GLOBAL EDUCATION COUNSEL

CANADA STUDENT VISA

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 06:41:00 +0000

CANADA STUDENT VISA

In Canada, a student visa is called a Study Permit. 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 visa to be processed. A student visa to Canada is usually a simple process, if you know what is required from you. Canada student visa is usually needed for programs that are longer than 6 months. Contact a Government of Canada offices or embassies for application of visas.
Before you apply for your Study Permit or Temporary Resident Permit, you must have:

• A valid passport.
• A Letter of Acceptance from an approved Canadian school/University.
• Proof that you have enough money to support yourself for your entire stay in Canada.
• A letter from your sponsoring organization, if you are being sponsored.
• A medical clearance, if required.
• Application fee.
• Establish to Government of Canada that you will return home at the end of your studies.

VISA PROCEDURE
Submit the completed application kit to the immigration section of the Canadian High commission, New Delhi.
DOCUMENTS TO BE SUBMITTED ALONG WITH THE STUDY PERMIT APPLICATION:
• Study Permit Application form.
• Letter of acceptance from Canadian University, College or Technical Institute.
• TOEFL / IELTS score, if applicable.
• Passport, valid for at least one year, from the proposed date of entry into Canada.
• Two passport size photographs.
• Canadian visa fees for Work Permit are $ 150 and for Study Permit is $ 125.
You can pay fees Online. When you are finished, you must print a receipt of payment and include it with your application.
• The application form must be signed and dated before it is submitted. If you are 18 years of age or older, sign and date in the boxes provided and less than 18 years of age, your form must be signed by one of your parents or legal guardian.
Note: If your application is not signed and dated, it will be returned to you.
• The visa fee is payable in cash*(INR only) or by bank draft favoring "Canadian High Commission".
• Copies of Academic Mark sheets and Certificates.
• Work Experience Certificates, if applicable.
• Proof of Funds - Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient liquid assets to pay the tuition fees, living expenses and travelling cost without engaging in employment in Canada.
• Letter from the sponsor.
• Income Tax Papers of the sponsor.

MEDICAL EXAMINATION
The Canadian High Commission - New Delhi will issue medical instructions. Students must pass a medical examination from a Panel Doctor only.
If the student is found to be in good health and there are no other concerns with the application, the Visa and Student Authorization will be issued. If additional documents are required, a visa officer will inform you.

INTERVIEW
The student may be called for an Interview, if required. If this is the case, you will be advised the time and place for the interview.

Visa applications may be lodged at VFS Global Service.
See: www.vfs-canada.co.in

BABSON COLLEGE - USA

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:39:00 +0000

BABSON COLLEGE

About Babson:
Babson College was founded by Roger Babson on September 3, 1919, as the Babson Institute. It was renamed "Babson College" in 1969. Babson College is located in Wellesley, Massachusetts; it is recognized internationally for its entrepreneurial leadership in a changing global environment. Babson grants BS degrees through its innovative undergraduate program. It grants MBA and custom MS and MBA degrees through the F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business at Babson College. Babson offers distinct executive education programs to help companies reach their strategic goals: Custom Degree and Credit Programs and Consortium Programs. Babson College is spread across on 370 acres in Wellesley 14 miles west of Boston. In the last academic year 2010-2011 there were more than 1,950 undergraduate and 1,300 graduate students at Babson, representing more than 74 countries.
Academics:
Babson College, the top-ranked college for the study of entrepreneurship, Wellesley College, one of the country’s premier liberal arts colleges, and Olin College, one of the country’s leading engineering colleges, have formalized a collaborative agreement that builds on their geographic proximity and complementary curricula to explore the synergies in the schools’ three missions. Babson College takes an innovative approach to preparing undergraduates, graduate students, and working professionals for the challenges of the modern business world. Babson offers Undergraduate, Graduate, and Executive Education programs. Babson’s dynamic curricula focus on developing skills that envelop and transcend business so that students have multidimensional abilities, and can contribute on many levels. Each department offers many specializations as well at all levels. Students can choose the course of their choice. Following are the various departments at Babson offering undergraduate and graduate degree courses.
• Accounting/Law
• Arts and Humanities
• Economics
• Entrepreneurship
• Finance
• History and Society
• Technology, Operations and Information Management
• Management
• Marketing
• Math/Science
Babson College has created Babson Global this is created to manage Babson’s global projects and activities that fall outside their traditional offerings in undergraduate, graduate and executive education. Based on the reputation, skills, knowledge, and experience of the College, Babson Global delivers programs that extend entrepreneurial thought and action to new populations.
These programs take the best of Babson in order to assist partner institutions around the globe to launch or enhance their initiatives in entrepreneurship. For global project Babson is associated with Global Consortium for Entrepreneurship Education. The Global Consortium for Entrepreneurship Education (GCEE) is the catalyst and convener for entrepreneurship education throughout the world. The Consortium prepares leaders to create value generating opportunities for a better world providing a framework for collaboration for member institutions and a vehicle for securing access to the best of today and tomorrow’s entrepreneurship education. One of the other associations is with Abu Dhabi School of Management. The Abu Dhabi School of Management, a project of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will grant MBA and Undergraduate degrees in business, with a focus on entrepreneurship.
Admission:
The admission process at Babson is very competitive students should apply well in advance for the intake they plan to go for. For undergraduate and graduate courses students have option to do the online application and as well as paper application. Undergraduate Student can apply using either the Babson Application or the Common Application. Depending on the courses the requirement of each department can vary. Students while applying should check for the department requirement in depth and accordingly send the required documents to the college before the deadline. Apart from the requirement students also needs to check for the entrance exams required for each course and accordingly get the desired scores in the those exams. International students whose native language is not English has to prove the English proficiency by taking IELTS / TOEFL exam.
Financial Assistance:
Babson is committed to educating students from diverse backgrounds, and we will do all we can to make it financially possible for qualified students to attend Babson by distributing grants, loans, and merit-based scholarships. In recent years, Babson has met between 98 and 100 percent of undergraduate students who demonstrated financial need; the total amount awarded from all sources was over $24 million. Approximately $4 million in financial assistance was awarded to MBA students.
Library:
The horn library is in increased demand from the students, faculty, staff, alumni, and corporate partners of Babson College. The citizens of nearby communities have also significantly increased their use of these facilities at horn library it is one of the best library which has various resources for every one especially for the students. The primary users are the student of Babson and the faculty and other Babson staff members. There are certain facilities which are mainly available only for the students, staff, and faculty members the outsiders can’t avail those facilities. All the details regarding the library are provided for the reference on the college site. Students can make the best use of the Library services in order to prepare well for their studies and gain better knowledge. There is lot of online material available, many books, journals and many other reference materials for the students at Babson Library.

Student Life & Housing:
College life at Babson for students is filled with new challenges, friendships, exciting times, and rewarding experiences. At Babson students will meet people from all around the world and share in a culturally abundant community. There are many housing options available for students and they can choose the option as per their choice. Babson offers a selection of rooms, including studios, 1 bedrooms, 1.5 bedrooms, and 2 bedrooms, to meet a wide range of students’ needs with different facilities for students. All the details regarding the accommodation options are mentioned on the college site students needs to look for all the details and apply well in advance for the accommodation. Few of the housing options are very near to the building were classes are conducted. It is very convenient for students to stay and attend their college.

AUSTRALIAN LIFE STYLE

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:37:00 +0000

Australian Lifestyle

Once student reaches Australia, they will start noticing the differences in culture and lifestyle immediately. Australians are very friendly and helpful people, with a great sense of humor. Australia is considered one of the most competitive nations on Earth. For most newcomers, exploring the cultural differences is one of the most rewarding things about living and studying in Australia, or any new country for that matter. It is therefore important to remember the different aspects of Australian culture. Australia offers a wealth of exciting opportunities for people seeking a new challenge and a fresh start in life. Besides having some of the best beaches in the world and no shortage of pools or BBQs, Australia boasts a very low crime rate, excellent education and great dental and medical care, and a very good standard of living.

Food

The diversity of foodstuffs available in Australia is huge and comprises grains, meats, dairy products, seafood, fruit and vegetables, bakery goods, olive oil, wine and other beverages, confectionery plus a host of individual gourmet treats and specialty lines. Organic products and products with native ingredients are found in a number of categories. Australia also has significant expertise in the areas of food processing technology and cool chain management.

Australians have three meals a day of which dinner is the biggest. Breakfast consists of toast, cereal, fruit and fruit juices, milk and tea or coffee. Standard of hygiene are high in the preparation of food to the public and tap water is safe to drink in any Australian town. Fresh food is plentiful at shops and markets. Seafood's and all meats, fresh fruit, salad and vegetables are of high quality and quite safe to eat. Australian food and beverage products are recognised worldwide for their variety and healthy image.

Dressing
As far as dressing for Australia is concerned, casual wear is generally the go. They dress up very casual when at home, shopping and sightseeing. However while at work or evenings out they essentially dress formally. Australians do wear their shoes in their homes, so it is not required to take your shoes off before entering the house you wanted to, Unless it’s a really formal occasion, one has no need for a tuxedo or a formal long gown; a jacket and tie are not de rigueur for other occasions but the rule of thumb is usually whether one is comfortable with one’s choice of clothing for a particular occasion.

Australians tend to say what they think
Australians tend to give their opinions freely and openly. This applies in basic situations, such as saying yes or no when offered a drink, as well as when discussing complex political scenarios in a University tutorial or over dinner with friends. Generally, Australians are not overly concerned whether people they are speaking to agree with their opinions or not.

Most Australians like their personal space
Australians tend to stand quite far from each other when they're talking. They believe in giving each other the desired distance. When somebody stands very close to them they might begin to feel quite uncomfortable.

Australians generally pay their own money
When most Australians go out to a social function in a group, it is generally expected that people will pay for themselves. This applies as much to going out to lunch/dinner with friends, as to seeing a movie. A good common example is going out to dinner. At the end of the meal when the bill is brought to the table, the total amount will either be divided equally among the number of people who ate the meal, or each person will examine the bill and contribute the amount they owe.

Most Australians place a high priority on time
Australia is a very time-oriented place. This is reflected in their public transport system, which is strongly measured by how closely it runs to its published timetable; also in their education system where class, lecture and tutorial schedules are very strictly adhered to. The same applies to meetings with friends, although the rules are generally a bit more flexible.

Australians tend to be spontaneous talkers in conversation
Australians can be spontaneous in their conversations and may talk lot of additional information that may not be totally essential to the main point of the conversation. One reason for this is that Australians tend to feel uncomfortable with periods of silence and often prefer to fill the gaps with jokes, or by quickly introducing a new topic of conversation. The key is to understand the general meaning behind what is being said.

