Study In Australia | Scholarships to study in Australia | International students | Study in Australia for Pakistani Students | Education costs in Australia

Study in Australia

Primary and secondary schools: This is equivalent to 10+2 education in Pakistan. Certification at the end of schooling is by continuous assessment within the schools or by a combination of internal assessment and public examinations. These procedures form the basis for qualification for entry to universities or other tertiary institutions. Foundation Studies: Foundation studies give international students the knowledge and skills for a smooth transition from learning in their home country to undergraduate studies in Australian universities. Foundation Studies are usually one year in duration and students are assessed and examined by their lecturers. Foundation studies are divided into various streams like arts and science studies. The common feature of foundation studies is that a university allocates a provisional place in an undergraduate course for a student who achieves the prescribed grades. English Language Schools (ELICOS): These are specifically for people who come to Australia to study English either for educational purposes or for other reasons. The Australian system of English language training is known as English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS). There are a range of courses including General English; English for Special Purposes; Vocation Courses; and Examination Preparation. The starting dates of courses are fairly frequent and they generally run from 4 to 10 weeks. Many universities and TAFE institutes have ELICOS centres attached to their campuses. Vocational Education and Training Institutes: Vocational education and training (VET) gives students practical skills for their careers. The VET sector is divided into two sections: a nationally recognised government system of Technical and Further Education (TAFE); and private providers. TAFE is the largest provider of tertiary education courses in Australia with about 250 institutes and over a million students including about 41,000 international students. The awards in VET sector are: certificates, advanced certificates, associate diplomas, and diplomas. Studying at TAFE level is also a way of gaining entry - termed a pathway - to Australia's universities. Most TAFE institutes have arrangements with specific universities, enabling students to gain credit for a portion of their study undertaken at TAFE. The VET courses include computing, design, pilot training, business management, hospitality and tourism and many other courses. Universities (higher education): There are several public and private universities in Australia which offer both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. The most popular courses of study for international students have been in the fields of Business Administration and Economics, followed by Science, then Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. University study can lead to the following awards: Undergraduate - Bachelor's Degrees, Bachelor's Degrees (with Honours), Undergraduate Diplomas, Associate Diplomas; Postgraduate - Doctoral Degrees, Master's Degrees, Graduate Diplomas, and Graduate Certificates. Type of Programmes and Qualifications Undergraduate Bachelor's Degree Bachelor's Degree (with Honours) Undergraduate Diplomas Associate Diplomas Postgraduate Master's Degrees Doctoral Degrees Graduate Diplomas Graduate Certificates Undergraduate Application Procedure: a. Application Forms Send enquiries at least 12 months before the proposed date of admission. There are two ways to get application forms. Requesting Application Forms via e-mail: You can request application forms from the universities website. Most universities have a form on their website which can be completed online to request application material. Downloading from the university website: Many universities have a downloadable and ready to print versions of their application forms on the net. These can be used for applying just as regular forms. Getting applications from University Representatives: You can also get the application forms from many authorized representatives of Australian Universities in your country. b. Academic Records Standard X Mark sheet Standard XII Mark sheet Standard XI Mark sheet: Only for those students who are applying for fast track foundation programme immediately after completion of Std. XI exam / those who have just completed the standard XII public exam and do not have the marks which will be available only in June. c. English Language Proficiency IELTS : For most courses and universities, International students are required to take IELTS (International English Language Test) which is regularly administered by the British Council. Some universities may accept TOEFL as an alternative. TOEFL: This test is conducted by ETS for International students applying to Universities abroad. This is accepted by most Australian universities d. Letter from Institution: Some Universities may waive IELTS/TOEFL if you can get a letter from institution that you have last studied in mentioning that you have been studying in English medium throughout and they are convinced that you are proficient in English. Important: Please note that IELTS is compulsory for Australian visa for students of many countries like India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. e. Statement of Purpose: The personal essays, and/or statement of purpose, also play a very important role in the process of evaluating your application for both admission as well as financial aid because it gives the faculty assessing your application their most significant impression of you as an individual. A personal statement should include reasons for choosing this particular course, your area of interest, the suitability of your education and experiential background for this course and your personal and present future goals. Postgraduate Application Procedure a. Application Forms Requesting Application Forms via email : You can request application forms from the universities website. Most universities have a form on their website which can be completed online to request application material. Downloading from the university website : Many universities have a downloadable and ready to print versions of their application forms  on the net. These can be used for applying just as regular forms. Getting applications from University Representatives: You can also get the application forms from many authorized representatives of Australian Universities in your country. b. Eligibility Most Australian universities accept the graduation system of three years for entry into most postgraduate courses. A Pakistan bachelor degree like B.A., B.Com. or B.Sc. (ordinary) is equivalent to an Australian Bachelor's (Ordinary) Degree. However, some courses and universities may require a qualification equivalent to Australian Bachelor's (Honours) Degree, which requires either a honours graduation degree like B.A. (H), B.Com (H) etc or 16 years of formal education, which would mean another year after graduation or a four year degree course like B.E., B.Tech and other such courses. For most Universities, a good first degree from a leading university in Pakistan or its equivalent is essential. c. Academic Records Full details of your education including your course subjects and grades are required in the applications. Transcripts or official records of your previous academic qualifications are crucial for your application. Standard X Mark sheet Standard XII Mark sheet Bachelor's Degree / Provisional Certificate with mark lists Students applying for admission are required to submit an official transcript from each college or university that they have attended after secondary school with complete details of the subjects, credits involved and other details like correspondence courses, diplomas etc. If the originals are not in English, copies and a good English translation must be enclosed. Please ensure all the copies of these documents are attested.  d. Standardised Tests    IELTS : For most courses and universities, International students are required to take  IELTS (International English Language Test) which is regularly administered by the British Council. Some universities may accept TOEFL as an alternative. TOEFL: This test is conducted by ETS for International students applying to Universities abroad. This is accepted by most Australian universities Some Universities may waive IELTS/TOEFL if you can get a letter from institution that you have last studied in mentioning that you have been studying in English medium throughout and they are convinced that you are proficient in English. GMAT : For most management courses, International students are required to take GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test). Important Note:  1) IELTS is compulsory for Australian visa for residents of many countries like India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. 