Thursday 24 November 2011

Focus UK

UK has one of the oldest established educational system in the world. It offers education which allows you to flexibly gain qualifications which are recognized and respected throughout the world. It offers a vast pool of courses like International Business, MBA, Engineering, IT, Forensic Science, Fashion, Media, Communication, Tourism, Hospitality, Music etc.Top universities UK, colleges in UK and schools provide multicultural and challenging academic environment which has developed over many centuries, providing a solid foundation for all skills required to do well and succeed in the globalized world economy. Quality standards for all UK universities in UK and institutions are amongst the very best and in the forefront of the academic world. The popularity can be judged by the fact that there are currently 40,000 Indian students studying in the UK.

UK programs are significantly less expensive than programs in other top destinations for international students, including the U.S. Programs in the UK are shorter in length, which can decrease total expenditure by a large amount. Reputed universities in the UK offer MBA's , as well as the highly sought after one-year Masters Degree for almost all disciplines – opting for this not only saves you time, but money as well. The admission for these courses is based on the marks obtained at the undergraduate level in India. Under the new visa assessments, it is advisable to have obtained the given IELTS grades, especially for the undergraduate applicants, although sometimes the university/college may not necessarily ask for them.

With the courses starting in January and September , this is the perfect time to make this crucial decision and head to the UK for a degree of your choice, urge counselors at Edwise. It is imperative that you choose and apply to universities as early as possible . Some of the popular courses and reputed universities do tend to get filled up early, so to avoid any disappointment- now is a good time to start your application process. For admission, students generally require good academic background, marksheets, recommendation letters, work experience certificates and an interview in rare cases . With over two lakh international students, Universities in UK has developed a much simpler application procedure and better international student service practices than anywhere else in the world . The application process for universities is relatively easy and the Edwise counselors say -it only takes around a couple of weeks for the same to be completed.This will give you enough time for further procedures and you will be able to make your arrangements (funds /visa /accommodation) accordingly.

The visas are also quite easy to obtain and the process is pretty streamlined for genuine applicants, who have received a valid CAS and are able to show the required funding available in an acceptable format and with certain banks only. The new student visa process under the Tier 4 of the Points Based System is simpler, more transparent and easy to obtain. There have also been positive steps taken towards checking of quality of colleges and institutions , which ultimately benefits the genuine students . Students also get the opportunity to work part-time at the publicly funded institutes.

Whilst work opportunities do exist for deserving candidates,we must be aware that opportunities are more abundant back home with the current economic growth rate in India.

Studying in the UK can be the best decision of your life! Apart from its impact on your academic training, it has tremendous value as a personal experience that will broaden your horizons and propel your career to great heights.

Wednesday 7 September 2011

Meet Leading Universities

Top Universities from 7 countries are visiting 10 cities in India over September to interact with students who wish to pursue their education overseas. Amongst the 60+ institutions that will be present many feature high in the rankings of their respective countries for various programs.

Often students wonder where to start and get the right information about studying abroad. The World Education Fair organized by Edwise is an ideal starting point where students will get to interact face to face with representatives from several institutions from renowned universities and colleges from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Switzerland. This fair introduces you to study abroad through informative seminars about various benefits and options of each country and gives you information on how to apply to institutions, information for study loans and the visa procedure too.

Some leading UK Universities attending are Anglia Ruskin University, Birmingham City, Coventry, De Montfort, Essex, Glamorgan, Hertfordshire, Huddersfield, Liverpool Hope University, Middlesex, Salford, Southampton, University Of West Of Scotland, USA – Hult International Business School, James Madison,Long Island , New York Film Academy, Oregon State , University of Massachusetts(Boston), University of Massachusetts(Dartmouth), University of Massachusetts(Lowell),University Of South Florida, Western Kentucky CANADA – Algonquin College, Centennial College, Fleming College, Fraser International College, George Brown College, Humber Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning, International College of Manitoba, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Thompson Rivers AUSTRALIA – Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School, Bond University ,Curtin, Deakin, Griffith, La Trobe , Macquarie, Southern Queensland, Swinburne , The Management Edge Group,Think Education Group, University of Western Sydney, The University of Newcastle, NEW ZEALAND - Pacific International Hotel Management School, Manukau Institute of Technology SINGAPORE –Curtin Singapore, East Asia School of Business, German Institute of Science & Technology, James Cook University, Singapore Institute of Management Pte Ltd, Management Development Institute of Singapore, SWITZERLAND - Swiss Hotel Management School, Hotel and Tourism Management Institute Switzerland and many more........

