Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The collaboration covers exchange programs, curriculum development, guest lectures and the construction of the International Design Center. The best programs that SUTD offers are innovation and design oriented like architecture and engineering.

Course

Duration

Cost
Bachelor of Engineering (Information Systems Technology and Design) 3.5 years $20,000
Bachelor of Science (Architecture and Sustainable Design) 3.5 years $20,000
Bachelor of Engineering (Engineering Product Development) 3.5 years $20,000
Bachelor of Engineering (Engineering Systems and Design) 3.5 years $20,000

  • Singapore Institute of Management

SIM is a half-private and half-government institute with a number of its courses falling under government affiliation. The business degree here is one of the best in the country and many students come from around the world seeking it. SIM has tie-ups with many renowned institutes such as University of London, University of Birmingham, University at Buffalo and University of Manchester among others. It offers plenty of study abroad programs, making for a truly global education.

The top programs offered here are:

Course

Duration (Years)

Cost
Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Business Analytics 3 $32,000
Bachelor of Arts Communication 3 $46,000
Bachelor of Arts Economics 3 $50,000
Bachelor of Arts (International Trade) 3 $50,000
Bachelor of Business (Accountancy) 3 $34,000
Bachelor of Business (Economics and Finance) 3 $34,000
Bachelor of Business (Marketing) 3 $34,000

These are but a handful of universities in Singapore, and there are a lot more institutes in the glamourous lion-city with unique programs meant for you. All you need are good SAT scores and application support to make it to your dream Singapore university. Get in touch with our career counseling experts today.

7 Tips to Make a Smooth Transition from Indian Schools to Colleges Abroad

May 7, 2020 / / 0 Comments

Entering college is a pivotal point in most students’ lives. The transition from school to college, in and of itself, is a huge change – you leave behind your school friends, start afresh in a new environment, live away from home, and face a myriad of challenges. However, as an international student, the transition is even more stark. In addition to the above-mentioned novelties, international students also have to adjust in a society completely different from their own.

Here are a few tips that Indian students in particular can keep in mind as they pack their bags for college abroad:

  1. Sign up for International Orientation, and reach well in advance

    If your school offers International Orientation, it is advisable to sign up for it. This will allow you to settle in before the semester begins. It will help you get acquainted with other international students and get the opportunity to make friends in a more intimate setting.

    International orientation programs are designed to help in school to college transition and students transition into a foreign environment. They will assist you in housekeeping basics like opening a bank account, signing up for a mailbox, getting a phone number and so on. Developing a good bond with the International Office is a good idea, as over the next few years they will help you with your F-1 visas, OPT, host multiple cultural events and so on.

    If your school does not offer any sort of international orientation, it is a good idea to get in touch with some other international student already studying there and to reach a few days before you are officially asked to reach. This will give you time to get started with necessities like bank accounts, a SIM card, etc.

  2. Take it Easy your first semester

    It is only natural to be extremely excited when you begin college. For Indian students, school ends in April and college only starts late August, so you have lot of time on your hands and are itching to get started. However, it is imperative that you DO NOT over burden yourself in your first semester. No matter how convinced you are that you can handle a heavy workload, remember that a lot of your energy and time in the first semester will not just go into the classroom but also in making a place for yourself in college. You will want to spend time making friends, setting up your room, getting acquainted with activities and clubs on campus, and learning about different opportunities that await you.

    Even if you can manage a heavy academic workload, you will end up missing out on a lot of other things that a college education can offer you. Much of the learning, remember, takes place outside the classroom.

    Moreover, as a student from India, you are used to a very different learning environment. The pace of the classes may not be what you had imagined. You will be expected to regularly engage with classroom material and use skills that you might not have used before.

    We recommend not taking more than four classes, and making sure they are a good mix of different disciplines. For example, taking all 4 Math and Physics classes would mean having to do a lot of Problem Sets, whereas taking 4 Sociology and History classes would mean massive amounts of reading every week. If you take a good mix of classes, with varying difficulties, you can have a manageable academic schedule, that will give you enough room to explore and enjoy in college.

