February Publication

Your reliable resource on studying abroadForeignerwww.IELTSimmigrationVISA.com TheUnlock the future abroad! February 2018 | ₹ 100INDIA’S LARGEST AUSTRALIAINTERNATIONALEDUCATION EXPO India in AL2 Explained2018 32BOOK YOUR SPACE NOW38 IRELAND The Friendliest Country for International Students2A0USTRALIA 48 Top Tips for Scoring High in Your IELTS 84WHAT MAKES Practice Tests forAUSTRALIA Your IELTS & PTEAN EXCELLENTDESTINATION FOR 87INTERNATIONALSTUDENTS? RNI No. PUNENG/2016/29249-BTI/117 DREAMING TO GO ABROAD? SUBSCRIBE TO THE MAGAZINE!





PUBLISHER EDITORIAL CONSULTANTSThe Foreigner Media Dr Monsy Cherison Kanika Banerjee CHIEF EDITOR CONTRIBUTORS Joseph Cherian Loraine Frost Joy Reddy EXECUTIVE EDITOR Amandeep Kaur Abhishek Chakraborty Dr Barbara Millar Sampurna Dutta CONSULTING EDITOR Ben Limehouse V.V. Jacob Steven Smith Govind Gopinath PRINTED BY Doaba Copy House Pvt Ltd DESIGNER Jharmajri Village Batoli Kalan, Oleksiy SerdyukBadi, Distt. Solan (HP) & H.O. SCO 35, HELP DESK Sect- 17C, Chandigarh [email protected] ADVERTISING CONTACT OFFICE 94654 31361 SCO 12-13, 2nd Floor, C-4, [email protected] Phase XI Mohali - 160062© Copyright 2018 The Foreigner. All Rights Reserved.www.IELTSimmigrationVISA.com Coming Soon @ ChandigarhThe Foreigner takes reasonable care to ensure that all information provided in this magazine is true and correct. Mega Study Abroad/IELTSThe publisher shall not be responsible for, and therefore disclaims any liability for any loss, expense, or damage of Show 2018any nature whatsoever (whether direct or consequential) which may be incurred as a result of reliance upon anyinformation, links or service provided through this magazine, including information contained in advertisements.



Take a bold step,and becomean original personThe primary purpose of The Foreigner maga- other professionals are doing it? For example, do you zine is twofold: firstly, to inform our readers always close your letters with a valediction (also known of the various opportunities for studying as complimentary close) such as ‘Yours faithfully‘, ‘Yours and working abroad, and, secondly, to pro- sincerely’, ‘Regards’, ‘Best regards’, etc. What a boring, vide them with inspiring articles that show meaningless way to end your letters! Why not instead them how to succeed in the international close with an original valediction, such as ‘Have a nice arena. One vital aspect of succeeding in any day!’, ‘It was a pleasure writing to you’, ‘Enjoy good suc-profession is to be an innovative person. This subject cess today!’ or some other such words that brighten upwill be covered through various articles in subsequent the recipient of your mail?issues. But here I would like to touch on one facet of Let me close with a quote from The Chicago Tribune:being an innovative person: being an original person. “Be original. Be different, be unique. Strive to be the person others look to for inspiration. Instead of com-Aim to be original in both your personal life and your ing up with ideas by using others’ examples, try to findprofessional ways. For example, analyze your personal inspiration within yourself. It can be easy to take ideashabits; how many of your daily activities are the result from other people, but what really pushes you forward isof your deliberate decision, and not something you do creating that perfect idea; the one that makes everyonebecause you see other people doing it? Take the case else wonder why they didn’t think of it first.”of brushing your teeth. Do you brush your teeth before Delighted to serve you.breakfast, like most people do just because they weretaught to do so from childhood; or after a meal, like Joseph Cheriansome thinking people do who realized that the purposeof brushing the teeth is to remove the food particles Chief Editorlodged between the teeth after a meal? [email protected] your job, do you always follow a certain procedure inyour official communications because that’s how most4 | The Foreigner



