STUDY ABROAD

Studying in Spain: quality of education

2012-08-05T10:14:00.000-07:00

Studying in Spain: quality of education

Spain is increasingly becoming internationally recognized country for providing quality higher education. Two Spanish universities are ranked in the Top 200 of the 2011 QS World University Rankings. Universitat de Barcelona was ranked 176, and Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona 194,

Spanish universities usually have two four-month periods (October to February and February to June), although postgraduate courses often follow a different calendar.

Exams form the most common assessment system and some teachers use modular exams (ex'menes parciales), where students are tested on a specific part of the subject in question.

Once you have passed a modular exam, you never have to study that topic again and, if you fail the modular exam, you can retake it with the official June or September exam.

Although written tests are more frequent, some teachers test their students orally. Continuous assessment based on coursework and tutorials are uncommon in Spain.

To help international students integrate, some universities provide services for foreign students. Checking out how organized and helpful an International Relations Office is before accepting a place on a course is probably one of the most important things that an international student can do.

Make sure they are helpful and keep asking them questions. It is their job.

Student accommodation in Spai

Like most other study abroad destinations, accommodation for undergraduate students is relatively easy to come by in Spain.

There is a range of options available, including residential colleges (Colegois Mayores), halls of residence (residencias universitarias), student flats and private accommodation.

Student flats tend to be the most popular option, for international students studying in Spain, because of their price and the independence they provide.

Weather/Climate

Spain is located on the Iberian Peninsula in south-western Europe. While Portugal lies to the west, Spain is separated to the northeast from France by the Pyrenees Mountains.

Although much of the country is elevated plains, Spain is also a country of deserts, wetlands and mountains, as well as beautiful coastlines along the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea.

The southern tip of the country is separated from Morocco in North Africa by the narrow Straits of Gibraltar, which serve as a gateway to the entire Mediterranean.

Though some locations can be quite hot during the summer, Spain generally has a temperate climate. During the summer, Spain's capital of Madrid experiences high temperatures (average temperature 85 degrees Fahrenheit/29 degrees Celsius), so native Spaniards and tourists head for the moderate weather of the coasts.

Winter tends to be cold in the interior of the country, and cool and cloudy along the coast (average temperatures are about 50 degrees Fahrenheit/10 degrees Celsius). Also during this time, the rain (and snow) tends to fall mostly in the north.

Study in Spain

2012-08-05T09:52:00.000-07:00

Student life in Spain: natural and cultural heritage

Brave the running of the bulls in Pamplona, throw a tomato at the Tomatina Tomato Festival near Valencia, hike in the cool mountains of the north or laze on the world famous beaches of the mediterranean, feast on paella, dine on tapas and swig some sangria; Spain truly is a place of enormous variety, vibrancy and vitality.

For those seeking to broaden their horizons with international study, Spain has plenty to offer. Not only is it relatively inexpensive, but work by universities, and a mostly supportive government, have turned the country from an educational backwater, by international standards, into a very popular study destination for international students.

In addition, non-Spanish speakers will have the opportunity to learn one of the most widely used languages in the world.

Spain is a very rewarding country to live in. Crime is relatively low, and the people are friendly and welcoming, especially to those who make the effort to learn some of the language.

There is a great deal to see and do in Spain - both in and around the big cities. If you choose to study abroad in Spain, get out into the countryside. Spaniards will talk for ages about the things they think you should see that many tourists don't bother with.

You will find your spare time filling up pretty quickly, but you'll be more rewarded with a fabulous experience.

Study in Austria

2012-08-04T09:42:00.000-07:00

In terms of area, Austria is no bigger than the US state of Maine, and in terms of population, it is home to fewer people than London or Paris – but Austria should not be judged by its size.

This is, after all, the nation which gave us Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sigmund Freud and Ludwig Wittgenstein (and let’s not forget: Arnold Schwarzenegger and the Von Trappe family). Once upon a time, this alpine nation was also the dominant political and military force in Europe, and though it perhaps doesn’t quite enjoy this level of power today, it is still an influential and eminent part of the continent.

Find a university in Austria

Sandwiched between Germany, the Czech Republic, Hungary (with which it was once unified), Switzerland, Italy, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Lichtenstein, Austria is located pretty much in the dead centre of Europe, forming a bridge between east and west. It is dominated by the Alps in its southeast and centre, and the Danube – 10% of which lies within the nation’s borders – on which the capital city Vienna was built. Said city is home to over a quarter of Austria’s population, and boasts the world’s highest quality of living (according to the Economist Intelligence Unit and the Mercer Survey). It is one of Europe’s great cultural capitals, and for fans of architecture, music and art is not to be missed.

In terms of higher education, Austria’s system is extremely internationalized. More than 15% of the total tertiary enrolment in the country is made up of international students, rising up to more than 20% if only advanced research programs are considered. In fact, according to the OECD, 1.6% of all international students study in Austria – not a bad figure at all for a nation of such diminutive proportions. The nation’s leading university, Universität Wien, sits at 155 in the QS World University Rankings®, and is joined by Technische Universität Wien (231), Universität Innsbruck (290), Karl-Franzens-Universität Graz (366), Johannes Kepler Universität Linz (432), Paris Lodron Universität Salzburg (545) and Alpen-Adria-Universität Klagenfurt (637).

View the entire QS World University Rankings >

Admissions/Entry/Visa requirement

To apply to study in Austria, you should apply directly to the university at which you wish to study. Your secondary qualifications must be considered to be of an equivalent level to those offered in Austria, and must be sufficient to gain entry to a similar program in the country where it was earned. You will also need to prove that you speak German to the level stipulated by the university. The vast majority of courses in Austria are taught in German, though English is widely spoken as a second language. If you are applying to a universität der künste (university of the arts), then you will have to sit an entrance examination.

As with other countries in the EEA, fees and visa requirements depend on whether or not you are a citizen on of an EEA nation.

Applicants from the EEA (and Switzerland)

•    Entitled to the same free education as local students. However you will have to pay fees if you take over two semesters more than the standard amount of time to complete your course
•    Do not require a visa to enter or study in Austria.
•    Must demonstrate you have enough money to pay your living expenses and have purchased medical insurance (preferential rates of EU$32 per month are available to students) to local municipal authority.

Applicants from outside the EEA

•    Must pay fees of US$485 per semester.
•    Must apply for the appropriate residence permit (D) from local Austrian embassy (if you are from a nation which does not require a visa to enter the country you can do this in Austria, otherwise you must apply from your country of residence).
•    In order to get this, you must show a letter of acceptance, proof that you have found somewhere to live, proof that you have purchased medical insurance, a photo, your birth certificate, proof of sufficient financial means (deemed to be €438 – or US$585 – per month; you need to have enough for 12 months), proof you have somewhere to stay, and a police certificate where appropriate.
•    If you have to sit an entrance exam, you will be issued a conditional letter of admission and only have to demonstrate credibly that you will have sufficient financial means and accommodation when applying for your permit. Pass your exam and you will have to provide more solid proof.
•    However, if you do not need a visa to enter Austria, then you can simply sit your exam and then apply for a residence permit while there.
•    Must apply to Labour Service if you want to work.

Study in United States

2012-08-04T09:40:00.000-07:00

Do you need help choosing a region?

Beginners' guide to the US: South

Where to start with the South? Perhaps in Louisiana’s New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz, or over in Tennessee’s Memphis, where Elvis Presley first made it big. Then again, you could head for the beaches of 'Sunshine State' Florida, or find out what ‘super-size’ really means over in Texas. Find out more here >

Beginner's guide to the US: Mid-West

The Mid-West stretches up from the US’s most central state, Kansas, to border with Canada to the north, the Great Lakes to the north-east, and as far east as Ohio. According to US Census Bureau categories, 12 states make up the Midwestern region. Find out more here >

Beginner's guide to the US: West

Large doesn’t even begin to cover it: the West is by far the biggest chunk of the US, reaching all the way from glacial Alaska in the north, down to the tropical islands of Hawaii in the south. In between these two extremes exists a wide range of climates, landscapes and cultures. Find out more here >

Top ten things to do while studying abroad in... Germany

2012-08-04T09:37:00.000-07:00

Germany is at the heart of modern Europe in many ways - both geographically, economically, and as one of the leading political lights in the EU. It is also a country living in the here and now - a multicultural melting-pot, an international centre for art, music and fashion, and with a capital that has over the last decade emerged as one of the trendiest cities in the world.
Add to this a historic culture that produced the likes of Goethe, Beethoven and Bach, alongside the relics of the tragedies that beset the nation in the 20th century, and your time spent studying abroad in Germany is sure to be a fascinating cultural experience as well as lots of fun. Top Universities has come up with the top ten things any undergraduate student should do to get the most out of your time studying abroad in the Germany.

