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Recent changes to Australian student visas

2014-08-28T03:43:00.001-07:00

The Australian Government’s Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) made a number of changes to student visas and skilled migration in 2012. These changes were made in response to the Knight review, an investigation commissioned by the government with the aim of finding ways to make study in Australia easier for international students. The changes will affect all students applying for visas from 2012 onwards. For a complete list of changes, see Implementation of the Government Reponse to the Knight Review of the Student Visa Program.

Reduction of student visa assessment levels
DBP reduced the student visa assessment levels for 29 countries in order to simplify student visa processing for applicants from these countries. Countries with updated visa assessment levels include Bulgaria, China, India, Indonesia, Mauritius, Nepal, the Philippines, South Korea and Turkey. Students from affected countries do not need to supply as much evidence when applying for their student visa, which may include evidence of academic qualifications, financial capacity and English language requirements. See DIBP's website for a full list of countries affected.

Changes to English language test requirements
DIBP now allows student visa applicants who need to supply evidence of their English language proficiency to submit results from the Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-based test (TOEFL iBT), the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic and the Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) test. Previously, DIBP only accepted IELTS results.

Streamlined visa processing
Student visa applicants who lodge their applications with a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a participating university in Australia at bachelor, masters or doctoral degree level will be assessed in a streamlined manner (similarly to the Assessment Level 1), regardless of their country of origin. As a result, they will not have to supply as much evidence to support their visa application. The government has also discontinued the pre-visa assessment (PVA) policy, which required student visa applicants from Assessment Levels 3 and 4 to undergo an assessment before accepting their offer and applying for a student visa.

Changes to student visa charges
The student visa application charge of AUD $565 has been reduced to $535. Fees do not apply to students sponsored under Commonwealth-approved programs, secondary school exchange students or students affected by the closure of their education provider.

Changes to employment restrictions
Before March 2012, international students were able to work up to a maximum of 20 hours per week. This has been changed to a more flexible 40 hours per fortnight, meaning students can work 15 hours one week and 25 hours the following week, rather than strictly 20 hours per week. Students can begin work once they have commenced a course of study, and employment restrictions only apply when their course is in session (students may work unlimited hours during semester breaks). Work limits do not apply to students completing a masters or doctoral degree. See Flexible Working Conditions for more information.

More leniency in visa cancellation
The government plans to abolish the policy that sees student visas automatically cancelled for unsatisfactory attendance, unsatisfactory progress and working in excess of the hours allowed. This change means that cases determining the cancellation of visas will be considered on an individual basis, resulting in a fairer outcome for international students.

Changes to living costs requirements
The living cost requirement for student visa applicants has risen from AUD$18,000 per year to AUD$18,610 per year to ensure that international students are financially prepared to move to Australia and that they will have access to sufficient funds during their stay. Students are required to show that they have access to sufficient funds before they are granted a student visa. Prepaid homestay fees may now be included in the financial requirements assessment for a student visa. The financial requirements for Assessment Level 3 and 4 student visa applicants have been reduced — these applicants now have to prove that they have access to AUD$36,000 less than before.

Introduction of a post-study work visa
The Australian Government introduced a post-study work visa in 2013, which allows international students completing an Australian bachelor, masters or doctoral degree to remain in Australia to gain work experience after they graduate. Graduates of bachelor and masters by coursework degrees can apply for a two-year work visa at the completion of their degree, which increases to three years for masters by research graduates and four years for PhD graduates.

Changes to skilled migration
Three new points-tested skilled migration visa subclasses have been introduced: subclass 189 (skilled independent), subclass 190 (skilled nominated) and subclass 489 (skilled regional). These three subclasses combine the six existing skilled migration visa subclasses — 175, 176, 475, 885, 886 and 487. The Australian Government has also introduced a new skilled migration visa process — an online service called SkillSelect. SkillSelect enables skilled workers and graduates who want to migrate to Australia to lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI), replacing the previous system where intending migrants applied for a skilled migration visa. The EOI will contain information about skills and attributes, which will be assessed using a points test. Once an EOI is lodged, intending migrants may be nominated for a skilled visa by Australian employers or government departments, or may be invited to lodge a visa application. One of the main differences with SkillSelect is that the location requirements have been broadened, meaning that applicants may complete this process inside or outside Australia. The requirement of recent Australian study or work experience has also been removed, but still remains a part of the points test. For more information, refer to the SkillSelect section of the DIBP website.

Britain considers dramatic visa fee hike

2014-08-21T20:23:00.002-07:00

London: The UK plans to significantly increase visa fees to plug a 50 million pound gap in its budget, a move that can hit Prime Minister David Cameron's efforts to boost student and business visits from countries like India.

The proposal for an across-the-board rise in visa fees is contained in a letter from a Home Office official circulated in the corridors of power in London, The Times reported today.

According to the newspaper, the move is aimed at plugging a 50-million pound hole in the Home Office budget and could mean a hike in visa fees by 4 per cent, more than double the rate of inflation.

The move could put the Home Office in a direct clash with Prime Minister David Cameron's efforts to boost student and business visits to Britain from countries like India and China.

Cameron has already announced premium fast-track visa services for elite travellers from these two fast developing countries as part of his trade drive.

The move comes weeks after Home Secretary Theresa May was forced to back down on compulsory 3,000 pound visa bonds for select countries, including India.

A Home Office spokesperson said: "Visa fees are increasing because we are reducing the cost of the immigration system to the taxpayer. Immigrants and visitors should contribute their fair share to the system.

"The Home Office - like the government overall - is performing well in cutting spending while protecting and improving services."

iPhone 6 could offer 50% faster LTE downloads than iPhone 5S

2014-08-19T10:35:00.002-07:00

The iPhone 6 should feature a Qualcomm modem that would make LTE download speeds 50 per cent faster.

A fresh report states that the iPhone 6 will feature a Qualcomm MDM9625 modem, which would offer download speeds of 150 megabits per second. These speeds would provide 4G LTE download speeds 50 per cent faster than the current iPhone 5S.

The third-generation Qualcomm LTE chipset was originally announced back in February 2012 and could offer marked upgrades to the current iPhone cellular download speeds.

The iPhone 5S is capable of a maximum 100Mbps download speed.

Previously rumours had teased that the iPhone 6 may come with support for LTE Category 6, which could mean super-fast download speeds of up to 300Mbps. The latest report suggests that the iPhone 6 is limited to CAT 4 LTE compatibility.

However, it’s not such bad news for UK consumers. Currently CAT 6 LTE isn’t yet mainstream in countries outside of South Korea.

It would therefore make sense for Apple to opt for a slightly older chip with LTE Advanced support, which would be more widely compatible with global network providers.

The Qualcomm MDM9625 chip uses a 28-nanometer manufacturing process that not only boosts download speeds, but improves performance and power consumption in compared to the previous generation chips found in phones like the iPhone 5S.

Battery efficiency is supposedly a top priority for Apple with the iPhone 6. The new Apple A8 processor should introduce minor performance enhancements, but its main focus is to make the iPhone 6 more energy efficient.

Expected to launch on September 9, the iPhone 6 is tipped to come with a choice of 4.7- or 5.5-inch screen sizes. It should come with a refined design with rounded edges and a slimmer profile to boot.

Windows Phone HTC One M8 launched as Verizon exclusive

2014-08-19T10:32:00.004-07:00

The Windows Phone HTC One M8 variant has been launched as a Verizon exclusive over in the US.

Following leaked press renders earlier today, the HTC One M8 for Windows Phone has been officially unveiled in the US.

As the name suggests, the HTC One M8 for Windows Phone is exactly the same handset, but it runs Windows Phone 8.1 rather than the usual Android KitKat.

It’s pretty much a game of spot the difference in terms of design. The aluminium uni-body design is there with its rounded features.

There’s just the Verizon branding and a small Windows Phone logo on the back to tell them apart with the screen off.

Inside the two HTC One M8 variants are also the same beast. You’ll get the 5-inch 1080p full HD display running on the 2.3GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 processor with 2GB of RAM.

All that is powered by a 2660mAh battery and you’ll also get Adreno 330 GPU graphics power. There’s the dual front-facing HTC BoomSound speakers and the dual lens 4-megapixel UltraPixel camera in the back. That is paired with a 5-megapixel front-facing camera.

Microsoft and HTC have worked together to ensure at least some of the UI experiences are the same across both models of the HTC One M8.

For example, the dual-camera’s UFocus features work with Windows Phone 8.1.1. You’ll get the trademark HTC Blinkfeed too, if you’re willing to install a separate app rather than have it integrated into the UI itself.

In the US, those looking to purchase the HTC One M8 for Windows Phone will have to head to Verizon. When it goes on sale on August 20 it will be offered at a promotional price of $99.99 on a two-year contract.

There’s no word on whether availability of this handset will extend to other carriers in the US or even to the UK and beyond.

UK police lobbying for passwords on all smartphones

2014-08-19T10:27:00.000-07:00

The Metropolitan Police force has started lobbying for all smartphones to come with preset passwords.

For over two years, the Met has been asking phone manufacturers like Samsung and Apple to introduce mandatory passwords for all new smartphones.