2) Most Australian Universities do not require the GRE for admission to post graduate courses. However it is advisable to enclose a copy of your score sheet if you have done well in the test  e. Work History A number of professional and vocational courses require relevant work experience. For instance, many MBAs or master’s courses in information studies require at least a couple of years’ work experience. Most Australian universities are pretty strict about this. A detailed Résumé is an important part of your application. It should include all information of professional work experience along with the details like positions held, achievements and range of work.  f. Letter of Recommendation Letters of reference or recommendation letters play a very important part in your admission especially in courses that earn you a master’s or doctoral degree. A recommendation letter is a signed statement from a person who knows you well professionally or has taught you in a subject that is related to the course you are applying to. It should list your positive and negative qualities, strengths and other such information. The author or teacher must indicate his position, how long he/she has known the applicant and in what capacity. He/she should briefly discuss the need, importance and usefulness of the study the applicant proposes to undertake. Authors are usually asked to rank applicants in their letters of recommendation, which helps admission officers to interpret the academic credentials of foreign students. Students should obtain letters of recommendation (often on the prescribed forms sent by the institutions) from teachers who know them as a person as well as a student. You may like to request your author to give concrete examples that may show your qualities and help your case. Many universities have their own format and questions that have to be answered by the person who is giving the letter of recommendation on your behalf. Letters, which do not give enough information, can jeopardize a candidate’s chances of selection.   g. Statement of Purpose The personal essays, and/or statement of purpose, play a very important role in the process of evaluating your application for both admission as well as financial aid because it gives the faculty assessing your application their most significant impression of you as an individual. This section is the key to distinguish your application from other suitable candidates and a chance to market yourself. A personal statement should include your reasons for choosing a particular course, the suitability of your education and experience for the chosen course, your personal interests and career goals. Some courses like Business school courses will have their own essay questions and format. Others may ask for a résumé or reasons for applying to that particular course.  h. Research Proposal In addition to the above requirements, students applying for a postgraduate research programme must also submit the following documents: Detailed research proposal Abstracts, research publications etc The admission committee may also require special recommendation letters from professors of the academic institution where you last studied. Australian Student Visa Your pre-visa application will be assessed on the basis of the following criteria: Evidence of Enrolment One of the important requirements for a student visa application is that you must be accepted for enrolment, to undertake a course, by a Government registered Australian education institution. This is verified by the advice of acceptance from the Australian institution (commonly known as Letter of Offer), which is issued to a student who has been offered enrolment in a full-time course. You should not pay any part of the course tuition fee prior to the outcome of the PVA. Financial Ability Sponsor/s will have to provide documentary evidence of having cash assets (immediately encashable assets like savings and fixed deposits in banks) held for at least 6 months prior to the pre-visa application date. For school applicants, funds need to be held for 3 months prior to the pre-visa application date. a. Who can be a Sponsor? Sponsor/s can be the applicant, parents, grandparents, or spouse only ( relatives like brother /sister /uncle /aunt /cousin / family friend are not acceptable). School applicants have no restriction on sponsor/s. b. How much funds have to be shown? For Master's and Doctorate Courses: Sponsors must provide evidence of cash assets for the first year tuition fee (as on the letter of offer) and living expenses (assumed at A$ 12000 p.a.) and access to additional funds (from acceptable sources) to meet the cost of the remainder of study and stay in Australia. Commercial loans from Banks and government loans are acceptable. In case the applicant holds a partial scholarship from an Australian institution or an institution in Pakistan (e.g. Educational Trusts), funds to cover the remaining costs must be provided as prescribed above. Private corporate sponsorship is acceptable subject to certain conditions. However if the company is a family owned business and if one/both parents are directors/partners, it is treated as a parent sponsor. Students with Dependants (Spouse/Children): Costs could be expected to increase by at least 35% if the student has a spouse, a further 20% (plus A$ 8000 p.a. for school fees if the child is 5 years or older) if the student has one child, a further 15% for each additional child plus school fees. The above amounts apply irrespective of whether they will accompany the applicant. Individual return travel costs need to be taken at A $ 1500 approx. For Vocational Education and Training (VET), TAFE, Higher Education and School courses:Sponsors must provide evidence of cash assets covering tuition fee and living expenses of the entire duration of the proposed and pre-requisite course (including foundation/ELICOS/Bridging programme that precedes the main course). English Proficiency All students have to demonstrate a minimum level of proficiency, measured by an IELTS overall band score of at least 6.0, except those enrolling for a Diploma course (VET) in which case 5.5 is acceptable. Please note that TOEFL score is not acceptable and IELTS is compulsory even if the student has studied in English medium institutions throughout his/her academic career. Potential to breach visa conditions This is an assessment of an individual's current circumstances done by the visa officer by reviewing for example, the situation in your home country - your personal and financial commitments that may prompt you to return to your home country. Other Relevant Matters These include: Immigration links with Australia Usefulness of course for career development Satisfactory completion of year 12 / relevant undergraduate degree or equivalent Strong links have to be established between past academic/work background and study goals Guardianship arrangements (if applicant is under 18 at the time of PVA application) Further Processing If you are advised that you meet the PVA requirements, you will be asked to undergo further processing. This includes payment of course tuition fee to the Australian educational institution and a medical examination. It is essential that the student and the accompanying dependent(s) meet the Australian Health requirements before a visa may be granted. This involves a medical check and an x-ray for applicants over 16. Applicants will need to present an original valid passport to identify themselves to the Doctor and Radiologist. In some cases medical results will be referred to Australia and as this process takes 3 - 4 weeks, applicants will need to allow additional time. Usually only medicals where the doctor or radiologist has detected an abnormality will be referred to Australia. Applicants need to take into account postage or courier times also. Total processing time  As a general rule, applicants should allow a four (4) to six (6) week timeframe for processing of applications. Factors that may delay this processing time include: •   Medical referral to Australia and the need for any subsequent medical tests; •   Document verification including educational documents, employment references and bank statements; and •   Applications which are incomplete and require the visa office to make contact with the applicant or the applicant’s agent. Health Insurance  It is compulsory for all international students to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for themselves and their dependents, where applicable, for the duration of the visa. The premium for OSHC is only to be paid once the PVA requirements have been met. The current premiums for OSHC are AUD274 for a single person and AIJD54S for a whole family. Re-entry into Australia  All Student Visas have a multiple entry facility for the full period of the visa. Students who plan to travel out of, and return to, Australia at any time during their course is advised to check that their visa is valid for return to Australia.