ContentsEDITORIAL    4 INTERNATIONAL 38 EDUCATION 44TAKE A BOLD STEP, AND BECOME AN ORIGINAL PERSON EXPO 2018LETTERS TO 10 UNITED KINGDOMTHE EDITOR 12 A SIMPLIFIED GUIDE TO APPLYINGQUESTIONS FOR UK STUDENT VISAAND ANSWERSNEWS 16AUSTRALIA 20WHAT MAKES AUSTRALIA AN EXCELLENTDESTINATION FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS? IRELAND 48 55 IRELAND - THE MOST FRIENDLY COUNTRY FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTSUS 26THE MOST HIGHLY SOUGHT 32DESTINATION BY STUDENTS 36 SANDWICH STUDYAUSTRALIA PART COURSE IN INDIA AND PART ABROADAUSTRALIA RELAXES STUDY VISA REQUIREMENTSNEW ZEALANDTOP REASONS TO STUDY IN NEW ZEALAND6 | The Foreigner



INTERNATIONAL UNI INTERNATIONAL ENGLISH FORTECHNICAL UNIVERSITY UNIVERSIT Y SUCCESS ABROAD 78 OF BERLIN OF CANBERRA HOW TO HANDLE ALL THE MISTERS AND MISSUSES IN YOUR LIFE BOOK REVIEWS 82 59 61 SEVEN TIPS TO 84 63 BOOST YOUR IELTSSCHOLARSHIPS WRITING SCORESCHOLARSHIPS FOR INDIAN STUDENTSDREAMING OF STUDYING ABROAD 67 IELTSNRI Success Story Reading Test Writing TasVIKRANT KAPOOR - MAKING INDIAN CUISINE 87 89A FAVOURITE FOR AUSTRALIANSNRIs IN FOCUS   69 PTE Writing Test Reading TestPONTA DELGADA 71 91 92DISCOVER A HIDDEN GEM IN THE AZORES FRENCH 96ISLANDSTHE 3 P`S   73 98FOR SUCCESS TECHNOLOGYRIO CARNIVAL   76 & GADGETSTHE BIGGEST FESTIVAL IN THE WORLD8 | The Foreigner



LETTERS ample, I did not know that HalloweenTO THE EDITOR is the second most popular festival in the Western world, second only toTRUSTWORTHY CONSULTANTS PLANNING TO VISIT TORQUAY Christmas. I thought it was Easter or Thanksgiving. Another interest-It is a sad fact that there is cut- I will be leaving for UK in the next ing fact is that Halloween has beenthroat competition and unreliable few months for my undergraduate around for 6000 years, thousands ofservices in the immigration consul- studies, and have decided that the years earlier than Christmas and oth-tancy industry in India, as reported first place I want to visit for sight- er festivals. I look forward to readingin your cover story on Rightway seeing is Torquay in England. I made about more of the world’s festivals inAirlinks in the October issue of the this decision after reading about each issue of your magazine.Foreigner. It is reassuring to know this amazing holiday destination inthat there are people like Mr Devpri- the Foreigner. Thank you for helping Sahiba, Karnalya whose customer relations execu- me make this choice!tives regularly call clients for their DECIDED ON NEW ZEALANDfeedback, and then use the feedback Rupam Rai, Chandigarhto customize their services and Until I read about New Zealand as aimprove the quality of their consul- NEW FEATURE ON WORLD FESTIVALS study destination in the Foreigner, Itancy business. This is the best way was not sure whether I should chooseto build a consultancy’s reputation I saw a new feature in your October New Zealand or some other country,because the clients will find them issue - Festival of the Month. Al- such as Australia, for my higher stud-trustworthy and will recommend it though I had read about the Hallow- ies. Your article on the ‘Kiwi experi-to their friends. een, your article showed me some ence’ highlighting the advantages interesting aspects of this festival of studying there compared to other Gursimran, Sangrur which I hadn’t known before. For ex- countries helped me confirm my deci- sion to choose New Zealand for my degree program. Thanks a lot! Khushi, Chandigarh10 | The Foreigner



