MYTH VS FACT OF ABROAD STUDIES

Heard of any study abroad myths lately? Is that creating hindrances in your decision of pursuing Masters abroad? This article will debunk all the myths of abroad studies that students seem to have. Pursuing higher education abroad is said to be a daunting decision. However, with correct planning and research of the countries will provide you with enough confidence to pursue your adventures.

Following are the myths that surround the idea of studying abroad,
 

#MYTH: IT COSTS A FORTUNE!
#FACT: IT'S AFFORDABLE!

 One of the major concern people have when it comes to pursuing studies abroad is the expense. People believe that higher studies abroad is too expensive and out of their reach when considered in terms of finance. That is, however, not true. With planning and research, you will find the various affordable option that will help assure you that it's not that expensive. The cost of the course depends on the course, city and university you choose. Various universities now provide financial aid and scholarships to students. As abroad studies are gaining popularity, universities are going out of their way to provide the financial aids and scholarships. Countries like Germany and Canada provide PR as well that will help the student to work there and balance out the money spent on the Masters/Bachelors.

You can also apply to Loan Assistance Program on Yocket.

MYTH: IT'S ALL FUN AND FROLIC.
FACT: IT'S ABOUT GAINING KNOWLEDGE.

 The belief that studying in a foreign country is all fun in nature is unprecedented. it is so much more than that. It's a pursuit of experience and adventure as well as a means of gaining practical knowledge. Studying abroad can introduce you to so many different cultures and customs of different countries and people. The ideal study abroad experience will be a balance between knowledge and fun. It is a great opportunity of immersing yourself in different traditions, customs and learn new languages. It's all about the experience you get while studying abroad so that you can return back home with a satisfying knowledge of an educational adventure.
 

MYTH: I NEED TO LEARN NATIVE LANGUAGE
FACT: ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY IS NEEDED

 Chances are you are worried about the lack of knowledge of native languages of various countries. Here is the assurance, you don't need to be worried. Universities are focusing more and more on recruiting the international students and they provide English taught programs for the international students. it is preferred to know a few native phrases that will help you gain an all-around experience and lets you immerse yourself deeply in the customs and native cultures. Hundreds of programs, including the non-English speaking countries, provide English based programs for international students.

You can also refer to the tips and articles for TOEFL and IELTS on Yocket, which are actually a mandatory requirement by the universities.

MYTH: IT'S DANGEROUS
FACT: IT'S AS SAFE AS IT GETS

With all the current news going around, chances are you or your parents are sceptical about studying abroad but that problem can be solved with correct planning and knowledge of current events. For sure, some countries are safer than other countries but it should not be a major concern as universities provide essential processes that will make international students feel at ease. Universities provide with enough facilities so that international students feel more comfortable and safe during their stay. Universities publish crime rates reports on their websites and you can take advantage of that information in making the right decision.

MYTH: DO EMPLOYERS CARE?
FACT: THEY DO.

With the globalization of the modern world, employers give much value to cultural diversity and international educational experiences. The international experience and adventures you have will add the much-valued benefits to your resume and will gain you an advantage over others. The international degree will be a benefit for your dream job and career. The listing of international degree on your resume speaks of your independent streak and your willingness to take risks and your adaptability of different customs and working cultures. The skills you learn during your stay at abroad university will go a long way in proving your worth to the employers.

MYTH: IT'S NOT EASY TO GET ACCEPTED.
FACT: IT IS IF YOU PLAN ACCORDINGLY!

Right planning and demonstration of skills will go a long way to get you accepted into your dream university. All you need is the knowledge of entry requirements and your essential documents ready. Following are the entry requirements of various countries that might solve your queries:

United States:

• Research your options- Post secondary includes six-degree levels and it's up to you to choose the correct university as per your needs.
• Finance your study- There are various student scholarships and grants available for international students looking to pursue Masters or Bachelors in the US.
• Complete your application- Higher educational institutions and licensing boards in individual states evaluate academic coursework, degrees, and professional licenses. It is important to fulfil their all criteria for the admission process.
• Standardized Test - As part of the application process, some programs require students to take one or more standardized tests. Plan to take your tests in advance so your scores are available when you submit your application.
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - Many colleges and universities require this test to measure your English language skills. Scores are according to the requirement listed by the universities.
• Apply for Visa- Visa applications is a very crucial step for students applying for masters abroad. F1 visa is the common student visa required for masters abroad. You need to line up all the required documents and schedule the visa interview in order to get your visa approved by the authorities.
• MS in US is the most popular searched topic.