A vast range of subjects are covered by these institutions namely Business, Management, Engineering, Technology, Bio Sciences, Pharmacy, Architecture, Law, Economics, Arts, Design...and many more.

Some institutes also provide scholarships or spot admissions for complete applications. All these institutions have UG & PG courses for Jan 12 intake and Sep 12 intake. Some institutions also offer application fee waiver & you could save upto Rs. 35,000/- on application costs and save time too.

Nikhil Talathi from Roehampton University studying MBA said “Attending the Edwise Fair helped me in reducing the confusion that I had in regards to my higher studies abroad and saved a lot of my time. At first I attended the fair just out of curiosity but the seminars the one to one interaction and the personalized guidance given by the Edwise counselors made my process simple. My parents too attended this fair and were comfortable that my education destiny was in the right hands of Edwise. ”

Students who are interested in interacting with University delegates should visit the nearest Edwise office to register for the event, submit their tentative applications and to secure appointments with the delegates. Prior Registration with Edwise is mandatory to attend this fair.

This event is considered as the Best of all World Education Fairs and is scheduled from the 15th Sep to 1st Oct in 10 cities across India.

For more information you may visit our website: www.worldeducationfair.com
or call your nearest Edwise office.

Sushil Sukhwani
(Director)
Edwise

Friday 2 September 2011

Canada Craze

Canadians are known world-wide for being friendly, peaceful and tolerant. Canada is rated as one of the safest countries in the world by the UN. Canada is known for providing high quality education at an affordable price. Canada holds an international reputation for high educational standards. Canadian degree's are internationally equivalent to degrees from the United States or other Commonwealth countries. Canada is consistently ranked by the UN as one of the best countries in the world to live in. The Canadian banking system is currently ranked number one in the world and the economy is extremely stable. There is no question that studying aboard is a huge financial undertaking. Apart from affordable tuition fees the cost of living in Canada is far lower than other popularly preferred countries. Canada plays host to more than 1,80,000 International students in any given year.

The major intakes for studying in Canada are September and January. Students are allowed to work part time for 20 hrs per week during the first semester on campus and thereafter off campus. As per the recent immigration rules, students graduating from an eligible 2 year program from a Canadian post secondary institutions will be eligible for an Open wok permit for 3 years and can work for any employer in any industry. They are not required to have a job offer at the time of application of this work permit. Those who have studied for 1 year, are eligible to work for 1 year on completion of the course.

Canada also offers a wealth of choices when it comes to courses and disciplines, with IT, pharmacy, hospitality, management, e-commerce, animation being the most preferred courses. Post secondary institutions in Canada offer a wealth of program types and disciplines. Colleges offer certificates, diplomas, co-op placements, apprenticeships, and graduate certificate programs. While universities offer three and four year Undergraduate Degrees, 2 year Master's programs and Doctorate or PhD programs. Several students from India prefer to study a one year PG Certificate/ Diploma program in Canada as it is low on expense and high on hands on experience.

Canada also offers a relatively easier path to permanent residence for students who graduate from Canadian institutions. The visa process is not very cumbersome. The Canadian High Commission, have launched a new visa category designed to expedite the visa process for college applicants with a view to increasing the approval rate and reducing the time. This is called the Students Partners Program (SPP). Under this Program, Students are encourage to opt for Educational Bank loans to cover 80% of their entire Educational expenses along with a good IELTS score . One can expect the full visa process to be completed in 15 working days.

Canada welcomes new immigrants as the current population is aging and an active immigration policy is essential for Canada to maintain its dynamic economy. International students with Canadian credentials and Canadian work experience may apply for permanent residency without having to leave Canada through the Provincial Nominee Program, Canadian Experience Class and Federal Skilled Worker categories.