Gifts
In Australia it is common for the people to gift people on certain occassions like birthdays and so on. Such gifts are generally not expensive. Inviting friends to a dinner party at home is a common social activity in Australia. If you receive this sort of invitation, it is not normally necessary to bring a gift to the person's house. However, if you drink alcohol, it is very common to bring a bottle of wine to contribute to the meal. Occasionally people also bring flowers, although this is not expected.

Australians respect other people's privacy
The average Australian is very aware of not intruding too much into other people's personal affairs. There are a range of issues that are best avoided when talking socially to many Australians on the first meeting. They include discussing a person's marital status, religion, income and age. Australians also tend to respect other people's physical privacy. For example, many Australians will expect other people to knock on their bedroom/office door, or announce their presence, by saying "excuse me", before entering.

Australians place great importance on individual responsibility
Australians believe in taking up individual responsibility for their own actions whether it's at work or in a study environment. In a study environment, students are expected to produce essays and reports independently. There are great penalties for copying another person's work without proper acknowledgement

Almost all Australians have a sporting interest of some kind.
Australians enjoy variety of sports like baseball, swimming, cricket, athletics, netball, softball, soccer, hockey, basketball and tennis. Watching sport is also common for most families. Many thousands of people attend professional football games every week and many more watch all forms of sports on the T.V.

New York University

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 06:35:00 +0000

About the University:

New York University was founded in 1831; New York University is now one of the largest private universities in the United States. From a student body of 158 during NYU's very first semester, enrollment has grown to more than 40,000 students as on date. Students at NYU have an option to choose courses from the 18 schools and colleges at five major centers in Manhattan and in sites in Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America. Today, students come from every state in the union and from 133 foreign countries.

The center of NYU is its Washington Square campus in the heart of Greenwich Village. One of the city's most creative and energetic communities, the Village is a historic neighborhood that has attracted generations of writers, musicians, artists, and intellectuals. In addition to its Manhattan locations, the University is also formally affiliated to the Polytechnic Institute of NYU in Brooklyn, the second oldest school of engineering and technology in the country. NYU has established itself as the first global network university, with a comprehensive liberal arts campus in Abu Dhabi – the first to be operated abroad by a major U.S. research university – and other sites for study and research in Accra, Ghana; Berlin, Germany; Buenos Aires, Argentina; Florence, Italy; London, England; Madrid, Spain; Paris, France; Prague, the Czech Republic; Shanghai, China; and Tel Aviv, Israel, among other locations.

Academics:
NYU initially consisted of fourteen professors and lecturers now currently there are more than 3,100 full-time faculty members whose research and teaching encompasses the humanities, the sciences, the social sciences; the law; medicine; business; education; the fine arts, studio art, the performing and cinematic arts; music; social work; public administration; the ancient world; and continuing and professional studies. With more than 2,500 courses offered the University awards more than 25 different degrees. Although overall the University is large, the individuals schools and colleges are small- to moderate-sized units—each with its own traditions, programs and faculty.
The core of New York University is the academic enterprise. The best students and faculty are drawn to the University by the allure of being part of a compelling intellectual and creative enterprise — a community of scholars characterized by collaboration, innovation, and incandescent teaching. NYU students get the experience of attending a Global Network University, anchored in New York City but with nodes throughout the world.
Whether students are beginning their undergraduate education and pursuing a strong liberal arts foundation or seeking an advanced degree with a professional focus, the University's schools and colleges adhere to the highest standard of academic enterprise and innovation. A leading research institution and Global Network University, NYU is working towards becoming the future of idea capital. As such, the University's schools and colleges offer a diverse spectrum of undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and specialized degree programs.

Tuition and Fees:
Undergraduate: $15,000 - $20,000 approx (per year)
Graduate: $18,000 - $24,000 approx (per year)

Library:
Great libraries are essential to great universities. They support and empower scholarship and research innovation. The NYU Libraries is a nine-library, 5.1 million-volume system that continually enhances its on-site and online services and resources for students and faculty and expands its research collections in all formats, from paper to electronic and multimedia. NYU Libraries provides students and faculty with access to the world’s scholarship and serves as a center for the University community’s intellectual life.
Accommodation:
Whether you live on or off campus, are here for the summer, or are living in faculty housing, you will find yourself living "in and of" New York City. Manhattan's vibrant Greenwich Village neighborhood is home to many of NYU's campus buildings. Students and faculty find housing in this community as well as its surrounding neighborhoods, boroughs and the greater New York City area. Whether you're a new student applying to live in one of the University's residence halls or are looking for assistance in your off-campus apartment search, NYU has services and offices to simplify the New York City housing process. Searching for an apartment in New York can be challenging, whether you are relocating from abroad, a current NYU housing resident, or considering a change of your current off-campus living situation. The apartment hunting process is often bewildering to even long-time New Yorkers. For students NYU has good facilities and information on the housing web site to help students select the best option for housing easily.

Campus Life:
NYU’s campus is literally without walls, drawing its spirit from a global city with an entrepreneurial bent, a diversity of human life, and resources that include some of the world’s most famous cultural institutions and most valued professional opportunities. Albeit untraditional, NYU’s primary campus is located in downtown Manhattan’s Greenwich Village and there’s no doubt that the neighborhood feels like a college community. Many of NYU’s academic and administrative buildings and freshman residence halls border Washington Square Park. The sidewalks are full of students on their way to class, and members of the NYU community fill the restaurants, shops, and other businesses. Both on campus and off, the people of NYU are directly involved in the day-to-day excitement, culture, and opportunity of the city that serves as a very real extension of NYU’s campus and classrooms.
On campus, NYU offers countless way to connect with other members of the University community. With over 400 student clubs and organizations, hundreds of sports and residence hall activities, guest lectures and film screenings, and city excursions and community service opportunities, students get involved with the University, with their college, in their residence hall, and most important, with each other.
Students and faculty have access to an exceptional range of facilities, services, residence halls, and dining locations. Academic facilities include nine libraries as well as dozens of specialized centers and institutes. Everyone has access to advanced computer resources and specialized offices that address almost every need—from medical attention to discount theatre tickets.
Student living at NYU is a unique experience of its own. Students can live in residential housing near the Washington Square campus—soaking in the vibrant Greenwich Village neighborhood—or they can live off campus in one of the five boroughs and beyond. With either option, students aren’t just residents of a college campus; they are citizens, users and a vital aspect of one of the world’s largest, diverse, most interesting cities.
NYU is "in and of the city," and now with its growing global presence, in and of the world. Student Life at NYU reflects this. NYU education is an experience like no other: diverse, cosmopolitan, vibrant and rich. NYU students do not just become well-rounded college graduates, but accomplished global citizens. Navigate this section to find out more about Student Life at NYU.

London Metropolitan University

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 06:32:00 +0000

Introduction:
London Metropolitan University (LMU), located in London, England, was formed on 1st August 2002 by the amalgamation of the University of North London (est.1896) and the London Guildhall University (est.1848). The University has campuses in the City of London and in the London Borough of Islington. The change of name of the merged University was approved by the Privy Council. The University operates its own archives, libraries and museum. London Metropolitan University is one of the foremost providers of undergraduate, postgraduate, professional and vocational education and training in Britain. The courses are planned in consultation with employers and examining bodies in commerce, industry, the world of art and design, the financial services industries and other professions. The end result is high quality courses that are of direct relevance to their field. London Metropolitan University City campus has a prime location in the heart of the City of London and the vibrant Aldgate area of east London. The London North campus is located in leafy Islington in north London, a few minutes' walk away from the many lively bars, cafés and restaurants along Upper Street and Holloway Road, which cater for all tastes and budgets.
Academics:
London Metropolitan is the most diverse universities with students from over 150 countries coming to study various courses. There are around 400 degree courses offered by the University for the students. University has eleven internationally acclaimed Research Institutes and twenty research centers. University offers wide range of BA, BSc, BEd, BEng and LLB courses, as well as Foundation and Extended degrees. There are many masters courses offered as well. Students get MA Msc, PHD and MPHIL degrees. London metropolitan University has strong links with the leading corporate in London. This links help students for employment and better future.
Along with the academic courses students can also study any of the nine different languages. Students also have an opportunity to spend a semester or a year abroad in places as diverse as France, Cuba, USA, Cyprus, Spain, Argentina or Sweden. It is observed that London Metropolitan University has many international students than almost any other UK University to study here, making for a truly cosmopolitan environment. Students who are keen on sports have wonderful time at London Metropolitan University.

Admission:
All applicants for undergraduate courses are required to apply through the Universities and Colleges Admission Service UCAS. This means they have to complete a special UCAS application form in order to secure a place at London Metropolitan University. Once the forms are submitted students should also send in their relevant academic documents as per the requirements.

For postgraduate degrees students can apply direct to the International Office for a place. Each application is considered on an individual basis and relevant work experience is taken into account for many courses. Once the application is submitted online students should prepare the packets of documents as per the University checklist and send it to the University for further process.

Cost:

Undergraduate: £8,500 to £11,000 (approx per year)

Postgraduate: £9,000 to £14,200 (approx per year)

Scholarships:
Every year London Metropolitan University invests over £850,000 in its scholarship programme to help academically excellent students fund their education. There are various scholarships available for Native and international students. These scholarships are available for Postgraduate and Undergraduate students for most of the courses. Students should read all the details mentioned on the website before applying for the scholarships and then as per the eligibility they can apply for the scholarships before the deadline.
Students should submit the completed scholarships forms as per the deadlines given on the site along with the required documents. The forms once submitted along with the required material it should be send to the correct address for further process. All the communication for scholarships is done online at London Metropolitan University this helps the students to get the updates quickly.

Accommodation:
The University recognizes that as an international student, finding the right place to live is particularly important. To make the most of your time studying with the University and living in the exciting city and to feel comfortable the University has team of people to help students. This dedicated member of staff help students with all accommodation related issues. There are many options available for students to choose for accommodation. Mostly many international students choose to go into halls of residence. All the details regarding the housing options are available on the University site. Since the demand for on campus accommodation is high it is important that students book their accommodation well in advance.

Student Life @ London Metropolitan University:
London Metropolitan University is located in London, London it is one of the world's greatest cities, it's buzzing with life and has an amazing range of things to see and do. It is a city of history, culture, diversity and nightlife and is the focus of British politics, finance and the media. Not all student life is about hard work. London Met students are invited to make use of the wide choice of entertainment and events at both campuses. University has various clubs, societies, and other events conducted on campus for students. Students can be member with these and enjoy a lot of benefits like Developing new abilities and leadership skills, Work within a team of peers, Satisfaction of setting and meeting goals, making new friends Sharing talents or interests with the University community and most importantly to HAVE FUN!. Students find that the more they become involved, the more they will benefit from their overall University experience.
The International Office & International Programmes Office at London Met offer advice, counselling and support to students. London Metropolitan University has one of the highest international student populations in the United Kingdom truly reflecting the diversity of London itself.