Read More

Study in Canada | Application to Study in Canada | Cost of Studying in Canada | Study in Canada for Free in Top Canadian Universities | Canadian universities

Study in Canada Education in Canada is under the complete jurisdiction of the provinces and territories and as such, there is no federal education system in Canada. However, each provincial system, while similar to the others, reflects its specific regional concerns, and historical and cultural heritage. At the post-secondary level, institutions are divided into community colleges and universities. There are significant differences between the education systems of the different provinces of Canada. Secondary schooling in Canada could go up to Grade 11, 12 or 13, depending on the province unlike in Pakistan, where Grade 12 is standard all over the country.

Type of Institutions:

Post secondary education is offered by four types of educational institutions:

• Universities: Canadian universities are largely public funded, and, as a result, offer consistently high quality education at lower tuition rates for international students than their counterparts in competing countries. They offer a broad range of courses and degrees from undergraduate to doctorate and also certificate and professional degrees.

• University Colleges: As a component of the Canadian university system, university colleges offer students a choice of either academic oriented university degree programmes or the more practical-oriented college diplomas and certificates.   As a part of the Canadian college system, university colleges are distinguished by their strong student support services, small classes and strong campus environments.  They also offer combined degree/diploma programmes and university transfer programmes.

• Community colleges and technical institutes: They typically have more vocational-related curricula, with small classes, off-campus course offerings, a greater ratio of laboratory space to class room space, and an interactive teaching style.  The uniqueness of Canadian colleges lies in the combination of employer-centred curricula.   These institutes have the primary function of responding to the training needs of business, industry, and public service sectors.  Most colleges and technical institutes offer diplomas and certificates rather than degrees, however, more and more now grant degrees and applied degrees.

• Technical/ Career College: This is a privately owned and operated school with the main objective of preparing students for the job market after a short period of instruction.  The emphasis at career colleges is on practical skills over a broad range of programmes.  They specialize in such areas as business, computers, and secretarial skills.  Although privately owned, these institutes are provincially approved and regulated, ensuring that programmes standards and quality are maintained.
  
  The academic year usually starts in September and ends in May, and is normally divided into two semesters.  Some institutes operate on a semester or trimester system and admit students in January and/or May as well as September.  Many institutes offer a limited number of courses and special programmes during the summer session.

Type of Qualifications:

• Certificate is a qualification awarded upon successful completion of a programme which is usually one year in length, and is offered at colleges.

• Diploma is the qualification awarded on the basis of one or two year’s successful study, and is offered at colleges.

• Undergraduate/bachelor's degrees are awarded by a university after four years of full-time study, and lead to graduate level studies.

• Graduate/post graduate degrees lead to advanced degrees, diplomas and certificates.  A pre-requisite to participate in graduate studies is a bachelor's/undergraduate degree (4 years).

• MBA programmes will typically require a minimum of two to three years of relevant work experience, GMAT score of 580-600, TOEFL score of 560-600, and a 4 year degree, and are generally 2 years in duration, though a few institutes offer a fast track option.

• Pre-requisites to participating in a master’s programme is a four year bachelor’s degree with high academic standing equivalent to a minimum mid-B grade in Canada (mid 70’s); at least two academic letters of reference; and other qualifications as specified, i.e., TOEFL, GRE general and/or subject test.    Master’s programmes generally require two years to complete full time, and usually require a combination of course work and thesis.

• Doctorate or Ph.D. is a degree ranking above a master’s degree, and generally requires four to seven years.  A combination of course work, original research, and a thesis is required.   Prerequisites are typically a master’s degree, although direct entry from a bachelor’s degree to a masters leading to Ph.D. programme may be possible depending on the school and programme.  Minimum high-B grade in Canada (high 70’s) is required; where relevant, demonstrated research competence equivalent to at least a B+ grade; at least two academic letters of reference; and other qualifications as specified, i.e., TOEFL, GRE general and or subject test.

• Post-doctoral programmes are much more specialized, research oriented programmes.  One of the most important factors in granting post-doctorate fellowships is the personal network established between the interested applicant and the faculty member within the institution.

Undergraduate Programme:

a. Application Process

In most Canadian universities and colleges, the academic year is divided into two semesters, the fall semester (Sept-Dec), and the winter semester (Jan-May), with a short vacation at Christmas. Many colleges also offer a summer semester beginning in May.

University deadlines for the September session vary from institution to institution, though are generally from mid December to the end of March.

Colleges may have a rolling admission policy and will accept applications while processing time still permits.