  3. Take a Writing Course before you start college or in your first semester

    If you went to a CBSE or ISCE school in India, then chances are that you did not get much experience in writing papers. For non-STEM majors, writing will be an integral part of your academic journey. Even if you are planning on studying STEM, you will be required to take Social Science and Humanities classes, which will require that you are able to articulate your thoughts well.

    Most students from India in universities abroad struggle initially with writing papers and essays. Many classes will require one or two paragraph long reading responses each week. It is useful to cultivate writing as a skill early on in your college career.

    Taking an introductory academic writing class in your first semester would be a good step. Alternatively, the summer before college begins can be utilized to take an online course in writing.

  4. Do not be friends only with Indians

    Indian students who go abroad to study, are often inclined to cultivate a social circle that comprises primarily of other Indians. It is easy to become friends with people from your own country since language, and cultures overlap. However, it is important that you cultivate relationships from people other than your country mates. By restricting yourself only to one community, you limit the many experiences you can have.

    One of the best parts about studying abroad is meeting and interacting with people from all over the world. The idea is to foster relationships that result in mutual learning. This is not to say that you should not be friends with other Indians. There are some Indian students who actively avoid associating with other Indians. That isn’t the answer either.

    The idea is to not let nationality and culture limit who you become friends with.

  5. When you don’t know something, just say so

    Many a times you will find yourself in a situation where you don’t know what the other person is talking about. This could be a cultural reference, a political reference, or slang that you’re unfamiliar with. You could come across someone who perhaps belongs to a different religion or gender and is narrating their own unique experience. If there is something you are unclear about, or something you don’t understand, the best course of action is to politely ask. Instead of making assumptions about someone’s culture or experience, it is best to clearly articulate that you do not know and would like to know more.

    The same goes for references of culture, history and politics of the place you are going to study in. You are not expected to know everything about their country, just as they perhaps do not know everything about the country you are from. Do not feel obliged to keep up with these things, instead it is always better to ask people to explain what they’re talking about to you.

  6. Prepare for the winter

    If you have lived in India your whole life and are going to study in a place that has harsh winters, you are likely unprepared for the cold. Come end October-November, you should buy a thick warm jacket, boots for the snow, gloves, and a cap. The first two are the most important. A good jacket and pair of boots will last you till you graduate and some more. Since most places are heated inside, you would not want to wear too many layers, instead put on a jacket and boots that will keep you warm when you step outside in the snow, and once that you can take off once you are indoors.

  7. Make a budget, and plan expenditure

    Another thing to be cognizant of is finances. With the change in currency, difference in cost of living, and being left to your own devices to manage expenditure, it is not uncommon for first-year international students to mismanage money initially.

    Make a clear budget of how much money you would like to spend each week. If your parents are sending you money from India, instead of getting a lot of money in one go, it is better to ask them to send money in intervals. Perhaps, enough money for one month at a time.

    Remember to convert dollars to rupees, to get an estimate if you actually want to spend that amount on something. It might be a good idea to get a student job and work for a few hours in a week. Not only would this ease the financial burden on your parents but will put you in a good habit of earning and managing your own finances. Make sure you avail various student discounts and offers.

    If you are earning, perhaps you would like to automatically save 20 percent of your wages, to prevent over expenditure. Make sure that your bank account settings do not allow you to overdraft i.e. spending money even when there aren’t enough funds in your account – this leads to overdraft fee.

    While being wise about how much money you are spending is important, do not obsess over cutting costs, or put yourself through unnecessary hardship in way that your education or college experience is compromised. You are spending a lot of money and effort in studying abroad, don’t lost out on that experience to save a little money here and there. In other words, don’t be penny wise, pound foolish.

An insight into a student’s life in Canada

An insight into a student’s life in Canada

May 3, 2019 / / 0 Comments

Currently, the international student population in Canada stands at half a million. The rising popularity of Canada as a study abroad option for advanced education can be credited to various factors like a quality but affordable tuition, cities which are deemed safe, an option to work both during as well as after the study period and lastly the pathway to permanent Canadian residency make this country a favourite among international students. Having decided upon Canada, there are few decisions to be made regarding the accommodation, cost of living and working during the study period.