Your QuestionsAnswered by ExpertsQ. I wish to study abroad but I do disability, you can get need-based point on the same. Always includenot have an investment to fund my grants as well. Other than that, a useful phrases and expressions ineducation. Could you please sug- loan from a bank would be an ideal your writing as it helps in conveyinggest proven ways that will help in option for you. You will amazed to your thoughts more powerfully. Don’tsponsoring my education? know that SBI’s Global Ed-Vantage forget to summarize the key elements (an overseas education loan) is of your essay in a precise way. Last Nimrat Dhaliwal, Chandigarh exclusively for students who wish to but not the least, make a habit of study at a foreign college or univer- reading all kinds of blogs and newsA. Studying abroad is no longer a sity. This scheme allows the student on a regular basis as it helps youhitch as there are innumerable ways to repay the loan through equated learn new words that will drasticallyto fund your education. If you are a monthly installments (EMIs) over a enhance your vocabulary.high scorer, you surely can finance maximum tenure of 15 years.your graduate studies by getting a Q. What are the documents re-scholarship offered by the top-notch Q. Can you suggest useful tips for quired for a Canadian student visa?universities or colleges. As the world getting above 7 bands in the writingis becoming more globalized than module of an IELTS test? Rekha Dutta, Delhiever, you’ll be surprised to know thatscholarships and grants are offered Hemant Sinha, Jalandhar A. All you require is a complet-by many governments, organiza- ed application form, a letter oftions, and specific universities. A. The writing module is often acceptance from the university regarded as the toughest of all the or college, passport, two recentScholarships are awarded on the modules. It’s best to read the ques- passport-size photographs, evi-basis of the academic merit or the tion carefully and then jot down key dence of financial support, a letterfinancial background of a student. points that you are planning to elab- of explanation, and a proof of yourMoreover, scholarships offered by orate further. Ensure that you write study permit fee. For more detailedthe government exempt the schol- two sides of an argument and that information, do explore the Cana-arship holders from payment of uni- you do not miss to include your view- dian Government website.versity tuition fees. If you have any12 | The Foreigner







NEWSUK EASES RULES, GIVES STUDENTS AN OPPORTUNITY TO SWITCH TO WORK VISASForeign students in the UK will soon enjoy more flexi- have been possible,” explains a newsletter by EY-UK.bility in switching over to work visas, with new immi- In fact, London mayor Sadiq Khan has advocated a newgration rules set to be introduced soon. category of post-study work visas. In his blueprint pa- per—’Immigration, a future approach’, Khan pointed toAccording to new rules, foreign students can switch dwindling international student numbers. His sugges-over to Tier-2 visa (or skilled worker visa) as soon as tion was that a post-study work visa should be distinctthey complete their course. According to current norms, from the Tier-2 route and should enable students tothey must wait until they obtain a degree to apply for work in the UK for 12-24 months, after graduation.the Tier-2 visa. This gave students only a small time-frame to find a job while still in the UK. It is believed that the competition for jobs from EU workers will ease post-Brexit and will give an edge to“The new rule will enable students to apply for a Tier-2 international students who have studied in the UK.visa a few months earlier than what would otherwise16 | The Foreigner

As per the letter, the H-4 rule has limited unnecessary disruptions to businesses by ameliorating economic and personal hardships—resulting from the lack of spousal work authorisation—previously faced by many H-1B employees and their families as they obtain lawful permanent resident (LPR) status. The US Administration is reportedly moving ahead with its decision to not give work permits to the spouses of H-1B visa holders, arguing that this displaced genuine American workers.TECH GIANTS URGES US ADMINISTRATIONTO PRESERVE PERMITS FOR H-1B SPOUSESWith an aim to retain Barack Obama’s 2015 rule to grantwork authorisations to spouses of high-skilled immi-grants, the US technology trade groups representingApple, Microsoft, Facebook, and Google have urged theTrump administration to allow some spouses of H-1Bvisa holders, including Indians, to also work legally inAmerica.The letter addressed to Lee Francis Cissna, Director ofUS Citizenship and Immigration Services, said: “It is afunction of the failure to reform our nation’s immigra-tion system that this group of H-4 spouses—the major-ity of whom are women—continue to face uncertaintyand may be prevented from working while they wait forbureaucratic backlogs to be cleared.” February 2018 | 17





What makes Australiaan excellent destinationfor International Students? Loraine Frost Australia is one of the best destina- to enable students to gain practical Melbourne, tions for international students to skills as well to survive in a chal- Australia complete their education. The Aus- lenging environment. tralian education system has seenShe is a lawyer and an author. She is an significant advancements since the Australia has made a huge invest-active for a local NGO. Her hobbies are last few years. This country is home ment in the education sector tosinging and cooking. to some of the finest universities ensure that International students across the globe. Economically, get the best possible facilities and Australian has an excellent GDP, and learning experience. As a result, the there is a tremendous growth in new universities in this country have an jobs each year. excellent track record of generat- ing talent. Another advantage of Australia education system doesn’t choosing Australia is that students just pay attention to boost the can get a Permanent Residency visa theoretical skills of the students for New Zealand on completion of but they have advanced strategies their studies. NEW JOBS IN AUSTRALIA (PERCENTAGE WISE) 2016-17 Farming, Animals & Conservation 22% 34% Design & Architecture 20% 32% 19% Call Centre & Customer Service 17% CEO & General Management 16% 14% Community Services & Development 13% Education & Training 12% 10% Retail & Consumer Products 9% Science & Technology 8% Trades & Services 8% Legal Healthcare & Medical 8% Engineering 7% 7% Manufacturing, Transport & Logistics 6% Human Resources & Recruitment Government & Defence 6% Hospitality & Tourism 5% Construction 5% Advertising, Arts & Media 4% Real Estate & Property 3% Marketing & Communications -15% -1%Information & Communication Technology -2% Administration & Office Support -2% Sport & Recreation -3% Sales -4% Consulting & Strategy Banking & Financial Services Accounting Insurance & Superannuation Mining, Resources & Energy -20% -10% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40%20 | The Foreigner