AUSTRALIA MEDICINE

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 11:38:00 +0000

Australian qualifications and institutions are recognized globally for their high quality and excellence. Graduates from Australia are very successful in finding jobs and hold prominent positions worldwide. Australia is a safe, friendly, sophisticated and harmonious society. Medical Education in Australia has undergone changes in the past decade that are similar to those seen in many other medical schools in different countries. Medical education standards are overseen by the Australian Medical Council (AMC). It accredits medical schools and assures standards in that role. Courses are accredited by the AMC, based on guidelines aligned with World Federation for Medical Education standards.

ADMISSION PROCESS:
Australian programs have related admission requirements. Minimum education required in STD 12th for MBBS Course. Applicants must also undertake the UMAT (Undergraduate Medical Admission Test) in the year of application. Entry to the graduate programs requires successful completion of GAMSAT (Graduate Australian Medical School Admission Test) along with bachelor’s degree. Australian Medical School offers a fouryear Medical Degree. Students who successfully complete four years of fulltime study will graduate with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). Few courses with various specializations may have longer duration roughly 4 to 6 years.
Range of fees: AUD$ 20,000 - 35,000 (approx) per year.

UNIVERSITIES:
 Universities of Queensland.
 Flinders University in Adelaide.
 University of Melbourne.
 Western Australia.
 Australian National University.

Adjusting to new environment…

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 11:26:00 +0000

Once the student gets the admission in a reputed University of his or her choice then the next important step is to secure the visas. And once they are through with their visa they are all set to fly. Every student faces a mixed kind of emotion at this stage. On one hand is the pleasure and satisfaction of taking a step ahead in life. While on the other of being all alone. All in the family gets paranoid about what you’re going to eat, what you’re going to wear and how are you going to live alone in the new place all by yourself. You are also not very sure of how are you gonna cope up this whole new change. Well The best way to counter this situation is to gather as much knowledge as possible about Food, Clothing, people, life style, Healthcare of the country you plan to go. As a student it is very important for you to be aware of these things then it becomes easy for you to get adjusted to the new environment.

Many of the social and behavioral aspects of everyday life vary greatly from country to country. Some students might find it initially difficult to understand the way the people behave in a particular country but gradually you can understand and manage the same. Once a student reaches a new country they will start noticing the differences in culture and lifestyle immediately. And gradually they will know the differences and get adjusted to the same. For most newcomers, exploring the cultural differences is one of the most rewarding things about living and studying in the new country.

You need not hesitate to talk to your class mates, room mates and try and be friendly with them. Once you are comfortable with your and make friends with them then you will not feel lonely and will start enjoin in the new country. Every country has different ways of greeting each other or being friendly with each other once you land in that country you come to know the way people are then accordingly you can be friends with them.

How to manage Food
While living independently eating a wholesome and well balanced diet becomes all the more essential. One must remember that he/she needs to concentrate on the studies and it’s important to remain healthy and fit to be able to do justice to them. You have the option to cook your own food. This can be the best way to eat what you prefer. Cooking yourself, occasionally or on a regular basis is easy once you know how to. So do pack along your favorite easy-to-cook recipes and some basic spices that you simply cannot do without.
During your stay in abroad, also make sure you take advantage of the opportunity to try out a wide variety of food especially the local cuisine. Restaurants abroad need not be too expensive; the general look of the restaurant should give you an idea of the prices. It is a general trend to split the bill (or go ‘dutch’ as it is called) in case you go out with friends.

Try and look for an Indian store in the vicinity and surely you will find plenty of them. They will help to get the basic ingredients that are needed for cooking Indian food. Some stores also stock pre-cooked Indian dishes, frozen Rotis and Naans, which just need to be heated in a microwave oven. For general grocery shopping, there may be many supermarkets around your campus offering a wide variety of foods, raw as well as tinned, frozen or pre-cooked.
What Clothes to wear??
Countries abroad have a wide variety of climates and temperatures. Find out all the information about the temperatures and seasons of the place where you are going be located and carry clothes to suit the weather. The every day Campus wear can be casual but do carry some sets of traditional Indian dresses which can be worn on formal occasions. Most places will be colder in winter than those to which you are accustomed. However, this colder climate is adapted to quite well as most places have central heating. Thus most of the indoor places will usually be maintained at a comfortable temperature.
How do I take care of my health??
A change in the environment, diet and climate can contribute to discomfort or illness. Carry some basic medicines from home which can be taken for minor discomforts. Also carry your doctor’s prescription for the same. If you have a serious medical problem, the ‘Student Health Service’ at your college or university is the best alternative. In some cases, your prepaid student health fee may take care of the service which could include free prescribed medicine. The health service may also advice you to consult a doctor off-campus. Keep the foreign student advisor notified in case you are ill, or visiting a hospital. The cost of health care in most of the foreign countries is extremely high and not affordable for most people, without an insurance plan. It is important for you as an international student to insure yourself for any potential medical liability that may arise during the course. Most colleges and universities require students to have insurance for sickness and accidents.

HOTEL MANAGEMENT SWITZERLAND

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 11:08:00 +0000

Switzerland located in the heart of Western Europe and at the crossroads of various influential European cultures, this small country enjoys one of the most stunning landscapes in the world with 60 percent its area occupied by the Alps. Switzerland has four official languages: German; French, Italian and Romansh and that means that three of Europe's major languages are official. As a result the Swiss culture is very rich and diversified with a wide range of traditions, cuisines and more.
Many students from all over the world study hotel management in Switzerland. There are many successful careers in this and its related fields. Today, a large number of executives in the global hotel industry are graduates of Swiss hotel schools. Switzerland has been one of the first countries to develop tourism as a major industry. To meet the growing demand for professional hotel managers, the first hotel management school, the Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne, was established more than one hundred years ago. The country is still enjoying an excellent reputation in this field. Furthermore, Switzerland is a small, safe and friendly country, with an excellent infrastructure, and a beautiful, unspoiled and natural environment, with both clean air and water. For many parents, this is an important argument when choosing an overseas destination for their children's education. A decisive point is without doubt the excellent education provided by most Swiss hotel management schools.
A typical feature of Swiss hotel management schools are the combination of operational training with a varying degree of business administration subjects, and the emphasis placed on the development of the students' personality. Operational training includes an exposure to practical work up to the level necessary for the understanding of related departmental management procedures. This operational training is considered essential by the hotel industry, but is often missing or not paid sufficient attention at other schools. The business administration subjects provide the student with the skills in finance, marketing, human resources management, and other related fields necessary at the general management level. Various types of courses are offered by Swiss schools: Diplomas, Postgraduate Diploma, Undergraduate Degree, Masters’ degree.
Admission Process:
Applying for hotel management courses students need to have minimum cleared 12th STD, for masters or Advanced Diplomas students need to have relevant education background and work experience in the same. For international students Proof of English language ability - IELTS or TOEFL is compulsory. General requirements for applications are Application form, recent passport photographs, Copy of passport, Transcript of your previous education, Copies of school certificates and degrees, Work references if available, Certificate of good health made out by a licensed physician. Students transferring from recognized hotel-tourism management schools must also include official transcripts or records for each semester of the previous course of study. If your application is successful, and the requested course is still available, you will be sent the Provisional Letter of Acceptance. This is issued and sent together with general information upon receipt of the payment of the Registration Fee. This letter is necessary to apply for the visa.

THE NEW GRE

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 10:49:00 +0000

THE NEW REVISED GRE

ABOUT THE TEST:

GRE stands for Graduate Record Examination. GRE is administered by Education Testing Service (ETS) and is primarily a multiple-choice test that graduate schools use for admission of students into their graduate programs. GRE has general test and subject tests as well. The General Test measures abilities in verbal, quantitative and analytical fields which are needed for graduate or business school. This year there is change in the GRE exam. Students who are taking new GRE now on have an advantage of friendly design for the computer-based test. The test features advanced technology that allows students to freely move forward and backward, edit or change answers and skip questions, all within a section, and use an on-screen calculator. These features were not as a part of the earlier test. There are new types of questions in the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections, many featuring real-life scenarios that reflect the kind of thinking of an individual.

The Subject Tests measure achievements in specific fields of study. Subject tests are offered in the following Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, English Literature, Mathematics, Physics and Psychology. Some universities require these subject test scores in addition to the general test when applying to the Ph.D. program. ETS can send your GRE scores to a maximum of four universities chosen by you. The costs of sending these scores are in-built in the fees that you pay for appearing in the test.

TEST PATTERN:

GRE General Test has three distinct sections: Quantitative Section, Verbal Section and Analytical Writing Assessment Section. The test is available in Paper based and Computer based. Mostly nowadays the computer based test is available and recommended. In old GRE format, Analytical writing section was always first in the test, followed by Verbal, Quantitative and Research section. But in New Revised GRE either of the sections could be first. If there is a Research section mostly it always appears at the end of the test. The computer-based test takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes.
Test format for computer-based test:
Section No. of Question Time Allotted
Analytical Writing
(1 section with 2 separately timed tasks) One "Analyze an Issue" task
and
One "Analyze an Argument" task. 30 minutes per task (30mins + 30mins = 60mins)
Verbal Reasoning
(2 sections) Approximately 20 questions per section. 30 minutes per section (30mins + 30mins = 60mins)
Quantitative Reasoning
(2 sections) Approximately 20 questions per section. 35 minutes per section (35mins + 35mins = 70mins)
Unscored Varies Varies
Research Varies Varies

There's a 10-minute break following the third section and a 1-minute break between the other test sections.

SCORING PATTERN:
• A Verbal Reasoning score reported on a 130 – 170 score scale, in 1-point increments.
• A Quantitative Reasoning score reported on a 130 – 170 score scale, in 1-point increments.
• An Analytical Writing score reported on a 0 – 6 score scale, in half-point increments.