• Ontario Colleges and Universities

If applying to a university and some colleges in the province of Ontario, you must submit your applications through central application centres. The Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC) deadline is March 1, those applications received after the deadline will be processed on a first come, first served basis. The Ontario College Application Services (OCAS) deadline is March 1 for admission the following September, applications received after that date will be handled on a first come, first served basis. Some Ontario colleges have applications that can be submitted directly to the institute itself. Some institutes have January admission, deadlines will be the preceding September to November.

Universities : Complete the Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC) application form for upto 3 university/programme choices. Send the form along with the fee by the 1st March deadline to OUAC

Colleges: Complete the Ontario College Application Service (OCAS) application form for upto 5 college/programme choices. Send the form with the fee by the 1st March deadline to OCAS.

The OUAC/OCAS will acknowledge receipt of the application and forward to the appropriate institutions. Meanwhile, you have to send your academic documents/supplementary fees to the chosen institute(s) by their respective deadlines If there is any additional information that the institute requires from you, it will be communicated to you. After this the institute will make you an admission offer. After you accept, the institute will send you an official letter of acceptance.

• Quebec Colleges and Universities
  
  Complete and send the application form, official transcripts/ academic records, plus application fee to the Registrar's Office of the institute(s) you wish to attend.
  
  If there is any additional information that the institute requires from you, it will be communicated to you. After this the institute will make you an admission offer. After you accept, the institute will send you an official letter of acceptance. You apply to the Canadian High Commission for a student authorisation (Visa). In addition to the student authorisation, you must apply for a Certificate of Acceptance (CAQ) from the Quebec Government. The forms will be sent to you by the institute.
  
• Colleges and universities in the rest of Canada
  
  Complete and send the application form, official transcripts/ academic records, plus application fee to the Registrar's Office of the institute(s) you wish to attend.
  If there is any additional information that the institute requires from you, it will be communicated to you. After this the institute will make you an admission offer. After you accept, the institute will send you an official letter of acceptance.
  
  Dates can vary from institution to institution, and should be confirmed by checking the relevant calendars. There are some differences in the application process if you are applying to colleges and universities in the province of Ontario and in the province of Quebec compared to colleges anduniversities in the rest of Canada.

b. Application Forms

There are two ways to get application forms.

• Requesting Application Forms via email: You can request application forms from the universities website. Most universities have a form on their website which can be completed online to request application material.
  
• Downloading from the university website : Many universities have a downloadable and ready to print versions of their application forms  on the internet. These can be used for applying just as regular forms.

c. Eligibility

There are significant differences between the education systems of the different provinces of Canada. Secondary schooling in Canada could go up to Grade 11, 12 or 13, depending on the province. Consequently, the eligibility criteria for colleges are also different in different provinces of Canada.

Most universities in states other than Ontario and Quebec require a minimum of 12 years of formal education for admission to Bachelor degree courses.

Universities of Ontario and Quebec require a minimum of 13 years of secondary school education. This implies 12 years of schooling and one year of college education in Pakistan, or 12 years of schooling in Pakistan and one year of high school in Canada. If your academic credentials are very impressive, some universities may admit you in their Bachelor degree programmes with 12 years of education.

Important: We had written and spoken to the admission officers of most Canadian Universities regarding eligibility criteria for Pakistani students applying for undergraduate courses. Most, if not all mentioned that a lot would depend on the individual case. There was no broad standardized policy. If you feel you have a good academic record and also something significant to show to the admission committee, we would encourage you to apply even if you do not match the eligibility criteria.

There are no centralized Canada wide entrance tests, each institute sets its own admission standards and assesses the qualifications of each applicant individually. The general criteria are mentioned below:

Programmes/ Level of study	Undergraduate/Bachelor's level
Business	70% in 12th grade TOEFL PBT: 580-600 TOEFL CBT: 237-250 min.
Computer Science	70% in 12th grade TOEFLPBT: 580-600 min. TOEFL CBT: 237-250 min. 12th grade level Maths
Engineering	70% in 12th grade 12th grade level Math, Physics, Chemistry, and English TOEFL PBT: 580-600 min. TOEFL CBT: 237-250 min.
Fine Arts	Min. 70% in 12th grade TOEFL PBT: 580-600 min. TOEFL CBT: 237-250 min. Portfolio/audition or documentary evidence of creative skills
Media/ Communications	70% in 12th grade TOEFL PBT: 600 min. TOEFL CBT: 250 min.

d. Application Requirements:

• Secondary School Transcripts
  
  Students who are applying for a Bachelor programme or another undergraduate course would be required to submit higher secondary school transcripts of the final exams.  Admission committees will be interested in learning how you have performed in your own educational system. If the transcripts are in a language other than English, then it must be translated into English only by the issuing authority or university otherwise it may not be acceptable.
  
• Standardised Tests
  International students are also required to take English Proficiency tests like TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing). Every university has its own minimum requirements and scores with respect to standardized tests.
  
• English Proficiency
  
  TOEFL: This test is mandatory for International students applying to a Graduate course or University in Canada. The minimum score required by most universities for admission is 570 (Paper-based test) and 230 (Computer-based test). Most universities and colleges do accept IELTS score as well in lieu of TOEFL score.
  
• Letter of Recommendation
  
  Letters of reference or recommendation letters play a very important part in your admission especially in courses that earn you a master’s or doctoral degree. A recommendation letter is a signed statement from a person who knows you well or has taught you in a subject at school or college. It should list your positive and negative qualities, strengths and other such information.
  
  The author or teacher must indicate his position, how long he/she has known the applicant and in what capacity. He/she should briefly discuss the need, importance and usefulness of the study the applicant proposes to undertake. Referee is usually asked to rank applicants in their letters of recommendation, which helps admission officers to interpret the academic credentials of foreign students. Students should obtain letters of recommendation (often on the prescribed forms sent by the institutions) from teachers who know them as a person as well as a student. You may like to request your author to give concrete examples that may show your qualities and help your case.
  