700 000 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ENROLMENTS IN AUSTRALIA 1994-2014600 000500 000 Highs Education400 000 ELICOS Vocational Education School Education Non-award300 000200 000100 0000 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Note: There is a break in series between 2001 and 200222 | The Foreigner

VISA REQUIREMENTS eligibility criteria on Australian in your bank account is Aus$20,000. immigration website so that yourThe first requirement is you need to application can be processed English Language requirement:prove to the DIBP (Department of smoothly. You must have scored sufficientImmigration and Border Protection) bands in the IELTS exam, as per thethat you are a Genuine Temporary Financial requirements: You​need requirement for admission to theEntrant (GTE) with good intentions to provide a proof of funds during course you apply. Students can alsoto study in the country. The DIBP your stay in the country for expens- opt for PTE.will pay attention to the follow- es such as the cost of living, tuitioning factors to decide whether you fees, health and medical checkups, FEES:should be given visa or not as well as travel expenses. The ap- proximate amount you should have Visa Fee: Aus$420• Course you choose and its future scope in Australia Medical Fee: Aus$120• Your contribution to make Austra- INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN AUSTRALIA lia a better place to live for others FROM DIFFERENT COUNTRIES• Circumstances in your own country China 40.2% Singapure 3.5% Malaysia 7.4% Nepal 2.8%• Travel history (If any) India 6.4% Saudi Arabia 2.6% Vietnam 4.5% Thailand 1.5%Students now need to apply for the Indonesia 3.9% All Others 23.6%Student Visa under Subclass 500 South Korea 3.6%category. This is an online mode.Before you apply, make sure youhave a COE (Confirmation of Enroll-ment) from an Australian institute/university. Also, check the other February 2018 | 23

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST SUBMITTING Australia is known for its pleasant THE APPLICATION climate and excellent natural envi-• Completed application Form for ronment. The overall crime rate in Visa (157A) which is available on The complete Visa application along the country is very low and Interna- DIBP website with all supportive documents list- tional students are given various fa- ed above can be submitted to the cilities. They are allowed to work for• Copy of passport and Bio Data nearby embassy. After acceptation, 20 to 26 hours in a week depending it takes minimum 8 to 15 days for on their course type and location.• Health & Travel Insurance processing the application. Students are allowed to stay for one additional year after completion• A certificate stating your medical OTHER FACTORS of their study in Australia. This is condition TO PAY ATTENTION TO to enable them to find a suitable job after they have completed their• Proof of sufficient funds • You need to make sure that all course. Upon getting a job, the visa the documents should be in En- is converted into “Work Category”• Copy of Letter of Enrollment glish language only which needs to be renewed until one gets a permanent residency visa.• Passport Size photographs with • Four years is the limit of validity blue background (4) of any study visa in Australia• Criminal Record Checklist• Copy of educational certificates you completed earlier



US - The Most Highly SoughtDestination by StudentsDr Barbara MillarWashigton DCShe is a teacher and economist. She has been dean to many universities in US. Her hobby is writing.The United States of America, fully also incorporated into their dream destination of any studentone of the biggest and the most education system, making USA the who is passionate about learning.successful countries in the worldis not only the central hub for all U.S. DESTINATIONS OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTSadvancements in almost each andevery field, from science and tech- > 60.000nology to the economy, but this 30.001-60.000nation also has been a world leader 10.001-30.000for decades and has garnered the < 10.000respect of the most powerful ofcountries. This land of diversity 1 3out of international studentswhich gifted the world the mostpopular of inventions such as the studies in California, New York, or Texas.computer, the iPod, the OS thatpowers more than 80 percent ofthe world computers and evenlong lasting automobiles popularlyknown as muscle cars. The contri-bution of this nation to the worldin the education sector is immense- it has the maximum number ofthe world’s best universities.Americans are known for theirword of trust and impeccablequality standards which are thank-26 | The Foreigner