1. Explore BerlinNearest universities: Free University of BERLIN; HUMBOLDT University of Berlin; Technical University of BERLIN; Fachhochschule für Wirtschaft BERLIN; ESCP Europe Wirtschaftshochschule Berlin; HERTIE School of Governance

Germany’s capital city is unique. Study abroad here and you’ll never get sick of learning. Visit Berlin and you’ll run out of days to see all that you want to, from the Berlin Wall to the Jewish Holocaust Memorial, Charlie’s Checkpoint to Potsdamer Platz. It may have a chequered history but that just adds to the atmosphere of this incredible city. Yet, there’s more to Berlin than just World War ll sites. It also has a vibrant film industry, a raging night club scene, state-of-the-art architecture and a grungy underground music scene. From the majestic Brandenburg Tor to the fashionable Alexanderplatz, Berlin is a capital city like no other.

2. Castle Neuschwanstein

Nearest universities: Technical University of MUNICH; Ludwig Maximilian - University of MUNICH; University of BAYREUTH; Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg; University of REGENSBURG; University of Applied Sciences – München;

This 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace is one of the most picturesque castles in the world. Commissioned by Germany’s “fairy-tale king” Ludwig ll of Bavaria, Castle Neuschwanstein holds a special place in German history. Upon the death of his grandfather, Germany’s slightly eccentric king began the task of rebuilding the palace, a favourite haunt from his childhood years. Incorporating his love of opera, most notably that by composer Richard Wagner, Ludwig built himself a haven in which he was able to live out his idea of the Middle Ages. However, the palace wasn’t yet finished when Ludwig died in mysterious circumstances by the lake. Today, Castle Neuschwanstein is a popular tourist spot receiving more than 1.3million visitors annually.

Did you know? Castle Neuschwanstein was the inspiration for Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.

3. Christmas markets

One of the best parts about studying abroad in the Northern Hemisphere is that you’ll get a real Christmas, and Germany certainly knows how to make the most of the festive season. It won’t matter that the days are now shorter and the temperatures much colder, you’ll still want to wrap up warm and head outside to explore the Christmas markets (Weichnachtsmarkt) which are staged in almost every town and city around Germany (www.germany-tourism.co.uk). Warming glühwein (hot red wine with fruit and spices) and apple fritters are a must on a cold winter's day. What’s more, you can get your Christmas shopping done in one hit!

4. Oktoberfest

Location: Munich, Bavaria

Germany is one of the great brewing nations of the world so make the most of your time studying abroad in this spectacular country and indulge in some of its finest beers. The best time of year to do so is during Munich's two-week Oktoberfest (www.oktoberfest.de), which takes place from late September and attracts six million visitors to the Bavarian capital each year. Get into the spirit of Oktoberfest – dress up in traditional costume (lederhosen for the boys; dirndl for the girls), and forget your study books, this is where you’ll find the rest of the German student population and most probably your lecturers too!

5. Summer fireworks festivals

During Germany’s summer months, from May to September, something special happens on the Rhine. On one of Europe’s longest and most important of rivers, a convoy of boats, showered in a dramatic blaze of fireworks, make their way up the river, providing entertainment a-plenty. These spectacular riverside fireworks displays are known as the ‘Rhein in Flammen' (Rhine in Flames) (www.rlp-info.de). Book a place on board a dinner cruise at one of five places along the river to get the best view of the fireworks, accompanied by music and set against a backdrop of castles, palaces, romantic villages and beautiful riverside landscape.

6. Wagner Opera Festival

If you are able to get tickets (waiting lists are long), head for the city of Bayreuth in north-east Bavaria, to witness the famous Wagner Opera Festival (www.bayreuther-festspiele.de), which takes place every year from late July to August. Festival performances take place in Bayreuth Festspielhaus, a custom-built theatre that composer Richard Wagner himself helped to design. People wait five to ten years for tickets to the Wagner Opera Festival, but try your luck by turning up on the day. You may be able to secure a returns ticket – that’s if you haven’t got stuck in a traffic jam along with everyone else wanting to do the same thing!

7. Drive the Romantic Road

Stretching from Würzburg in the north of Bavaria to Füssen in the south, the 300-plus kms of Germany’s Romantic Road (www.romanticroad.com) is the most famous of all the scenic roads in this picturesque European powerhouse. A historical trade route, the Romantic Road takes visitors past medieval walled towns, alongside vineyards, past palaces and castles, and through quaint villages, all providing an excellent insight into the region's history, art and culture (www.visitbavaria.com). Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, hiking trails, German cuisine or a few ski slopes, you’ll find it all along the Romantic Road.

8. Baked Fish Festival (Backfischfest)

Nearest universities:RWTH AACHEN University; University of BONN ; Goethe University FRANKFURT

Don’t be put off by the name – of the festival or the city. Instead, head to the city of Worms in Rhineland-Palatinate, Western Germany in late August to celebrate the traditional Baked Fish Festival (Backfischfest) (www.backfischfest.de), the biggest wine, food and folk festival on the banks of the Rhine. Dedicated to the Fishermens' Guild, Germany's oldest such organization, Backfischfest includes activities such as a lantern procession, a tug o ‘war competition and jousting, not to mention the housewives’ afternoon!

9. The Cologne Karneval

Nearest universities: RWTH AACHEN University; University of BONN; University of BIELEFELD; Ruhr-University BOCHUM; University of DORTMUND; University DUISBURG-ESSEN; Universität DÜSSELDORF; University of Cologne; University of Münster; Fachhochschule fur OEKONOMIE & MANAGEMENT

Each year, at 11 minutes past 11 on the 11th of November (the time and date of the truce that ended fighting in World War One in 1918), carnival season is declared open – and there is no better place to join in the revelry than in Cologne (Koln). In one of Germany’s most popular student cities, the streets come alive during “Karneval”, with processions, concerts and colourful costumes. Traditionally coinciding with Easter celebrations – the week-long street festival is timed to fall between Fat Thursday and Ash Wednesday in the Lent calendar – the Cologne Karneval has become as important a date in the party calendar as Oktoberfest. So, join in one of Europe’s biggest street festivals during your time studying abroad and explore the city while you’re there.

Did you know? Cologne Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

10. Experience the bustling maritime city of Hamburg

Nearest universities: University of HAMBURG ;

Not only is it Germany's second largest city, Hamburg is also the country’s wealthiest city. But on top of this is a maritime history which today has secured Hamburg’s place as the world's third busiest port (behind London and New York). Perhaps not quite as popular – or well known – as many of Germany’s other cities (think Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich), Hamburg is deserving of a visit by any student studying abroad. To begin with there are the buildings shaped like ocean liners, the artificial river beaches, gothic warehouses and fish markets. Visit Hamburg and find out why over 1.8million people call this German city home.

Once you’ve finished those:

1. Why not run the Berlin Marathon?

2. Visit Trier - the oldest city in Germany

3. Sample currywurst - a German street-food speciality!

4. Take a break from studies for some "kaffee und kuchen" (coffee & cake)

5. For a bit of literary culture, visit Frankfurt, the birthplace of Germany's most important writer, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832)

Germany's top universities by region

1) North: Bremen: University of BREMEN; Hamburg: University of HAMBURG; Lower Saxony: University of Göttingen; Braunschweig University of Technology; Hannover Medical School; Leibniz Universität HANNOVER; Schleswig-Holstein: Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu KIEL;

2) East: Berlin: Free University of BERLIN; HUMBOLDT University of Berlin; Technical University of BERLIN; Fachhochschule für Wirtschaft BERLIN; ESCP Europe Wirtschaftshochschule Berlin; HERTIE School of Governance; Saxony: Dresden University of Technology; HHL LEIPZIG Graduate School of Management; Universität LEIPZIG; Saxony-Anhault: Martin-Luther-Universität HALLE-WITTENBERG;

3) Central: Hesse: Goethe University FRANKFURT; Technische Universität DARMSTADT; EUROPEAN Business School; Universität FRANKFURT am Main; Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen; GOETHE Business School; Philipps-Universität MARBURG ; Thuringia: University of JENA;

4) West: North Rhine-Westphalia: RWTH AACHEN University; University of BONN; University of BIELEFELD; Ruhr-University BOCHUM; University of DORTMUND; University DUISBURG-ESSEN; Universität DÜSSELDORF; University of Cologne; University of Münster; Fachhochschule fur OEKONOMIE & MANAGEMENT; Rhineland-Palatinate: WHU Otto Beisheim School of Management - KOBLENZ; Johannes Gutenberg Universität MAINZ; Saarland: Saarland University

5) South: Baden Wűrttemberg: HEIDELBERG University; Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg; Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen; University of KARLSRUHE; University of STUTTGART; University of MANNHEIM; Universität KONSTANZ; Reutlingen University; University of Ulm; University of Wurzburg; ZEPPELIN University; Bavaria: Technical University of MUNICH; Ludwig Maximilian - University of MUNICH; University of BAYREUTH; Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg; University of REGENSBURG; University of Applied Sciences – München; University of Augsburg

Study in Germany

2012-08-04T09:34:00.000-07:00

Studying in Germany for international students: five simple stages

Stage 1: Learning to speak German

Stage 2: Gaining a DAAD scholarship

Stage 3: Choosing a German university

Stage 4: Making the most of the experience

Stage 5: Watch this space...