GRE REGISTRATION:
The GRE General Test is offered in many countries some of them are United States, Canada, India and many other countries as well. Students need to register for the test as early as possible in order to get the required test date. The appointments are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Students should take care of the details required while registration and choose the nearest testing location available. The GRE exam registrations can be done in the following ways:
• Online Registration
• Phone Registration
• Regular Postal mail

Glasgow University

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 07:47:00 +0000

Glasgow University

Introduction:
The University of Glasgow is the fourth oldest university. Founded in 1451, University has more than 16500 undergraduates (approx), almost 5000 (approx) postgraduates and 5000 (approx) adults in continuing education. Students at Glasgow University come from more than 120 countries. For its first nine years, the fledgling university was based at Glasgow Cathedral. In 1460, the University moved to High Street, where, over the next 400 years, it continued to expand both in its scope and size. In 1870, University moved to its current familiar west end location at Gilmore hill, then a Greenfield site enclosed by a large loop of the River Kelvin. The University of Glasgow's international reputation for research and teaching makes it a rewarding place for study.
The University has three main campuses. Gilmore hill, the main campus with its distinctive outline silhouetted on the city's skyline, is in the cosmopolitan West End of Glasgow, just three miles away from the vibrant city centre and connected by subway and frequent buses. The second campus, Garscube, houses the Vet School and outdoor sports facilities and is just four miles further out of the city. The University's Dumfries campus is located on the outskirts of Dumfries, in South West Scotland.
Most of the University's departments are to be found on the Gilmore hill campus, centred on Sir George Gilbert Scott's main building and home to over 100 listed buildings reflecting a vast range of styles.
Academics:
University of Glasgow offers an exceptional breadth of undergraduate student choice across the physical and life sciences, the social sciences and the humanities, together with a rapidly-expanding range of postgraduate courses. The teaching quality has been independently rated as among the top ten in the UK and medical and veterinary schools are consistently rated amongst the very best in the UK. As one of the world’s top 100 Universities, the University of Glasgow combines tradition with academic excellence. More than 1000 degree programme with various combinations are offered with the time and flexibility for students. Following are the main departments:
• Arts & Humanities
• Biomedical & Life Sciences
• Education
• Engineering
• Information & Mathematical Sciences
• Law, Business & Social Sciences
• Medicine
• Physical Sciences
• Veterinary Medicine

Admission:

The University currently accepts all Higher/Advanced Higher and A-levels in fulfillment of the general entry requirements. For Undergraduate courses students needs to have A-levels or any equivalent course to qualify for the bachelor’s course. For Postgraduate course Students needs to have completed bachelor’s degree in the required disciplines to do their masters. Each department may have different requirements for admissions which students needs to the check before applying. International students need to appear for IELTS / TOEFL to prove the English proficiency. IELTS / TOEFL scores requirement would depend on the course students choose.

Cost:

Undergraduate: £15,000 – £25,000 per year approx

Postgraduate: £10,000 – £20,000 per year approx

Scholarships:

There are various scholarships options for students at University of Glasgow. Some scholarships are offered for undergraduate level some for postgraduate levels. Few scholarships are for International students as well depending on the course they select.
Once student gets their admission in Glasgow University they should look for satisfying the eligibility criteria for Scholarship and accordingly send their applications for the same. Few scholarships options and details are mentioned below.

Glasgow Undergraduate Excellence Scholarships:

The University of Glasgow will award a total of 50 undergraduate scholarships of upto £12,000 (over a 4 year course of study) each for non-eu international students starting a degree programme in September 2010 in the following faculties:
 Arts
 Education
 Engineering
 Social Sciences
 Science

Carnegie-Cameron Bursaries

Description: The Carnegie Trust for the Universities of Scotland have awarded the University of Glasgow with 8 bursaries for academic session 2010/11. The amount of Scholarships would be £3000 and mostly this scholarship option is only for European students.

Chevening Scholarships

The aim of the award is to bring to the UK present and future leaders and decision-makers. Awards are presented annually and candidates are selected overseas by British Embassies and High Commissions in consultation with the local British Council. They are usually advertised locally in those countries where the awards are offered. These awards are usually made for:
 Postgraduate diplomas
 Masters programmes

Accommodation:

There is lot of accommodation options for students to choose on campus. One of them is private accommodation. It is available in three types:

1. Self-contained flats

These are in high demand, so once you have a few friends with whom you wish to share, it's best to start looking as soon as possible. They vary greatly in size, cost and quality, but you can be lucky and find a flat which suits your pocket and your needs. Most flats operate over a twelve month lease, so you will usually have to pay, even if you are not in Glasgow over the holidays.

2. Bedsits

Consisting of a single room, sharing facilities with other. These can be located in private homes and in all bedsit properties. Bills are usually extra and you will usually supply your own linen, towels and utensils.

3. Lodgings

These are less common, but can still be found. Usually a single room in a private home, for five or seven days a week with evening meals provided. Arrangements for bills vary, so always check first.

The second options for students is self catered residences, they have following options each of the below options has all the basic facility required for students. Students can choose the best suited options for themselves.

Library:
Glasgow University Library, built on twelve levels in 1968, is beside the Hunterian Art Gallery on Hillhead Street. With over 2 million books and journals, the Library covers many subjects ranging from Anatomy to Soviet Studies. Special Collections in the library has an unrivalled collection of manuscripts and printed works. From the upper levels of the building, the views over the city of Glasgow and the Campsie hills and beyond are impressive.

Masters in Australia

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 07:39:00 +0000

AUSTRALIA
Australia offers a highly practical environment for international students to attain skills and qualifications in any of the related areas in the discipline of engineering faculty. These include, among many others, Software, Civil/Infrastructure, Manufacturing, Aerospace and Aeronautical, Applied Physics, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering courses, from Technical and Further Education (TAFE) programs to university degrees and numerous postgraduate opportunities. The courses include both classroom study and practical fieldwork. Engineers are involved in planning and designing, manufacturing, constructing and managing technological activities of our society, Australian engineering schools are all regularly monitored by the Institution of Engineers Australia. There are 37 engineering schools in Australia.
Australian engineering courses are starting to focus on the development of generic attributes, allowing more flexibility in student learning styles and study environments, making increased use of modern information technology-based educational tools, and presenting a more holistic view of engineering and it's interaction with society.

Admission Process
For entry into Masters course student is required to have a score of six or more on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) along with a bachelors degree in the relevant subject with Most postgraduate applications have to be referred to Faculties and may take 6 weeks to process.

Cost and Fees
AUD 10000 to 20000 per annum.
1. Monash University.
2. RMIT University.
3. University of Adelaide.
4. University of Melbourne.
5. University of New South Wales.

Masters in UK

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 07:37:00 +0000

UK
UK qualifications are recognized and respected throughout the world. Quality standards for UK institutions are among the best in the world. Mostly all the educational institutions welcome international students in the UK. UK Bachelors degrees can take only three years and postgraduate Master's courses only one year - compared with four years and two years in most other countries. UK degree courses are shorter because they are more intensive, and therefore more efficient in terms of your time and money.

In UK, you can study engineering at some of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities. You can study your chosen subject as a theory or practical course. The universities and professional engineering institutions are also structured to provide help, support and guidance to international students, ensuring their stay is both beneficial and enjoyable. The universities offer a huge variety of engineering courses, either in one of the major disciplines, such as civil, mechanical, electrical and electronic engineering, or in a specific branch of engineering, such as aerospace or automotive. Many UK universities now incorporate 'soft' business skills into the curriculum. These are becoming an essential part of most jobs, and include economics, management, communication and accountancy modules. UK engineering courses have a long history of having good links with industry. This adds value to the engineering courses by providing good opportunities for placements of students in industry during or after the course.

Admission Requirements

Students who plan to pursue their masters in UK should send their application well in advance. before the proposed start date. Most institutions do not have a formal closing date for receipt of applications; however, admission to a taught course may have to be submitted by a specific date which varies from course to course. For Admission to Master's Degree a UK Bachelor's degree in an appropriate subject, awarded with first or second-class Honors, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard from a university or educational institution of university rank is required. You may have to take one of the following tests: International English Language Testing Service (IELTS) with score 6 or above depending on the course and institution.

Universities:

1. University of Manchester.
2. University of Lancaster.
3. University of Bristol.
4. University of Sheffield.
5. Aston University.
Approximate Fees:
Masters Engineering: 10000-16000 (GBP)

MS in USA

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 07:26:00 +0000

USA

The American Dream is built upon the strength of its education system, with its university system possibly the most prestigious in the whole world. Students from all four corners of the globe are drawn by famous names such as Harvard, MIT and University of California Berkeley, which sit alongside a wide range of large and smaller universities catering for almost every educational discipline imaginable. There are almost 600,000 international students from over 200 countries in higher education in the US. Approximately half of these are postgraduate students, furthering their career prospects through graduate or professional education.

USA has cultivated a great number of engineers. In USA, you can study engineering at some of the world’s newest and most prestigious Universities as well as benefit from a multi-cultural community. Engineering courses are offered and undergraduate and at Masters Level, Masters Courses and typically know as MS in USA. The five largest traditional academic fields of study are civil, chemical, electrical, industrial and mechanical engineering. There are also more specialized engineering fields from aerospace to nuclear to biomedical engineering - no other career field offers young men and women such a wide choice of options. With more than 1.2 million engineers in work, engineering is quickly becoming one of the largest professions in the United States. The academic year consists of two semesters – September to December and January to May. The duration of the Masters course is generally 1 – 2 years.

Admission Process:

It is not easy to secure a place on a prestigious postgraduate programme at an American University. The admissions process is complex, so it is advisable to start gathering information at least eight to nine months before enrolment. Application deadlines vary from institution to institution, but tend to be early in the year of desired entry (the following autumn). International students should submit their application well in advance of the deadline to allow smooth flow of application process. This is especially important if you intend to seek funding or scholarship opportunities. US postgraduate admissions are very competitive, particularly for international students. A strong academic background, sufficient financial resources and fluent English are requirements for admission to any postgraduate programme.
A postgraduate application consists of a number of elements. Prospective students will be required to submit a completed application form, a personal statement, application fee, test scores, university transcripts and letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees. Most graduate admissions departments require good scores on GRE (Graduate Record Examination).

Fees & Costs:

Approximate Fees:
Masters Engineering: 15000-28000 USD.

1. Boston University.

2. Cleveland University.

3. Carnegie Mellon University.

4. Cornell University.

5. Illinois Institute of Technology.

USA UNIVERSITY

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 07:31:00 +0000

Texas A & M

Introduction:

Texas A&M University, often called A&M or TAMU, is a coeducational public research University located in College Station, the University is centrally located, approximately equidistant from three of the 10 largest cities in the United States (Houston, Dallas and San Antonio) and the state capitol (Austin).

It is the flagship institution of the Texas A&M University System. It opened on October 4, 1876 as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas, the first public institution of higher education in the state. In 1963, the Texas Legislature renamed the school to Texas A&M University to reflect the institution's expanded roles and academic offerings. The letters "A&M" no longer have any explicit meaning, but are retained as a link to the university's past. Bustling 5,000-acre campus with 46,000-plus students and a nationally recognized faculty. Texas A&M has two branch campuses, one in Galveston, Texas, and one in the Middle Eastern country of Qatar. There's access to world-class research programs and award-winning faculty.