Healthcare, Education, Standard of tional student holding a degree from United States of America current-living, Satisfaction, Employment, the USA is quite often enough to be ly boasts about 4000 world classScience, Technology, these are just a selected by the top job recruiters in universities and colleges whichfew examples of the fields in which developing countries with maximum led to a 7.1% increase in interna-the US has excelled and moved light- opportunities, such as the BRICS na- tional students in the U.S. in 2016,years ahead of its counterparts. Back tions - Brazil, Russia, India, China and finally making US a host to a totalin the day immigrating to a place like Singapore - where the demand for US of 1,043,839 students. The Govern-the United States was just a far- graduates and post graduates is sky ment has special incentives andfetched thought for most people up rocketing. Moreover, US as a place of checks in order to ignite the flameuntil now, when the gates to quality study is extremely welcoming of all of learning among individuals byeducation opened to the rest of the nationalities and a very open society awarding $46 billion in grants andworld and achieving the “American accepting of all types of cultures and scholarships every year sanctionedDream” wasn’t just a dream anymore. religions. It is a place where people by the Department of Education.With almost 30 percent of the top from all over the world come and live100 universities in the world being in in harmony as a multicultural society. Fields of study under-taken by in-the US, it is the most highly sought ternational students in the US.destination by students for educa-tion and job opportunities. 1.043.839 international studentsBeing a student in a country like the studied at U.S. colleges and universities in 2015/16US is an absolute privilege and honor.Just stating that you are an interna-28 | The Foreigner

HOW TO APPLY 2. Make payment of Student and 5. Schedule and attend an interviewFOR A US STUDY VISA Exchange Visitor Information with the US embassy to receive System (SEVIS) fee your visa.There are 5 steps to apply for a USStudy Visa: 3. US study visa application form MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR should be completed entirely. APPLYING FOR US STUDY VISA1. Apply and get accepted into a Student and Exchange Visitor Pro- 4. Required Visa fee should be paid The following documents are a must gram (SEVP)-approved school (at at the portal immediately on for anyone applying for US Study least six months prior to study); completion of the above men- Visa. tioned steps. FIELDS OF STUDY TAKEN BY INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN THE US 20% 1% 20% Business and Management Intensive English 2% 2% Engineering Health Professions2%3% Math/Computer Science Undeclared5% Other Fields of Study Education 6% Social Sciences Humanities 12% Fine/Applied Arts Agriculture 8% 11% February 2018 | 29 Fields of study under-taken by international students in the US.

1.000.000Number of international students 5 % 800.00021211111111111009999999999S99150c46795868974444h94449499999--------------o15056576790898ol55505500005005Year 4 % 600.000 3 % 400.000 Share (%) of total U.S. enrollment2 % 200.000 Total Share of total U.S. enrollment 1 % 0 %• A passport that is currently JUST STATING THAT YOU ARE AN INTERNATIONALvalid. STUDENT HOLDING A DEGREE FROM THE USA IS QUITE OFTEN ENOUGH TO BE SELECTED BY THE TOP• The Nonimmigrant Visa Applica-tion Form DS-160. JOB RECRUITERS.• Receipt for US Study visa appli-cation fee.• Certificates of Eligibility forNonimmigrant (F-1) Student Sta-tus (Form 1-20)• Background, security, and medi-cal health information• Proof of financial requirementsas stated in I-20 formTo be eligible to apply for a studyvisa in the US the initial step is toreceive and possess an acceptanceletter from a SEVP approved school.To check if your school is SEVP ap-proved log onto studyinthestates.dhs.gov/school-searchAn F-1 visa is provided to mostinternational students. Onceaccepted it is compulsory to paya $180 fee as the SEVIS I-901 feeafter which confirmation slip forthe same amount can be printedwhich is one of the supportingdocuments required during thevisa interview.Once the required fee is success-fully paid you can complete theDS-160 form by logging ontoceac.state.gov/genniv30 | The Foreigner