Since 2009 the number of students enrolling in Canada from India has doubled every year. Edwise works with several institutions in Canada that still have vacancies for Jan '12 intake thus students are advised to rush with their current documents at the earliest.

Sushil Sukhwani
Director
Edwise

Wednesday 31 August 2011

EXPLORE NEW ZEALAND

Universities in New Zealand, Masters in New Zealand, New Zealand College list, Study in New Zealand


New Zealand has an international reputation as a provider of quality education. It has a progressive education system with many state of the art facilities. It offers a safe learning environment with excellent study opportunities and support services for international students. Courses are available for academic, professional and vocational studies at New Zealand institutions - universities, polytechnics and institutes of technology, colleges of education, secondary schools and private training establishments.


New Zealanders are well traveled and have a great interest in people from other cultures, so visitors and international students soon feel more than welcome. Campuses are very international with students from all corners of the globe studying and socializing together.


New Zealand produces top graduates who can take their place with confidence in the international arena in many disciplines. Sir Ernest Rutherford, who first split the atom, and Dr Bryan Barrett-Boyes, prominent international heart surgeon, are but two examples of the calibre of New Zealand graduates.

There are eight government-funded universities providing undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes. Some also offer foundation programmes. Whilst all offer a broad range of degree subjects, each university has its own specialized courses.



The quality of a New Zealand university education is well recognized internationally. Many New Zealand graduates have gone on to achieve international recognition in their field. Many of the international students from developing Asian nations, who have studied at New Zealand universities, have since served as senior administrators, including cabinet ministers in their own countries.



A popular option is to study at one of the 25 government-funded polytechnics and institutes of technology. They offer a wide variety of programmes which can be both academically and vocationally focused. You may choose from a short course teaching a specific skill, or from a wide range of courses resulting in a certificate, a diploma or a degree.



Some institutions offer Year 1 of a degree programme, with subsequent years being completed at a university.
Here are a growing number of private tertiary and training providers offering an alternative study option. They offer a range of programmes including professional certificates, diplomas and degrees in a diverse range of subjects including art, the hospitality industry, computer studies, secretarial studies, quality management, ecotourism and others.

Usually universities and polytechnics New Zealand offer student accommodation on campus. Some students prefer to live off campus and will seek advice from the student support services, provided by most tertiary institutes, to help with arranging homestays or give advice on finding student flats.


It is generally recommended that international students allow Rs.3,30,000 to Rs.3,70,000 per year for living and accommodation costs. This includes accommodation, food, travel, textbooks and limited entertainment.


In summary work hard and play hard is the lifestyle choice of many international students in New Zealand. If you are looking for world-class education and training, and also want new experiences, fun, a relaxed lifestyle and a safe and healthy environment, then you should consider New Zealand as your study destination.


The Ministry of Education operates a Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students (the Code).

Academic standards are assured by NZQA and other agencies.

Edwise has been a NZSA (New Zealand Specialist Agent) specialist and an authorised representative for all universities and institutes in New Zealand. So visit your nearest Edwise office and gain more information.


Know more about Universities in New Zealand

Wednesday 17 August 2011

Bachelors Overseas

In today's time of high percentage cut offs in India and the growing globalisation of education, several students are considering pursuing a degree from universities abroad. Apart from high quality education it also broadens your knowledge and opportunities. Thus more and more students from India are going for their bachelors overseas. Currently it is possible to enrol for programs starting in September /October 2011 in UK, USA, Canada and Singapore but one would have to immediately visit Edwise.

UK: Qualifications offered by British Institutions are respected and recognised around the world. It offers you enriching and rewarding experience that changes student's life. A “Sandwich” year (optional) is the 3rd year when the student does a work placement before coming back to study in UK Colleges the 4th year at University. Students can also study vocational & technical programs , diplomas, certificates and foundation degrees.

USA: At the undergraduate level, US offers an intensive, well structured, yet extremely flexible education system where students can choose their specialization at a later time. USA has institutions offering bachelors degree with just 1000-1200 students and some having upto 30000 students.

Canada: Education system is excellent and ranks among the best in the world. Canadian institutions are both public funded and private colleges. Due to government funding the tuition fees are low. Several programs may even have a paid co-op term where one gets hands on experience in working in the industry.