Study in London

2012-08-04T09:18:00.003-07:00

Five Reasons to Study in London

London is home to over 100,000 international students from over 200 different nations – that's more international students studying in London than in any other city in the world.

Amazing Course Choice (Courses Designed to Meet Your Needs)

Undergraduates can choose to study a three year degree or choose a four year course with a one-year work placement. Postgraduates can complete their Master’s degree in just one year.

The city is home to a wide range of universities too. From large multi-faculty universities to small specialist schools and colleges.

You can choose to study in central London close to the museums and attractions or you might decide you like a quieter life living in outer London where you have access to large green parks and good transport links into the city.

Study in a Global City (The Advantages of Studying in a Global City)

A Network of Friends Spanning the Globe

Studying in London you will establish a global network of friends that will last you a lifetime. Join your university's alumni club when you graduate and return home to receive invites to attend networking events that will be invaluable to your future success.

You'll Never Be Bored

Outside of the classroom you can enjoy all of the entertainment, events and excitement that London has to offer. Where else in the world can you else can you try a Scandinavian meal for breakfast, visit a Caribbean market in the afternoon before finishing the day with an authentic Indian curry for dinner?

Quality Universities(Best Universities in the World)

Choose from 46 top universities in London. Our professors are world-leaders in their subjects. Their ideas and research are inspiring students to become business leaders and entrepreneurs. They also work with top companies like Google, HSBC and GlaxoSmithKline.

That's why over 100,000 international students study in London – more than any other city in the world. London has also been ranked as the best English language speaking city in the world in which to be a student.

London has seven universities in the world's top 200 rankings

A Welcoming Student City(A safe, friendly and supportive city)

If ever you feel homesick, you will most likely be able to share your experiences with friends in the city from your home country.

London is a safe and supportive city. Most universities give you free access to support services both on and off campus. There are also hundreds of student societies and clubs in London where you can meet new people and enjoy your favourite activities.

London is the most diverse and welcoming city in the world

Work Opportunities

Work Placements and Student Internships

You will have the opportunity to undertake a work placement during your studies. Work experience in London will be great for your CV and it will also give you a great network of business contacts.

Part-time Student Jobs

There are also thousands of part-time jobs in the city to help fund your studies and social life. In fact London was named as the most cost-effective UK city in which to be a student.

Did You Know?

London has three times more European multinational HQs than any other city in Europe
London is the number one city in the world for foreign companies looking to expand their business
Nearly 400,000 people work in London’s creative sector
19 of the top 25 European software and IT companies have their HQ in London
London is number one for computer games software
London has 17,000 companies in the environmental technology sector

A London degree is recognised by companies around the world

Study MBBS/BDS in China

2010-04-29T19:22:00.000-07:00

Wenzhou Medical College

Why study in WMC:

1. Recognized by WHO, CMC & CSC.

2. Authorized by China Ministry of Education to enroll international students since 1999

3. Listed by China Ministry of Education to enroll International students for Fully English Medium Medical programs

4. Syllabus entirely based on International standard, teach in English

5. Government owned , top 10 in china for Medical International studies and highly reputed worldwide.

6. 10 In-house hospitals with 7000 beds

7. Internship in student’s home country or China

8. Multinational students body with American, Canada , Australian, Japanese, Korean ,South Asian & EU students.

9. Located in the famous international city-Wenzhou, one of top 10 most vigor cities in china, and located in south-east of China

10. Scholarship is also available.

11. Eligible to appear USMLE, PLAB and other SCREENING TEST, etc.

12. BDS Program cooperate with Dental College of LOMA LINDA UNIVERSITY, USA

Brief Introduction:

Wenzhou Medical College (WMC), rooted from Zhejiang Medical School in 1912, is a public institution of higher learning directly under Zhejiang Provincial Bureau of Education. It is located in Wenzhou, a southeast coastal city with 40-minutes flight from metropolitan Shanghai. Wenzhou is a place where you can enjoy pleasant climate, charming scenery and exciting life.

Wenzhou Medical College is composed of three campuses, located respectively at Xueyuan Road, Xiushan and Chashan, covering an area of 73 ha. (=1100 mu) with a building floor of 180,000 m2. The school library has a collection of 700,000 books and 1100 categories of periodicals either in Chinese or foreign languages. Subordinate to WMC are 6 institutes, 1 experimental animal center, 10 affiliated hospitals totaling 7,000 odd beds, 46 teaching hospitals or hospitals for clinical internships. 15 centers of Laboratory, among them 3 are Key Laboratories of Ministerial level

Involving branches of medicine, science, engineering, liberal arts, laws and management, Wenzhou Medical College offers 26 5-year Bachelor’s degree programs, a 7-year program leading to Master’s degree, 1 joint doctorate program and 3 doctorate programs. Now it has over 12,000 undergraduates and nearly 700 postgraduates. Of more than 1,000 faculty, odd 550 have professorships or the equivalent academic titles.

From 2006, Wenzhou Medical College was authorized to confer doctorate degrees in Ophthalmology, Surgery and Gynecology. Wenzhou Medical College is one of the first institutions authorized by the State Council to confer Master’s degree. It offers 15 Master’s degrees now in Ophthalmology & Optometry, Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Pharmacology, Gynecology & Obstetrics, Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics, Anesthesia, Pathology and Physiology, Integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine & West Medicine, etc. The Program of Ophthalmology & Optometry is the first one established in China to train optometric professionals with medical background. Given their distinguished achievements in the optometric development, Ministry of Public Health of China based its first and only national Center of Optometry Research in WMC. A Sino-U.S. joint program for Doctorate of Optometry is now under way.

In recent years Wenzhou Medical College has been very active in academic exchanges and friendly visits with other countries and regions. Intercollegiate relationships have been established with New England College of Optometry U.S.A., Pacific University U.S.A., University of Queensland Australia, Burapha University Thailand, Miyazaki Medical College Japan, Medical College China, Karl-Franzens University Graz Austria, Sun Yat-sen Medical University Taiwan, etc. Since 1999, WMC was authorized to enroll overseas students and open English Medium program.

International Cooperation:

New England College of Optometry(USA)

University of Texas(USA)

University of Washingtom(USA)

Pacific American University(USA)

University of Houston(USA)

University of California, Berkeley(USA)

Mount Sinai School of Medicine(USA)

LOMA LINDA UNIVERSITY(USA)

University of Queensland(Australia)

Deakin University (Australia)

University of New South Wales(Australia)

University of Ottawa( Canada)

Canadian Orthopedic Foundation(Canada)

University of Manchester(UK)

MIYAZAKI Medical University(Japan)

Aravind Eye Care System( India)

Special Olympics

Study in Argentina

2010-01-14T09:59:00.000-08:00

Since International Studies Abroad established the Argentina study abroad program in 1999, ISA has been witness to the country's increasing popularity as a study abroad destination in South America. The allure of Argentina for American students can be attributed to numerous factors, including a vibrant cultural life and a unique sense of style known throughout Latin America.

European influences are evident in the unique blend of architecture and cuisine, the distinct Argentine accent, and world-renowned artistic contributions to music, literature, and dance. A diverse geography consisting of pristine forests, the majestic Andes Mountains, and beautiful beaches also contribute to Argentina's popularity. Argentina benefits from an excellent educational system and a multitude of very fine universities including the University of Belgrano, the academic anchor of ISA's Argentina study abroad program.

Safety in Argentina:

ISA has been closely monitoring the increase in H1N1 flu cases in Argentina, and has decided to continue with all Semester, Summer and Intensive Month programs in Buenos Aires. We have consulted physicians, the CDC, the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. State Department, and many other sources for the most up-to-date information. According to the World Health Organization's July 1st update, the United States has more than 27,000 confirmed cases while Argentina has approximately 1,500.

The University of Belgrano (UB) has been proactive in their response to the H1N1 virus. The university holds an informational meeting at the beginning of each semester/summer program for incoming students to inform them on the H1N1 Flu status in Argentina, as well as to discuss methods of preventing the spread of the flu. The UB and health authorities in Argentina have a strict policy which requires students who show any flu symptoms whatsoever to stay home until they are free of symptoms. Students are allowed to make up any missed coursework should they be required to miss class, per their doctor's recommendation. Final exams and courses for all international students at the UB and USAL are continuing as scheduled. The UB has also installed hand sanitizer dispensers throughout the school, as well as posted informational H1N1 fliers with health recommendations and precautions. The ISA office staff has taken the same precautions and posted informational fliers around the office and also holds meetings with the students regarding the flu. ISA host families in Buenos Aires are aware of the situation and are closely monitoring their students for signs and symptoms of flu as well.

Our students' health and safety is our primary concern, and ISA would not continue a program which we felt put students in harms way. With this being said, we cannot completely guarantee students' health and safety in any and all situations, but have outlined precautions for the students, and have staff members willing and able to help any student receive treatment at the first sign or symptom.

Life in UK. Living Expenses in UK.