Once the form is completed and You may be asked for a small visa in- You will only be allowed to enter thethe visa application is complete surance fee at the time of the inter- US 30 days before your start date.click on submit to choose a date view and your passport will be takenfor your F-1 visa interview. and sent back later with the visa. The processing time for a US Study visa is typically 3 days in India.F-1 VISA INTERVIEW ACADEMIC LEVELS OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS +7 %The final stage of the whole process +6 %is the F-1 visa interview which is 500.000also the most important step. There 400.000are 5 cities in India where one can 300.000attend the interview i.e. New Delhi,Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and 200.000 +23 %Kolkata. This interview will be the 100.000 -9 %deciding factor for your eligibilityfor an F-1 visa. One needs to carry 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16all the supporting documents withthemselves at the time of the inter- 23%Students increased by in OPT,view which are- the fastest growing academic level1) Transcripts and mark sheets ofyour previous institutions Undergraduate Oprional Practical Training (OPT) Graduate Non-degree2) Scores of standardized tests suchas IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT, SAT, GRE etc.3) Financial evidence showing youor your sponsor can support youreducation and living costs duringyour stay in the US February 2018 | 31

AUSTRALIA RELAXESSTUDY VISA REQUIREMENTSIndia surges to 2nd slotin AL2 list Amanpreet Kaur to the most popular study destina- It is the Department of Immigra- tions with 35 universities ranked tion and Border Protection (DIBP)Getting a student visa in Australia among the world’s best in the that assesses each Australian stu-is no longer a key hurdle in your 2016-2017 edition of the QS World dent visa application on its individ-path. Yes, you read that right. The University Rankings. ual merits. Currently, there are fivenew immigration rules open doors Assessment Levels in the student Securing a study visa in Australia visa program, wherein Assessment is getting a lot simpler than ever Level 1 represents the lowest as India has recently jumped from immigration risk. Whereas, in case third to a second position in the of a higher assessment level, the list of AL2 countries. This move is applicants are required to provide regarded as the blessing for In- additional information. dian students as visa application process is more relaxed in terms of The Assessment Levels (ALs) financial requirements. However, it actually streamline this process by will vary from case to case. allowing the department to deliver32 | The Foreigner

fast and efficient service to its • Funds visa (subclass 500) link given onclients while maintaining the in- the official website of Australia.tegrity of Australia’s immigration • IELTS/PTE Before applying for a visa, a stu-program. dent must have been accepted to • Genuine Temporary Entrant study full-time at an educationalAs India reaches higher on the AL2 (GTE): The GTE requirement was institution in Australia.list, the chances are more favorable introduced in November 2011for Indian students. Even, the Aus- to enhance the integrity of In addition, the students must betralian Government website clearly the student visa program that enrolled in a course of study thatdeclares that if you intend to lodge explicitly addresses whether is registered on the Commonwealtha student visa application after 30 the individual circumstances of Register of Institutions and cours-September 2017, you are encour- an applicant indicate that their es for Overseas for Overseas Stu-aged to re-check the document intention is for a temporary stay dents (CRICOS). The CRICOS, beingchecklist based on your country of in Australia. the official Australian Governmentpassport and education provider website, lists all Australia-basedbefore lodgment as your evidence • Medical examination education providers offering cours-requirements may have changed. es to international students in • Health Insurance Australia on study visas. If you areBefore applying for a study permit applying from outside Australia,in Australia, the applicants must It is important to note that visa you must include a Confirmation ofhave the following documents: applications are assessed on a Enrolment (CoE) for each intend- case-to-case basis and the visa ed course of study with your visa• A valid passport processing times vary depending application. on individual circumstances. How-• The confirmation of Enrolment ever, the visa officer might ask an The GTE requirement is the biggest (C.O.E), an official document applicant for additional informa- game-changer in terms of fulfill- issued to international students tion. In fact, the applicants can ing the dreams of student visa by universities in Australia check the eligibility criteria and requirements by opening Student February 2018 | 33

applicants. The officer assessing English language skills by providing vider CRICOS code, and that’s howthe visa will consider whether their IELTS/PTE test report. They they can explore the Documentarythe individual circumstances of can check the Document Checklist Evidence List which helps in under-the student indicates that their Tool (disclaimer) to find out about standing what are the documentsintention is for a temporary stay the evidence they need to provide they need to provide along with thein Australia. Therefore, the stu- or if they might also be exempt from visa application.dents must satisfy that they have a providing evidence.genuine intention to stay in Austra- What are you still waiting for?lia temporarily. The document checklist tool will ask Check out www.homeaffairs.gov.au/ an applicant to fill out information trav/visa-1/500- for more infor-Besides that, the applicants might relating to Country of Passport, mation and be a part of Australianneed to provide evidence of their Education provider, Education pro- education.34 | The Foreigner