 

  1. Accommodation

    There are multiple accommodation choices available to students. It is advisable to conduct research regarding accommodation before going to Canada. It can be broadly divided into two categories- on campus or off-campus housing options. The on-campus choice generally referred to as ‘dorms’ is the ideal option for the first-year students as all amenities provided by the university are at close proximity. Secondly, living on the campus offers an opportunity for students to socialize and fraternize with other students studying in the same university through social events and gathering. The on-campus accommodation is usually facilitated through the University website.

    Based on the University’s location sometimes ‘off-campus’ is a less expensive option. Living off-campus makes the student more independent and provides a better understanding of the local culture and flavour. Furthermore, there is always the option to get a roommate.

    Homestay arrangement is another inexpensive option which can be explored through free online websites, or consulting relevant organization or contacting school student service’s office. Homestay advantage is it provides a family atmosphere, help the students integrate with the community and sometimes enhance the language skills.

  2. Cost of Living

    The expenses for a student can vary from $ 15,000 to $30,000 per year depending upon the location. Knowing the cost of living will help the student in creating a relevant budget and planning their finances. Opening a bank account, phone plan, public transportation pass and registration for student ID pass are facilities which usually student mentors or the staff of International Student Office assist the students in creating. Moreover, coverage of health insurance in the intended province of education is another mandatory requirement. This can be done through the school. The diverse cuisines is another aspect which students will enjoy exploring.

  3. Finding work

    The Canadian study permit allows the student to work on or off campuses. An international student can work up to 20 hours per week off campus during ongoing academic sessions and work full-time during the breaks such as winter and summer holidays. This employment opportunity is useful in recovering some of the academic cost as well as building a robust professional network to be leveraged later when exploring career options. One of the conditions to be eligible for study permit would be to apply for Social Insurance Number (SIN). Application for SIN requires meeting of certain conditions printed on the study permit. However, if the study program includes work experiences as a part of the curriculum then the student needs to apply for co-op or intern work permit. Alternatively, students can work on the campus, but they need to ensure the company is affiliated to the university. Besides helping the students gain practical experience, working will help the student when they decide to immigrate to Canada.

  4. Canadian Culture

    Canadian culture is deeply influenced both by British and French culture. It provides a warm welcome to a diverse population and is considered as a melting pot of multiculturalism with 22% of the population having been born elsewhere. Canada reputation as a peaceful country makes it one of the safest country to live in. The most popular professional sport is the National Hockey League. Also, the culturally rich Canadian cities host multiple events like theatrical productions, musical performances besides the sporting events showcasing the diverse culture fostered by the Canadians.

However, students also face some challenges when they decide Canada as their destination of choice to pursue further studies. They can vary from the weather, homesickness, and finances.

  1. Weather

    Coming from a tropical country the cold weather of Canada is something which most students in India would have never experienced. It becomes a priority for the student to first research the weather of the city where the university is located. The warm clothes which the students are accustomed to in India are no match to the Canadian weather condition. It is important to invest in clothing appropriate to the season, especially during the winters. In case of slightest of discomfort like the extremities of the body turning blue, it is advisable to seek medical attention.

  2. A sense of alienation or homesickness

    After the initial excitement, a sense of homesickness does overwhelm students due to language barriers, and culture shock. Students need to integrate by getting involved in sports, recreational activities and join clubs which align to their interest. It is equally vital to stay connected with the family through various mediums and talk to them constantly which will create a sense of comfort.

  3. Managing Finance

    Fiscal discipline is another important aspect which the student needs to cultivate. It is a necessity to plan a budget including the tuition fees and living expenses. The university provides a full list of fees which will help in planning the budget, and online tools are available which will facilitate the creation of budgets.