2010-01-14T09:52:00.000-08:00

Private Accommodation

It is important to remember, if you are using the lists of private rented accommodation provided by Student Housing Services, that although they try to secure a range of good quality housing at reasonable prices, the properties have not been inspected. You should not assume that listed accommodation is "approved accommodation". You should never accept accommodation without first seeing the property. When you find accommodation you may have to pay a deposit immediately of up to one month?s rent and also one month?s rent in advance (always ask for a receipt). You may also have to pay a deposit for gas, electricity and telephone services. You should therefore have available around ?800 for initial expenses such as deposit, rent in advance and the cost of temporary accommodation.

Your landlord or landlady will usually expect the rent on a fixed day, weekly or monthly in advance. Make sure you have a rent book or a receipt for the rent. If your landlord or landlady does not provide a rent book, buy one yourself (available from stationery shops) and ask them to sign it when you pay rent. A rent book may also list certain house rules (or these may be displayed elsewhere in the house). Check you understand these and can keep to them as they may form part of your contract of tenancy and are usually aimed at keeping the household running smoothly.

In self-contained flats, your rent will usually be payable monthly and your landlord or landlady is unlikely to live on the premises. Any rules you are required to keep will be written in the lease or agreement you have signed which is legally binding. The lease will usually be for specific periods and once you sign you are committed to renting the flat for that length of time. So study the lease carefully before signing, and if necessary take legal advice.

Money Matters

Before coming to the UK you should organize your money to ensure you have enough at the start of your course and for the duration of your course. You will also need to investigate the best ways to bring money into the UK.

Most students will have to buy bedding, clothes and basic essentials a the beginning of their stay. London is in general, milder than other parts of the UK. The summer tends to be warm; winter is usually cold and damp; spring and autumn are somewhere in between. ?300 should be enough for additional clothing needs

Entertainment Costs

London hosts a wide range of entertainment venues catering to all groups of people. Dinner out can cost from ?15 upwards. Cinemas in Central London cost around ?10. Clubs cost from ?8-?15. There are special discounts available to students so make sure you ask.

Travel Costs

The cost of traveling in London is dependent on where you are traveling to and how often you need to travel. Weekly underground passes cost between ?18.00 (or travel in central zones one and two) and ?35 if you are traveling between central and outer London. Bus passes are much cheaper. Excellent discounts exist for full-time students.

London is very well served by British Rail. Reductions are available on British Rail if you buy a Young Person?s Rail card, which is available to anyone under 25 years. If you are over 25 you are entitled to a Student Rail card if you are engaged in 15 or more hours of education a week. Both cards obtain a one third reduction in price on train tickets. These cards can be purchased from BR train stations. British Rail has a number of special offers. Tickets may be cheaper if you book them in advance. These are known as Apex fares. It is important to note that when traveling at peak hours, that is, before 9am and on certain trains from about 5pm to 7pm, tickets will be considerably more expensive. Traveling on a Friday and on certain other days throughout the year is also more expensive

Visa UK

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EEA Nationals

If you are a national of an EEA country (European Union plus Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway) you can enter the UK as a student with a minimum of formality, you do not require entry clearance or a visa. You may be asked to show evidence that you have been accepted on to a course, and that you have sufficient funds to support yourself whilst in the UK. You will also need your passport.

Non EEA Nationals

If you are not from the EEA (European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway) you will have to meet certain immigration requirements. Nationals from many countries are required to obtain an entry visa or certificate before coming to the UK. They can dothis at the British Embassy, High Commission or Consulate. Nationals from countries where an entry visa is not compulsory such as some Commonwealth countries should also consider applying for entry clearance before leaving home. This is to ensure a Right of Appeal in the unlikely event that entry is refused. To check if you need a visa look at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office web page at

http://www.fco.gov.uk/travel/imm_visa.asp

To come to the UK as a student you will have to produce the following documents

A passport

A letter of unconditional acceptance for a full-time course

Evidence of your ability to meet, without working in the UK, the costs of your course, accommodation and maintenance and to support any dependants accompanying you.

Student visas are normally granted for an initial period of one year, usually determined by the length of the course to be studied.

When you arrive in the UK, an immigration officer may question you, so take all relevant documents in your hand luggage.

You may take part-time or holiday work but you must not:

work for more than 20 hours per week during term time unless your placement is part of your studies, has the agreement of your education institution and leads to a degree or qualification awarded by a nationally recognised examining body do business, be self-employed or provide services as a professional sportsperson or entertainer work full-time in a permanent job

Can I switch to Work Permit employment when I am in the UK?

You may be able to switch if: you have completed a recognised degree course at either a UK publicly funded further or higher education institution or bona fide private education institution which maintains satisfactory records of enrolment and attendance you hold a valid work permit for employment you have the written consent of any government or agency which is sponsoring you you have not broken immigration law

Can I bring my husband, or wife and children with me?

Your husband or wife and any of your children under 18 can come to the UK with you during your studies as long as you can support them and live without help from any public funds.

The authorities must also believe that you are a genuine student, that you intend to leave at the end of the course and that you have the required qualifications to take the course. It is a good idea to keep all documentation in your hand luggage during travel, as it may need to be produced on arrival in the UK.

If you are issued with a visa for more than six months it will be the equivalent of a multiple entry visa. If you are a national of a country where entry clearance is a requirement and your course is for six months or less you may want to consider applying for a multiple entry visa in order to leave and re-enter the UK during this time.

Important note: Do not enter the UK on a visitor?s visa with the intention of changing to a student visa at a later date. This is because unless you are from a country whose nationals do not need to obtain a visa before coming to the UK, you will not be able to change to a student visa and will have to return home to make an application

Passport stickers, stamp and length of stay

If you apply for a visa at a British Embassy, Consulate or High Commision outside the UK, you will receive a sticker called a vignette, in your passport with your conditions and length of stay. When you arrive at the airport, you will receive a stamp to show when you entered the UK.

If you are applying for entry at a port of entry (you can only do this if you are from a non visa national), you will receive a stamp in your passport with your conditions and length of stay.

Most overseas students (from outside the European Union) are initially given the right to stay for one year. Do not worry if you know that you will need to stay longer than this as you can apply to extend your stay as a student later (see section on extending your stay).

The Immigration Officer will have endorsed your passport with any other restriction that may apply to you. Some students will be asked to register with the Police, please see the later section on registering with the Police

Visa Types

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Visa is a permission granted by any country to enter that country.

Visa UK Visa Australia Visa Germany Visa Australia

For securing the Visa of any country, you have to apply to the consulate office of that country in India. Visa granted by a foreign country may be of various types, with different conditions attached to each of them. A Transit Visa allows you to stay in that country just for a day or two, while a Tourist Visa may allow you to stay for periods up to several months. For a Business Visa, the periodicity of the Visa depends on your need to stay in that country. A student Visa or F1 Visa is granted to students and is valid generally for the period of study ( including grace period) and permission of work outside university is not allowed. Almost all these Visas will stipulate that you cannot take up a job in that country during the period of your stay. A H-1 Visa is granted to all applicants who have obtained the work permit from INS allows him to work in the US. The F visa is for academic studies, and the M visa is for nonacademic or vocational studies. A student with an F-1 visa may not accept off-campus employment at any time during the first year of study; however, the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) may grant permission to accept off-campus employment after one year. No permission is required for on-campus employment. Except for temporary employment for practical training, an M-1 student may not accept employment at any time during the course of study.

Why study in Australia?

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In Australia, you have the freedom to choose a path that suits your particular goals. There are thousands of courses on offer.

Whichever course you choose, you’ll experience a unique kind of education. Studying in Australia promotes innovative, creative and independent thinking. You’ll learn to work as part of a team, to communicate effectively with others and to develop the practical skills and intellectual abilities you need for global success.

Most importantly, you’ll learn how to use your initiative. Your teachers will encourage you to think of original, practical solutions to real-world problems. Upon graduation, your qualification will make you highly sought after by Australian and international employers.

The Australian education system has a strong international reputation and is known for its effective structure and innovative policy developments. Many other countries, eager to improve their own education systems, turn to Australia for advice.

Australia is also one of the best places to live. It is a young, vibrant and friendly country in which students can live, learn and grow. So if you want a quality education and a good lifestyle, Australia’s the place to be.

Have a look at our interactive map and see where Australia is in relation to the rest of the world. You can also see how close we are to your home country.

A place where work and study meet

Australia’s approach to vocational education and training leads the world in innovation and quality. You’ll have the opportunity to step outside the classroom and practice your skills in real and simulated workplaces. This will give you a genuine advantage over other graduates.

A great place to grow up

School students in Australia study under a national curriculum framework which ensures high academic standards in eight key learning areas, including English, mathematics, science and arts. Teachers are committed to encouraging childrens’ intellectual, personal and emotional growth.

Improve your English

Studying English in Australia will give you the opportunity to use and improve your English every day. Australian English language institutions have video facilities, libraries and computer-assisted learning to help you become a fluent English-speaker in no time. You’ll even be able to find a program to meet your specific needs.

Australia is a technologically advanced society and you’ll study at an institution with great facilities. Australian classrooms are equipped with the latest technology and laptops are allowed in many lecture halls and classrooms.