TOP REASONSTO STUDYIN NEW ZEALAND Peter Hockley is more stable than most govern- The overall numbers of scholarships Auckland ments in other countries. As for the have almost been doubled since last climate, nothing can get better than 6 years. Many scholarships are onlyPeter Hockley works as an assistant to inter- the weather in New Zealand. The for international students. Also, thenational students in Auckland. He is an active winters are mild, with temperatures cost of living as well as tuition feemember for international student’s develop- around 10ºC (50ºF) and slightly to study in a reputed college in thisment organization. His hobbies are mountain wet. In higher altitudes, you will see country is not very high when com-climbing and reading. snow, but it’s not common in lower pared to other parts of the globe. altitudes. In the summers, the cli- All international students who got“Nothing can compete with New mate is warm and dry with tempera- admission in a Ph.D. or an equiva-Zealand for its beauty and quality tures around 25ºC (77ºF). lent course in any of the universityof education”. This is a statement within the inland are eligible toabout New Zealand that is generally Educationally, a significant growth pay the same fee as the residents ofaccepted as true. has been seen in the overall number New Zealand. of international students studying inThere are a number of reasons that New Zealand since the last few years. VISA REQUIREMENTSyou should consider studying in This is mainly because of a hugeNew Zealand . Kiwis, as the natives investment by the government of You need to prove your Englishof the country are known, are some New Zealand for the welfare of inter- Language ability if you are from aof the most amazing, loving, and national students. One of the great country where English is not thewelcoming people that you will ever advantages is, students can move first language. You may opt formeet. If you are a stranger, a native to Australia if they have permanent either IELTS or PTE. You should beNew Zealander is going to treat you residency visa of New Zealand after at least 18 years of age to study inlike you are a friend. The economy is completion of their education. a university/college in this country.actually incredibly stable, the costof living is low, and the government36 | The Foreigner

NEW INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS FROM • A police verification form from ALL COUNTRIES STUDYING IN NEW ZEALAND the main police station in your locality Based on when their first student visa was approved, year ended June 1998-2016 Fees:50 000 Visa Fee- NZ$270040 000 Medical Fee- NZ$9030 000 DOCUMENT CHECKLIST20 000 • Fully filled visa application form10 000 • Copy of passport Provider: Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment figure.nz • Passport Size photographs with blue background (4)0 • A certificate issued by a doctor1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 2013 2016 prescribing your overall health condition in last two yearsFor minors, it is necessary to show the The supportive documents re-immigrant department that you have quired are: • Proof of sufficient fundseither been sponsored or have ar-ranged an accommodation in NZ. • Your passport copy (Which should • Copy of Letter of Enrollment at be valid for one year after com- the universityYou shouldn’t have a criminal record pletion of your study)in your country. You need to download • Criminal Record Checklistthe visa application from the Immi- • A copy of letter from the NZ uni-grant NZ official website and submit it versity confirming your admission • Copy of educational certificatesto the NZ embassy in your own country. you completed earlier • Proof of funds VISA APPLICATION Once the application is accepted in the embassy, it will take up to 25 working days to process your ap- plication depending on the overall queue and the course you choose.PROCEDURE OF APPLYINGGive IELTS Apply Wait Fill for no INZ Submit it Wait for Collect your exam Admm in for Admm 1012 app. at Emb with around 25 Visa from desired univ Confrm. all docum & embassy Form If admm days confrmd passport February 2018 | 37

38 | The Foreigner

  February 2018 | 39   LEGEND LEGEND                                       

40 | The Foreigner

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42 | The Foreigner



A SIMPLIFIED GUIDETO APPLYING FOR UK STUDENT VISAPaul LettersLondon, UKPaul has worked for various UK Universities for 16 years. He is an internationalstudent admissions strategist. His passion is playing soccer.The United Kingdom’s legacy of 150,000 courses offered by the • Hassle-free visa applicationhaving the oldest and most reputed universities of U.K. procedure.universities in the world is a primereason it is chosen by a legion of • The degrees offered can be tai- • It gives an opportunity to thestudents in India and other coun- lored according to the interests students to experience multicul-tries for higher studies. Moreover, it of the students. tural environment.is a country that welcomes all inter-national students without discrimi- • A wide range of scholarships are • Indian students are also eligiblenation and with genuine hospitality. available for the students that for free medical treatment during provide either partial or full waiv- the period of their studies in theWHY STUDY IN THE U.K.? er of the tuition fees. U.K.There are several reasons that make INDIAN STUDENTS ENROLLEDthe U.K. a sought-after destinationfor the Indian students: IN HIGHER EDUCATION IN 2015-16• From English language courses 170.000 165.918 Enrollment in 2015 to PhDs, a wide assortment of programmes is offered by various 141.667 universities in the U.K. 113.333• The U.K. is home to three of the top ten universities in the world, 85.000 including the renowned Oxford and the Cambridge University. 56.667 Over 49.000 42.166 28.370 28.333 16.750 13.740• It offers high-quality education to all the students. The degrees 0 United United New gained from various universities States Kingdom Zealand of U.K. are recognized globally by Canada Australia Germany employers, government organiza- tions, and other universities.• The students can choose from44 | The Foreigner