The Met sees this as a way of tackling handset and identity theft from the get go, as users will then be encouraged to keep their phones password locked.

According to research carried out by the Met, up to 60 per cent of phones in the UK aren’t password locked, leaving them vulnerable to unsolicited access.

“We are trying to get [passwords] to be set as a default on new phones, so that when you purchase it you will physically have to switch the password off, rather than switch it on,” said DCI Bob Mahony speaking to The Register. “We have been talking to the industry and government. This is one of the main ideas among a range of measures we are trying to push to protect personal data. All the industry has been engaged at some level – and governments too.”

Phone manufacturers have offer increased options for phone security in recent years, with some opting to introduce fingerprint sensors for phone unlocking and mobile payments, such as with the iPhone 5S and Samsung Galaxy S5.

“Brits seem to be slacking on passcode protection on their phones-- only 44% of Brits use passcodes, whereas Germans are nearly twice as likely to employ protection (86% use passcodes) and in the US 56% report use of PINs or passcodes”, said Thomas Labarthe, European Managing Director of technology security firm Lookout.

Mahony added that mobile phones are being sold on a global market, with stolen devices ending up halfway across the world just days after being pinched.

“Phone theft needs to be tackled from multiple angles to really put a damper on the smartphone black market. The goal is to make it harder for the bad guys to profit from stealing phones. This measure to make passcode protection mandatory, adds friction into the process for the crook. When you remove the market incentive, you’ll see a drop off in device theft,” added Labarthe.

smart phones best mobiles

2014-08-19T10:11:00.002-07:00

smart phones best mobiles

NOKIA LUMIA 521

SAMSUNG GALAXY AVANT

8NOKIA LUMIA 635

9.2LG G3

SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB 4 8.0

8.5SAMSUNG GALAXY NOTE 10.1 (2014 EDITION)

4.5ALCATEL ONETOUCH POP 7

T-MOBILE CONCORD II

SAMSUNG SGH-T199

LG OPTIMUS L90

9.1SAMSUNG GALAXY S5

8.8HTC ONE (M8)

8.5LG G FLEX

9.2SONY XPERIA Z1S

LG OPTIMUS F3Q

SAMSUNG GALAXY LIGHT

8.5APPLE IPAD MINI 2

9.5GOOGLE NEXUS 5

9.2APPLE IPAD AIR

5.5ALCATEL ONETOUCH FIERCE

ALCATEL ONETOUCH EVOLVE

9SAMSUNG GALAXY NOTE 3

9APPLE IPHONE 5C

9.3APPLE IPHONE 5S

9.4LG G2

6.5LG OPTIMUS F3 MS659

T-MOBILE 768

8.5SONY XPERIA Z

2SAMSUNG GRAVITY Q

T-MOBILE PRISM II

5SAMSUNG GALAXY EXHIBIT

9.3SAMSUNG GALAXY S4

SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB 2 10.1 (T-MOBILE)

T-MOBILE ASPECT

7.5LG OPTIMUS L9 T-MOBILE

8.5SAMSUNG GALAXY S II T-MOBILE

8.5SAMSUNG GALAXY S 4G

Description

This is an up-to-date list of all new T-Mobile phones that are currently available. You can also browse allupcoming T-Mobile phones or older phones.

T-Mobile US is the fourth largest cell phone carrier in the United States, providing service to over 44 million subscribers nationwide. It operates a 3G GSM network, as well as 4G HSPA+ and LTE networks, which together cover 96% of the country's population. T-Mobile US is owned by Deutsche Telekom - the largest telecommunications company in Europe.

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Sharp Aquos Crystal vs Galaxy S5 vs One (M8): specs comparison

2014-08-19T10:07:00.001-07:00

Many of us, tech-savvy individuals, have wanted to see some of Sharp's striking, almost bezel-less smartphones finally arrive in the US, but those "headless" phones had, until now, been exclusively available in Japan. Well, you remember that Japanese carrier Softbank recently bought the majority of Sprint, right? We suspect this may have something to do with today's announcement - Sprint has officially become the first US carrier to offer a Sharp Aquos phone, and boy is that new Aquos Crystal a looker! With almost zero bezel around the left, right, and top sides, this phone manages to pack a sizable 5" screen into a relatively compact body size. Sweet, eh? However, we should point out that this is a mid-range offering that doesn't quite aim to compete with the big guys on the market. Still, where there's smoke there's fire, so we can imagine that if this new fella gets a warm welcome from US customers, more Sharp phones will follow it through this newly-established warp gate connecting Japan and the US.

This post just got a little too geeky? Agreed. Now, let's turn our attention back to the Sharp Aquos Crystal and our specs comparison. As we said, the Crystal is more of a mid-range affair, but we're still going to pit it against some of the most popular Androids out there, just to get an idea of how it stacks up against those popular models.

DESIGN
OS Android (4.4.2) Android (4.4.2) TouchWiz UI Windows Phone 8.1
Dimensions 5.16 x 2.64 x 0.39 inches (131 x 67 x 10 mm) 5.59 x 2.85 x 0.32 inches (142 x 72.5 x 8.1 mm) 5.76 x 2.78 x 0.37 inches (146.36 x 70.6 x 9.35 mm)
Weight 4.97 oz (141 g)
the average is 4.7 oz (136 g) 5.11 oz (145 g)
the average is 4.7 oz (136 g) 5.64 oz (160 g)
the average is 4.7 oz (136 g)
Body material Metal
Rugged Water, Dust resistant
IP certified IP 67

DISPLAY
Physical size 5.0 inches 5.1 inches 5.0 inches
Resolution 720 x 1280 pixels 1080 x 1920 pixels 1080 x 1920 pixels

Pixel density 294 ppi 432 ppi 441 ppi

Technology LCD Super AMOLED
Colors 16 777 216

CAMERA
Camera 8 megapixels 16 megapixels 4 megapixels
Flash LED LED Dual LED
Aperture size F2.2 F2.0
Focal length (35mm equivalent) 28 mm
Camera sensor size 1/2.6" 1/3"
Camcorder 1920x1080 (1080p HD) (30 fps) 3840x2160 (4K) (30 fps) 1920x1080 (1080p HD)
Recording format MPEG4, H.263, H.264, WMV
Features Digital image stabilization, High Dynamic Range mode (HDR) High Dynamic Range mode (HDR)
Front-facing camera 1.2 megapixels 2.1 megapixels 5 megapixels
Video capture 1280x720 (720p HD) (30 fps) 1920x1080 (1080p HD)

HARDWARE

System chip Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 MSM8926 Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 MSM8974-AC Qualcomm Snapdragon 801

Processor Quad core, 1200 MHz Quad core, 2500 MHz, Krait 400 Quad core, 2300 MHz
Graphics processor Adreno 305 Adreno 330 Yes

System memory 1536 MB RAM 2048 MB RAM (Dual-channel) / LPDDR3 2048 MB RAM
Built-in storage 8 GB 32 GB 32 GB
Storage expansion microSD, microSDHC, microSDXC microSD, microSDHC, microSDXC microSD, microSDHC, microSDXC

BATTERY
Talk time 13.00 hours
the average is 12 h (703 min) 21.00 hours
the average is 12 h (703 min)
Stand-by time 16.2 days (390 hours)
the average is 20 days (490 h)
Talk time (3G) 22.00 hours
the average is 14 h (870 min)
Stand-by time (3G) 22.0 days (528 hours)
the average is 29 days (703 h)
Capacity 2040 mAh 2800 mAh 2600 mAh
Type Li - Ion Li - Polymer

TECHNOLOGY

CDMA 800, 1900 MHz 800, 1900 MHz
GSM 850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz 850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz
UMTS 850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz
FDD LTE 700 (band 13), 1700/2100 (band 4) MHz
Data LTE Cat 4 (150/50 Mbit/s), , HSDPA+ (4G) 42.2 Mbit/s, HSUPA 5.76 Mbit/s, UMTS, EDGE, GPRS HSPA (unspecified), HSUPA, EDGE, GPRS, EV-DO

AVAILABILITY

Scheduled release August 2014 22 Aug 2014 (Official) 19 Aug 2014

id you know: Xiaomi's new MIUI 6 skin is the most shameless iOS rip-off you'll ever see

2014-08-17T10:42:00.001-07:00

Xiaomi, a company often called 'the Apple of China', has just unveiled images of its newest MIUI 6 Android skin, and it takes a lot of inspiration from the design aesthetic of Apple's iOS 7 and 8.

Starting with the transparent, through-the-glass looks of backgrounds and wallpapers, going through the similar, flat style and single-color backdrop for icons, and finishing off with the appearance of apps like the calendar, compass, timer, calculator, and so on that are a nearly identical copy of their Apple counter-parts, it seems that Xiaomi did not shy away from taking the best out of Apple's system quite literally.