Academics:
With more than 120 undergraduate degree programs for students to choose from, Texas A&M University has one of the ten largest student bodies in the nation — and the largest outside a major metropolitan area. Texas A&M offers a comprehensive selection of 240 master's and Ph.D. degree programs and the only Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) in Texas. Numerous programs have earned top rankings by U.S. News and World Report and other organizations. The university's academic and social support networks are focused on helping students succeed. Texas A&M's ability to produce effective leaders with extraordinary character, integrity, and a "can-do" attitude, truly sets it apart from other universities. At Texas A&M, students have a wealth of opportunity to pursue their lifelong career goals. Many of Texas A&M's degree programs are ranked in the top 10 nationally.
The ten colleges making up Texas A&M University are as follows:

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
College of Architecture.
College of Education and Human Development.
College of Geosciences.
College of Liberal Arts.
College of Science.
College of Veterinary Medicine.
Dwight Look College of Engineering.
George Bush School of Government and Public Service.
Mays Business School.

Admissions:
To apply to the university the student needs to submit a completed application form, along with the required test scores like SAT / GRE / GMAT TOEFL depending on the course requirement, transcripts, recommendation letters, statement of purpose and all other required documents as per the University. Once all the documents are received they will be reviewed by the university and the decision will be informed to the students.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:
The Regents Scholarship is offered to assist students in achieving their educational goals at Texas A&M University. International students are not eligible for this scholarship. Generally it is difficult to get scholarships for international students. Generally students applying for Doctoral programs are preferred for any type of assistanceship or scholarships.

Costs:
General expense for international students is approximately ranging between $26,000 – 30,000. Depending upon the course or department the fees may vary the fees is subject to change without notice. Students are expected to meet all financial obligations to the University by designated due dates. Failure to pay amounts owed may result in cancellation of the student's registration and their being barred from future enrollment and receiving official transcripts.
Library:
The University Library system includes the Sterling C. Evans Library, the Cushing Memorial Library and Archives, the West Campus Library, the Policy Sciences and Economics Library, and the Medical Sciences Library.
The general academic library is the Sterling C. Evans Library. The bulk of the library collections and services are located in or near the Evans facility. Among these collections and services are the Humanities and Social Sciences Reference division, the Map Library, and the Administrative Offices.
Adjacent to it is the Evans Annex, a six-floor library addition that houses United States and Texas State documents, the Dwight Look Science and Engineering Reference Services section, the Educational and Media Services library, a student computing center, and an eight-level parking garage.
The Cushing Memorial Library and Archives is located on the west side of the Evans building. Constructed in 1930, it was the first freestanding library facility on campus and is now home to special collections, rare books, and the University Archives.
The West Campus Library houses collections and services supporting teaching and research in business as well as the agricultural and life sciences.
The Medical Sciences Library, also located on the West campus, supports teaching and research in human and veterinary medicine. It is located adjacent to the Reynolds Medical Building.

Housing:
There are two types of housing at Texas A&M, on-campus and off-campus. Both types each have their strong points, but it's up to students to decide which the suitable option for them is.

ON-CAMPUS HOUSING
Living on campus is a wonderful opportunity to learn how to live in a community of individuals with different interests, cultures, lifestyles and attributes. The residence hall staff helps the students adjust to a living and learning community that will enhance their academic, personal and educational successes. Accepting the responsibility for making good decisions, practicing good citizenship and developing a tolerance for the values of others will help ensure success at Texas A&M.
OFF-CAMPUS HOUSING
Living off-campus can be just as enriching as on-campus. You will have more freedom in where and who you live with, but you will also have more responsibilities involved with living off-campus.
Other Facilities:
Texas A&M University has more than 800 student organizations on campus, so there is truly something for everyone. The University put a great emphasis on sports. The University sports include Archery, Baseball ,Cross Country ,Diving ,Equestrian ,Football Men's Basketball, Men's Golf ,Men's Swimming ,Men's Tennis ,Soccer ,Softball ,Track and Field, Volleyball ,Women's Basketball ,Women's Golf ,Women's Swimming and Women's Tennis.

Texas A&M University is dedicated to the discovery, development, communication, and application of knowledge in a wide range of academic and professional fields. Its mission of providing the highest quality undergraduate and graduate programs is inseparable from its mission of developing new understandings through research and creativity. It prepares students to assume roles of leadership, responsibility, and service to society.

USA UNIVERSITY

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 10:57:00 +0000

Stanford University

Introduction:
The Leland Stanford Junior University commonly referred to as Stanford University or Stanford, is a private research university located in Stanford, California, United States. The university was founded in 1885 by former California governor and Senator Leland Stanford and his wife. The Stanfords used their farm lands in Palo Alto to establish the university hoping to create a large institution of higher education in California. Bordering Palo Alto and Silicon Valley, Stanford is less than one hour from San Francisco, redwood forests and the beaches along the Pacific Ocean. The sprawling campus, which at 8,180 acres is among the biggest in the United States, also provides its own unique beauty.

Stanford is deeply committed to enrolling a student body that includes students from around the world. Stanford University enrolls many international students every year. The university is divided into a number of schools such as the Stanford Business School, Stanford Law School, Stanford School of Medicine, and Stanford School of Engineering. Stanford is recognized as one of the world’s leading universities. Their renowned professors offer students a remarkable range of academic courses that are paired with an extraordinary breadth of extracurricular activities and opportunities for research, independent study and public service.

International students have been always an integral part of the university from its inception.. The interactions among students with different backgrounds and experiences create a dynamic environment in which to learn and live. The admission process at Stanford is thorough and carefully considers the backgrounds of each applicants and how they may impact and contribute to the University campus.

Academics:
Schools
Three of Stanford's seven schools offer undergraduate and graduate programs: Earth Sciences, Engineering, and Humanities & Sciences. The other four offer graduate programs: Business, Education, Law and Medicine. Graduate degrees are offered in more than 60 departments and programs in seven schools.

Admission Requirements:
Undergraduate Admissions:
Most undergraduate students enroll at Stanford as freshmen (first-year students) upon completing twelve years of elementary and secondary schooling. Those who have not attended another university must apply as freshmen, even if they have had 13 years of schooling. An applicant applies to Stanford through the Office of Undergraduate Admission, not to a particular school or department within the University. Stanford does not give preference to any major. All students, freshmen and those transferring from another university may enter only in the Fall Semester.

The SAT I or the ACT is required of all undergraduate applicants. University does not accept substitutions, and applications without scores from one of these tests will not be considered. It is recommended that students make arrangements to take the required tests well in advance of application deadlines. It is unlikely that scores from tests taken after deadlines will arrive in the office in time for review process. If English is not the student’s primary language, students should take the (TOEFL) Test of English as a Foreign Language test, the results of the test helps the University to further gauge the ability of the student to write and understand English.

Graduate Admissions:

Graduate students applying for any masters needs to fulfill the prerequisites of each department along with that they need to prepare for the following list of documents these are generic requirements some departments may also want some specific documents which students needs to provide.
· Statement of Purpose.
· Letters of Recommendation.
· Transcripts.
· All attested Mark sheets.
· Test Scores as applicable for e.g. Masters Students needs to give GRE & TOEFL.

University will not admit a student unless they are certain either that the student is self-funded or that they are able to provide financial aid. Unfortunately, some applicants are not offered admission simply because no funds are available even though they are otherwise well qualified.

Costs:
The estimated cost of attending Stanford University for one academic year of three quarters (September to June) for undergraduates is approximately ranging between 23,000 $ to 36,000 $ for a student. And for graduate is approximately ranging between 30,000 $ to 38,000 $ for a student.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Stanford University has limited financial aid resources for international students. Stanford can offer admission with financial aid to only about 40 applicants a year. Thus they admit only a small percentage of the hundreds of applicants who need financial aid, and the amount of aid needed will be a factor in the admission decision.

Admitted students demonstrating need according to the Financial Aid Office's uniform method of analysis will first receive a combination of student loans and eligibility for an on-campus job. If there is additional need beyond the self-help expectation, Stanford will offer a scholarship or grant to meet the remaining need. Financial aid recipients are expected to take substantial responsibility for financing their own education.

Housing:
A number of campus housing options are available to students: dormitory rooms, apartments, and cooperative houses. Single students and students who are attending Stanford without their spouse, partner, or children are eligible for assignment to Single Student Housing.

Library:
Stanford University Libraries and Academic Information Resources (SUL/AIR) develop and implements resources and services within the University libraries and academic technology units that support research and instruction. Faculty, staff, and registered students at the University may use the resources and services of the libraries. Information about library resources and services is available at all library service points in the University.

Other Activities:
The arts community thrives at Stanford with academic divisions in music, drama, art and dance offering classes, lectures, performances and exhibits. Numerous student groups also help the creative arts flourish on campus.
Stanford students work hard, and they play with equal energy and enthusiasm. From public service to performing arts, from intramural sports to student government, students take part in dozens of activities beyond the classroom.

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 10:05:00 +0000

Hotel Management

Hotels are easily the most favourite hangouts people now-a-days. Not only in day today affair but they even form a very part of peoples regular traveling. They are one of the most important aspects of a country's infrastructure.
With increasing globalisation, career opportunities in hotel industry are not only limited and increasing within the country but are also providing scopes of a career internationally as well. With the growth of hotel industry propelled by foreign and domestic tourism and business travel, the demand for well trained quality personnel too has grown impressively. Thus this industry has a bright future.

Hotel industry involves combination of various skills. A hotel consists of departments such as:
v General Operations which co ordinates and is responsible for staff management, financial control, provision of services, quality control and customer care.
v Front Office which takes care of receiving the guests, making room reservations, handling correspondence and preparing bills and keeping accounts of the guest services.
v House Keeping which is responsible for the work of keeping the hotel, the rooms, the bars, the restaurants etc. clean and making it presentable to the guests and ensuring facilities and comfort to them.
v Food and Beverages Department is responsible for all the food that is prepared and served in the hotel. The main functions performed by the department are- presentation, preparation and service of food and beverages involving kitchen, bar and baker.
v Accounting Department deals with all the financial transactions like purchase of materials, offering of services to the guests etc. This department also compiles information required for budgeting, pricing of food and services and so on.
v Sales & Marketing is responsible to maintain contacts with travel agents and tour operators as well as other potential corporate clients in order to sell hotel facilities. Advertising and Public Relations is also normally handled by this department.
v Engineering / Maintenance Department take care of the maintenance of the building and various machines involved in the premises.
v Security department which provides security to the guest and their belongings and employs security Officers/ guards for this purpose.