Safe, multicultural society

Australia is a safe, friendly and harmonious country. When you arrive you may find yourself struck by the friendliness and hospitality of the people. Imagine: you’ve left your country behind, yet somehow, you’ve arrived home.

Australia is a very safe country compared with almost anywhere in the world. Political unrest is limited in Australia, crime rates are low and strict gun control laws provide a safe environment.

As one of the most multicultural countries in the world, Australia is accepting of all religions. Your right to practice your faith without persecution or discrimination is protected by law. You’ll find Australia to be very friendly and welcoming.

Australians value the wealth of cultural diversity and social sophistication that international students bring to our campuses and communities. We take great care in looking after international students and helping them adjust to the Australian way of life.

Australians are open, friendly people and you will receive a warm welcome. Many students living in Homestay situations experience Australian family life in a natural, friendly way and often they find themselves treated like a family member. Wherever you live - Homestay, boarding school, or campus accommodation - you will discover many opportunities to make lasting friendships

Study in Australia

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Live

Australia is one of the best places in the world to live while you learn. The standard of living is amongst the highest in the world, yet costs remain competitive. On your breaks from study, you will have a wide choice of activities to enrich your experience - from cultural festivals, concerts and museums, to major sporting events

Learn

Australian education has a strong international reputation for excellence. Whether you study at a university, school, vocational or English language institute, you will receive a quality education that will form a strong foundation for your future success.

Grow

The benefits of living and learning in Australia are both personal and academic. Your years in Australia will give you the best platform to succeed in your career, and prepare you for the challenges of the work place. It won’t just be your mind that develops - your time in the classroom will change you as a person.

Use this website to find out about courses, institutions, studying and living costs, the application process, visa requirements and much more. If you’ve already decided on an institution, use the search function to learn more about that university, training course or language school.

If you haven’t decided yet, let our Study Wizard guide you through all the steps of selecting a course and enrolling to study in Australia. You can also use the Student Response Facility if you can’t find the information you are looking for.

Australia is the perfect place to live, learn and grow

Why Study in the USA?

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Diversity

The land and people of the U.S.A. are incredibly varied. Wherever you choose to study, you will encounter a regional culture rich in history, local traditions and customs. The U.S.A. is a multi-racial society that is still absorbing new immigrants, which makes it a very dynamic and exciting place to experience. While students must exercise caution in a few locations, in much of the U.S.A., streets and university campuses are clean and safe.

Differences

U.S. universities may differ from those in your own country in several ways. For one thing, classes are generally small. There may be as few as ten to twenty students in a class; an education in the U.S. A. gives you the personal attention you need in order to succeed. While in class, students are encouraged and expected to contribute to the discussion. Professors meet with students in their offices or even share coffee or meals with them. The close relationship between students and faculty serves to motivate students and fosters a personal approach to the curriculum. Studying in the U.S.A. gives you the opportunity to gain a mentor in your given career field, an invaluable resource.

You may be surprised at your professors’ willingness to challenge authority. Academic freedom is one of the hallmarks of a U.S. university. You will notice different perspectives on instruction. In the U.S.A., students are trained to observe and analyze a problem, then solve it. You will be expected to listen to your classmates and challenge their points of view. The goal is pragmatic, so that you will gain confidence and the ability to organize and present an argument.

Most U.S. university students live on or near the school campus. When you are studying in the U.S.A., you will have many opportunities to join planned and informal activities with other students, such as hiking, skiing, museum visits, excursions to new cities, and U.S.A. tourist attractions. Imagine visiting New York and taking a ferry to the Statue of Liberty! This interaction with other students will enhance your language skills. Your fellow students will also teach you about U.S. culture and about the diverse cultures represented on any U.S. campus.

The Leading Edge

While studying in the U.S.A., you will be exposed to some of the most up-to-date developments in technology. The U.S.A. is the leader in many areas of technology. You may be fortunate enough to meet, and even study, with the leading scholars in your chosen field. Why not study with the best?

Studying in the U.S.A. will exhilarate you. It will change the landscape of your life permanently. We guarantee that you will return home changed: more confident, more open and knowledgeable, a citizen of the world with a much broader perspective!

Study in the U.S.A. can help you to embark on this exciting academic voyage, and to make the next decision—where to study.

Study in the USA?

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You have read about the U.S.A. every day in the news, watched Hollywood films, listened to U.S. songs and music videos and talked to people from the U.S.A. Only by living in the U.S.A. can you truly become fluent in English and gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of U.S. culture.

Life in the U.S.A. will probably be different from what you expect. You may be pleasantly surprised to find that the images from films and television programs are not always true. That is, Americans come in a variety of sizes, colors and shapes. Americans in general are very friendly and will be interested in learning about you and your country.

For any international student, the U.S.A. has a lot to offer: the most prestigious, top ranked education anywhere in the world, eclectic cities and beautiful natural parks, artistic, cultural, political and athletic events, and a very multicultural population.

Why study in Europe?

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Quality

Excellence

Europe has a world-wide reputation as a centre of excellence in learning. Year after year, European universities rank prominently among the top 100 in the world. And only Europe can offer state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge research opportunities together with the chance to walk in the footsteps of so many of the world's most influential thinkers.

Quality assured

Europe is developing a scheme of quality assurance. A comprehensive quality control process is planned for 2010, by when Europe will be emblematic of a guarantee of quality in higher education.

Value for money

These high academic standards are achieved without breaking the bank. Tuition fees and daily costs are reasonable, the education sector being a top priority for Europe's competitiveness.

Lasting legacy

Europe boasts many centuries of academic excellence. A rich academic heritage is based around many landmarks in human knowledge, and today's European higher education institutions benefit from this lasting legacy.

Diversity

Choice

There are thousands of higher education institutions in Europe to choose from, offering a great variety of degree programmes. From leading research universities to small, friendly teaching colleges, you're sure to find what you're looking for.

Tradition and innovation

Immerse yourself in a continent with a wealth of traditions and a history as rich and varied as its many peoples and landscapes. At the same time, Europe is a hotbed of research and innovation, home to first-class resources and top scientists working in fields ranging from medicine to space travel, from nanotechnology to polar research, and from ICT to nuclear fusion.

Multicultural

Europe offers a unique cultural experience in a dynamic, multinational environment. Besides earning a world-class qualification, you'll have the chance to learn new languages and intercultural skills that are of great value to future employers and an essential advantage in an ever-changing world.

Opportunity

World-renowned

Studying in Europe gives you a top-quality education which will be respected the world over. Moreover, you can take advantage of the many scholarships that European universities offer.

Opening doors

Employers won't only be impressed by your education; they'll also appreciate the other skills you will have acquired. Your time in Europe will prepare you for the global economy, developing assets such as self-reliance, independence and intercultural and linguistic abilities that will set you apart from the competition.

Portable skills

Many countries encourage the best and brightest students to remain after their studies. Alternatively, you can take your newly acquired skills back home to use there. A European higher education will increase your mobility - across Europe and the rest of the world.

Springboard for your travels

Always wanted to explore Europe? Studying here provides the perfect launch-pad for your travels. Take the chance to visit our great cities, bathe on our beautiful beaches, ski in the Alps or join in the fiesta.

Study in Europe

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EuroEducation is the guide for international students aiming to study in Europe.

Over 900 universities, academies, schools and colleges in Europe are presented with useful information designed to help undergraduate and graduate students in choosing a wide variety of academic and professional courses in Arts, Business, Economics, Engineering, Humanities, MBA, Management, Science, Technology, English and other Languages...

The undergraduate and graduate programme profiles include: description of courses and schools, contact details, application procedures, admission requirements, cost of studies, scholarships, grants, degrees/ qualifications awarded and other relevant information. All listed schools are supplied with response forms linked to their admission offices to answer student enquiries and applications.

The EuroEducation Course Search is constantly updated to include the latest information available directly from the universities and colleges presented.

There are more than four thousand higher education institutions in Europe, from top-level research establishments to small, teaching-focused colleges. Europe itself is no less diverse, extending from the Arctic Circle to the coast of Africa, where tiny principalities sit side-by-side with many of the world’s leading economies.

A fascinating destination, but which country should you go to? Which university should you choose? What do you need before you leave? What will happen when you arrive? These are just some of the questions you’re probably asking yourself already.

Featured Destination: GERMANY

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Germany's landscape appeals to students everywhere

For those looking to go beyond the borders of their own countries, Germany is one with much to offer, including:

A landscape packed with interesting topography.

Castles, abbeys and architecturally rich houses, churches and small villages.

Nature, art, shopping, sport and the cosmopolitan flair of Europe's biggest cities.

Some of the world's greatest opportunities in higher learning and education.

It's these and other attractions that bring some 250,000 foreign students each year (up from 150,000 about 10 years ago) to this globally revered federal republic. Here, the trade, technical schools and universities are among some of the most coveted. Those who come to study in this heart of Europe thus find the opportunity to:

Choose from some 375 institutions and a broad menu of degree programs and majors.

Benefit from excellence in research and teaching.