The strange thing is that these fresh new screenshots from MIUI 6 come right after ex-Googler and current international VP of Xiaomi defended the company, saying it's not copying Apple and instead putting the blame on the media. The accusations, however, have a comical undertone as Xiaomi's latest event featured CEO Lei Jun wearing a black turtleneck like Steve Jobs, holding a similarly orchestrated presentation, and featuring a 'one more thing' slide at the end. The MIUI 6 builds on that tradition, but will this be enough to awaken Apple's legal department? Let us know your thoughts below.

The best Android browsers, 2014 edition: design, features, and performance

2014-08-17T10:39:00.000-07:00

Preface

Three months from now, it will be a full year since we last took it upon ourselves to explore and compare mobile browsers in depth. This time around, we'll be kicking things into a higher gear. Heck, it's probably fair to say that this is a whole new ballgame, as the scope of examined categories is far larger. Said otherwise, while you and us will revisit the same type of synthetic and real world performance benchmarks, functionality, features, general UI responsiveness and design will, this time around, also factor in.

We had to take shortcuts, though. Simply put, there are just way too many browser apps available right now, and that makes it practically impossible to examine them all well enough. So we had to pick. But instead of simply relying on popularity, or speed, or features, we thought it's best to cover the entire spectrum, and also include newcomers, that may not have yet won themselves massive audiences, but chances are, they will.

But enough with the disclaimers. Let's talk facts.

Note: The test device of choice is the OnePlus One.

Interface and design

Last time we explored mobile Android browsers, the focus was on speed. That made a lot of sense back then, especially considering that less than a year ago, poor performance was still an overarching issue with most low-to-mid range smartphones. Today, things are different, and even the cheapest devices out there are speedy enough to mostly swing the discussion in the other direction -- the design of the interface, and how easy it is to use.

In general, it's absolutely correct to say that this is an area that has seen pretty much zero change in a long time -- what we have on our mobile devices is, for the most part, a miniaturized version of our desktop browsers. We have an address bar on top, tabs usually sit there too, and a giant box of white space waiting to be filled with content. We found it absolutely strange that of all the browsers we've tested, including the ones that didn't make the shortlist, only Habit Browser had the address bar located on the bottom, thus making it easy to reach. We're not saying its implementation is perfect, but with the average Android phone now dangerously close to the 5-inch mark, this is becoming an issue. But let's talk about the contestants in turn -- go right ahead into the slideshow below.

Canada Student Visa Process Under SPP

2014-08-17T01:52:00.002-07:00

Step1: Apply for admission

Once you have decided what and where you want to study, we will help you complete the application to the institutions of your choice. At the time of application for admission you will be required to submit several documents including proof of previous academic qualifications and in most cases proof of your English language ability.

By submitting your application through us you will be able to track the progress of your application as we send you automatic notifications of its progress. We also take the hard work out of tracking the applications by keeping in contact with the institution on your behalf.

Step 2: Financial Preparation & Payment of Fees

To accept your offer from an education provider, you must pay the tuition fee as advised by the institution. You can choose to pay this fee through either Telegraphic Transfer (TT) or Direct Debit (DD). Our value added services department at APEX Consultants can help you arrange either of these payment methods. We recommend you to pay Full tuition fees of your Institution. There by maximising chances of visa.

Once the institutions have received and processed your tuition fee payment, they will issue you with receipt. This receipt will be needed to lodge your visa application.

Step 3: Undertake a Medical Examination

Apex Team will help you get prepared for Medicals. Our Counselors will arrange to get appointments for Medical examinations. Students will need to undertake a medical examination by one of the doctors approved by the Canadian Government. A list of the approved panel doctors can be found by visiting:

You will be provided with a receipt (IMM1017) for the medicals, which you will need to submit at the time of lodging you visa application. The medical report will automatically be sent to the visa office.

Step 4: G I C with Scotia Bank:
Provide evidence of purchase of a special Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution [currently it is only Scotia bank], for the amount of $10,000 CAD towards the first year living expenses and evidence of payment for of first year’s tuition fee OR As an alternate option, students can meet the financial requirement by submitting a copy of the receipt for the first year’s tuition fee payment AND a copy of an Educational Loan from an Indian Chartered Bank equivalent to $10,000 CAD.

Step 5: Visa lodgment:

We have highly experienced and Expert team that will guide you for the visa documentation and online applications, Interviews. In Canada, a student visa is known as a Study Permit. To lodge your visa application you will need to provide the documents outlined in the checklist we provided you detailed guideline.

Just like your admission application, APEX Consultants will keep you updated as to the progress of your application and take the hard work out of tracking your application by keeping in contact with the visa office on your behalf.

Step 6: Travel services
At APEX Consultants we can help you organise your travel arrangements to begin your new student life in Canada. Air ticketing, insurance and foreign exchange can all be arranged through us to make studying overseas easier.

Finding a Postgraduate Scholarship: Advice from a Past Winner

2014-08-16T15:28:00.004-07:00

Looking for a postgraduate scholarship to fund a master’s or PhD program? Every year, the QS Scholarships fund offers US$1.7 million in exclusive scholarship funding for attendees of the QS World Grad School Tour and the QS World MBA Tour.

Petros Perselis, winner of the 2011 QS Community Scholarship, explains how receiving this postgraduate scholarship helped him to pursue a master’s degree at Stanford University. Now enjoying the beginnings of a career in financial services and consulting, he shares some words of advice for others seeking postgraduate scholarship opportunities.

More about QS Scholarships

If you too would like a postgraduate scholarship to support the next stage of your studies, check out the current list of QS Scholarships. As well as postgraduate scholarships to study at specific universities, the scheme also includes several QS Scholarships which can be used to fund any master’s or PhD program. TheQS Leadership Scholarship is awarded to individuals demonstrating strong leadership skills and a commitment to making a positive difference, while the QS Academic Scholarship recognizes academic excellence and the potential to contribute to a significant field of research.

For MBA-specific scholarships offered within the QS Scholarships scheme, visit our sister site, TopMBA.com.
Attending the QS World Grad School Tour

In order to apply for a QS Scholarship, you’ll first need to attend a QS World Grad School Tour event. Each year you can choose from events held in almost 70 cities across North and Latin America, Europe, Asia and Africa. As well as qualifying you to apply for the postgraduate scholarships offered by QS and partner universities, the QS World Grad School Tour is also a chance to meet leading universities from around the world. Attendees of the QS World Grad School Tour have the opportunity to speak directly with university admissions tutors and advisors, and to attend seminars on topics such as international applications and graduate admissions tests.

How to Get a Canadian Student Visa

2014-08-16T15:24:00.002-07:00

In order to study in Canada, you will need to obtain a Canadian study permit, which serves as a Canadian student visa for the duration of your stay. You do not need a Canadian study permit if your course or program lasts six months or less. Nonetheless, it may be a good idea to apply for a permit before you come to Canada anyway – otherwise if you decide you want to continue your studies in another program, you’ll need to leave Canada to apply for a study permit through a visa office.

Once you have a Canadian study permit, you can apply to renew it from within Canada if you decide to continue your studies. For full-time students registered at an accredited higher education institution, a study permit also allows you to work part-time on campus. You may also be able to work off-campus, work as a co-op or intern as part of your program, stay in Canada as a permanent resident or find work after you graduate.
Applying for a Canadian study permit

You can apply for a Canadian study permit either online or through a paper application, which can be obtained from the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website. Paper applications typically take about twice as long, and it’s always recommended to check the processing times well in advance. To apply online, you’ll need a credit/debit card and the ability to create electronic copies of your supporting documents (i.e. using a scanner or camera). The visa office in your country will provide specific instructions about which documents you need to provide; this can vary depending on your location. If you need assistance, you can get help at your nearest visa application center (VAC).

The process for obtaining a Canadian student visa is as follows:
You must first obtain a standardized letter of acceptance from a recognized higher education provider. Students studying in Quebec must also apply for a certificate of acceptance, known as a CAQ, from the government of Quebec. You must acquire this before you are permitted to apply for a study permit. You can get this online, by printing out a form, or by requesting a paper form from your university, which will also provide advice on this subject.
The next stage is to get a Canadian student visa application package, either from the CIC website or by contacting your local visa office, or the Canadian embassy or consulate in your home country. You may also need to obtain a temporary residence permit if you are from a designated country (find out if you need to get one here), but this will not complicate matters too much as it’ll be processed at the same time as your study permit application.
In order to get your application package you’ll need to answer a few questions about yourself on the CIC website. These questions will determine whether you are eligible to apply online for a Canadian student permit.
If you are found eligible, you will receive a personal checklist code, valid for 60 days, which you will need in order to submit your application online. Make sure to print out the page containing your code for future reference. The page will also include an application guide, an estimated tuition fees amount, a list of documents you will need to submit with your application, and guidelines for your next steps.
When you are ready to apply, create a MyCIC account, where you will enter your personal checklist code. You will then receive your personal document checklist which allows you to upload and send your documents to CIC.
Once you have your documents and application form ready and have paid your fees, you can submit your completed application to CIC.
Some applicants may have to attend an interview at their local visa office.