Lots of lucrative and interesting openings are there for hotel management graduates in various fields like:
v Hotel & Restaurant management
v Airline Catering and Cabin Services
v Club management
v Cruise Ship Hotel Management
v Hospital administration and catering
v Hotel and Tourism Associations
v Forest Lodges
v Guest Houses
v Institutional Management (supervising canteens in college, schools, in factories, company guest houses etc.)
v Catering departments of railways, banks, armed forces, shipping companies etc.
v Hotel and catering institutes
v Self employment

Some of the universities offering different types of courses in Hotel Management abroad are:
Australia:
Griffith University
Southern Cross University
University of Canberra
Victoria University of Technology
RMIT
UTS
University of Western Sydney
Willim Angliss
Switzerland:
School of Hotel and IT Management Neuch, tel Hotel and IT Management, Switzerland
Les Roches School of Hotel Management, Switzerland
Swiss Hotel Management School, Switzerland
UK:
Halifax University
West London College
Cavendish College
Canterbury Christ Church University College
Hertfordshire Institute of Technology and Management
University of Wales Institute Cardiff

Global Education Counsel
www.globaleducationcounsel.org

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 06:39:00 +0000

Studying in Singapore

Singapore comprises of the main island of Singapore and some 63 offshore islands. It is eight hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time. There are close to four million Singaporeans of Indian, Chinese, Malay, and Eurasian ethnicity. The main religions practiced are Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Christianity and Hinduism. The four official languages in Singapore are Bahasa Malayu, Chinese (Mandarin), Tamil and English. Singapore's climate is warm and humid, with only slight variations between the average maximum of 31 degrees Celsius and minimum of 23 degrees Celsius. This makes it ideal for those who enjoy sunbathing, swimming, sailing and other water sports. But for those who do not enjoy the tropical climate, Singapore is sheltered from the worst effects of the sun with air-conditioning in almost all of its shops, hotels, office buildings and restaurants.
Singapore is considered to be the premier education hub in Asia, offering a diverse and distinctive mix of educational services in a safe, cosmopolitan and comfortable environment. Singapore Education offers a broad-based curriculum and global perspective to equip students with the relevant qualifications and training that serve as a Springboard to a Brighter Future. Singapore offers all the technological excellence of the West. It is less expensive to study in Singapore than in most other major cities of the West. Students who are part of this dynamic growth process would have opportunities in the various Financial, Information Technology and Manufacturing sectors. With political stability and a conducive study environment, Singapore is an ideal place to gain an internationally recognised educational qualification.
Singapore has both local and foreign universities and institutions which offer world recognised courses to students. Higher education is provided by three kinds of institutions, universities, polytechnics, and other centres of public and private training. There are three institutions of university level, the National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University and Singapore Management University. They are almost wholly financed by the Government, whose representatives are members of the governing councils. All post-secondary programmes offered by public and non-public institutions must be approved by the Ministry of Education, Higher Education Division.

There are lots of private Universities or institutions which are affiliated to universities in other countries like UK, Australia, and USA having their campuses in Singapore. The advantage of studying at private schools is that one can obtain a world recognised degrees from Universities in countries like USA, UK and Australia at a comparatively lower cost (almost 1/3). Another important aspect is that Singapore is geographically closer to India as compared to other popular study destinations. Singapore also has a large Indian community which makes it is easier for the Indian students to adjust.
Strategically located, Singapore is poised to grow tremendously in the new millennium. The economically less expensive options for various courses and excellent quality of education is now attracting students to Singapore in large numbers. Selection of the right country and the right University is certainly on the minds of the students and their parents and they will certainly not go wrong by selecting Singapore.

Global Education Counsel
www.globaleducationcounsel.org

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 06:17:00 +0000

Opportunities in Mass Media

Changing times have revolutionised prospects in all most every career field one can find today. So many new and exciting career options are lined ahead which makes it difficult to choose one. Mass Media is one such field which offers many interesting career options to all in the field. It covers a wide area, comprising of closely related fields of advertisement, communication and public relations.

Mass Media covers following courses under it:

Journalism
Film & Television
Advertising
Public relations

Book Publishing

Mass Media being widely spread requires a combination of skills and traits. It is not easy to get in and progressing is even difficult. In general, excellent communication skills, being a good team player are important, besides being confident and hardworking. Physical stamina and will power count in favour for jobs in mass communication. Other attributes vary from one another depending upon the area one pursues. Anyone who is creative, dynamic, and enterprising and has flair to project his ideas, thoughts, observation through different mediums of communication can accommodate himself comfortably in this industry.

Opportunities for placement in diverse fields of mass communication are available in publishing houses, radio and television companies, corporate world, entertainment industry, media industry, advertising agencies, public relations agencies, government organisations, teaching etc. As far as remuneration is concerned it varies from one area of mass communication to another. However in every area, it is much dependent on the size of the organisation, its location combined together with the level of responsibility and experience of the candidate.

Many Universities broad offer courses in Mass Media under various majors. One can opt either for a Diploma/Bachelors degree/Masters degree/Post Graduate diploma. The courses available could be journalism, creative writing, advertising and so on. Students need to check the contents of the program before selecting their University as each may have different course content. Some of the Universities are:
UK:
þ Cardiff University
þ Bristol University of West of England
þ Coventry University
þ Leicester University

Australia:
þ Bond University
þ La Trobe University
þ RMIT University
þ University of Melbourne

Singapore:
þ MDIS, Singapore
þ Nanyang Technological University

USA:
þ Georgia State University
þ Texas Tech University
þ University Of Texas At Austin
þ RIT
þ New York University

Note: The Universities are in random order.

Courtesy:
Global Education Counsel (division of Growth Centre (I) Pvt. Ltd.)

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 06:37:00 +0000

Admission Process for USA

United States is considered as the most popular destination among students. The US schools, Universities and institutions offer excellent education and training quality. The education received from a US Universities is recognized everywhere in the world. The Universities institutions in United States attract students from all around the globe. These schools and institutes not only teach but also help incoming students in various other matters; earning scholarships or free-ships and or getting a part time job to meet study expenditures. Anyone can opt and earn degrees or certificates from US institutions. The International students mainly choose to migrate to US at two stages. After completion of 12 years of schooling or equivalent to earn undergraduate graduate degree; And After completion of 16 years of education or equivalent (i.e. college education) to earn a graduate degree.

Compared to other countries, admission procedures of US Universities
are highly competitive for international students. The procedure is even more competitive in the top educational institutes. Universities and colleges have their own selection criteria and decide which student meets those criteria. You must apply to each college and university of your interest separately every College or University has its own unique policies. It is time consuming and it is important that the applicants must start preparing well in advance. It is very important to begin the admission process early as the application deadlines are far in advance of the start of the semester. Students should also schedule the required standardised tests needed for admission on time so that they have the results of these tests on time to be sent to schools. Normally there are two major academic sessions i.e. fall intakes in August-September or spring intakes i.e. January-March.

Application process is the stepping stone for any student who wishes to go abroad and study. Since the university does not meet the student personally their entire evaluation and perception of a student depended on the application. Admission officers look at a variety of factors, including essays, prizes, community service and work experience, hobbies, and special talents, as they review applications to try to determine your potential for success at their institutions. So it becomes very crucial for a student to present himself or herself in best possible manner that will make his or her application stand out distinctly from the several other applications that a University generally receives.

When students apply to any University they have to be sure that they send all the required documents well before the application deadline. Some Universities even have early deadlines. If a student misses out on these he/she may have to forego the intake. Once the application is sent then the University responds either with an acceptance offer or a reject. The student then needs to follow the instructions if he/she wishes to join the University. Universities usually inform students of their admission decisions well in advance of the beginning term.

It is also likely that a student may receive a letter that informs him/her that they are on a ‘waiting list’. This generally means that the admission office determined that they were qualified for admission but there was not enough room to admit all qualified applicants. If a student is placed in the waiting list of a college they wish to attend, they will be asked if they are interested or not in trying to get a seat in it. If the student shows the willingness to be apart of the Institute he/she may be offered admission if space becomes available.

The major steps for applying:
· Identifying university and the course that the student wants to pursue – Every University offers hundreds of course so it is essential the students recognize the University that offers the course as per their requirements.
· Obtaining the required Application Forms – It can be obtained online or by requesting the University to send the printed form.
· Taking various required tests- Student needs to appear for the tests and meet the criteria of scores required by the University to which they wish to apply.
· Reporting various test scores to the universities- Students are allowed to send some scores free while taking the tests. If they apply to any other University they have to make sure that the scores are sent on time.
· Arranging and preparing essays and recommendation letters- These are one of the important aspects of application and play a crucial role in getting students an acceptance form.
· Preparing financial documents – The student needs to provide the proof of sufficient funds to cover the costs of the course as well as the living expenses.
· Preparing other important documents: Along with recommendations and essays students also need to send their mark sheets and other relevant certificates
· Completing and sending Application Forms along with required documents- The form needs to be sent to the right place as per the instructions provided by the University.

Planning ahead gives you sufficient time to make successful applications to the colleges of your choice especially if you want to apply for scholarships. Moreover, generally the deadlines for scholarships are earlier than the university ones.
Your study and stay in US will be a great experience; you will be able to share your knowledge with best brains, since scholars from all part of the world come here for study or work. Stay and study in US means having enriched with latest technological knowledge which will give you an edge over others in real life. Hence a US degree is beneficial in several aspects and preferred over others.

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 06:19:00 +0000

VISAS

Once student receives admission in the desired University, comes the most important stage, VISA. This is where it is actually decided whether student will be able to pursue his/her studies abroad. Different countries have different Visa procedures and regulations. The students should obtain maximum information about it before applying. Obtaining a Visa is the last but very essential step to go abroad to study further. Every student has to be extremely cautious while presenting the papers or while attending a Visa interview. There are certain important things which a student needs to bear in mind while applying for the student Visa. A student Visa is just the permission granted to a student to go to a particular country to study and then return to his/her home country. There are different procedures to obtain Visas for different countries. For USA the students have to appear for an interview; for UK the students need to submit their documents and if required also appear for an interview. For Australia again only the documents need to be sent to the Consulate.

Certain important documents required for student Visa irrespective of the country are:
Proof of admission:
Applicants must submit the proof that they have been unconditionally accepted to an accredited academic program.
They must have received an acceptance letter from the school.
Applicants should carry their relevant certificates, transcripts listing courses they have taken and grades received, their TOEFL score report, and any other score reports usually required for the course (GRE, GMAT, etc.)
Prove that they have the skills and background necessary to successfully complete the course.

Proof of Sufficient Funds:
Applicants must prove that they have enough funds to support their tuition, health insurance, and living expenses.
They must show how they plan to meet these expenses, either through waivers, on-campus employment, assistantships, scholarships, or personal funds.
If applicants have received scholarships, they must provide evidence that the organization providing the scholarship has the intent and ability to pay.
If they plan to use personal funds, they must show that they have adequate funding for the entire course of study, in terms of liquid cash, fixed deposits, property, and jewelry and so on.
Applicants must submit their sponsor’s bank statement, IT returns and related documents to the Consulate.

Once all the required documents are submitted, a consular officer can make a decision about whether or not to issue a visa. Students should allow sufficient time for the processing of visa application. Granting of Visa is entirely at the discretion of the Consulate. Applicants must ensure that they have submitted all the required documents that will help them establish their intention of returning back upon the completion of their education.