Australia: Has a low cost of living and tuition and excellent lifestyle. The student has the choice of about 2500 different variants/combination of courses. All the courses of study in Australia come under the scope of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

New Zealand: Education system is based on the prestigious British system. It offers world-class facilities, resources and teaching staff, and NZ qualifications are valued and transferable throughout the world. Edwise is recognized as a NZSA (New Zealand Specialist Agent).

Singapore: Bachelor's degree programmes are offered from accounting, economics to engineering, architecture and business management. Institutions and courses are accredited by SPRING Singapore. Edwise is a certified Singapore Education Specialist, Several parents prefer to send their children to Singapore for Bachelors due to the low fees, safe environment and proximity to India.

Dubai: Offers comprehensive education to students at the undergraduate level. Prestigious Universities from USA, UK, AUS, and Canada etc. have set up their campuses in Dubai and offer various specialisations. The degrees awarded are directly from the International University.

Those planning to study bachelors overseas in 2012 should also visit Edwise now to start the process.

Sushil Sukhwani
Director
Edwise

Tuesday 16 August 2011

New Zealand - Safe and Beautiful


New Zealand, a country highly responsive to the changing needs of global communities and international business, continues to grow at a rapid pace.  Add to this the attraction of its natural, outdoor lifestyle, low density population, good employment opportunities, advantageous exchange rate and what you get is an irresistible combination all the good things a country can offer to an aspiring student.

As a former British colony, New Zealand's education system is based on the prestigious British systemNZ offers a plethora of courses and degrees from its eight state-funded universities, in popular streams like arts, commerce and science as well as in specialities like medicine, engineering, management, computer studies, biotechnology and architecture - all of which are internationally acknowledged for their academic and research performance. It also has more than 22-state funded and NZQA approved institutes which offer certificate/diploma programs. Many of these institutes offer graduate diploma programs as well. Incidentally, NZ also specialises in courses in dairy, agriculture, horticulture, hotel management and tourism - sectors not at all affected by recession.

What's more, the NZ government has in place a Code of Practice, signed by over 1,200 institutions in the country, which ensures a consistently high standard of education.


Not only do these state-funded universities offer high standard education, but they are also charge remarkably low tuition fees for educational courses as compared to most other countries. And if financial woes dog you, then here's some more heartening news. NZ boasts of an extremely low unemployment rate of just 6%, [according to the NZ Household Labour Force Survey 2009]. Students studying in NZ are allowed to work part-time for 20 hours, during the academic year and full-time during vacations.
"The Staff at NZMA have been wonderful and there is so much support here for International students" said Mani Kaul who is pursuing a National Diploma in Hospitality Management.

[According to the New Zealand Trade Commission], the last four years have seen an impressive growth spurt in the international student market from India in New Zealand. The NZ consulate received a whopping 6,000 visa applications from aspiring students in 2009 - a threefold increase from the 2000 applications in 2005, states the New Zealand Visa Bureau.

"Going to NZ for studies has turned out to be the best decision of my life. Even before the completion of my course, I have been inundated with offers in the international job market," said Mathew Lawrence who is pursuing Bachelor's degree in Science from University of Auckland.
Even the NZ government has gone out of its way to make visitors feel welcome, ensuring that all the visa procedures are hassle-free.

International students who have graduated from a course in New Zealand get a graduate job search visa for one year. Students are pleasantly surprised to find that NZ is a country that offers them a lenient grace period of an entire year to find a job that suits their needs. And after they find a permanent job, they can also extend their work permit by another two years. That's not all, NZ also offers a spouse visa as well.

If you fall in love with the clean and green way of life in NZ, here's some news that you'll definitely use: applying for permanent residency is as easy as apple pie - very aptly, a NZ delicacy you will relish.

Friday 12 August 2011

Visa - The Final Step


Admission in an international university program does not ensure that you get a visa. Whether you can travel and study abroad or not, depends solely on a single all-important document that can make or break your future plans: your student visa.

The visa is one of the most important steps in the process and often result in a lot of anxiety. Visa is an entrance clearance stamp placed on your passport by the concerned country's High Commission or Consulate, which gives you the permit to travel to that country. Each country has its own document requirements, process and application deadlines and processing times for student visas. All the aspects are taken into account before endorsing the visa.