Additional Canadian student visa requirements

Some or all of the following additional Canadian student visa requirements may also apply:
Applicants from certain countries will need to provide biometrics (photograph and fingerprints).
Some applicants may also need to get a medical exam and/or police check before submitting their application. You will not be able to get a study permit if you have a criminal record – you may be asked to provide a Police Clearance Certificate as proof.
Unless you’re from the US, St. Pierre and Miquelon, or Greenland, you will need to prove you have a valid passport which allows you to return to your country of origin after your course is complete. Two passport-sized pictures are also required, with your name and date of birth written on the back.
Canadian student visa requirements also include proof of funds to support yourself. At present this is deemed to be C$10,000 (US$9,400) for every year of your stay (C$11,000/US$10,350 if you’re applying to study in Quebec) on top of your tuition fees. You will also need to make sure you have enough money to pay for transportation to return home.

To prove you have this money, you can provide any of the following documents: bank statements, evidence of a Canadian account in your name if the money’s been transferred, a bank draft in a convertible currency, proof of payment of tuition and accommodation fees, a letter from a person or institution providing you with money, or proof of funding paid from within Canada if you have a scholarship or are undertaking a Canadian-funded program.

If and when your Canadian student visa application is approved, you’ll receive a letter of introduction, and a temporary residence visa if required. Present these along with your passport, proof of your finances and your letter of acceptance (and any other documents that you’ve been advised to take) to the border control agency in Canada, who will then issue your Canadian study permit and allow you access into Canada.

Guide to UK Student Visas

2014-08-16T05:31:00.002-07:00

If you are not a citizen of the European Union and you are planning to study in the UK, you may need to apply for a UK student visa. There are different types of visa, each with their own conditions and restrictions. The type of student visa you require will depend on your age, the type of course you wish to study, the length of your course and the type of college or university where you will study. This list of frequently asked questions provides some general information on UK immigration requirements for international students.

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Frequently Asked Questions
Will I need a student visa to come to the UK to study?
What types of student visa are there?
What type of student visa will I need?
What are the requirements for obtaining a Tier 4 Student Visa?
What are the requirements for obtaining a Student Visitor Visa?
What if I am already in the UK?
How do I know if the institution I apply to is recognised by the UK Border Agency?
Will I be able to work when I am in the UK?
Can I bring my family with me to the UK while I study?
What are the restrictions on student visitors?
What is a Non-Visa National?
What is a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)?
Where can I find more information?

Will I need a student visa to come to the UK to study?

If you are a citizen of the EU (or Iceland, Norway, Switzerland or Liechtenstein) you will not need a student visa to come to the UK to study. If you are a national of any other country, you will need entry clearance. In most cases, that means you will have to apply for a student visa.

What types of student visa are there?

There are two types of UK student visa: Student Visitor Visa and Tier 4 Student Visa. A Student Visitor Visa (SVV) is sufficient for short academic courses and for most English courses. For longer academic courses, you will need a Tier 4 Visa. These are divided into two categories: Tier 4 (General) and Tier 4 (Child). Tier 4 visas are issued under the provisions of the UK Points Based System (PBS).

What type of student visa will I need?

For academic courses up to 6 months, or English courses up to 11 months, a Student Visitor Visa will be sufficient. (Note: the 6 - 11 month visa is also known as an Extended Student Visitor Visa, or ESVV). For longer courses, or if you plan to extend your study time in the UK, you will need a Tier 4 Student Visa.

If you are under 18 and want to study a course at GCSE level (NQF Level 2), you must apply for a Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa. If you want to study at a higher level (e.g. A Levels or University Foundation), you can choose whether to apply for a Tier 4 (Child) or Tier 4 (General) Student Visa. The requirements and conditions differ, so the best choice will depend on your own circumstances.

If you are over 18, you must apply for a Tier 4 (General) Student Visa. Note that you cannot study at GCSE level or below if you are over 18.

What are the requirements for obtaining a Tier 4 Student Visa?

The requirements for obtaining a Tier 4 Student Visa are:
You must obtain a document called a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the institution where you intend to study. Normally, an institution will issue a CAS only when you have confirmed your place by paying a substantial deposit.
The institution must be recognised (i.e. have a sponsor's licence) by the UK Border Agency.
If you are over 18 and you want to study an academic course, the courses must be at NQF Level 3 or above (e.g. A Level or University Foundation). There is no restriction on study level for under 18s.
You must prove you have the funds to pay for your studies. As a minimum, you will need sufficient funds to pay your first year tuition fees in full, plus at least £7,380 (£9,180 in London) for accommodation and living expenses. Usually, you will be asked to produce bank statements showing the funds have been in your account (or your parents' / legal guardian's account) for 28 days before you apply for your visa. Documentary evidence of a bank loan or sponsorship from a Government body is also acceptable. Visa applications are automatically rejected if you cannot prove you have these funds, or if they have not been in your account for 28 days before you apply for your visa.
If you are over 18, you may need to pass an approved English language test before you apply for your visa. English tests are mandatory if you are studying below degree level and may be required at degree level or above. For more information on approved English language tests, see our section onSecure English Language Tests, or contact your student advisor*.

When assessing your visa application, the British Embassy or High Commission will also take into consideration other factors, in particular whether you have been refused a visa or refused entry in the past.

What are the requirements for obtaining a Student Visitor Visa?

The requirements for obtaining a Student Visitor Visa are:
You must provide documentary evidence to show you have been accepted onto a course of study by an education institution recognised by the UK Border Agency.
Your course must be no longer than 11 months (for English language courses) or 6 months (for academic courses).
As with a Tier 4 Student Visa, you must prove you can pay for your course and support yourself during your studies. You will need sufficient funds to pay your tuition fees in full, plus £820 per month (£1,020 in London) for accommodation and living expenses.

What if I am already in the UK?

You cannot apply for a Student Visitor Visa or new Tier 4 Visa from within the UK. However, you can extend an existing Tier 4 visa, provided your course begins no more than one month after the expiry of your current leave to remain.

If you have a Tier 4 visa and have been studying in the UK for at least 6 months, you will have a special immigration status called established presence. When you apply to extend your Tier 4 visa, you will still need to meet the requirements described above. However, you will only need £1,640 (£2,040 for London) for accommodation and living expenses, instead of £7,380 (£9,180 for London).

How do I know if the institution I apply to is recognised by the UK Border Agency?

The institution must be licensed by the UK Border Agency to sponsor international students. You candownload the latest Register or Sponsors (pdf) from the UKBA web site.

Institutions are rated as Highly Trusted, A (Trusted) or B (Sponsor). Only Highly Trusted Sponsors can accept students onto courses at or below NQF Level 3 (e.g. GCSE, A Level and University Foundation courses). The B rating is assigned as a temporary measure for institutions that need to improve to keep their licence. B rated institution must either regain A status or be suspended from the register.

Will I be able to work when I am in the UK?

If you have a Tier 4 Student Visa, you may be allowed to work full time during vacations and part time during term time, but it depends on the level of course you are studying and the type of institution that sponsored your student visa.
You can work full time during vacations and up to 20 hours per week during term time if your student visa was sponsored by a UK university and you are studying at degree level above (i.e. NQF Level 6+).
You can work full time during vacations and up to 10 hours per week during term time if your student visa was sponsored by a university or a publicly funded college of further education and you are studying below degree level (NQF Level 3+).
If your student visa was sponsored by a private institution, you will not be allowed to work at all.

Important: if you are studying a university foundation or pre-masters course on a university campus, you should check whether your student visa is sponsored by the university or by a private education provider working with the university. This will affect your right to work during term time. Your student advisor can provide further details if you are not sure.

Can I bring my family with me to the UK while I study?

You can bring dependants with you only if you are studying a postgraduate course at a university or publicly funded college. The course must be more than 12 months' duration. You will have to demonstrate your family members (or you) have sufficient funds to cover monthly living costs.

What are the restrictions on Student Visitor Visas?

Restrictions apply if you enter as a student visitor. The main restrictions are follows: i) you will not be able to apply for more time in the UK, even to extend your studies; ii) you will not be able to undertake any employment, even unpaid placements or internships as part of your study; iii) you will not be able to study at a government funded school.

What is a Non-Visa National?

Non-Visa nationals do not need to apply for a visa for courses of 6 months or less. You are a non-visa national if you are from a country designated as a non-visa national country by the UK Border Agency. Countries on the list change from time to time, so you should always check with the UK Border Agency website for the latest information - www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk. If you are unsure, please contact your student advisor* for advice.

What is a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)?

If you need a Tier 4 Student Visa to study in the UK, you must obtain a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a recognised institution before you apply for your visa. The CAS contains information about you, the institution, your course, the fees due (in the first year) and the amount already paid. It also states the course start date and the latest arrival date, after which the CAS expires if unused. A CAS is specific to an institution, so you cannot use a CAS issued by one institution to study at another.

Where can I find more information?

Further information is available on the UK Border Agency web site at www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk. Or you can contact your student advisor* at click-courses.com.

* You can contact your student advisor at click-courses.com by signing into your account. If you don't have one already, you can create a free student account by clicking here.