Gain from the experience of both the practical and theoretical aspects of learning.

There's no denying that Germany is a leader in drawing the brightest of the 1.8 million students who choose to travel the world to further their education.

A Unified Germany Boasts a Long and Rich History

Two of Germany's most famous sons, the great poets Goethe and Schiller, once lamented on its history by saying, "Germany? But where is it? I cannot find that country."

That's because, up until 1971, Germany was made up of several hundred kingdoms and principalities, independent cities and towns. Such division into parts remained true for Germany even into the 20th century, when the nation was divided into "East" and "West Germany" following the Second World War. The two halves were reunited in 1990.

The process of finding answers to Goethe and Schiller's questions about the shape of Germany's government and its peaceful coexistence is what defines its history-and many of the political, economic and cultural elements that exist today.

Now, fully unified, the Federal Republic of Germany is made up of 16 individual states, separated by their own constitutions and joined under one great umbrella. A democracy with a liberal-market economy and the freedom of religion and press, this cohesive Germany remains:

The largest economic and political influence in Europe and the third largest in the world.

One of the global market's greatest exporters (for example, aircraft, telecommunications, household goods, etc.), with the United States as its second greatest trading partner.

An industrial powerhouse, famous for its technology, research, environmental engineering, and, yes, cars (Mercedes, for instance).

The Diversity of City Life Across the Provinces

It's also one of the most densely populated countries in Europe, as more than 7 million foreigners live and work here-with 3.4 million in the capital city of Berlin alone.

They know what tourists and visitors come to learn: This country that sits in the center of Europe (between Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Poland and Switzerland) is not just a triad of mountain ranges, uplands and low-land plains or a mere bridge to beyond the four corners of its borders.

It's a special place with a deep history and a kaleidoscope of allure.

Places of Interest

When you come to study in "this land of a thousand possibilities," you'll get to work hard and play hard. That's because its checkered and divided history has resulted in an architectural, cultural and artistic treasure trove.

Remnants of the past are scattered like confetti from Frankfurt, the city known for its business and finance, to Munich, known for its Olympic Stadium, world-class music and exotic collection of brews.

Some other highlights involve:

The capital city of Berlin--a top travel destination--offers a unique combination of history, night life and historical remnants.

The legendary River Rhine, with its castles, cathedrals, vineyards and wine festivals, has inspired artists throughout time. It's also lined with scenic hiking trails, fireworks and even car racing, infamous to the city of Hockenheim.

The oldest city in the country, Trier, boasts a French influence that remains from the old days in its collection of romantic river valleys.

No matter what brings you to this desired homeland, Germany is a place that not only honors its traditions, but the people who've created them. Like the beer vendor at Oktoberfest. And students like Jackson and Marty.

Perhaps you can be one of them too.

Featured Study Abroad Program in Germany

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is the German national agency for the support of international academic cooperation. DAAD offers programs and funding for students, faculty, researchers and others in higher education providing financial support to over 55,000 individuals per year. DAAD also represents the German higher education system abroad, promoting Germany as an academic and research destination, and establishes ties among institutions around the world.

DAAD New York, which is one of 14 international branch offices, was founded in 1971 to support academic exchange between the U.S., Canada and Germany. DAAD New York maintains three major missions: to act as a bridge between U.S., Canadian and German universities, higher education professionals and students by providing information and assistance; to administer fellowships and other programs for students and scholars in the U.S. and Canada; and to contribute to Germany's public diplomacy by promoting Germany's academic, scientific, and cultural achievements in the U.S. and Canada.

Featured Destination: ENGLAND

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England has existed at the center of the Western world for more than a thousand years. One would be hard pressed, in fact, to find a nation in the western world whose influence has been greater or more wide-ranging than that island in the North Atlantic. From Shakespeare to Dickens to Woolf, from Henry VIII to Di, and from the sprawling metropolis of London to the colonies it ruled over on the other side of the world, England has changed the world in ways few, if any, other countries ever have.

"England is named after the Angles, one of a number of Germanic tribes believed to have originated in Angeln in Northern Germany, who settled in England in the 5th and 6th centuries. This is also the origin of its Latin name Anglia". (www.en.wikipedia.org)

The history of the island of Great Britain, however, goes back much farther: there is evidence that people lived there as far back as 50,000 years ago. In fact, it was even a part of the Roman Empire following the first incursions into its territory, "first with Julius Caesar's raid in 55 BC, and then the Emperor Claudius' conquest in the following century. The whole southern part of the island - roughly corresponding to modern day England and Wales - became a prosperous part of the Roman Empire. It was finally abandoned early in the 5th century when a weakening Empire pulled back its legions to defend borders on the Continent". (www.en.wikipedia.org)

Around the 8th Century, things began to calm down a bit, and the England we all know and love began to take shape. "Egbert, King of Wessex (d. 839) is often regarded as the first king of all the English, although the title "King of England" was first adopted, two generations later, by Alfred the Great (ruled 871-899)". (www.en.wikipedia.org)

Perhaps the greatest international legacy of Great Britain's power is that that has been left by its Colonial period. British influence and rule extended around the world, encompassing such disparate and diverse lands as Kenya, India, Hong Kong, Cyprus, New Zealand, and what we now call The United States of America. (http://flagspot.net)

The phrase that used to be widely applied to the British Colonial endeavor-"The sun never sets on the British Empire"-was based wholly in fact. Of course, this is no longer the case, and the problems that have been left behind in the wake of colonialism are still with us today in some parts of the world, but the fact remains that the influence of the British is difficult, if not impossible, to overestimate. And as for colonialism's influence on England itself, it is still being felt today: London has become a melting pot similar in many ways to the New York City in the early 1900's: People from all over the world, especially former British colonies, are now flocking to London to make their way either professionally or educationally.

Culturally, England is both familiar and exotic when seen through American eyes. Much of our own culture is based on the English model, though there is no getting around the fact that our two countries are separated by thousands of miles. In this sense, then, England is the perfect place to enroll in college: It is familiar enough to remain approachable, but exotic enough to provide a college experience that is eye-opening and educational in ways that a domestic education could never be.

From London to Manchester and from Essex to Norwich, the variety of universities in England is truly staggering. And the educational institutions attended by foreign students run the gamut from small technical colleges which prepare students for specialized careers to world-renowned institutions of higher learning like Oxford and Cambridge. In that sense, then, the possibilities are limitless when it comes to attending college in England. And no matter what your specific goals are, you will be a better-educated person in every sense of the term. England is the perfect springboard, no matter what you hope to accomplish.

Featured Destination: ENGLAND

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Australia: A Great Destination for Study Abroad

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Semester Abroad Programs in Australia

When people think of Australia, they often think of eucalyptus trees, sharks and the late "Crocodile Hunter" Steve Irwin. But do you realize that it is challenging America for the most popular country in the world to study as an international student? Do you realize that, in addition to an education system, it's a world-class tourist destination because it's just so...cool?

You do realize that? And yet you haven't decided to study abroad there yet? Then I guess you better keep reading.

The Details of Australia

Australia is the only continent that's also a country, and is blessed with landscapes that jump from glamorous beach to gaping city to sprawling desert.

Although it is the smallest continent in the world, Australians think big -- big coral reefs, big adventure and big hearts. Those who study in Australia will see the cuddly koala, experience the vibrant nightlife of Sydney and Melbourne, and enjoy a laid-back, relaxed lifestyle, not to mention receive an advanced education thanks to Australia's campaign to attract some of the best professors in the world.

The "Lucky" Country

Australia is known as the "lucky" country because of its rich deposits of silver, zinc and zircon, and because it is home to 10 percent of the world's gold. Students who study in Australia will feel fortunate as well. The idea of visiting world-famous reefs and seeing animals and plants that only exist in Australia, in the same place where you can lounge on a gorgeous beach and ride a jet ski, in the same place where you can attend lectures by some of the most respected professors in higher education, is beyond alluring. There is, after all, a reason why Australian colleges and universities host more than 100,000 students from more than 180 countries each year. In addition to outdoor activities, Australia is known for its respected research in science, business and industry, and the most popular fields of study include the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering and medicine. And even though Australia may be known for its outback, or bush, or just plain old countryside (however you want to refer to it), the destination is considered a technological leader, with a prevalence of state-of-the-art equipment and laboratories.

But you may not even need all those details to convince you. Think emotionally. It even makes sense when your only consideration is your heart.

Can you imagine if you're an anthropology student, and you actually get the chance to study Aborigines, who have lived in Australia for more than 20,000 years and yet are still around today (not the same exact person, obviously, unless the Fountain of Youth exists in Australia)? Can you imagine architecture students getting to observe the Sydney Opera House firsthand? How can an ecology major or future vet not take an opportunity to hang with Australia's unique animal and plant population?

People, studying abroad in Australia just makes sense. It has a great education system, but is also a super-popular tourist destination because it's just so awesome. You can't go wrong!

Natural Wonders

Australia's strongest feature is by far the diversity of its amazing landscape. Students studying environmental science, ecology or biology will find a little piece of heaven in Australia. While the cities are slices of modern metropolitan life, the countryside, or bush, is the heart of Australia.