The rules and regulations for getting a student visa can get confusing as it varies for each country. But the good good news is that you can easily overcome this hurdle by being prepared with all the requisite documents and fulfilling all the requirements before you submit your application, say counselors at Edwise. Knowledge of the visa application procedure will ensure that the student is clear about the process and does not fall prey to any malpractice or procedural bottlenecks.

Something's the student needs to demonstrate are strong ties with the home country, establishing genuine purpose of visit, financial stability of self as well as of the sponsor, relevance of study program, etc.


Common requirements for a Visa application are a perfectly filled visa application form ,visa fees, an unconditional offer letter , passport with a validity of over 6 months, recent passport size photographs, proof of funds to cover tuition and accommodation expenses , educational certificates and mark sheets along with relevant test scores such as IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT, SAT, GRE.

It is important to understand how much funding is required in liquid and semi liquid form. Some factors looked into by the visa officer are flow of income, relationship with sponsor, bank account statements, education loans, recent financials activity ,source of funds, etc.

UK has introduced a new visa system from 1st April '09 called the Point Based System for Admissions in UK. Students are encouraged to apply for visas through a Trusted Partner of British High Commission such as Edwise, at the earliest as currently some new rules have been temporarily relaxed.

USA requires students to be well prepared for a personal interview which is a part of the process for grant of visa.

Canada's new SPP-(Student Partner Program) process has simplified the visa process, minimized the documentation and expedited the duration along with positive results.

AUS: The eVisa process of Australia has simplified the student visa process for Study in Australia. Edwise is authorized agent for eVisa. The student need not visit the High Commission or VFS and instead apply through an eVisa agent.

NZ: The visa process is simple and fast for those candidates who meet the requirements of the eChecklist.

Presentation of documents is very important and one should volunteer all information in the simplest manner. The officer goes through numerous applications everyday and can quickly find uncertain areas in the application. It is the duty of the visa officer to make sure that only deserving students are granted visas.

So with all the above odds of visas it is crystal clear that proper guidance is mandatory and that is exactly what the Visa Counselors at Edwise execute. So start now with your visa process.

Sushil Sukhwani 
Director
Edwise

UK - Amended Visa Rules - Can Apply Now!


United Kingdom is the most preferred destination by international students for its world renowned high quality education system which is its century old tradition. So if you have overseas education on your mind then now is the time, avail the opportunity and apply to renowned universities of UK for your aspired area of specialization.

In Apr' 09 Britain announced new immigration rules for students from India known as Points Based System (PBS). The new system is more transparent, easily understood and simplifies the existing rules for students. This hassle-free visa system of UK is the acting magnetism which encourages international students to choose UK, which has attracted 30% more students to study in 2008.


The PBS also is for those wanting to migrate to UK for study or work. It awards, points for objective criteria such as qualifications, previous earnings, age and UK experience. Under the new rules, universities and colleges will take more responsibilities of international students, which in turn ensures a safe stay for students in the new environment, a sigh of relief for the parents.

According to the latest amendments to the PBS on 1st June the visa applicants can show the funds required to cover the course fees and living expense available on or before the day of visa application rather than the requirement of the funds being of 28 days old. The loan requirement is also now revised. Applicants account number on the loan document is not mandatory.


The university in UK have higher rankings in the World and a wide range of courses are offered. The courses which a student can enhance his/her knowledge are applied and pure sciences, MBA, business, finance and administrative studies, legal studies, communications, tourism, computer and mathematics, architecture, creative arts, music, literature, fashion, human resource management, etc.

A degree from renowned university in UK will see your career soar to new heights. One of the biggest advantages of UK education is its accelerated one-year Masters degree for almost all courses, which saves you substantially enough time and money. Universities recognize the Indian education system of three-year graduation which means an Indian graduate can enter an MBA or Masters after graduation. For the undergraduate a single application takes care of 5 universities thus cutting short on the application process time.The student must show funds to support his living for 9 months and his tuition fees for one year only. The best method to learn more about the Universities and gain a quick recommendation / decision on your application is to meet the universities on a one is to one basis when they meet students at their representatives offices such as Edwise. Please see the website www.edwiseinternational.com to find the University of your choice visiting your city.