  Many universities have their own format and questions that have to be answered by the person who is giving the letter of recommendation on your behalf. Letters, which do not give enough information, can jeopardize a candidate’s chances of selection.
  
  Note : Even if not mentioned, it is advisable to include at least two letters of recommendation in your applications as they increase your chances of getting admissions.
  
• Statement of Purpose:
  
  The personal essays, and/or statement of purpose, play a very important role in the process of evaluating your application for both admission as well as financial aid because it gives the faculty assessing your application their most significant impression of you as an individual. This section is the key to distinguish your application from other suitable candidates and a chance to market yourself.
  
  A personal statement should include your reasons for choosing a particular course, the suitability of your education and experience for the chosen course, your personal interests and career goals.
  
  Some courses like Business school courses will have their own essay questions and format. Others may ask for a résumé or reasons for applying to that particular course

Graduate and Post Graduate Programme:

a. Application Forms

• Requesting Application Forms via email: You can request application forms from the universities website. Most universities have a form on their website which can be completed online to request application material.
  
• Downloading from the university website: Many universities have a downloadable and ready to print versions of their application forms on the net. These can be used for applying just as regular forms.

b. Eligibility

Most schools require qualifications comparable to a Canadian Bachelor’s (Honours) degree (Four Year Degree Programme). That means a minimum of 16 years of formal education. In the Pakistani context, it implies qualifying in a professional four-year degree like engineering or other such courses.

For Doctorate programmes, most universities require a Master’s degree in that subject. In a few exceptional cases like a good undergraduate engineering degree, they may offer a direct admission to a Doctorate course.

c. Three year graduates

If you have completed a three-year degree programme in Pakistan, the advisable plan of action to maximize eligibility for Canadian graduate schools is to apply for a Post Graduate degree here in Pakistan. A one-year university affiliated programme will make up for the fourth year of a Canadian Undergraduate degree. Professional programmes like part time diplomas from a university such as those in management, communication may or may not be accepted, However few universities may consider the case on individual basis. Independent certificate courses offered by private institutions like Aptech, PITHM etc. will most likely not be accepted. The decision is based on each university’s individual evaluation.

d. Application Requirements

• Academic Records
  
  Your past academic record is one of the most important deciding factors in securing admission to a college abroad. Most schools require you to have a reasonably good academic record especially for programmes and courses offering a master’s or doctoral degree. Each university has its own minimum requirement for its programmes, which are flexible depending on the candidate’s profile.
  
  Universities in Canada have their own marking and evaluation systems, which are considerably different from the Pakistani system. It is advisable not to convert your marks in the Pakistani system of grading to the Canadian Grade Point Average system or any other system since the conversion may not be accurate. You may attach an explanatory note from your college to indicate your rank in your class and/or university. The letter may also indicate your place as compared to the class and the university average and the number of students in the class and the number of colleges and students in the university. You may also provide any other information or documents that you feel may help you in the admission process.
  
  Students applying for Graduate courses (MBA, MS etc) are required to submit an official transcript (mark-sheets) from each college or university that they have attended after secondary school with complete details of the subjects/credits involved (for each year) and other details like correspondence courses, diplomas etc. Most universities ask for the transcript (mark-sheets) to be sealed in an envelope and signed and attested across the seal by the registrar. This procedure is to be done for each and every college that you have attended. Some universities may ask for more than one copy of the transcript.
  
  If the transcripts are in a language other than English, then they must be translated into English only by the issuing authority or university otherwise it may not be accepted.
  
• Standardised Tests
  Many Courses and Universities in Canada require you to take one of the standardized tests like GRE, GMAT along with English Proficiency tests like TOEFL and IELTS.
  
  • English Proficiency
    TOEFL: This test is mandatory for International students applying to a Graduate course or University in Canada. The minimum score required by most universities for admission is 570 (Paper-based test) and 230 (Computer-based test).
    
  • Other Tests
    GMAT : For most management courses, International students are required to take GMAT
    GRE   : For Graduate Courses in any field other than Management
    
• Work Experience
  A number of professional and vocational courses require relevant work experience. For instance, many MBAs or master’s courses in information studies require at least a couple of years’ work experience. Most Canadian universities are pretty strict about this.
  
  A detailed Résumé is an important part of your application. It should include all information of professional work experience along with the details like positions held, achievements and range of work.
  
• Letter of Recommendation
  
  Letters of reference or recommendation letters play a very important part in your admission especially in courses that earn you a master’s or doctoral degree. A recommendation letter is a signed statement from a person who knows you well professionally or has taught you in a subject that is related to the course you are applying to. It should list your positive and negative qualities, strengths and other such information.
  
  The author or teacher must indicate his position, how long he/she has known the applicant and in what capacity. He/she should briefly discuss the need, importance and usefulness of the study the applicant proposes to undertake. Authors are usually asked to rank applicants in their letters of recommendation, which helps admission officers to interpret the academic credentials of foreign students. Students should obtain letters of recommendation (often on the prescribed forms sent by the institutions) from teachers who know them as a person as well as a student. You may like to request your author to give concrete examples that may show your qualities and help your case.
  
  Many universities have their own format and questions that have to be answered by the person who is giving the letter of recommendation on your behalf. Letters, which do not give enough information, can jeopardize a candidate’s chances of selection.
  
• Statement of Purpose
  
  The personal essays, and/or statement of purpose, play a very important role in the process of evaluating your application for both admission as well as financial aid because it gives the faculty assessing your application their most significant impression of you as an individual. This section is the key to distinguish your application from other suitable candidates and a chance to market yourself.
  