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO • A letter of confirmation or Confir- look for the universities offering theAPPLY FOR THE U.K. STUDY mation of Acceptance for Studies course.VISA (CAS) issued by the university where you had applied for studies. Step 2: Gather all the requisiteThe candidates need to fulfill the documents and apply for the admis-following requirements prior to • Original mark sheets, degrees, and sions in the chosen universities. Theapplying for a student visa: certificates listed by the universi- universities may take few weeks to ty that granted CAS. grant you a CAS.• A copy of valid passport. • Biometric details and Tuberculo- Step 3: Visit the official website• A completely filled and duly sis certificate. to apply for student visa to U.K. signed visa application form. and look at the list of documents Generally, Indian students are STEP-BY-STEP PROCEDURE required. Ensure that you have all required to fill Tier 4 visa applica- the documents updated and ready tion form. You should apply for a U.K study visa with you. at least three months prior to your• One colored passport size pho- date of travel. In order to apply for Step 4: If the duration of your tograph taken in a light back- a study visa to the U.K., the candi- course is more than 6 months, then ground. For further details, refer dates must secure 40 points in the you may have to take medical tests to the guidelines laid down on visa assessment. These points are including a test for tuberculosis. the official website: www.gov. granted on the basis of CAS, English The Embassy accepts medical certif- uk/government/organisations/ language skills, and for possessing icates only from its authorized hos- uk-border-agency enough money to support expenses pitals and clinics so, you’ll have to in the U.K. take a certificate from the approved• Evidence of financial stability hospitals. that proves that you can support Step 1: Firstly, choose a course that your stay during the entire period you’d like to pursue in the U.K and of your study. THE UK IS AN ALL-TIME FAVORITE AND THE SECOND• In case you have a financial MOST PREFERRED FOREIGN DESTINATION, AFTER sponsor, you need to produce THE USA, BY THE INDIAN STUDENTS. documents that state their con- tribution towards tuition fees, maintenance etc. February 2018 | 45

TOP TEN NON-EU SENDING COUNTRIESCOUNTRY 2015-16 2014-15 2013-14 87,895China (PRC) 91,215 89,540 16,635Malaysia 17,405 17,060 16,485United States of America 17,115 16,865 19,750India 16,745 18,320Hong Kong 14,725(Special Administrative Region) 16,745 16,215Nigeria 18,020Saudi Arabia 16,100 17,920 9,060Singapore 8,570 8,595 6,790Thailand 7,540 7,295 6,340Canada 6,095 6,240 6,350 5,980 6,075Step 5: The candidates are required STUDENT’S LIFEto enroll their biometric informa- IN THE UNITED KINGDOMtion to apply for a visa. Hence,you’ll have to visit your nearby visa The students studying in various uni-application center and register your versities of U.K. are treated as adultsbiometric details. and they have the liberty to study in their own way. The educational sys-Step 6: Now, fill the student visa tem in the U.K. is interactive whereapplication form on the official the students are motivated to bewebsite and fix an appointment in creative and carry research. There arethe visa application center. various societies in the universities that offer social programmes includ-Step 7: On the day of the appoint- ing parties, celebrations, picnics,ment, visit the center at least get-togethers and educational trips.15 minutes early along with thenecessary documents. Submit the The students are allowed to workform with documents and pay the while with carrying out theirvisa application fees of 335 pounds studies. They can take a part-timeor Rs 26,050 to the embassy along job, internship or they can even dowith a service charge of Rs 260. skill-oriented jobs during the vaca-Then, you’ll receive a receipt from tions that can add to their CV’s. Thethe embassy. It usually takes 3 to students are allowed to work and6 weeks for the visa application to live in the U.K. even after complet-get approved. ing their studies. MORE THAN 500K INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ARE ENROLLED IN VARIOUS UNIVERSITIES OFTHE UK, OF WHICH 25K ARE INDIAN STUDENTS”46 | The Foreigner

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