Students should also note that Student Visa does not allow a student to work in any country abroad. Students need to seek separate permission to be able to work while they are taking their classes. In some countries it is even illegal for a student to work while he/she is in that country on a student Visa.

USA

The US Visa process includes
Applications
Interview

There are different types of student visas:
F-1 (Student Visa). The F-1 visa is for full-time students enrolled in an academic or language program. F-1 students may stay in the US for the full length of their academic program. F-1 students must maintain a full-time course load and complete their studies by the expiration date listed on the I-20 form.
M-1 (Vocational Student Visa). The M-1 visa is issued for students attending non-academic trade and vocational schools. The M-1 visa is valid for at most one year. Recipients of an M-1 visa may not change fields of study.

U.S.A Visa Processing Time
At least 5 business days before your visa interview appointment.
U.S.A Visa Application Documents
Passport should be valid for more than 6 months from the date of return.
One photograph as per specification.
Original signed form DS-156
Original Form DS-157 only if you are 15 to 55 years of age.
Original form DS-158 only if you are applying for F, M or J visa.
Valid HDFC Bank fee receipt
U.S.A Visa Fees: Mode Fee
Visa Fee is payable in cash or by DD/HDFC Bank cheque favoring “US Embassy - Visa Fees” current fees is approx 131 $ (Rs 6550 approx). The amount of fees varies as per the Dollar rate.

UK
Visa is a certificate that is put into your passport or travel document by an Entry Clearance Officer at a British mission overseas. The visa gives you permission to enter the UK. Student visas are normally granted for an initial period of one year, usually determined by the length of the course to be studied. Students however must be able to show that they have been accepted on a course of study at an institution of further or higher education (for example, a university) and that he/she will undertake:

a recognised full-time degree course
a course run during the week involving at least 15 hours organised daytime study per week.
a full-time course of study at an independent fee paying school.
They must also:
be able to pay for their course and support themselves and any dependants and live in the UK without working or any help from public funds.
Passport should be valid for more than 6 months.
An explanation of his current status.
Evidence that he plans to leave the UK when he completes his studies
Although if the applicant is a degree student and he successfully complete his studies, he may be able to take work-permit employment if he meets the requirements for this.
Letter from the institute confirming that the applicant has been accepted and that the course meets the immigration rules.
The cost of the course fees and receipts if paid.
Details of your accommodation and their costs.
How many hours will the applicant study?
The start and end date of the course.
Relevant diplomas or educational certificates. In case the applicant has a degree he has to send his passing certificate as well as his degree certificate.
Certificate from an organization which shows that his English is good enough for him to complete the course. E.g.: International English Language Testing System(IELTS) and Test of English as a Foreign Language(TOFEL)
If the visa applicant is self employed he needs to provide his company documentation and most recent tax certificates.

UK Visa Processing Time
Minimum of ten working days approx(during peak periods it may take a little longer)
UK Visa Fees:

· Visa Fee is payable by DD favoring “British Deputy High Commissions “approx 99 Pound (Rs 8400/- approx). The amount of fees varies as per the pound rate.

Study Abroad Essentials

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 06:43:00 +0000

Vaccinations

Most US universities require applicants to have taken MMR (Measles Mumps Rubella) at least once during their life. Even if you have taken MMR as a child, it is recommended to take the MMR before you leave for the US. UK universities generally do not require applicants to have taken prior vaccinations. If you are student going to Canada, Australia, or New Zealand you need to clear medical requirements before you are granted a student visa. This includes a chest X- ray and often blood test as well. No matter which country you are going to study in, it is highly recommended that you actually take MMR, Hepatitis B, Meningitis, Diphtheria, Tetanus and other useful vaccinations.
You can take these vaccinations from any registered doctor or hospital. However it is best to take the vaccinations from doctor who understands overseas student’s medical requirements.

Health Insurance

Students studying in US and Canada can buy health insurance from the university they are studying in or from an independent insurance provider ( provided the university permits) How ever all international students in the US must be covered under insurance policy. The UK on other hand has one of the best insurance systems in the world and international students in the UK, whose courses are longer than six months in duration, qualify to receive subsidized treatment and hence do not need to pursue chase any additional insurance. And if you are studying in Scotland, you not even need to pursue a course longer than six months to avail of the insurance benefits.
When you apply for student visa to Australia, one of the requirements is that you register for the Overseas Student Health Cover Programme before you actually arrive in Australia. So there is no question about trying and testing new insurance policies. Even
Universities in New Zealand require applicants to have a comprehensive travel and medical policy. Which is generally purchased from the university? In rare circumstances, this policy can be bought from an external company and the university evaluates the external insurance policy.

Foreign Exchange

The RBI allows you to take up to $100000 abroad for you education and incase your I-20 or admission letter states a higher amount , RBI may allow that as well ( please check the latest foreign exchange rules directly with RBI) In short, you can easily obtain foreign exchange for your education abroad. Always carry your money in sensible denominations: travelers Cheque, cash , demand drafts (Check allowed cash limits with RBI) You can also wire transfer your money to your university’s account even before you get there. Wire transfer is safe, cheap and fast and many Indian banks charge as little as Rs250 for a wire transfer. If you prefer you can use it as a debit or ATM card.

Ticketing

Some airlines such as Air India British Airways allow extra baggage allowance for students. Remember to fly reputed airlines, which will not unnecessarily delay in flights or cancel your bookings. Remember to reconfirm your reservations at least three days before you fly and leave early for the airport. This is a very busy season and you do not want to miss your flight because you did not turn off your TV in time to leave for the airport. Make sure you check baggage specifications because before you choose your airline. Earlier if you were flying to the US you were allowed two bags of 32 kilos a total of 64 kilos. This has now been reduced by most airlines to 23 kilos per bag and totaling 46 kilos.

Indian Immigration & Customs

If you are traveling to the US, UK, Canada, Australia or New Zealand you do not need to have ECNR or Emigration Check Not Required in your passport. If you get an immigration officer who insists on you having an ECNR, call the manager of the airport because you do not need ECNR while traveling to developed countries (such as the ones mentioned above) If asked at customs , honestly state the amount of foreign exchange that you are carrying. As a student you are allowed to carry the amount mentioned on your I-20 or admission letter.

When you reach your destination country make sure that you have your passport and I- 20 or admission letter with you when you land. Do not make the rookie mistake of putting your I –20 or admission letter in your checked baggage. Remember, when you land you first encounter immigration and only after that are you allowed to collect your checked in baggage.

At the foreign immigration counter you may be asked the reason for your visit, how long you plan to stay in the country and how you plan to fund your education. Make sure that you answer all the questions asked honestly and to the point. In some countries you may also be fingerprinted at the immigration counter. Do not worry, as this is a routine procedure.

Special note for customs when you land and clear immigration and collect your bags, you will encounter customs just before you leave the airport. The customs officer may ask you about the contents of your bag and if you are carrying fresh food with you. Again make sure that you answer the questions honestly. Remember, all customs officers are aware that food can always be found in any Indian students bag.

Scholarships!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 10:52:00 +0000

A scholarship is an academic gift given to a student from the University or any other institute or trust. They are given by different organization and sponsors based on things like academic and other talents. Scholarships can help the students for college, books, and living expenses. If a student gets a scholarship he/she doesn’t have to spend much from their end. Scholarship becomes important because student doesn’t have to repay it.

Scholarships are a direct link between student ambition and student success. It is an important factor to consider for students applying abroad. Careful planning is both necessary and wise. Foreign nationals are required to show proof of sufficient funds to cover at least the first year of their college education to apply for a student visa. The burden of securing necessary funding can be challenging, and sometimes frustrating. Family/personal Savings may be the only reliable source of funding when anyone plans begins any program of studies abroad. It is at this time that a scholarship helps.

University funding is easier to get in the United States than in U.K., Canada, Australia or New Zealand. Most students who go to Australia and U.K. are self funded students. Assistance of funds is more likely in Graduate studies and less in Undergraduate courses. Also funds are more likely to be available in fields like Engineering, Physical Sciences and Biological sciences, rather than in courses like Humanities, Social Sciences and Management.

Students are required to submit a financial aid application if they intend to seek financial assistance for studies abroad. The policies regarding financial aid vary considerably. The profile of a college usually indicates the type of financial aid it offers. For aid, students have to submit the institution’s own financial aid forms, as well as the Foreign Student’s Financial Aid Form, which is provided by the college and administered by the College Scholarship Service of the College Board. A bank statement will also often be required. Some details, usually asked in these forms are :

1. Your total personal annual income
2. Total annual income of your Parents
3. Your average annual living expenses
4. Some details of your and your parents' assets
5. Sources of funding for your education other than from the University

Even if no assistantship is available at the time of admission, most Indian students manage to get some kind of financial aid from the university after one or two semesters. So it makes sense to go to the US for education if you can manage one year’s expenses on your own.

Postgraduate students have to indicate their requirement for financial aid at the time of filling in the application form. The different types of financial help are:

Merit based assistance is awarded in many forms, from tuition waivers, various types of assistantships, to fellowships. The most common are listed here :

Tuition Waiver: This means that the student does not have to pay the tuition fees at the university. However, general fees (for the use of university facilities like the library, computers, and sports and health services) usually have to be borne by the student. A tuition waiver is frequently awarded in conjunction with a scholarship or teaching/research assistantship.

Scholarship / Fellowship: This is usually an outright grant based on the student’s academic ability and performance. Hence, only a truly outstanding student may be considered for this type of award, before enrolling at the university. A full scholarship would pay for a student’s entire living expenses at that university, whereas a partial scholarship would require additional funds from the student.

Assistantship : Most students who receive assistance usually do so in the form of an assistantship, i.e. a cash stipend sufficient for their living expenses, and/or tuition waiver. To get this, they have to work for a maximum of 20 hours per week. This work normally consists of teaching and research activities. These are usually for graduate courses. Teaching assistantships are more likely to be in universities, which have large undergraduate classes whereas research assistantships tend to be more common in those fields and universities in which considerable research is in progress. Information brochures of most universities give this information. Often, teaching and research abilities must be proved before assistantship is granted. Hence, many universities grant this only after the first semester. You may also be required to take TSE (Test of Spoken English) to qualify for a teaching assistantship.

Students have a greater chance of getting financial aid if they:

1. Show evidence of a high level of academic achievement
2. Achieve high Standardized Examination scores (GRE, GMAT, TOEFL etc.)
3. Demonstrate financial need but have private funding to cover some of the cost. Financial need is not crucial for some awards.
4. Enroll in a field or have teaching experience in a subject offered at the undergraduate level (to increase opportunities for a teaching assistantship)
5. Specialize in a field or have a research interest which parallels that of the department and faculty or private funding source (which increases opportunities for research assistantships and grants)
6. Have outstanding letter(s) of recommendation and an impressive statement of purpose.
7. Send a sample of professional writing, published or otherwise.