  A personal statement should include your reasons for choosing a particular course, the suitability of your education and experience for the chosen course, your personal interests and career goals.
  
  Some courses like Business school courses will have their own essay questions and format. Others may ask for a résumé or reasons for applying to that particular course.

Canadian Student Visa:

All overseas students are required to obtain a Student Authorization and Visa before going to Canada for studies. Students must also meet the requirements of the Canadian Immigration Act and Regulations. Under normal circumstances, allow at least two months for your visa to be processed.

a. Visa and Student Authorization Procedure
Submit the completed application kit to the immigration section of the Canadian High commission. Please note that all the documents submitted, must be either original or photocopies notarized and witnessed by a notary public or a magistrate or the Canadian Immigration Officer, and be accompanied by a duplicate copy.

b. Documents required  

• Completed Student Application form.
• Completed Supplementary Questionnaire for students and postdoctoral researchers.
• Official letter of acceptance from Canadian university, college or Technical Institute.
• Certificate of Acceptance from the province of Quebec (Only if you plan to study in province of Quebec)
• TOEFL/IELTS scores if applicable
• Passport, valid for at least one year from the planned date of entry to Canada, plus valid passports of any accompanying dependants.
• Bank Draft for the applicable visa processing fees

c. Proof of Funds

Every applicant must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial resources available to them to pay tuition fees, maintain him/herself and dependants who go to Canada, and to pay return transportation costs without engaging in employment in Canada. For example, students without accompanying dependants must demonstrate that they have at least $10,000 Cdn plus the cost of tuition for a twelve-month period, plus the cost of transportation to and fro from Canada. Canadian $10,000 is the base amount considered adequate to cover all costs, other than tuition, for one person for a twelve-month period. Some educational institutions require that more funds be available; if the local cost of living is higher than average, more money may also be required.

d. Interview

An interview with a Canadian Visa Officer may be required. If this is the case, you will be advised in writing of the time and place for the interview.

e. Medical Examination

The Canadian high commission will issue medical instructions. Students and accompanying dependants must pass a medical examination. If the student and accompanying dependants are found to be in good health and there are no other concerns with the application, the Visa and Student Authorization will be issued.

Read More

Study in the UK | The Study Scoop | Academic Enhancement | Study visas | Study in London, UK‎, | Global Study UK | FREE STUDY

Study in UK:

Details about various qualifications offered by UK Colleges and Universities: First Degree Courses in Arts and Sciences (Bachelor's degree) are normally of three or four years' duration and are largely taught courses, sometimes including the preparation of a short written thesis. Sandwich Courses are where the coursework is accompanied by practical work. A student could either complete 2 years of college, then a year of commercial training before returning for a final year in college. Or, he/she could do a 4-year course with 3-6 months’ training interspersed each year. The main advantage is that the student gets real experience while in the learning mode. Most universities offer this type of education. Higher National Diploma (HND) is awarded by Vocational and Technical Educational Councils. They offer a 2-year course in a vocational subject like scientific and technical business subjects. Great emphasis is placed on work experience. It is often seen as the first step towards a degree course as the credits can be transferred. Vocational Courses offer an opportunity to enter the university system slowly. Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC), General Vocational Qualifications (GNVQ), General Scottish Vocational Qualifications (GSVQ) offer recognized courses in a range of disciplines. Most students opt to take 1-2 years of, for example, BTEC courses before being transferred to a degree programme. BTEC national certificates/diplomas are usually accepted as an alternative to A-Levels. Postgraduate study may take the form of an independent piece of research under supervision or a taught course, and leads to a variety of degrees and awards. The taught courses normally last for one or sometimes two years. Completion of a doctorate normally takes a minimum of three years. Many post-experience courses are also available, either leading to a qualification or providing a refresher course for graduates wishing to update or extend their knowledge. Undergraduate Programme (Bachelor's Degree): a. Application Forms Applications are made through a computerized national system known as Universities and Colleges Admission Service(UCAS). Students must complete a single UCAS form which allows them a choice of six universities and courses so that they don’t have to make costly and time consuming multiple applications. UCAS forms are available at all British Council Offices in Pakistan. b. When to Apply? UCAS forms should be ideally submitted before 15th December of the preceding year. Students can start applying even if they have received their final results. However, even after 15th December, applications can still be processed in the normal way until 30th June. After that, applications will be handled through "Clearing Process". UCAS forms should be ideally submitted before 15th December of the preceding year. Students can start applying even if they have not received their final results. However, even after 15th December, applications can still be processed in the normal way until 30th June. After that, applications will be handled through "Clearing Process". Note: For Oxford and Cambridge Students must apply before 15th October of the year preceding their year of proposed entry. There are specific forms to be filled and sent to the universities. You cannot apply to both the colleges in the same academic year. c. Eligibility British students undergo thirteen years of pre-university education as compared to twelve years in Pakistan. For those who do not, as yet, have this three year of qualifications, there is a range of access or foundation courses available. Foundation courses range from four months to a year. Applicants must satisfy both general and course requirements for admissions: General Requirements  A specified number of subject passes at both GCE "A" Levels and GCSE at grade C minimum is required for admissions in UK educational system. Course Requirements  Course requirement details can be obtained from prospectuses of institutions. Please note that for Entry into Oxford, Cambridge and London University, ‘A’ level results are required. d. Application Requirements Academic Records:Students who are applying for a Bachelor programme or another undergraduate course would be required to submit a secondary school report and transcripts of the final exams. Admission committees will be interested in learning how you have performed in your own educational system. If the transcripts are in a language other than English, then it must be translated into English only by the issuing authority or university otherwise it may not be acceptable. Standardised Tests: IELTS : For most courses and universities, International students are required to take  IELTS (International English Language Test) which is regularly administered by the British Council. Some universities may accept TOEFL as an alternative. Note :Some Universities may waive IELTS if you have been studying in English medium throughout and they are convinced that you are proficient in English. Letter of Recommendation Letters of reference or recommendation letters play a very important part in your admission especially in courses that earn you a master’s or doctoral degree. A recommendation letter is a signed statement from a person who knows you well or has taught you in a subject at school or college. It should list your positive and negative qualities, strengths and other such information. The author or teacher must indicate his position, how long he/she has known the applicant and in what capacity. He/she should briefly discuss the need, importance and usefulness of the study the applicant proposes to undertake. Referees are usually asked to rank applicants in their letters of recommendation, which helps admission officers to interpret the academic credentials of foreign students. Students should obtain letters of recommendation (often on the prescribed forms sent by the institutions) from teachers who know them as a person as well as a student. You may like to request your author to give concrete examples that may show your qualities and help your case. Many universities have their own format and questions that have to be answered by the person who is giving the letter of recommendation on your behalf. Letters, which do not give enough information, can jeopardize a candidate’s chances of selection. Note : Even if not mentioned, it is advisable to include at least two letters of recommendation in your applications as they increase your chances of getting admissions. Statement of Purpose The personal essays, and/or statement of purpose, play a very important role in the process of evaluating your application for both admission as well as financial aid because it gives the faculty assessing your application their most significant impression of you as an individual. This section is the key to distinguish your application from other suitable candidates and a chance to market yourself. A personal statement should include your reasons for choosing a particular course, the suitability of your education and experience for the chosen course, your personal interests and career goals. Post Graduate Programme (Master's and Doctorate Degree): Most UK universities accept the graduation system of three years for entry into most postgraduate courses. However, some courses and universities may require a qualification equivalent to British Bachelor's (Honours) Degree, which requires 16 years of formal education, which would mean another year after graduation or a four year degree course like B.E., BBA or other such courses. For most Universities, a good first degree from a leading university in Pakistan or its equivalent is essential. For more details on British Degrees and their Pakistani equivalent, check out the table below: British Degree Equivalent Degree British Bachelor's (Ordinary) Degree A three-year graduation degree British Bachelor's (Honours) Degree   A four-year graduation course like B.E. or other such courses.           Or A post graduate degree, like M.A., M.Sc. or other such courses. British Master’s Degree A post graduate degree like M.E. or other such courses. Student Housing and Accommodation: There are various options available for living in UK. Most universities have rooms in their halls of residence where international students can rent a room. But usually if you accept a room in a university, you would be required to sign a binding arrangement to remain in hall for the full academic year. This policy varies with each university. Alternately, you could also take private accommodation. This could be either with a British family or sharing a flat with other students. Usually universities have an accommodation office, which can help you with this. Most international students take up independent accommodation close to the university along with other international students. This turns out to be cheaper and convenient. You need not worry about accommodation in UK. There are several options. You would get a good idea when you join the university. Of course, it always helps to be in touch with students already studying there