United Kingdom:

• You are expected to have obtained a good CGPA during your graduation along with the fluency in English as to at least IELTS 6.5 level for most courses.
• Undergraduate Degree - High School plus IELTS - 6.0-6.5
• Pre-master's- Undergraduate degree plus IELTS 5.0-5.5
• PG Cert/PG Dip- Undergraduate degree plus IELTS 6.5-7.0, or a pre-master's course
• MS- First or upper second class undergraduate degree plus IELTS 7.0, or a pre-master's course
• MBA- First degree, 2-3 years’ business experience, plus IELTS 6.5-7.0

Singapore:

• Eligibility for Undergraduate Degree - SAT/IB/AS-A Levels with IELTS/TOEFL.
• Eligibility for Masters- To apply for postgraduate studies, students must have completed minimum 3-4 years of undergraduate studies depending on whether a student wants to take up master’s degree program or a doctoral degree.
• 4-year bachelor’s degree offered is similar to that of bachelor's of engineering or technology offered in India.
• English is the medium of education in Singapore; students must be fluent in all aspects of English: reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
• Those looking to apply for an MBA course in Singapore universities are required to hold on a minimum: a bachelor’s degree and 2-3 years of work experience.
• Application requirements- Depending on the course the students want to apply for, they should submit the certified copies of the required transcripts/mark sheets/certificates of the minimum qualification that is asked.
• If not already, the students should get the above-mentioned documents translated into the English language from an individual or authority recognized by the authority of a student’s home country.
• Students should also get the marks converted according to the grading system that is followed in Singapore. School/University/College authorities can be contacted for the same.
• Scorecards of IELTS/TOEFL and GMAT exams are also to be submitted to the university authorities. Although the minimum score varies according to the university/institution; it’s advised that, for competitive reasons, students should look to score above the minimum scores asked.
• For students seeking admission in an MBA course, it’s absolutely mandatory to have a minimum of 2-3 years of work experience. A detailed CV along with the letter of recommendation, from the professors with their contact information mentioned on the same is to be submitted to the university or institution.
• For students seeking admission in a doctoral program, letters of recommendations and a statement of purpose (personal essays) mentioning the reasons as to why the student wants to pursue the particular field of study in doctoral degree should be submitted.
• Apart from the above requirements, the students may also be asked to submit certified copies of their birth certificates or identity proofs and medical reports if they have or have had any illnesses or disabilities.

Australia:

The academic requirements (including evidence of English language skills) you need to study in Australia will vary depending on the level of education you want to study. Institutions can have different entry requirements, so read the course information on their website carefully and contact them to ask for advice.

• English language - Entry requirements vary between institutions, and according to the level of English language course you want to study.

• Schools - Entry requirements vary between schools depending on the state or territory you will be studying in. Academic performance and ability are considered during the application process.

• Vocational education and training - In most cases there are no entrance exams for VET institutions. However, some courses may have specific pre-requisite subjects or work experience requirements.

• Higher Education Undergraduate - To gain entry into an Australian undergraduate course you will need to have an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (Year 12), or the overseas equivalent. Some undergraduate courses may also have specific pre-requisite subjects.

• Higher Education Postgraduate - As well as the satisfactory completion of at least one degree at an undergraduate level, your institution may take research ability or relevant work experience into consideration.

• Visa Requirements- Typically, students must submit the following to get the visa:Completed Australian student visa application form (157A)

• Paid Visa Application fees – currently AU$560 (~US$430) in most cases.

• Copy of passport biodata page (some students may be asked to physically provide their passport)

• Certificate of Enrolment or Letter of Offer
• Evidence of sufficient funds
• Evidence of health insurance cover
• English proficiency test results
• Criminal record check results
• Four recent passport-sized photographs.
   

Germany:

• Visa and Residence proof: As an international student you may need an entry visa for Germany depending on where you come from and how long you plan to stay here.
• Proof of financial resources- Before you begin your studies, you will have to prove that you have enough money to support yourself. In most cases, applicants have to prove that they have around 8,700 euros at their disposal for one year.
• If you want to study at a Germany university, you will need a “university entrance qualification”. This is a school-leaving certificate which qualifies you for university study.
• To know more details regarding your education in Germany, you can refer to MS in Germany .

All of the above points debunk the myths created by people over a period of time. Mostly ‘myths’ are the other word used for ‘excuses’. Do not believe other people’s opinions. There is no reason why you should not pursue your dream of studying Masters abroad. Make your own decision and let the adventure begin!