More than 90 percent of Australia is covered with vegetation, and 85 percent of Australian plants are exclusive to the country, which makes it a haven for natural sciences students. The Daintree Rainforest is a prime example of Australia's biological and ecological wealth, with more than 450 species of birds, plus butterflies and those famous Australian marsupials. You may catch a glimpse of a kangaroo, but if you want to see a Tasmanian Devil, the largest carnivorous marsupial, you'd better stay up late, as they are nocturnal. Other places to check out include:

The fantastically named Wallaman, Wollomombi and Ellenborough waterfalls;

Fraser Island, the world's largest sand island-don't forget to visit the Great Sandy National Park;

Uluru, made of sandstone, is the biggest monolith on earth;

Fantastic skiing can be had in the Snowy Mountains and Victorian Alps.

Australia, thanks to its abundance of natural resources, is known to be a leader in outdoor education programs. Perhaps one of the most impressive natural attractions in the beach-blessed country is the Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef. Go there, and you can swim with loggerhead turtles, humpback whales and dolphins.

In Australia, Everything's Going to be Apples!

Apples? Well, that means "Everything's going to be great!" Aussies tend to be optimistic, fun-loving people, and students who study in Australia are bound to make tons of "mates," or friends. And never underestimate the country's passion for sports. Whether it's playing cricket or rugby, scuba diving or surfing, Aussies are always down for adventure.

For people who prefer culture and pretty faces, the film and music industries in Australia are similar to that of America, and Australia has loaned quite a few famous names to the Hollywood roll call. Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman and Naomi Watts are all actors that hail from the Land Down Under. As for music, Australia has given us INXS, the Bee Gees and AC/DC, to name a few. Perhaps in spite of that information, music studies programs in Australia are increasing in popularity and availability, and music students will marvel at the aboriginal "didgeridoo," a long, wooden flute that may be the world's oldest musical instrument.

A stay in Australia would not be complete without a sampling of its cuisine, which is as diverse as its people. Whether you throw some shrimp on the barby (does anyone really talk like that?) or sink your teeth into a Vegemite sandwich, Australian food is not to be missed. Vegemite is a black, yeast-based spread that is slathered on bread. Aussies also like their "amber nectar" (beer), as well as their sweets.

No matter what you study in Australia, you are bound to fall in love with the Aussie way of life. There is much fun to be had in the country, as well as much to learn. So search through this directory to find the right program for you.

Still haven't made up your mind? Then mate, you're on your own.

China: A Great Destination for Study Abroad

2009-09-21T20:02:00.001-07:00

No, You've Never Tasted Real Chinese Food! Study Abroad in China

It's true-the Kung Pao chicken you order from your local take-out restaurant isn't genuinely Chinese-we Americanized it long ago. But treating yourself to great authentic Chinese food is just one reason to study abroad in China. China is a country whose history dates back thousands of years, and just as the country pioneered many amazing things in ancient times, China is back in a big way these days.

The fourth-largest country in the world, China has been experiencing a huge economic boom in the past few years, and it won't be letting up on its path to becoming the next global superpower. Study abroad programs in China will introduce students to this far-off land of stunning ancient history and important economic present. It shouldn't be much of a Kung Pao surprising that China study abroad programs attract tens of thousands of international students each year.

All the Right Ingredients

Higher education in China has played a huge role in the country's economic boom, and Chinese universities consistently seek out the best students. Those who study abroad in China will discover that the country has three-semester school years, with semesters lasting 20 weeks. No matter what you have your heart set on studying, a study abroad program in the massive area of China will have what you need.

Of course, many students study abroad in China to learn the Chinese language, which is the most widely spoken in the world. (Not such a shock when you consider the country's population of more than 1.3 billion - that's about 25 percent of the world's population!) But there are tons of other things you can study abroad in China, some of which have been major strengths in the country since ancient times, from engineering to agriculture to mathematics:

The Chinese developed cast iron way before anyone else-in the 4th century!;

Wonder why crops are grown in rows? The Chinese figured out long ago that planting crops that way help them grow more quickly;

Chu Shih Chieh published Precious Mirror of the Four Elements, making China a pioneer in mathematics as early as 1303.

Since they have always been clever and have an amazingly rich culture, the Chinese have given the world several important inventions. The four "great" inventions of China are paper, the compass, gunpowder and printing. But they're also credited with inventing the wheel and, more importantly to a couple of guys by the names of Ben and Jerry-ice cream.

The Chinese came up with the oldest calendar in the world, which they based on the cycles of the moon. Students studying abroad in China will also realize that the home of calligraphy's literature dates back to 1,000 BC-it was no Harry Potter, but impressive nonetheless. And by the way, if you liked Kill Bill, you can thank China's Shaolin monks for inventing Kung Fu.

Plenty of Options on the Menu

Study abroad programs in China are about a lot more than learning the language. Students with a focus on a variety of study fields will find study abroad in China fascinating on many levels. If you're interested in history or city planning, check out the Hutongs in the capital city of Beijing. There, just outside the famous Forbidden City, or Palace Museum, you'll find an ancient metropolis that used some very interesting planning methods. We'll leave it up to you to discover what that means.

If architecture's your thing, a study abroad program in China will simply amaze you, from the ancient architecture to the 21st century architectural creations in the city of Shanghai. Plus:

Take a look at the world-famous Temple of Heaven in Beijing, which was built in 1420 by the Ming Dynasty and is situated in the middle of a 660-acre park;

Shanghai has its share of modern architectural wonders, but you must see the Bund waterfront's Peace Hotel and the Ming Dynasty Yu Yuan Gardens' pavilions and zigzag bridge;

Lhasa, located in Tibet, boasts one of the world's most impressive feats of architecture-the Potala Palace, which was built without using even one nail!

Yeah, China's architectural gifts date back centuries, to when they established the "five structural elements," but there's much more to learn about than the buildings in the country. For you theology students, China provides an interesting mix of atheism, Taoism, Buddhism, Islam and Christianity. And if you're an archeology student, you'll absolutely love a study abroad program in China because:

The city of Xian is home to the awesome Museum of the Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses, which houses some of the most famous archaeological sites on earth;

You can tour the Imperial Tombs of the Ming and Qing Dynasties in Beijing and check out the Dazu rock carvings in the town of Chongqing;

Dashanpu, in the Sichuan Province, is where more than 1,000 dinosaur fossils have been found, including the bones of what's believed to be the missing link between birds and dinosaurs!

Since China has been around for so long, it's never lacking in relics of the past. However, zoology majors can live very much in the present if they study abroad in China. The city of Chengdu, famous for its food, is also home to the Chengdu Panda Breeding Research Center. You'll see Pandas and many other species running free in an environment created just for them, in the image of their natural habitats. How sweet.

Some Fun on the Side

When you study abroad in China, it won't be all about the books. You'll find quite a bit to keep you busy in this enormous country-see the Great Wall of China (which can also be seen from space), the famous Silk Road that's been around since the second century AD, as well as tons of great Chinese art scattered in temples and monasteries. China is extremely mountainous, which makes for some great outdoor adventure. You won't want to miss Mt. Everest, the highest mountain in the world, located in Tibet.

If you study abroad in Beijing, you'll become very familiar with the world's largest meeting place, Tiananmen Square. You can also try your hand at bartering and haggling over prices at street markets and vending stations. Go ahead and try and talk them down-it's customary in China.

And when not haggling in one of the two most spoken languages in the world, you'll find something to do pretty much anywhere you roam:

Visit the Old Town of Shanghai, where you can kick it in the Garden of the Purple Clouds of Autumn, get a bite to eat and shop at the local bazaar;

Learn the art of calligraphy-you'll write a single word in several beautiful and different styles;

Take a cruise on the Yangtze River and check out the Xiling, Wu and Qutang Gorges, or sun yourself on the sand at Beihai Silver Beach or the Asian Dragon Bay.

Speaking of dragons, you'll see them all over China-in the art, architecture, literature, music and more. Dragons are a major symbol of China and have been for who knows how long, and they figure heavily into folk tales and legends that are still told today. While you won't see any live dragons, study abroad in China can still get your heartbeat racing:

If you can handle a little pain, why not get tattooed in China? Tattoo, or "Wen Shen," is an ancient Chinese practice, but that may not sway your parents once you get home and they see it!;

Explore the Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve or the Yungang Caves (if you dare!);

Catch the amazing Chinese acrobats when they perform in Beijing-they'll have you on the edge of your seat.

Chinese cuisine may give you a thrill-if not for the taste, then perhaps for some of the ingredients. It's not unusual at all in China to pop a couple of silkworms or black beetles in your mouth as a snack. Snake is also a major delicacy. Roast boa or snakeskin with roasted peppers, anyone? But, of course, you will find some food you're more familiar with; just mind your manners at the table and get the hang of those chopsticks!

As you can see, studying abroad in China will engage all of your senses and maybe even get you to eat bugs! But more importantly, you'll discover and connect with a culture that will challenge you as much as it pleases. And you'll have some friendly natives around who are used to helping out foreigners. All in all, Kung Pao chicken included, China has quite the full plate.