Edwise is one of the best national representative of a large number of institutions from around the world.

For those worried about the recession, all studies, logic and trends show that it is better to study now and acquire a qualification and be prepared for the future when employment opportunities open up.

The other good news for the aspiring student is the new opportunity announced by British Government for successful international graduates of UK institutions to work in the UK for up to two years. With increased demand for Study in UK and immigration friendly rules, why are you holding up? Apply now to universities in UK to set the firm foundation stone for your career.

Ring in the new academic year in UK


'Prepare in advance' may be the mantra if you want to study abroad. But fortunately, there are exceptions to every rule. So if you think you are too late to apply for February/September intakes for 2009 for pursuing education in the United Kingdom, you are wrong. The good news is admissions are still open for the upcoming intakes and you can still enroll for them. So hurry and approach counsellors at Edwise who will guide you on the quickest and easiest route towards your goal.

For over a century now UK has been the mecca of quality education. Winny Rawal who got through to Coventry University to pursue her Automotive Engineering degree in January 08 vouches for her UK experience. "Getting here was hassle free. I am impressed with the study techniques which are interactive and practical as opposed to theory-oriented," she says. Rawal is joined by thousands of like-minded students who are pursuing their degrees in UK currently.


Students can specialize in many popular courses like International Business, Satellite Communication, Fashion Retailing, Broadcast Journalism, Engineering, Biotechnology, Forensic Science, Sports Management, etc. MBA happens to be the most sought after course because of the current market demand.UK offers several incentives to Indian students aspiring to study in its universities and colleges. The biggest advantage is its one-year Masters Degree for almost all courses, which saves you time and money. Secondly, unlike universities in other countries, most universities in UK recognize the Indian education system of three-year graduation. Thirdly, you can apply to numerous universities on the same application form, as UK has a central system known as UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admission Service), which clears applications for first degrees. 

What's more, you can take your pick from a plethora of courses in every conceivable subject. As Jamie Vegad International Officer of De Montfort University (DMU) puts it "At DMU, we offer an outstanding range of courses, designed to meet the needs of international students in today's global job market."


The British Government has streamlined its visa process in recent years to make it more user-friendly for international students. Post your degree, UK also provides you with a stayback opportunity. In fact, international graduates from UK are free to seek employment for up to two years under Tier 1 of the Points Based System (PBS) - under which points are awarded for objective criteria such as qualifications, previous earnings, age and UK experience.

Tier 1 permits 2 years of stay permitted and allow international graduates to find work in the UK without the need for a sponsor or work permit.

Students are cautioned that it is important to process their applications from a "Trusted Partner of the British High Commission. Promoting Education in the UK" as they offer quality certified counseling services and assist with visa formalities. So what are you waiting for? When it comes to making a decision to pursue a degree in UK, it's never too late.


UK Education - key to success

Think UK, and the hallowed portals of Oxford and Cambridge Universities come to mind. This is just another example of the fact that high quality education is a century-old tradition in the land of Shakespeare. And if quality education abroad is what you're looking for, then your search can end here, say education consultants Edwise.

Indian students are pursuing higher education in the UK in record numbers, representing the second largest number of international students there. Nitin Udamale currently doing MSc Computer Forensic at University of Glasgow says "Studying in UK not only helps you get global knowledge but also gives you the chance to interact with people from all over. It gives you the freedom to choose modules within courses as per your interest and get a world class education.'

Universities in UK offer a plethora of courses, like applied and pure sciences, MBA, business, finance and administrative studies, medicine, legal studies, communications, tourism, computer and mathematics, architecture, creative arts, music and literature. What's more, students with UK qualifications are recognised worldwide. In fact, UK institutions adhere to such strict criteria, that many other countries are now trying to emulate the high educational standards set by the UK. That's why a degree from one of UK's renowned universities and colleges serves as a tremendous boost for your career.

One of the biggest advantages of UK education is its one-year Masters Degree for almost all courses, which saves you considerable time and money. That's not all -- unlike universities in other countries, most UK universities recognize the Indian education system of three-year graduation.