It is advisable for the student to seek help when they lack the know-how. The challenges may be an adjustment to a new way of teaching methodology, comprehending the food menu, or finding their way to various places in the city. Canadians are considered to be friendly and approachable also an office at the university provide a support system to international students.

In summary, life in Canada may come with few challenges but it will a wonderful experience too.

Read more:

Student life in the UK

April 24, 2019 / / 0 Comments

Any student applying to a foreign University is destined to undergo a whirlwind of emotions and a deluge of doubts. Whether you are all set to hop on the airplane to earn an undergraduate degree or a Master’s degree, it is only natural to be perplexed about how your life will turn out once you find yourself in a different, distant land. If the trend of the past few years is to be believed, the UK has become one of the most favoured choices of thousands of Indians, with multiple students vying to receive the acceptance letter. The UK boasts of housing several top Universities of the world such as the University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, and Imperial College, London, making it a popular choice amongst Indian students. While in the UK, you will find yourself in an intellectually stimulating environment, ready to lose yourself in the culturally welcoming and thriving community that the UK is synonymous with. As you prepare yourself to tread on the exciting journey which awaits you ahead, here is a catalogue of tips which can make your years in the UK even more awe-inspiring, productive, and minimize the hassles students often encounter. This might as well be the most magnificent point in the journey of your life, so why not make the best out of it!

 

  1. Build a Home Away From Home

    While growing up in a close-knit community like the Indian community, you might, in the initial days, find the irresistible urge to fight off the demons of loneliness and befriend peers and seniors. Student life in the UK can be made a lot more seamless if you know your right points of contact and set up a network in the first few days of being in the country. First things first, do register yourself with the local police and a doctor. Luckily for you, most colleges organize individual sessions specifically designed to cater to international students, which is an excellent opportunity where you will be walked through the campus and the local area. Thus, you will know your Wendy’s from your Walmart in the first few weeks! You might even stumble upon a fellow Indian student or strike a chord with someone at the store. Freshers’ week, too, presents itself as an incredible opportunity where an acquaintance might just turn into a long lasting friendship. Stretch out of your comfort zone, make an effort and interact with your fellow students. There is no other way to expand your multicultural experience than being the initiator in a conversation, and you may come across someone who mirrors your personality and being a freshman, is on the lookout for a friend. Finding a family for yourself in a foreign land is undoubtedly a daunting, overwhelming task, and the Universities understand this as much as you do. Hence, several colleges have an active, vibrant international society which exists for the sole purpose of helping students like you build a network. Through the frequent organization of programmes such as festive celebrations, parties, get-togethers, and detours to local tourist destinations, you are presented with a golden opportunity to turn the strange faces into familiar ones.

  2. UK’s Academic Structure

    The educational system there draws a stark contrast to the order you have grown up with, and within the first few days of attending the classes, you will learn to acclimatize yourself with the English system. The academic theory centers around a broad, interactive learning scheme, not limiting your ideas to only textbook learning. You will always be spurred to partake in constructive debates and discussions, which will help you think out of the box and churn significant thoughts. As the UK does away with confining your knowledge to textbooks, the idea is to mold you positively for the future. Over the period of time, you will find yourself turning into a trailblazer, confident of voicing your opinions out loud and comprehending global issues and matters of universal importance. More often than not, you will be assigned coursework and projects, with deadlines to keep track of how much progress have you made since your day one.

  3. Accomodation

    One query which permeates through the minds of all students as soon as they make up their mind about departing for the UK is accommodation. One needs a home, while also being aware of the limited financial budget one possesses, thanks to being an international student. While finding a roof is an arduous task whether in India or abroad, there is a streak of hope and possibility too. This herculean task is simplified by several universities which have independent halls of residence, more popularly known as the International Student House. These halls tend to provide good value for money, with easy access to all the facilities you need, and opportunities to mingle with other students. What is essential for you to is to have a refined and precise structure in your mind before you apply to any of these accommodations. You may want to stay close to your campus or might be willing to commute via public transportation. A word of advice would be to have a detailed discussion with your parents before you reach any conclusion so that you know how many pounds can you reserve for housing. Independent companies such as The Student Housing Company and Capstone Collegiate Cos are, on the other hand, big names in the accommodation market and offer private halls of residence just in case you are unable to secure a spot in the campus. Before joining the university, make it a point on your checklist to conduct a thorough research about the same. Read up extensively, eliminate even the slightest iota of doubts in your mind, and find out which housing facility caters best to your requirements. All said and done; the eventual ambition is to reserve a place with utmost facilities and a decent, pocket-friendly expenditure.