Visas and Student Support coming to study in the UK

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Visas and Student Support

Visas and immigration

The vast majority of overseas students coming to study in the UK are required to apply for Entry Clearance before travel at your nearest British Diplomatic Post (Embassy, Consulate-General or High Commission) that has a visa section. Visit the website of the Foreign & Commonwealth Office for more information.

If you are coming to study on a course which is more than six months long you must make an application for Entry Clearance as a student and have been granted your Tier 4 student visa before you travel.

If you are doing a course which is less than six months long the rules are slightly different and you should refer to the guidance on short courses.

To gain entry to the UK as a student you must obtain the required points under the Points Based system. Points are awarded for being in possession of a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number (30 points) and being able to meet the maintenance requirements (10 points). In addition, you must meet the immigration rules relating to students, which are:
You must have been offered an unconditional offer to study a full-time degree level course, or where a course is below degree level, a full-time weekday programme involving attendance for a minimum of 15 hours of organised study per week
You must be able to show you are able to follow the course in question
And you must be able to show you have enough money to meet the total costs of your studies.

For more detailed guidance please refer to our immigration and visa advicepages.

International Student Support

King’s offers dedicated student advice to international students offering guidance on not only visa and immigration matters but also finance, working in the UK and any other queries about living in the UK.

Welcome & orientation events for international students

The Student Advice & International Student Support team at King’s hosts an annual free Welcome and Orientation Programme for new international students at the beginning of the autumn term. This year they are running 3 Orientation events. Students should select whichever ONE is most of interest, depending on your situation, please refer to the Orientation & Welcome pages for full information.

Before registering please read all the information carefully to see what will be happening at each of the events. Please note the booking form will not go live until July 2012 and you only need to book in advance if you intend to attend the three day event on the 12-14 September 2012.

The Student Advisers can also help you with your immigration matters and any queries you may have about settling in to life in the UK.

Please also visit our New to King’s pages aimed to help you settle in upon arrival in London.

UK Student Visa (Tier 4) Requirements

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International students from outside the UK or EU must apply for a student visa. You can only apply for a student visa if you intend to study a full-time degree course in the UK. Student visas are not issued for part-time courses. Your eligibility is calculated using a points-based rules system called a Tier 4 Student Visa.
Student Visa Rules – An Introduction

You need 40 points to apply for a student visa. This is achieved by:

1. Course confirmation: you must receive aConfirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a university approved by UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI).

All universities must have been given or applied for Highly Trusted Status (HTS) on the UKVI Tier 4 Sponsor list (30 points). 'A rated' colleges can also issue CAS numbers. The 'A' rating is a transitional rating for 12 months and all 'A rated' colleges must apply for HTS status within this 12 month transition period. All universities on the Study London website have Highly Trusted Status (HTS).

2. Funding: you must provide evidence of funding to pay for both your course tuition fees and your monthly living costs (10 points).

Tuition fees are on average £11,000 per year but can range from £8,000 to £36,000. You will also need at least £1,020 for each month of your studies to pay for living costs if you live in inner London. If you live in outer London you will need £820 a month.

Visit the UK Visa and Immigration website to check the full eligibility criteria for a UK study visa. You can also read further guidance on the UKCISA website.

Remember, you can only apply for a visa once you have been given a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies. Check you are eligible for a UK Student Visa but do not apply until after you have been accepted onto a course. Your chosen university can guide you through the visa process once you have been accepted onto a course.

Tip - It is very important that you do not travel to the UK without a valid student visa. Watch the video below, visit the UK Visa and Immigration website and contact the British Embassy or Consulate in your country for advice.

How to apply for a study permit canada

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How to apply for a study permit

Once you have verified that you should apply for a study permit and you have received a letter of admission to an educational institution in Canada, please follow these steps to submit a complete application:
Check the processing times

Find out how long it takes to process a standard study permit application at this office so you will know how far in advance to apply. Please note that this is not a guarantee. You are urged to apply early to avoid disappointment.

Determine how you will apply

There are two ways to apply:

Apply online
To apply online you must have access to a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents for uploading and have a valid credit card for payment. Determine your eligibility and apply online.

Apply on paper
Please follow steps 3 to 6 below.

Download the application kit and read the instruction guide

The instruction guide contains important information about study permits and instructions to help you complete your application. Read the guide carefully and use the document checklist. Your application may be returned or refused if you do not provide all the requested information, documents and fees.

Application Kit

If you are studying in Quebec, check the provincial guidelines

If you apply to study in the province of Quebec, you will need a Certificate of Acceptance or CAQ from the Quebec government. With your study permit application, you can submit either:

The Certificate of Acceptance (CAQ), or
The approval letter sent by the Quebec government before the CAQ is issued. This letter contains your CAQ number.
Do not submit your study permit application until you have received the CAQ or the approval letter, otherwise your application may be refused.Visit the website of the Quebec government to find out how to apply for a CAQ.

Pay the processing fee

Refer to the fee schedule for the cost to apply for a study permit and how to pay. The processing fee is non-refundable in all cases. If you do not submit the correct fee, your application is considered incomplete and will be returned to you. If you need to give your biometrics, you will also need to pay the $85.

If you need a temporary resident visa, it will be issued at the same time as the study permit, with no extra fee.

If you need a work permit for a co-op term or internship related to your program of studies in Canada, this can be provided at the same time at no extra fee.

If your spouse/common-law partner and/or children are accompanying you and you are applying for temporary resident visas, work permits or study permits for them, then you will need to pay the appropriate processing fees for them.

Submit your application and supporting documents

Apply online or submit your application in person at a visa application centre (VAC). In either case, if you need to give your biometrics this will be completed at a VAC. Find your closest VAC.

Submit your application package (forms, fees and supporting documents) according to the guidelines forsubmitting an application at this office.

Why study in Australia?

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Australian institutions educate over 400,000 international students per year. For many, the most powerful lure is the quality and the diversity of Australia's education system.

There are many benefits of studying in Australia. Students are attracted to the freedom to study and work and the relatively low living costs. They enjoy the challenge and freedom of studying overseas and the status that comes from studying at a reputable institution. Furthermore, students are attracted by the country's natural and man-made wonders, the peaceful environment, the cosmopolitan cities and multicultural communities.

Studying in Australia encourages creative, innovative and independent thinking. Students learn the essential skills required for effective teamwork including communicating with others and developing abilities to become global citizens.

Australian teachers encourage students to find original, practical solutions to real world problems and students are highly sought after by Australian and international employers upon graduation.

Cost Effective quality education

Australia offers significantly lower annual tuition fees for many popular courses at universities and institutions. Bachelor degrees can also be completed in only three years (exceptions include degrees in Engineering and Medicine) compared with four years in America. This does not indicate that lower cost courses translate into lower quality outcomes. On the contrary, Australian schools and universities have an international reputation for equipping, students with skills and qualifications that are recognised around the world.

Quality Assurance

Australian universities are widely known for the quality of their teaching and research. Australia's approach to vocational education and training leads the world in innovation and quality.

Australia has emerged as a leader in the development of international benchmarks for proper accreditation, consumer protection and qualifications recognition. The Australian government is committed to protecting Australia's reputation as a source of quality education and training.

Multicultural and safe environment

Australia is a very safe country. Political unrest is limited in Australia, crime raes are low and strict gun control laws provide a safe environment. To ensure the transition is easy, IDP offers students a host of support services to help them settle in Australia.

Furthermore, Australia is accepting of all religions. People have the right to practice their faith without persecution or discrimination and Australia welcomes the wealth of cultural diversity that international students bring.

If you are looking for quality education and a good lifestyle, Australia is the place to be.

Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF)

In 1995, Australia adopted the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), a unified system of national qualifications in schools, vocational education and training institutions (TAFEs and private providers) and the higher education sector (mainly universities). The AQF is recognised by employers, and educational institutions both in Australia and abroad.

National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (NOOSR)

NOOSR is an Australian government organisation that helps Australian institutions recognise international qualifications. Conversely NOOSR also promotes the recognition of Australian qualifications overseas.

Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000

In 2000, Australia introduced the ESOS Act. The ESOS Act and regulations set out the legal framework governing delivery of education to overseas students studying in Australia on a student visa.

The Australian Government, through the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) administers the ESOS Act and its associated instruments.

ESOS ensures that Australian institutions must meet requirements for registration. If an institution fails to meet these standards for marketing activities, education delivery, facilities and student support services, they cannot be registered. This means that non-registered institutions are prevented from enrolling international students.

The ESOS legislation also provides consumer protection. This means students are guaranteed to receive the tuition for which they have paid for.
For further information: Visit AEI website

Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS)

CRICOS is a database of over 1,000 registered Australian Education Institutions. To be able to recruit, enrol and teach international students the Australian education institution must be registered by CRICOS.

Students on a student visa must enrol with an education provider registered by CRICOS.

So, if are planning to study in Australia, contact IDP. We are here to make your future brighter!

How to Get Your U.S. Student Visa

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Here are some guidelines to help make your student visa application process smooth and successful.

Getting your visa to study in the United States takes time but can be a surprisingly easy procedure. It is well worth the effort. In many countries, the number of student visas issued by the United States has grown significantly in the last year.