Entry criteria for enrolling into Top universities in UK  do not require a herculean effort and can be done in a jiffy with a little advice from Edwise consultants. And with the January/February intakes fast approaching, now would be the perfect time to set the ball rolling by starting work on the application procedure.

The British Government has streamlined its visa process in recent years to make it more user-friendly for international students. Most applicants from India who provide a confirmed offer from a UK University and evidence of financial support for tuition fees and living costs are issued visas.

In the UK, students are guaranteed on-campus accommodation by many universities, for at least their first year. Students also have the option of shared homestay or flats/apartments.

And post your degree, UK also provides you with a stayback opportunity. The latest heartening news is that from June 30 onwards, international graduates who have studied in the UK will be free to seek employment for up to two years under Tier 1 of the Points Based System (PBS) - a new system for managing migration for those wishing to enter the UK for work and study. Points are awarded for objective criteria such as qualifications, previous earnings, age and UK experience.

The best part of this is that Tier 1 permits twice the length of stay permitted under the old International Graduate Scheme (IGS) rules and allows the most able international graduates to find work in the UK without the need for a sponsor or work permit. The new system is applicant-friendly, acting as an open invitation to those interested. So what are you waiting for: head to the UK to share the experience that Bill Clinton, former president of USA, renowned human rights campaigner Desmond Tutu and cricket legend and politician Imran Khan have had before you.


Tuesday 2 August 2011

Visa - The Critical Step

Admission in an international university program does not ensure that you get a visa. Whether you can travel and study abroad or not, depends solely on a single all-important approval that can make or break your future plans: your student visa.

The visa is one of the most important steps in the process and often results in a lot of anxiety. Each country has specific requirements and you have to meet the requirements.

The rules and regulations for getting a student visa can get confusing as it varies for each country. But the good news is that you can easily overcome this hurdle by being prepared with all the requisite documents and fulfilling all the requirements before you submit your application, say counselors at Edwise. Knowledge of the visa application procedure will ensure that the student is clear about the process and does not fall prey to any malpractice or procedural bottlenecks.

Principally you need to demonstrate that you are a genuine student, and have the financial ability and propose to study a relevant course.

Common requirements for a Visa application are: A correct application form, visa fees, confirmed offer letter of the university (I-20, CAS,etc), passport with a validity of over 6 months, recent picture, required finance in acceptable format, academic documents and relevant test scores such as IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT, SAT, GRE.

It is important to understand how much funding is required in liquid and semi liquid form. Some factors looked into by the visa officer are the regular flow of income, income tax returns, relationship with sponsor, bank account statements, education loans, recent financial  activity ,source of funds, assets etc.

UK
The new student visa process under the Tier 4 of the Points Based  System is simpler, more transparent, easy to obtain, as the process is streamlined for genuine applicants with valid CAS documents and are able to show the required funds in an acceptable format.

USA
Students need to book a date in advance and submit all documents too but the main factor is the interview. Starting early helps as dates fill up.

Canada 
The Canadian High Commission, have launched a new visa category known as Students Partners Program (SPP)  whereby one can expect the full visa process to be completed within 2 – 3 weeks. Under this Program, Students should opt for Educational Bank loans along with a good IELTS score . For those not taking a loan the process is 6-8 weeks.

Australia
Some rules have been  relaxed for India from this year. Diploma or advanced diploma at a higher education institution will be assessed for Higher Education at Subclass 573 AL-3. Boarding fees can be paid in advance to the education provider which can be deducted from living cost for visa. Now we can show 3 months old funds, anyone can sponsor and show funds upto 24 months or course duration whichever is less for AL-3. Medicals can be done in advance to save time. TOEFL, PTE and Cambridge English will be introduced later this year.

New Zealand
The visa process is very simple and fast for those candidates who fall in positive profile. Students can show funds of relatives and those students who have problem in showing funds can opt for the FTS scheme. Students can take their spouse as dependents.

Documents Presentation plays significant role while evaluating overall application. Please ensure documents are perfectly presented, self explanatory and verifiable.

So with all the above odds of visas it is clear that proper guidance is mandatory and that is exactly what the visa counselors at Edwise execute. So start now with your visa process.

Sushil Sukhwani
Director
Edwise