  4. Recreational Activities

    It is famously said that “Re-creation means to recreate yourself”. Rejuvenation activities come as a breath of fresh air in our lives, and you will surely feel the need of exploring the city and the campus’ surroundings. There is a gamut of options available in the UK where you can spend some quality time with your friends and get to know the country (and each other better). If your caliber aids you in finding a place at the King’s College, Imperial College, or University College; try and find time to register your presence at the magically gripping world of Warner Bros Studios, Big Ben, or the Tower of London which stands tall in all its majesty since 900 years! Talking of the Universities in Wales such as the University of Edinburgh and the University of St Andrews; St. Davids’ Cathedral, Brecon Beacons National Park, and Wales Coastal Path have been faithfully attracting tourists from a long time now. The UK is also home to incredible theatrical performances and performing arts is given its due at the National Theatre, London and Theatre Royal, Bath, and the catalog keep on extending.

  5. Transportation

    A practical and obvious question to be taken care of is the transportation aspect and before starting your classes, you might want to put your grey cells to work and figure out the transportation in the area. Generally, students can get to the campus by walking (if your university is closer) or by cycling, using public transport and taxis. The bus rides can be made even more comfortable if you avail the facility of bus passes, which will make you eligible for receiving special discounts on travel cards and passes- a facility reserved for both national and international students. Tube trains, too, are an incredibly popular means of transport and you will find several fellow students travelling by them.

  6. Assistance for Specially Abled Students

    The UK is becoming the first choice of several such students due to its inclusivity and the facilities provided to aid them as much as possible. For instance, the Disabled Students’ Allowance offers students financial help of up to 20,000 GBP which accounts for specialist equipment and non-medical assistance, like note takers. Another noteworthy committee is the Snowdon Trust, which carries the merit of being the largest charity in the UK which works towards handing out grants to students in case they have not been able to secure any other benefits. As far as non-economic interests are concerned, dyslexic students may be asked to complete a dyslexia assessment which will assist the University in learning the kind of support you require and how you can best be helped. For visually impaired students, help comes in the form of Braille text, tutor recordings, text-to-speech technology, transcription services, and magnification software.

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how to study in the uk

How to Study in the UK

April 24, 2019 / / 0 Comments

Want to study in the UK? But not sure how to proceed further? Here are seven simple steps that will enable you to discover everything you need to know from selecting the right university to applying for your visa.

  • STEP 1: University Screening

    With endless choices accessible to you, as the UK right now houses more than 200 globally-recognized universities, the first thing you need to do is introspect and answer – what is your area of concentration? For example, a portion of the top UK colleges is a worldwide pioneer in technology, research, and development; while there are equally great opportunities in management, business, and economics. From Science and Commerce to Art and Entertainment; UK is a learner’s paradise.

    To grab the best arrangement from this assortment, you must have clear objectives in your brain about what you need to study and what you need to accomplish with your degree. To pick your school, make a rundown of all colleges that offer degree courses in your field of expertise and survey their course structure, modules, internship offers, job placement rate, research projects and so on. Based on these results, you can filter a shorter list of schools/universities that perfectly matches with your interests and satiate your cravings. To carry on this research, you have to begin sufficiently early somewhere around two-three months before application due dates.

    All things considered, this vast collection of universities is a confirmation to you that given your interests or scholarly inclinations, there will undoubtedly be something in store for you in the UK.

  • STEP 2: Applying to the University

    Once you have shortlisted your school and program, you need to review and analyze what are the prerequisites to apply for a spot at that school. To do this, you should visit their site and check their ‘How to Apply’ page.