Read More

Study in USA | EducationUSA | College Study US | USA Scholarships | Funding for US Study | International Scholarships | Study in USA without IELTS TOEFL

STUDY IN US

Undergraduate Programmes (Bachelor's Degree):

This is the first level of post-secondary education that begins after 12 years of primary and secondary schooling.  It includes at least 4 years of education and earns a bachelor’s degree.  There are also two-year programmes which earn an Associate degree. A student who has an associate degree has to study further for a minimum of 2 years to earn a bachelor’s degree.

Graduate Programmes (Master's and Doctorate Degree):

This is the same as post-graduate education in Pakistan.  It usually involves one year or more of education depending on the subject or course, and earns a master’s or doctoral degree like MBA, MS or PhD. Admission to a graduate programme usually requires a minimum of 16 years of formal education. That is, 12 years of primary and secondary schooling and further 4 years of college education.  

There is no central ministry of education in the U.S. and each institution can determine its own programmes and admission standards. There are private as well as state funded colleges.

• Universities are academic institutions that include one or more undergraduate colleges, as well as any number of graduate and professional schools, i.e. schools offering study for a single profession such as law.
  
• Four year colleges are undergraduate institutions offering academic programmes leading to a bachelor’s degree. Community colleges or junior colleges are undergraduate institutions offering upto two years of academic instruction beyond secondary school at a relatively low cost. These offer certificate programmes that last for a few months to a year as well as associate degrees.
  
• Institutes of technology or polytechnic institutes offer specialized programmes in sciences and engineering, in addition to basic sciences, humanities and the social sciences, at both the graduate and undergraduate levels.

Importance of Accreditation:

Accreditation is a process by which universities and their programmes are recognized for maintaining a certain level of performance and quality. Accreditation is usually done by non-governmental agencies called accreditation bodies. There are two types of accreditation: regional and professional.

Regional bodies ascertain whether colleges and universities as a whole meet certain standards of educational quality.
In addition, certain professional accrediting bodies evaluate the quality of education in specific fields like Business, Law etc. Following are the importance of accreditation:

• Ensures that universities meet minimum standards.
• Only national and international form of evaluation for US universities.
• Increases the recognition of degree by employers and schools.
• Helps in case the student wishes a transfer to another university.

To check out the list of accredited US universities, go to http://www.chea.org

Admission Cycle:

US universities offer two main semester intakes:

• Fall Semester (September/October): This is the main intake and almost all programmes are offered at this time. More financial aid is also available for this semester as funds are allocated for the entire year during this time.
• 
  
• Spring Semester (January/February): This is the mid-year intake. There is limited financial assistance available for this semester as most universities allocate funds to projects in the Fall semester.

• Summer Semester: Some universities also have a Summer intake around July.

Undergraduate and Graduate Application Procedure:

a. Application Forms
Send enquiries at least 15 to 18 months before the proposed date of admission. There are two ways to get application forms.