Study abroad myths & misconceptions

2009-09-21T11:07:00.000-07:00

Study abroad myths & misconceptions

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Misinformation and outright falsehoods keep many students from even considering studying abroad each year. Too many students mistakenly believe that there is no place in their academic plan or major for time abroad or that study abroad is just a luxury that they can neither afford nor benefit from. Au contraire! Below are some of the most common myths students believe about studying abroad and, more importantly, the facts that debunk them.

Myth #1: I have to study in an English-speaking country because I don't know any foreign languages.

This is a common misconception. There are many study abroad programs that require no prior foreign language instruction and will provide you with intensive language classes at the beginning of your stay abroad. Other programs require just one semester of a language before you depart for a given country. It's true that the more language background you have before you leave, the more immersed you can become once you arrive. However, you shouldn't let lack of skills in a language stop you from studying in a particular country. Study abroad programs in English-speaking countries are far more competitive than those in countries where other native languages dominate. This is in part because so many students share the common misconception that their monolingualism restricts their choices to English-speaking countries.

Myth #2: I'll have to extend my studies or won't graduate on time if I take time out to go abroad.

The fact is that you can typically earn college credits while studying abroad, both toward fulfilling general education requirements as well as toward your major. In fact, study abroad can give your language skills such a boost that adding a minor or even a second major in a language may require very few, if any, additional courses after you return to your home campus. In addition to year-long programs, many universities offer semester-long or summer programs. And if it so happens that you must delay graduation for a few months to fit in studying abroad, what you will gain from the experience far outweighs what you think you'd be sacrificing.

Myth #3: I don't have enough money to study abroad.

Studying abroad often costs the same or even less than spending the same time at your home campus. Especially if you study in a country that has a lower cost of living than at home, your day-to-day living expenses may be far lower than those you are accustomed to. In addition, if you qualify for financial aid, you can still receive this aid while studying in an credit-earning study abroad program. Because your personal contribution is assumed to be less while abroad (since it's not expected you will be able to work while out of the country), you may even qualify for more aid for your study abroad year. For the same reason, students who have never qualified for financial aid may do so for the first time when they decide to study abroad.

Myth #4: I can always travel later once I have a job and am earning money. That is just as good.

Easier said than done. Once you are locked into a job and responsibilities, it's very difficult to get away for any length of time. You may have a difficult time getting the time off from work and you probably won't be able to afford unpaid vacation time because you will have locked yourself into long-term financial responsibilities: a car, rent payments or a mortgage, credit cards, and family responsibilities, for example. In addition, traveling as a tourist is a much different experience than living as an integrated part of a foreign culture. The two experiences are incomparably different. As a tourist, you will typically be seen as an outsider. When you live in a foreign culture and participate in its day-to-day life, you become an immersed and daily participant in the culture.

Myth #5: Only language majors study abroad.

Study abroad programs are open to students of all majors, and in fact, more social sciences, business, humanities, and arts majors study abroad than foreign language majors. You certainly could add a language major to your studies as a result of your study abroad units, but you will also very likely be able to earn units for other majors as well as to fulfill general education requirements at your university.

Myth #6: Study abroad is not for everyone.

No matter what your major, gender, ethnic background, or interests, studying in a foreign country can benefit you personally, academically, and professionally. There are a myriad of programs available around the world. There are sure to be several that suit your needs and interests.

Myth #7: Study abroad is a luxury.

Some students (and their parents) believe that studying abroad is not really studying. Quite the contrary! It's true that the academic setting will probably be different than what you are used to, but that doesn't make it any less valuable. In addition to the formal instruction you receive, numerous learning experiences will happen outside the classroom - experiences you would never get at your home college or university. The entire experience abroad will change your life as well as enhance your resume and employment potential. In fact, international experience is increasingly important for those seeking a job in an global economy that relies on good relations and the ability to communicate with diverse peoples around the world.

If you talk to anybody who has ever studied abroad, they will likely tell you that any worries or concerns they had before they departed melted away once they arrived in their host country. They will confirm to you that their experience was well worth any extra expense or time it may have taken and that the benefits they have experienced as a result are more numerous and lasting than they ever could have imagined.

Choosing a study abroad program

2009-09-21T11:02:00.000-07:00

Choosing a study abroad program

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Choosing a study abroad program is easier -- and harder -- than ever. With 1000s of programs to choose from, every student is sure to find something that fits his or her needs. But with such unlimited options, how does one go about finding the right program? Here are some common questions that arise as you are thinking about embarking on a study abroad journey.

How do I choose a program?

If you are already enrolled at a college or university, the best place to begin is at your campus study abroad office. Find out which programs your school offers and what requirements and prerequisites are in place. Choosing a program either run by or formally recognized by your institution is the best guarantee for receiving academic credit for your experience abroad.

In order to choose a program that ideally suits you, you will first need to define the goals you would like to achieve through the experience. For example, would you like to learn a language? If so, then you should not choose a program in which the courses are taught in your native language or in which you spend most of your time with people from your own country. Are you looking for an opportunity to travel? Then finding a program in a fairly central location with good public transportation and ample time off to travel is an important feature for you.

You should also explore how program offerings apply toward your degree or to your education as a whole. Does the program relate to your major (if you already have one). Can you take courses that will apply toward major or general education requirements? Does the program give you the opportunity to take courses you might not otherwise have the opportunity to take at home? Are there extracurricular offerings -- organized field trips or pre-program intensive language immersion courses, for example-- that can enhance the experience?

Finally, depending on your degree of personal independence and comfort with the idea of going abroad, you may prefer a program that has a strong orientation component and an on-site support network for international students, if not just for students from your particular school.

If you are not a currently enrolled student, then browse our study abroad resources for links to searchable databases of study abroad programs and related books and articles.

Where should I study abroad?

Deciding where to study is just as important as choosing a study abroad program, and it depends on very personal factors. Different factors are important to different people. If closely integrating the experience with your degree is important to you, then you should consider a location that offers courses in your major and has natural affinities to your major that will afford you experiences in your field of interest outside the classrrom, too. If there is a language that especially interests you for either personal or professional reasons, that can help narrow down the choice of countries. Or perhaps you just want to get to know your (German, Irish, Chinese, ...) cultural heritage.

The majority of U.S. students choose to study in a European country -- in part because those programs are so well-established. (See the top 10 destinations for U.S. students.) But there are great advantages to taking the path less traveled. Developing nations are playing an increasing role in the global economy and an extended stay in one can really pop out on a resume. However, any study abroad experience is a plus in your search for employment.

Also remember that while large cities offer numerous social and intellectual opportunities, they are also more cosmopolitan. Your extracurricular options may seem more limited in a smaller town, but it's there that you will gain more of an appreciation of traditional ways of life and make connections with the natives.

When should I study abroad?

Though students have traditionally studied abroad during their junior year, it is increasingly possible to go abroad at just about any time during your studies. When you go is also dependent upon personal factors. If you need to be on campus later in your studies to take hard-core advanced courses in your major, for example, then it may be most convenient for you to go abroad in your sophomore year. If you intend to become fluent in a language while abroad, then it is important to have enough language instruction before you leave to provide a springboard for that development. If you don't yet have a major and it is early in your studies, going abroad is a great way to discover new interests.

Considering your own personal situation and the goals you want to achieve can help you determine the best time to go.

How long should I study abroad?

Studies show unequivocally that the longer your stay, the more personal, academic, and professional benefits you will reap from the experience. An academic year or a semester abroad allow the kind of cultural immersion that have the deepest impact in terms of personal growth, academic value, and career preparation. However, if timing or financial issues prevent a longer study abroad period, then a shorter-term program is certainly better than not participating at all. Summer programs exist in varied lengths and will not interfere with the schedule of the traditional academic year.

Make sure you explore all of your options, however, before you rule out a semester or year abroad. Financial aid may be available, and you may find that you can take courses while abroad that will help you make academic progress toward your degree. Don't let false assumptions mislead you!

What features of a program are important to look for?

While the answer to this question will largely depend on your goals, we can tell you which features typically create the most rewarding experiences with the longest-lasting benefits:

• The program is at least a semester in length.

• There is a well-developed pre-departure orientation and in-country support to help you adjust to living and studying abroad.

• The program gives you the opportunity to interact extensively with natives both in and outside of school. Housing with a host family can be ideal.

• There is ample support for language development (if applicable). If you are in a non-English- speaking country, a good program will provide you with intensive corollary language instruction before and during your stay.

• Instruction in other courses is in the native language, and not in English (if applicable).

• There is ample opportunity to participate in field trips and other cultural activities outside the classroom.

• Good programs allow you know without a doubt before you leave whether and for which courses you will be able to transfer academic credits to your home instution.

• Good programs provide opportunites to contact former and current participants to allow you to ask questions and get first-hand answers.

Visit your campus study abroad office and ask if you can talk to some students who have recently returned from stays abroad. These students have a wealth of information, informed opinions, and experience-based advice. Take advantage!