    Realizing that UK schools keep updating their entry requirements on a regular basis, for example, many universities have started accepting TOEFL score in place of IELTS; it is advisable that you do various checks, compile a checklist of required documents, and bookmark the deadlines accordingly. Timing is very crucial at this phase because completion/access of specific paperwork can be time-consuming and there might be some unknown delays until they’re issued to you. For instance, planning and undertaking a GRE/GMAT takes something like two-three months; in the meantime, you need to finish the remainder of your application in a timely fashion. Therefore, get ready well in time, somewhere around four-five months prior to the college calls for new admissions so as to avoid late or incomplete submissions.

    Majority of the UK universities channelize their online applications through UCAS, an online application portal, while others run their own dedicated application platform or mutually with UCAS. Therefore, based on your university selection, you need to create a personal account and then proceed with course selection and application’s submission.

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  • STEP 3: Waiting for the Admission Letter

    Upon submitting your application, you will receive an email confirmation; however, there is not a standard timeframe it takes the admission committee to review your submissions and revert back. Given the heavy load of college applications, the selection process may last for up to several weeks. Having said that, you can track and follow the status of your online application through UCAS at any time and from anywhere.

  • STEP 4: Funding Your Studies

    Studying in a foreign country, especially the UK, can be a costly affair unless you have been awarded a scholarship, assistantship, or financial aid by the institution you are going to attend. Therefore, as a non-EU and non-EEA student, you need to have appropriate financing options to cover your academics as well as accommodation in the UK. The amount of money you required to show in your bank statements depends on several factors such as the location of the university and the duration of the degree program. Generally, you may expect to chip in anything between £3000 and £18000 per year.

    We would suggest, take advantage of the time period between your application’s submission and college’s confirmation to handle monetary issues and propose you begin as ahead of schedule as could reasonably be expected. Fortunately, there are a lot of scholarship support options in the UK accessible for international students such as Gates Cambridge Scholarship, Edinburgh Global Research Scholarship, and Bristol University Think Big Scholarships to name a few. Therefore, start well in advance and explore all the possible avenues and don’t let inadequate funding hamper your ‘Study in the UK’ dreams.

  • STEP 5: Getting a Student Visa – TIER 4 (General)

    For a non-EU and non-EEA resident, TIER 4 visa is required for studying for a period of more than six months in any UK university. Owing to the unprecedented delays in student visa processing, it is highly advisable that you should be fully aware of the visa requirements and documentation needed even before you get the admit letter. To sum up, mainly you will need a) University Offer Letter, b) Proof of English-speaking Proficiency, c) Valid Passport, and d) Proof of Financial Support. So the day you receive your acceptance letter, we advise you seek guidance from the British Embassy on student visa requirements in the UK or visit the official government website to find out more about the visa application process and dates. Once you have applied for your visa, you will hear from the embassy within three to four weeks.

  • STEP 6: Finding Accommodation/Roommates

    With your college and visa applications endorsed, the subsequent stage is discovering someplace to live. There is an unfathomable scope of student accommodation alternatives in the UK, extending from shared residences and college corridors to private condos and off-campus housing. The best way to find out is to seek advice from your seniors, friends or acquaintances who are already studying (or have experienced the student life) at that particular university. For those who don’t have one, get help from Indian Student organizations (or on-campus student clubs); they will not only provide you with a temporary accommodation upon landing but will also unite you with your potential roommates.

  • STEP 7: Working Part-time

    To further lower the burden of financial constraints and earn some extra cash to support your living expenses, you may grab the opportunity to work on-campus on a part-time basis depending on your degree and visa requirements. There are some strict guidelines and rules set by the UK Council for International Student Affairs about working in the UK and hence it is vital that you don’t overstep these boundaries or else you could be deported back home. However, once you are aware of these restrictions, for example, the number of hours and type of jobs, based on your visa type and degree coursework, you can shortlist your available job options and start paying off your rent and phone bills.

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