FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions for Study Abroad

COURSE & UNIVERSITY SELECTION

1. How can I find out the global rankings for universities and courses?

You can consult with global ranking agencies like QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education World University Rankings. These rankings consider factors like academic reputation, research citations, and faculty-student ratio to help you decide the right university and course.

2. How do I choose the right university for my studies?

While choosing the correct university for your dream career, consider factors like the academic reputation of the university in the country, courses offered by that university, on and off-campus facilities, and student support services for international students.

3. When should I start planning my study abroad process?

It is recommended that you start as early as possible. There are many factors to consider and at times mandatory exams to prepare and perform. Selecting the right study destination, course, university, documentation, and visa process all take time. Keeping a buffer of 3-4 months depending on the country, it is advised to start about 9 months before the planned intake.

APPLICATION PROCESS

1. Is the student visa valid only for the duration of my course?

Some countries allow students to stay back to gain experience or seek temporary employment. You can apply for a work visa afterwards and if approved continue to stay there.

2. What do study abroad applications usually require?

Requirements vary by program. Universities usually ask for:

Personal and Academic information
Essay letter(s) of recommendation
Language Evaluation
Resume
Official transcript
Passport photos
Study Approval Forms

3. What are the visa requirements for studying abroad?

Visa requirements vary by country. Research the specific visa requirements for your chosen destination, including documents needed, financial proof, health insurance, and application procedures. Allow sufficient time for visa processing.

4. What documentation is required for a study abroad application?

The following are the documents required to apply to a university.

Submit academic transcripts
Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Proof of funds
Updated CV/resume
Test scorecards

5. How can I fund my education abroad?

Funding options include scholarships, grants, loans, part-time work, and financial aid. Look for scholarships for Indian students, government grants, and university assistance.

6. What is the process for obtaining a student visa?

The process for obtaining a student visa involves applying to the consulate or embassy of the destination country, submitting the required Visa documents, and then attending a Visa interview.

ENGLISH TESTS

1. What are the language requirements for international students?

International students are expected to qualify for any of the following English Proficiency tests with at least a minimum score.

IELTS
TOEFL
SELT
PTE
DTE

2. Is it necessary to take language proficiency tests for admission?

The majority of English-speaking countries require English proficiency tests for admission in their universities hence, it is necessary to take the language proficiency tests.

3. Is there any minimum score that I need in my school or graduation to be eligible for studying abroad?

Entry criteria vary for courses and countries that you apply to. In many countries and for many courses, admissions are conducted based on entrance exams such as GRE or GMAT. You may also have to take an additional English language test. High scores can enhance your application. So, make sure to always check specific eligibility criteria.

4. What are the major entrance exams available for studying abroad?

SAT or ACT
GMAT
GRE
MCAT
LSAT

GENERAL QUERIES

1. What is the process of applying to a university?

Applying to a university may seem daunting. To make the process smoother, you can:

Research and Shortlisting
Check Admission Requirements
Prepare Required Documents
Online Application Submission
Application Fee Payment
Track Application Status
Visa Application
Acceptance and Pre-departure
Travel Arrangements

2. Are extra-curricular activities helpful in strengthening my application?

Universities prefer well-rounded candidates with diverse achievements. Having extracurricular interests enhances your application, increasing your chances of being accepted. To secure a spot in your desired university, make sure to distinguish yourself.

3. Can I extend the duration of my studies if I need to do further specialization and other courses?

Universities typically permit international students to extend their study duration based on attendance and academic performance. Consult your supervisor or advisor once on campus.

4. Will my overseas qualification be recognized in India? What is the value of an abroad degree in India?

After graduating, it's beneficial for students to work abroad for international experience, enhancing job prospects in India. Most foreign degrees are recognized for further education here, but for fields like medicine or law, additional exams or studies may be needed for validation.

5. What are the main intakes for international education?

The main intakes are in January and September, with some countries offering an additional intake in May.

6. How long do study abroad programs take?

Program lengths vary depending on the country and other factors.

Certificates/Diplomas - few months
Bachelor's - 3-4 years
Master's - 1-2 years
PhD - around 5 years.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT LIFESTYLE

1. Can I work while studying abroad?

Yes, studying abroad can be costly, but working part-time can help with expenses and enhance your CV. Most countries permit up to 40 working hours per fortnight during term time.

2. Should I consider campus accommodation or an off-campus stay?

Campus accommodation is an ideal option for international students, especially those visiting the country for the first time. Check with your university for the options available to you. If you have been awarded a scholarship, find out if it includes housing expenses.

3. What are the costs associated with studying abroad?

Costs vary by country and institution but expect average annual expenses between INR 15,00,000 and INR 40,00,000.

4. What are the costs of living in a foreign country?

Student living costs may vary depending on the country, budget, and luxury you choose. Generally, the living cost includes accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses.

5. Do I need health insurance to study abroad?

Yes, most countries require international students to have health insurance.

6. How do I find part-time work opportunities while studying abroad?

To find part-time work while studying abroad, check your university's job boards for on-campus opportunities, and connect with professors, classmates, and local student groups for networking. You can also make use of online job search platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and local job boards to search for positions.

POST-STUDY WORK AND LIFE

1. Can I take my family with me while studying abroad?

Many countries allow students to bring their families along with them but some countries don’t. So, it's essential to check the specific visa requirements and regulations for each country.

2. What is PSWR?

PSWR, or Post-Study Work Rights, offers international students the opportunity to live, study, and work in their host country after graduation. Visa duration ranges from 2 to 5 years based on qualifications.

3. Can I switch from a student visa to a work visa after graduation?

In most cases, yes, but this process varies by country. Some countries have specific visa categories or pathways for graduates to transition from a student visa to a work visa or permit.

4. Are there restrictions on the type of work I can do during my post-study work period abroad?

Yes, there can be restrictions on the type of work during your post-study work period abroad, often related to relevance to your qualification, occupational regulations, and visa conditions such as hours of work or specific employment sectors.

5. What is PR?

Permanent Residency or PR is a legal status that allows a person to live and work in a country or territory permanently, but not as a citizen.