While the application process for an international student or exchange visitor visa can be confusing, hundreds of thousands of students are able to meet the requirements for a visa each year. Last year,534,298 F-1 student visas were issued!

After a college, university, or English language school has accepted you for admission to full-time study, the school will send you a document called an I-20 form, which is the application for an F-1 visa.

If you will be an Exchange Visitor, the organization or U.S. Government agency that is sponsoring you will send you a DS-2019 form, which is the application for a J-1 visa.

Visa Definitions

The U.S.A. issues different types of visas to students.

A full-time student would receive an F-1or M-1 visa.

Your spouse and children would receiveF-2 or M-2 visas.

An Exchange Visitor would receive a J-1visa.
Exchange Visitors come to the U.S.A. for consultation, training, research or teaching, or for an approved Au Pair or temporary work position.

First, your school or university will send you a form confirming that you have been accepted at an institution authorized by the U.S. Citizenship and Naturalization Service (USCIS) to enroll non-immigrant students (the I-20for an F-1 visa or the DS-2019 for a J-1 visa. You will read and sign this form.)

Be careful to make sure that the name and spelling on your passport is exactly the same as the name and spelling on your application for acceptance to the school and that the school has entered your name as it appears on your passport on the I-20 or DS-2019 Form.

All applicants’ names have to be submitted for a security clearance. Citizens of some countries and students who will study certain subjects at a university have to undergo additional screenings that takes several additional weeks of processing. Again, it is crucial that you allocate plenty of time for the visa application process.

Second, you will need to make an appointment for a visa interview and to pay some required fees. Under a revision in the regulations, Student Visas can be issued up to 120 days before the date on your form I-20. Exchange Visitor Visas can be issued anytime before the date on the DS-2019. You should apply as early as possible for your visa.

Each U.S. Embassy has a website providing instructions on how to make an appointment for a visa interview and other information on the visa application process. The website for the Embassy in your country can be located at: http://www.usembassy.gov/

The website can also tell you the expected wait time for a visa in your country. International student visa applicants should receive priority by the Embassy or Consulate so if your program of study will begin soon, be sure to explain this when applying for your visa.

You may wish to visit or contact the nearest U.S. Department of State-affiliated EducationUSA advising center office in your country. They are located throughout the world and listed at educationusa.info/centers.php The staff at these centers will be able to explain where to pay the visa fees and how to schedule your interview.

There is a US$200 fee, which supports the cost of the computer system used to record your stay in the United States (SEVIS). You can pay this fee with a credit card that is valid internationally. Go tohttps://www.fmjfee.com/index.jhtml to pay the fee and make sure you print a copy of your receipt. You must pay the SEVIS fee at least three days before the date of your visa interview. Bring a copy of your receipt to your visa interview

You will also need to pay an additional US$160 for the visa application fee in your country at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate or at a bank that the Embassy designates. Specific information on where to pay the visa application fee can be found at the web site of the U.S. Embassy in your country.

Immigration Direct

The U.S. Student Visa process is made easy with this multi language DVD and e-book. This package provides easy, step-by-step, instructions that break down the visa application process so you can better understand. You will be prepared with this package!

Third, the United States is using a new non-immigrant visa application form, DS-160 that should be completed on line. This form replaces all of the other forms. Instructions for completing the on line form and links to the form can be found athttp://www.travel.state.gov/visa/forms/forms_4230.html The website of the United States Embassy or Consulate in your country can be found at http://www.usembassy.gov, go to the section on Visas, and read about the correct procedure currently in place for Non-immigrant visas.

Complete the DS-160 form on line completely. Again, remember to use the exact same order and spelling of your names as they are found in your passport. Then you will print them out and bring them to the Embassy when you go for your your visa interview.

Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. Your photo must be in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements:http://travel.state.gov/visa/visaphotoreq/visaphotoreq_5334.html If the upload of your photo fails, you must bring the photo with you when you go for your interview.

Fourth, prepare for your visa interview. It is extremely crucial that you apply for your visa well in advance of the date your studies begin. If possible, apply three months before you plan to travel to the USA. This will give you extra time if there are delays at the embassy, or if you wish to appeal a decision in the event of a denial.

Six Tips for Your Visa Interview
Wear a business suit or dress
Be specific when you answer questions
Bring bank statements or proof of employment
Provide details of your study plans
Stay calm and be professional
Tell the truth

What you wear is important. Consider the interview a formal event. Business attire is appropriate. First impressions can be crucial, since there will be little time to speak with the officer, who will often have only a few minutes to conduct the interview and make a decision.

Be prepared to give your information quickly and completely. If you are unable to answer the questions in English, and the visa officer does not speak your language, you can ask for an interpreter. Speaking English is not a requirement for a student visa. In fact, thousands of students come to the United States each year to learn how to speak English.

The visa officer needs to know your specific objectives, both academic or professional, for studying in the United States. Be prepared to explain why it is better to study your specific field in the United States than to study at home. Be ready to say exactly what you will study and for what career your U.S. studies will prepare you. Calmly state your education plans concisely and clearly.

If you are going to the USA to learn English and then earn a degree, be able to explain your complete program of study. Remember, it is not enough to just say, “It is better to study in the United States.” Give valid reasons why it is better for you. Visa officers like to hear honest, direct responses to questions. They generally react poorly to applicants who give vague answers, memorize a speech, or make overly solicitous comments about how great and wonderful the United States is.

You should also be able to explain in detail why you chose to study at a specific school and be able to give information about that school and where you will live (dormitory, host family or apartment).

If you will return home to complete university studies after studying English in the United States, bring proof of your student status in your country. A letter from a university professor supporting your study plan can be helpful. Young people around the world are often unsure of their plans. However, in the visa interview it is best to give definite answers. If you seem to be unsure about what you will be doing, the visa officer may believe that you are really going to the United States for reasons other than education.

Grades do make a difference. If your marks are below average, be ready to provide explanation on how you are going to succeed in the United States. A letter from a school director or teacher, or from your U.S. admitting school stating that the proposed program of study in the United States makes sense and explaining your good prospects for success can be helpful. If there were special circumstances (such as a death or illness in the immediate family) that contributed to the poor grades, have the school explain those special circumstances.

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has implemented an online tool that nonimmigrant and immigrant visa applicants can use to check the status of their application: https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx
Last Year 534,298 F-1 Student visas were issued and there were over 991,957 students in the United States on F and M visas last year!
Financing

You must have adequate, demonstrable financial support to live and study in the United States. Visa applications are generally stronger if the financial support comes from family, employers, or other institutional sponsors located in the home country.

If your parents will pay for your education, be ready to document how your family gets its income. Bring a letter from your parents' employers stating what they do, how long they have worked at those organizations, and how much they earn.

When visa officers see information that is contradictory or does not make sense, they do not grant visas. If your family can only show enough income to support you in the United States, the officer will become suspicious.

Large sums of money in bank accounts may not be sufficient proof of financial support. When providing information about your bank accounts, ask someone at your bank for a letter that states how long the account has existed, and what the average balance in the account has been. That should convince the visa officer that you and your family have a long and stable history of business at the bank.
"Intent to Return"

Most student and exchange visitor visa applications are approved. The most common reason for a student or exchange visitor application to be denied is that the person applying for the visa has not proven to the Visa Officer that they will return to their country when they complete their studies in the U.S.A. This rule is called Section 214.b.

To determine your "intent to return" home, the visa officer will ask you a series of questions about your connections to your home country and about your study plans. You will have to demonstrate to the officer that your family has the ability to pay for the first year of your proposed stay in the United States and that you have realistic plans to finance the remainder of your education.

You must have all of the required forms with you including your I-20 or DS-2019 and the SEVIS payment receipt. You should bring any financial documents to demonstrate how you will pay for your education and any documents that might help demonstrate why you will return to your country. Some examples of such documents are previous passports demonstrating travel abroad, bank or salary statements, family documents or student records.
If all else fails...

If you are denied a visa there may be something you can do to reverse the denial. You may appeal the decision. In most cases, you will need to provide additional documentation that was not presented with the initial application. In some cases, a visa officer may request additional documents like proof of employment, or ownership of a home or business. You should respond with the information requested.

A fax or email from your U.S. school to the embassy or consulate in your city containing details about your qualifications, and requesting reconsideration, can be helpful in pursuing a successful appeal. Faxes should be addressed to the Chief of Nonimmigrant Visas at the Consular post in question. Fax and telephone numbers are available on the Department of State website at http://usembassy.state.gov.

Once a visa is approved, you should receive your visa within a few days.

EASY WAY TO SECURE VISA TO EUROPE

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DO YOU WANT TO STUDY IN EUROPE?
IF YOUR ANSWER IS YES, THEN YOU NEED TO ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS,
IN WHICH COUNTRY DO YOU WANT TO STUDY AND WHAT DO YOU WANT TO STUDY?
DO YOU HAVE THE MONEY TO FINANCE YOUR STUDIES??

NOTE: There is nothing like free tuition school in Europe for now as far as I know it is only in Finland and Germany that you pay less cost of tuition fee but in other for you to get such offer you need to be able to speak and write the German & Finland language since studies are conducted in their language.