• Requesting Application Forms via email: You can request application forms from the universities website. Most universities have a form on their website which can be completed online to request application material.
• Requesting Application Forms via Air Mail: The other way is to send a request by airmail for application material. The request should contain a brief description of your educational background, academic objectives, source of financial support, English proficiency and standardized test scores. 
• Downloading from the university website: Many universities have a downloadable and ready to print versions of their application forms on the internet. These can be used for applying just as regular forms.

b. Eligibility
Admission to a College or University in US requires a completion of twelve years of elementary and secondary education. In the Pakistani context, this implies qualifying in class 12th examination or junior college as applicable.  The acceptable degrees include: Secondary School Certificate, Intermediate Certificate, Higher School Certificate, Higher Secondary Certificate

You can either pursue a two-year Associate degree like Associate of Science (A.S.) or a four-year degree like Bachelor of Science (B.S.).

c. Academic Records
Students who are applying for a Bachelor programme or another undergraduate course would be required to submit higher secondary school transcripts of the final exams.  Admission committees will be interested in learning how you have performed in your own educational system. If the transcripts are in a language other than English, then it must be translated into English only by the issuing authority or university otherwise it may not be acceptable.

d. Standardised Tests

• English Proficiency Test
  
  TOEFL: This test is mandatory for International students applying for a Graduate course in US universities. The minimum score required by most universities for admission is 570 (Paper-based test) and 230 (Computer-based test).

• OtherTests
  
• SAT I   : This is required for almost all courses and universities. 
• SAT II  : Few universities may require you to take two or three subject tests.
• ACT     : Few universities may also require you to take this test.
  

e. Letter of Recommendation
Letters of reference or recommendation letters play a very important part in your admission especially in courses that earn you a master’s or doctoral degree. A recommendation letter is a signed statement from a person who knows you well or has taught you in a subject at school or college. It should list your positive and negative qualities, strengths and other such information.

The author or teacher must indicate his position, how long he/she has known the applicant and in what capacity. He/she should briefly discuss the need, importance and usefulness of the study the applicant proposes to undertake. Referee is usually asked to rank applicants in their letters of recommendation, which helps admission officers to interpret the academic credentials of foreign students. Students should obtain letters of recommendation (often on the prescribed forms sent by the institutions) from teachers who know them as a person as well as a student. You may like to request your author to give concrete examples that may show your qualities and help your case.

Many universities have their own format and questions that have to be answered by the person who is giving the letter of recommendation on your behalf. Letters, which do not give enough information, can jeopardize a candidate’s chances of selection.

Note: Even if not mentioned, it is advisable to include at least two letters of recommendation in your applications as they increase your chances of getting admissions.

f. Statement of Purpose

The personal essays, and/or statement of purpose, play a very important role in the process of evaluating your application for both admission as well as financial aid because it gives the faculty assessing your application their most significant impression of you as an individual. This section is the key to distinguish your application from other suitable candidates and a chance to market yourself.

A personal statement should include your reasons for choosing a particular course, the suitability of your education and experience for the chosen course, your personal interests and career goals.
Some courses like Business school courses will have their own essay questions and format. Others may ask for a résumé or reasons for applying to that particular course.

g. Financial Support
You must submit a financial aid application if you desire financial help for your graduate studies in a US university. Financial assistance for non-US citizens is very limited.

The evidence of financial support is required by universities to issue the documents needed for visa application. Although it is a requirement for application, it is usually not taken into consideration into factors that determine admission. Most universities make their admission decisions without regard for the source and amount of financial support.

You would be required to submit documentation of your family’s financial resources to help schools assess your need. Most of the universities have their own financial aid form, which you would have to complete.

You would also be required to submit a bank statement demonstrating your financial capacity to support your education in US. Some US state institutions offer tuition waivers to international students in return for some type of educational contribution.

h. Interviews
A few universities may take your interview to know you better. The interview could be with a college representative or "third party" representatives, staff, faculty or alumni of the college or simply a telephonic interview. These interviews are usually informal and more of an opportunity to exchange information. The interviewer will try to judge your abilities and interests.

Student Visa:

a. Types of Visa

There are mainly two types of student visas:

• F-1 (Student Visa). The F-1 visa is for full-time students enrolled in an academic or language programme. F-1 students may stay in the US for the full length of their academic programme plus 60 days. F-1 students must maintain a full-time course load and complete their studies by the expiration date listed on the I-20 form.
• 
  
• J-1 (Exchange Visitor Visa). The J-1 visa is issued for students needing practical training that is not available in their home country to complete their academic programme. The training must be directly related to the academic programme. The J-1 visa obligates the student to return to their home country for a minimum of two years after the end of their studies in the US before being eligible to apply for an immigrant (permanent residence) visa.

The rules and regulations governing the entrance of all international students into the United States are complicated and should be properly looked into before applying for a visa.

b. Visa Application Procedure

Documents required are:

• Valid Passport
• One Passport size photograph
• A Non-immigrant Visa Application (Form 156) available from the Consular section.
• Form I-20 executed by the authorizing official of institution concerned, signed by the applicant.
• Evidence of financial ability to cover the costs of the education and maintenance involved
• Visa fee to be paid in Pakistan Rupees by American Embassy

c. When to apply: 
An applicant may apply for a student Visa not earlier than 90 days before the registration date specified on the FORM I-20. If the registration date is already passed or the applicant cannot reasonably expect to arrive at the school by the registration date, the applicant should obtain an amended I-20 or a letter of extension from the issuing institution stating by what date the applicant may arrive. After the Completed application forms along with the documents are submitted, In most cases, the visa will be issued within a few days of the submission of the application. In some instances, the process may take longer depending on the time of year, consular caseload or other factors.

Read More