Why an EXECUTIVE MBA?

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 10:43:00 +0000

If you have about 8-10 years of work experience and doing well in your field and if you feel the need to upgrade or enhance your knowledge and employ-ability then Executive MBA could be a good option for you. An Executive MBA (EMBA) program is typically open only to applicants with at least eight years of professional experience. Executive MBA education meets the needs of the organization to build managerial talent in the most effective and efficient manner available today.

If the idea of getting into EMBA seems interesting to you then here’s what you need to know:

An Executive MBA (EMBA) program provides the experienced, working professional with the opportunity to earn a Master's degree in Business Administration without significant disruption to his or her current pursuits. While EMBA students complete their degrees within two years, same as their traditional two-year MBA counterparts, they do it on a different schedule. Part time programs, on the other hand, typically take three years to complete.

EMBA programs are structured around individual cohort classes that begin throughout the year. All members of a class begin the program at the same time, progress through the program in sync with each other, and graduate as a group. Because EMBA students are continuing to work while in the program, they have the unique opportunity to put the new skills they learn in the classroom to use immediately. This combination of coursework and day-to-day experience also exists in part time MBA programs, but EMBA programs have an added advantage—the collective professional experience of cohort members. While the EMBA curriculum is traditionally the same as the MBA curriculum, it is influenced and enriched by the breadth and depth of each class's professional knowledge.

EMBA programs generally run for two years. Between work and school obligations, EMBA programs are extremely time-consuming; prepare to forfeit nearly all free time if you pursue this option. Part-time programs generally require three to four years to complete, although students with undergraduate degrees in business can sometimes place out of a number of courses, thereby shortening the process.

Executive MBA programs attract a diverse group of professionals, but all share a desire to expand their knowledge and skills. Professional experience and performance, academic records, GMAT scores, and professional recommendations all play a part in the admission decision. Most students will have at least 10 years of professional experience under their belts by the time they enter a program, with a significant portion of this experience at the managerial level. On the other hand, two-year MBA students usually average three to five years of work experience.

While the structure of an EMBA program can vary from program to program, most are fairly similar, in that they are designed to accommodate to a full-time work schedule. For example, classes at some EMBA program meet one full day per week, alternating Fridays and Saturdays for the length of the program. Some meet on consecutive Fridays and Saturdays every other week. Some EMBA programs are divided into four terms, each of which begins with a week in residence at the concerned University. After that, students meet every other weekend for classes Saturday and Sunday. Some other programs offer weeknight options as well.

Generally the majority of EMBA program participants are sponsored, either fully or in part, by their employers. Recently, however, this has changed, as more students have been asked to foot a portion of the bill themselves. The number of students paying the full cost of their own tuition has also grown considerably.

Participants who are not sponsored by their employers usually qualify for loans, scholarships, and other types of financial aid. It is important to view the cost of any graduate program as an investment, with benefits reaped over the life of a professional career. In addition, because participants continue working during the program, the opportunity cost of attending an EMBA program is less than for a traditional two-year, full-time MBA program.

Some Universities offering EMBA are:

USA:
1. Columbia Business School
2. Cornell University
3. Northwestern University: Kellogg
4. Ohio University
5. UC Irvine
6. University of Pennsylvania: Wharton

UK:
1. City University: Cass
2. Henley Management College
3. Imperial College London: Tanaka
4. London Business School
5. University of Bath School of Management
6. Warwick Business School

Australia:
1. Australian Graduate School of Management
2. Bond University
3. Curtin University
4. Queensland University of Technology
5. University of Melbourne

Singapore:
1. National University of Singapore, Singapore

Pursing an EMBA gives you the unique opportunity to instantly implement the knowledge you gain as a student into your professional life. In fact, much of the coursework is designed around combining what you study with your day-to-day professional experiences.

IELTS - in a nutshell!

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 05:17:00 +0000

IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System; it tests the complete range of English language skills. IELTS is accepted by most Australian, British, Canadian and New Zealand academic institutions. American academic institutions are increasingly accepting IELTS for admissions purposes. It is also recognized by professional bodies, immigration authorities and other government agencies. IELTS is jointly managed by The University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES), The British Council and IDP Education Australia. IELTS tests are administered at accredited Test Centres throughout the world.

There are two different Modules:
1 Academic
2 General

The Academic test is used for University entrance. Academic is suitable for candidates planning to undertake education at undergraduate and graduate levels study. General Training is suitable for candidates planning to undertake non-academic training or work experience, or for immigration purposes.

IELTS is not a test in which a student can pass or fail. The assessment is reported according to a scale from bands one to nine. Band one indicates that candidate has virtually no English skill at all. Band nine is native speaker proficiency. Universities typically require a band score of between 6 and 7 and more depending on the course and the ranking of the University. The scores are valid for two years.

The IELTS test has four components –
a) Reading
b) Writing

c) Listening
d) Speaking.

The Listening, Reading and Writing components of the test are always completed immediately after each other and in this same order on the same day. The Speaking tests is generally conducted a day prior or later to the exam date. IELTS exam is conducted generally three to four times a month. Students need to register for the IELTS exam at least ten to fifteen days prior to the test date. Duration of the IELTS exam is approximately two and half hour test. Reading – 60 mins, writing- 60 mins, speaking – 11 – 14 mins, listening – 30 mins.

Things to take care during the test:

a) Know the date, time and place of your test and arrive before the scheduled starting time.
b) If you arrive late for any of the papers, report to the supervisor or invigilator. You may not be allowed to take the test.
c) Take into the test room only the pencils and erasers which you need for the examination.
d) You may not lend anything to, or borrow anything from, another candidate during the test.
e) Listen to the supervisor and do what you are asked to do.
f) Tell the supervisor or invigilator at once if you think you have not been given the right question paper, or if the question paper is incomplete or illegible.
g) Read carefully and follow the instructions printed on the question paper and on the answer sheet.
h) Fill in the details required on the front of your question paper and on your answer sheet before the start of the test.
i) You may not ask for, and will not be given, any explanation of the questions.
j) You may not leave the test room without the permission of the supervisor or invigilator.
h) You can not leave your seat until all papers have been collected and you have been told you can leave.
k) When you leave the examination room you must leave behind the question paper, your answer paper, any paper used for rough work clearly crossed through and any other materials provided for the test.
l) Do not make any noise near the examination room.

Under usual test circumstances, the candidates will receive their Test Report Forms approximately two weeks after they complete their test.

Scoring pattern:
IELTS provides a profile of a candidate’s ability to use English. Candidates receive scores on a Band Scale from 1 to 9. A score is reported for each module of the test. The individual module scores are then averaged and rounded to produce an Overall Band Score according to the band score conversion table.

The IELTS score plays vital role in getting admission in Universities abroad. Getting a good score in IELTS will always help international students in receiving Financial Aid, or Assistantships. Some European and Australian universities may accept a lower IELTS score with the condition that the student takes English courses before they start working on their actual degree.

How to develop skills that will help you get into B-School.

noreply@blogger.com (Redefining Boundaries..) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 08:34:00 +0000

The magic of MBA does not seem to end. Every year an increasing number of students are desirous of pursuing this degree. Though there can be hundreds of reasons as to why students find this option the most lucrative one, what one needs to focus on is what does it take to be an MBA? The answer may be as simple as “clearing the entrance exam, followed by Group Discussion and Personal Interview”. Though this will ensure a seat in a reputed college; but pursuing the course successfully is an entirely different aspect.

After the initial enthusiasm of being one of the few privileged and the deserving ones to pursue the course, reality starts sinking in. Quite a few students find it difficult to cope with the demands, the competition, the rigorous study, the long college hours, the projects, placements and so on. Though most of the students decide on a career path quite early, very few take the pains of working towards developing on the areas that need improvement. This may happen as apart from concentrating on the admission procedure many students happen to overlook on the impact of personality attributes that play an important role while pursuing the course.

To ensure that a student is able to cope and successfully complete the course, some of the qualities required are communication skills, creative thinking, logical reasoning, leadership, team spirit, confidence, ability to handle pressure, decision making, problem solving abilities, initiative, presentation skills, competitiveness, being accountable, emotional stability, being proactive, adaptability and social sensitivity. Though this may not be an exhaustive list of skills, but definitely encompasses the most essential ones. Though a requirement in all the courses, in case of an MBA degree these qualities become inevitable.

While in Degree College, a student has ample time to prepare for the dream degree. Apart from the academic development, a student can concentrate on the extra-curricular activities that will add value. There are various occasions available during a student life to develop these areas.

Inter /Intra college competitions, being a member of various committees/councils, events /days, and College festivals – all these activities are full of opportunities of development. Sounds odd; but definitely true! A closer look at each event of the college broadens the perspective.

Inter /Intra college competitions: Various competitions, right from Antakshri to Sports to quizzes to debates, all these events not only give us an opportunity to portray our talents, but also hone skills. Participation in such event is very essential, as it not only gives us a chance to evaluate our self, but also to enhance our strengths and work on the improvement areas. The belongingness to ones college and the competitiveness with the guest college/s certainly raises the accountability level, thus improving the performance. Self-confidence, the ability to face crowd, perform well under pressure, sportsman spirit, presentation skills, competitiveness are definitely polished.

College Committee Members: Every college has their in-house committees /councils. Being a part of these councils – which may range from cultural committees to sports to literacy circles to being the class representative, everything is a value adding activity. These are all the positions of responsibility. With every chair of responsibility, and these responsibilities definitely sharpen qualities like decision making, organizing skills, leadership, problem solving, creative thinking, initiative, communication skills, ability to motivate the team, accountability.

Events /days: Whether it is organizing or participation, though many intellectuals feel, that it is a waste of time, being a part of the event is also worthwhile. This not only shows your team spirit but also improves creative thinking. College day, Traditional day, rose day or any other day, gives an ample opportunity also portray the initiative that you have. Social sensitivity and the ability to appreciate and participate are certainly enhanced.

College Festivals: Now-a-days, college events have become like any other mega event. Sponsorship, media awareness, advertising, budgeting and so on, all have become a part of the new, changing face of the college festival. Students are expected to ideate, plan and implement the entire event, find sponsors, negotiate and delegate and also complete the project. So being a part of these activities will sharpen skill sets like handling pressures, decision making, problem-solving, communication and negotiating skills, confidence, adaptability and time management.

These are some of the aspects of a college life which give a student an opportunity to brush up their skills. Apart from these, Reading, is one of the most important aspect which a lot students forget. Reading not only increases knowledge, but also proves beneficial to our overall development. So, students go ahead and enjoy & make the most of the college life with full zest and participation, but without overlooking the academics, as that is one of the most crucial aspects of you entering your dream degree – MBA.