BE WISE NIGERIANS, you are all my Brothers and Sisters so I can’t fool us, since I am not asking anyone for money as nor contribution as I am posting this article, I own us all nothing but honest truth, love and basic fact.

What is most costly in Europe is cost of living, maintenance and not tuition fee, you see a situation where you have to pay like
Tuition fee €3,750
€300 for house rent
€40-100 Transportation
€100 feeding
Total of about €540 every month that is only if you are able to manage yourself.

Like in Netherlands the governments calculates it in a way that you need at least €750 -€800 each month to live before they can issue you study visa, and that is what many of us have failed to really think about.

If you have answered the above questions correctly with all honesty to yourself then read further.

Search out a school in Europe and I apply to them online by going to their website www.braintrack.com or www.fontys.nl or www.hhs.nl . And they asked you to forward to them your credentials which you will do by sending them your WAEC result and other results if you have, attached to an email but the most important documents is the original WAEC certificate, birth certificate and attestation from National Population Commission, single or married status (bachelor affidavit).

They will accept you and the International Office of the school will help you with a room which might cost between €250-€450 per month, and you will be required to apply for health insurance through http://www.ips-lippmann.com and the insurance company would want you to pay them upfront but tell them you will pay them when you come over to the country where you want to start studying.

After they have accepted your application and requested that you pay the Tuition fee but you will them that you only operate a savings account in Nigeria and has no means of transferring the fund but will pay as soon as you arrive Netherlands, thereby assuring them that the money is readily available in bank.

Furthermore, they will request a proof of my bank account statement from you or that of your sponsor if any? This will convince them that you have the fund to finance your education. they wan see between € 9,600 to €14,000 Euros or equivalent in your account or that of your sponsor .

As soon as you give it to them, your admission letter will be forwarded immediately and they send you a letter from their Immigration in Netherlands asking you to go to Abuja
And apply and collect your Visa without any payment made at the Netherlands Embassy in Nigeria. The Embassy had no choice but to release your visa in due time.

Consequently, you will be told to legalize all necessary documents needed for your studies at the Ministry of Foreign affairs in Abuja, because every valid travel document going outside the shores of the country must be legalized at the foreign affairs and at the embassy of the country you are traveling to, so as to render the document valid and give it an international outlook. Each document at document at the foreign affairs costs #300 and was ready in three days time. Also you will take it back to the Netherlands Embassy in Abuja and they did legalize it for me but you have to pay for that too depending on the number of the document to be legalized.

Finally, The school fees can be paid installment for a like ten times. An opportunity to work and school is there for you, but you can’t work more than 10 hours per week as a student which means you can only make between €100-€300 a month from the work. A good learning atmosphere with the right facilities needed in your field.

Conclusively, I have succeeded in giving you a personal experience on how I got to Europe legally without paying any agent or contracting anybody to help you do visa or forge any document for me. You have to be wise not to wasting your money paying somebody to do things like visa or any relevant travel documents for you because it dangerous. Just go there and get it yourself; the officers there will be willing to assist you get all you need with thanks to you for patronizing them.

Netherlands Student Visa

2014-08-15T04:34:00.001-07:00

Netherlands Student Visa

As a world-leading authority on visas, Global Visas is the most popular immigration service on Earth. Global Visas offers corporate immigration solutions to businesses, as well as handling visa cases for individuals. Allow your visa to be handled by the people with the highest success rate in the business by contacting Global Visas today.

If you need a Netherlands student visa to study in Holland, take our free assessment that was put together by our immigration experts with decades of experience.

Start Your Free Assessment Here

The easiest pathway to study in Holland is to take the free assessment with Global Visas. This allows us to quickly assess your details to find the best Netherlands visa for your needs. Click on the link to start your Holland immigration now.
Study in Netherlands – First Steps

If you only need a Netherlands student visa for under three months then it would make sense to apply for a short stay visa or Visum Kort Verblijf which is easier to get than a longer visa for Netherlands but understandably has more restrictions.

If you are staying for longer than three months while you study in Holland then you’ll have to get authorisation for temporary stay (MVV – Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf) if you are not a citizen of the EU/EEA or the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada or other nations who are members of the relevant treaty.

The MVV application process can take anywhere from three to six months, and while the university or educational institution can apply for it on your behalf using the fast track procedure, it is difficult to do. The institution signs a guarantee and must provide other documents that are time- and resource-intensive, which means many will choose not to do this, even if it could affect your Netherlands Student Visa.

Global Visas can advise on how to get this student visa for Netherlands fast-tracked and finished with minimum stress and time wasted. We have teams of immigration experts located around the world to help you begin your journey to study in Netherlands today.
Study in Netherlands – Upon Arrival

Within the first three days of your arrival in the Netherlands on your Netherlands student visa, you will have to register with the local authorities. If you will study in the Netherlands for longer than three months then you need to acquire a residence permit (verblijfsvergunning), which costs a few hundreds Euros each. However if you are from some member states then you can avoid getting a residence permit to study in Holland, but it’s worth getting a residence document printed (which is much cheaper) to avoid future hassles with government and employers.

There are hopes that the Dutch parliament will make it easier for some people to get a student visa to the Netherlands. Speak to a Global Visas immigration consultant to find out the latest information on Netherlands visa laws and how they could play to your advantage when you study in Holland. Take the free assessment now and get your student visa for Netherlands

You can use the free assessment to find out about any destination you choose. Why not read more about a visa for UK? Or Australia visas? We also have offices in North America, handling Canadian immigration and USA immigration. Take the free assessment now to take advantage of our comprehensive service.

Formalities for international students coming to study in France

2014-08-15T03:48:00.000-07:00

In order to come and study in France, students from countries outside of the EU must obtain a student visa and be in possession of a passport. For those students from EU member countries, an identity card is sufficient. Each year, the enrolment period for international students is between 1st December and 31st January. If you plan on enrolling on a course, find out more information from the cultural service of the French embassy in your country and from Centres pour les Etudes en France (Centres for Studies in France, or CEF): the conditions of admission are different depending on your nationality, your country of residence and the nature of your studies.

The CEF procedure carried out by Campus France offices

Since 2005, a programme has been in place in France which "aims to provide support for international students in order to ensure that their course of study in France is successful". This programme, established by Campus France (the Agence pour la Promotion de l’Enseignement Supérieur, l’Accueil et la Mobilité Internationale, or French National Agency for the Promotion of Higher Education, International Student Services and International Mobility), is called the CEF procedure (Centres pour les Études en France, orCentres for Studies in France).

Today, 231 higher education establishments have acceded to this convention and there are now Espaces Campus France (Campus France offices) carrying out the CEF procedure in a total of 31 countries.

This scheme enables the applicant wishing to study in France to benefit from support and advice throughout the entire procedure up until the requesting of a visa and to monitor developments by consulting their online file.
The Espace Campus France provides applicants with information online, which includes both assistance and guidance using a personal messaging system; helps applicants schedule language tests; conducts the administrative review of the applicants’ file and verifies the authenticity of their degrees; schedules interviews with applicants concerning their educational plans.
The higher education establishments that have acceded to the CEF convention consult the students’ file online; access interview reports; request additional information from the local Espace Campus France via the messaging system; select applicants; send online offers of preliminary admission to applicants and their local Espace Campus France.
The consular department examines applicant files online; examines the full consular file submitted by students; decides whether to issue a student visa; records this decision in the applicants’ online file.
Student visas

Students from countries outside of the EU must obtain a student visa. There are four possible types of visa.
The Visa de Court Séjour pour Etudes (short stay student visa)

This enables students to come and study in France for a period of up to three months. This type of visa cannot be renewed and its holder is exempt from having to obtain a residence permit.
The "Etudiant Concours" visa for competitive entrance examinations

This visa allows its holder to sit a competitive entrance examination in either a public or private higher education establishment. If the student passes the examination, he or she can obtain a residence permit valid for one year (renewable) from their nearest prefecture without returning to their country of residence.
The Visa de Long Séjour Temporaire pour Etudes (temporary long stay student visa)

Holders of this visa are permitted to study for between three and six months in either a public or private higher education establishment. This cannot be renewed and its holder is exempt from having to obtain a residence permit.
The Visa de Long Séjour pour Etudes (long stay student visa)

This is issued to international students wishing to study in France for a period longer than six months. It enables them to obtain a residence permit valid for one year (renewable) from their nearest prefecture.
Means testing

Students that are not eligible for a grant from the French Government or any foreign government or international organisation, and who are not funded by any EU programmes must prove that they have sufficient means of subsistence (€615 per month), equal to the basic monthly maintenance allowance paid by the French Government to foreign scholarship students.
Pre-enrolment

If you have gained advanced level qualifications (e.g. A-levels) in a country outside of France and you want to enrol in the first year of a French university course, it is compulsory that you fill out a Demande d’Admission Préalable (Preliminary Application for Admission, or DAP). There are two types of DAP form:
if you are living in your country of origin, consult the page "Dossier Blanc" (white form), which can be downloaded from the website of the Ministère Français de l’Enseignement Supérieur et de la Recherche (French Ministry of Higher Education and Research);
if you are living in France, consult the page "Dossier Vert" (green form), which can also be downloaded from the website of the Ministère de l’Enseignement Supérieur et de la Recherche (French Ministry of Higher Education and Research).
Enrolment

You must enrol directly with the establishment concerned in the following cases:
student that is already enrolled on a degree or master’s degree course at a French university
when enrolling in a post-graduate degree, whether it be in a university or in any other establishment of a specific nature
applicants taken on after carrying out a competitive entrance examination

You must enrol directly with the university via the Admission Post Bac website in the following cases:
those who have passed the French, European, Franco-German or international Baccalaureate
applicants that are nationals of countries in the EEA (European Economic Area) or Swiss nationals
students involved in an inter-university agreement
students eligible for a grant from the French Government or an international organisation or foreign government, whose grants are managed by a certified French body
stateless individuals or political refugees in possession of the card issued by the Office de protection des Réfugiés et les Apatrides (French Office for the Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons, or OFPRA)
students whose parents are diplomats and live in France

Within the framework of this compulsory procedure, applicants must sit a French exam in order to assess their written and oral comprehension of the French language and their written expression. This exam, organised by the Centre International d’Etudes Pédagogiques (French International Centre for Educational Studies, or CIEP), costs €63 euros to sit and takes place at French universities in February and March.

Those exempt from sitting this exam are:
nationals from countries where French is the official language
foreign students who have received teaching in both their native language and French (list established jointly by the French National Education and Foreign Affairs ministries)
those who have passed the Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française (Diploma of Advanced French Language Studies, or DALF) and level B2 of the Diplôme d’Etudes en Langue Française (Diploma in French Language Studies, or DELF)
those who have sat the test set by the Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie de Paris (Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Paris) and obtained at least 14/20 in the written section of the test

Enrolment on certain courses is directly via the Admission Post Bac website:
students currently enrolled in a Classe Préparatoire aux Grandes Ecoles (or CPGE, two intensive years of study in preparation for further education)
students currently studying a Section de Technicien Supérieur (or STS, a two-year technical course following the French Baccalauréat)
students currently enrolled at an Institut Uuniversitaire de Technologie (University Institute of Technology, or IUT)

Homework is officially finished – in France at least.

2012-10-10T15:16:00.001-07:00

No more angry tears over the 9-times tables at the kitchen table. No more sheets of grammar discovered the next morning in the bottom the book bag.

French President Francois Hollande won the adoration of school children (and their time-crunched parents) when he promised a total nation-wide ban on homework. The promise was made as part of a series of important education reforms: increasing the number of teachers, reducing the number of students held back each year, incentives for teachers to work in low-income areas. But it’s the homework cancellation that’s making headlines.

Foreign student and researcher mobility : making France more attractive

2012-10-10T15:12:00.000-07:00

The assets enabling France to attract researchers, professors, students and companies must be emphasized and developed in coordination with all the players concerned. French universities need to become more internationally competitive in order to attract the best foreign students, whose presence helps compensate for the relative scarcity of callings in scientific domains among French students, particularly at the doctoral level. Our country must also place positive emphasis on the recent changes and reforms in French universities, the measures facilitating foreign investment in France and the development of incentive programs encouraging exportation.

The Mobility and Attractiveness Policy Directorate of the French Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs (MAEE) is based on the competitive clusters “model.” These clusters, which include research laboratories, universities and companies from a given region, were created in 2005 as part of regional town and country planning. From the outset, their goal was to encourage teamwork among players generally unaccustomed to this type of coordination. Similarly, combining these three sectors (business, research laboratories and universities) under a single administrative umbrella makes it possible to surpass increasingly porous borders and address the issues relating to international mobility with all of these influential French players.

I-UK is global UK focused agency, which helps thousands of students enter a wide range of universities and colleges in the UK

2012-10-03T00:48:00.002-07:00

SI-UK (Study in UK) is hosting its Sixth UK University Fair at Earls Court in London on November 3rd, 2012 for international students looking to study at a UK university, the SI-UK University Fair is a fantastic opportunity for them to meet top universities from across the UK on one day, and in one great, central location!
Over 70 top UK universities will be in attendance at SI-UK’s UK University Fair, including Oxford, Bristol, LSE, Manchester, St Andrews and many, many others. Representatives from each university will be on hand to provide valuable advice and specific course information. Admissions officers will be available to discuss entry requirements, and visa specialists will be present to offer guidance on visa applications from any country of origin. Seminars and presentations from the universities themselves will be running throughout the course of the afternoon. Students may even receive an on-the-spot offer from the university of their dreams, or discover they are eligible for one of one hundred scholarships that may be available on the day!
International students looking to attend SI-UK’s University Fair should register online today for FREE entry at www.ukunifair.co.uk.
SI-UK University Fair for International Students
Earls Court, London
Sat 3rd Nov 2012
12:00 – 17:00

SI-UK London Office (Map and Directions)
To make a reservation, please contact us at:
Tel: 020-7287-7040
Email: info@studyin-uk.com

UK Student Visa

2012-10-03T00:44:00.002-07:00

I-UK is global UK focused agency, which helps thousands of students enter a wide range of universities and colleges in the UK every year. We provide full support to our clients to apply to student and work (after graduation) visas in the UK. Our London office will assist students extend their visa or change to a work visa (Tier 2) after they finish their studies.

Types of students Visa
Frequently asked Questions
SI UK Immigration Enquiry
Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa
New visa policies in the UK (from April 2011)
The UKBA has changed its policy regarding international student visas in April 2011.

International students at UK universities can still work 20 hours a week during studies
International students at UK universities can still work full time during holiday periods
International students can work at any company, this is not restricted
There are no limits on the number of international student visas granted each year
After graduating you can work full-time in the UK if your job offer provides a salary of 20,000 GBP or more
Normal starting salary for university graduates in the UK is between 22,000-24,000 GBP
Students will have four months to find a job after they graduate
There are no limits on the number of work (Tier 2) visa granted to international students
Students who display great entrepreneurial skills will be granted a work visa
Study VISA in the UK
This guidance explains what you will need to do if you want to travel to the United Kingdom (UK) to study, and what the Immigration Rules say. It is only a guide but it aims to answer some common questions.

A new entry clearance (visa) category of student VISA has been introduced for the students who come to the United Kingdom to study.

Tier 4 Student Visa
You can apply for a student visa under Tier 4 (General)

-Guidance for Tier 4 applicants.

The main changes to student VISA are as follows:

From April 2012, any institution wanting to sponsor students will need to be classed as a Highly Trusted sponsor, and will need to become accredited by a statutory education inspection body by the end of 2012. The current system does not require this, and has allowed too many poor-quality colleges to become sponsors.
Students coming to study at degree level will need to speak English at an 'upper intermediate' (B2) (5.5 IELTS) level, and students entering the UK for pathway/college or pre-dress courses will need a 'lower intermediate' (B1) ((4.0 IELTS) level.
UK Border Agency staff will be able to refuse entry to students who cannot speak English without an interpreter, and who therefore clearly do not meet the minimum standard.
Students at universities and publicly funded further education colleges will retain their current work rights, but all other students will have no right to work. Restrictions will be placed on work placements in courses outside universities.
Only postgraduate students at universities and government-sponsored students will be able to bring their dependants. At the moment, all students on longer courses can bring their dependants.
The UKBA will limit the overall time that can be spent on a student visa to 3 years at lower levels (as it is now) and 5 years at higher levels. At present, there is no time limit for study at or above degree level.
Post-Study Work

The current Post-Study Work route will be closed from April 2012, which allows students 2 years to seek employment after their course ends. The new system will allow graduates to stay in the UK and work as long as they get a job offer from a sponsoring employer with a Salary of 20,000 GBP, the student will have four months after graduation to find a job (see next point below)
Those graduating from a UK university with a recognised degree, PGCE, or PGDE will be able to switch into Tier 2 (Tier 2 of the points-based system will be able to stay to work.)
There will not be a limit on the number of jobs granted under Tier 2.
Students will only be able to switch from student visa (Tier 4) to work visa (Tier 2) while they are in the UK, before their student visa expires (4 months after they finish their course).
The normal Tier 2 requirements will apply, except for the Resident Labour Market Test.
We will ensure that genuine student entrepreneurs with a great idea are able to stay on in the UK to develop their business proposition.

Rules for applying Student VISA – Tier 4 (General)

1) All students making a Tier 4 application will have to submit his/her biometrics details. An application can only be assessed once these are received.

2) Students must meet the full requirements of the Immigration Rules and have 40 points in total (having a valid confirmation of acceptance for studies: 30 points, maintenance of funds: 10 points).

3) The organization (university or college) that provides your education in the UK must be approved by UKBA

Documents that students must send with his/her application:

4) To claim points, a student must send the required documents listed in this guidance when he/she makes his/her application.

5) Documents must be issued by an authorised official of the issuing organization.

6) For students overseas, where a document is not in English or Welsh, the original must be accompanied by a fully certified translation by a professional translator/translation company.