FAQ for Students
Visa Questions ¨C Visa documents, Visa fee, Visa application forms, Visa success ratios, Tips, Reasons of Refusals, Appeal procedure
Admissions & applications ¨C Course choice, selecting a University, Application procedure, Documents for admission, Application fee, Sessions, Time factor
Money Matters ¨C Fee, Payment modes, Refunds, Living Costs, Salaries for students, Scholarships
SI CONSULTANT& You ¨ Processing fee, How to submit application, Where to submit, our terms & conditions, our introduction & status
Commonly asked Questions
Visa Questions ¨C Visa documents, Visa fee, Visa application forms, Visa success ratios, Tips, Reasons of Refusals, Appeal procedure
Q: What documents are generally required for visa?
A: Docs. Required are your academic documents, experience letters if any, sponsor bank statement, sponsor business documents, visa fee in form of Draft, photos, completely filled in visa application form & affidavit on stamp paper from student.
Q: Is bank statement is compulsory & if there are any alternatives?
A: UK ¨C You need your own bank account in your name opened for 28 days or more. Funds should be 1 year fee + 1 year living cost (for London it is 7000 GBP & for outside London it is 5400 GBP).
Loan Letter is alternative
Australia ¨C Bank statement of last 6 months of you, your parents, spouse, and sibling is allowed. It should remain with min. balance required for continue last 6 months.
Alternative is Bank Loan Letter.
Funding required is Full Course Fee + Full course living cost at A$ 12000 per year + Travel cost A$ 2000
NB: Please add 4200 A$ per year for spouse even if he/she is not traveling to Australia.
Q: Can I show property documents, land, savings, prize bonds?
A: Yes, you can show all of these documents but in addition to bank statement only. Copies of land registries in Urdu & lengthy land revenue documents are not needed.
Q: Can I have two sponsors?
A: Yes you can.
Q: Can I withdraw money from my bank after getting bank statement for visa purpose?
A: Its desirable that you should not with draw any amount until you will hear about your visa approval / denial
Q: My bank do not have computer, so can I provide handwritten statement?
A: Generally, visa officers are not happy to see handwritten statements. If it is not possible at all to get computerized statement, try getting typed statement.
Q: What are the MAIN factors on which visa officer judge an application?
A: Visa officer generally judge each visa application on following criteria,
Student Age ¨C Should be ideally between 18-25 years
Education history ¨C Should have continue educational history without gaps & have good grades throughout academic career
College & Course selected abroad ¨C Should be relative to previous studies. For example, if you have BCS & are going to MSC Computing, you have good chances. Your institution should be accredited & having good reputation. Generally, Govt. owned institutions have good scope than private.
Your sponsor relation with you, his / her occupation & bank statement with his / her supporting documents. For UK, your own bank account with required funds.
Quality of visa file, Visa application form filled in, information you have about your selected College abroad, its location, course start / end date, mode of assessment etc. You must show that you have searched other institutions also before selecting the desired University.
Q: Can I ask my elder brother / friend / father to fill in my application form?
A: Generally you should fill in your form in your OWN HANDWRITING OR you may copy the form & ask your elder relative to help you fill in. Visa officer some times ask you that you have filled in form yourself or not? Or they can refuse visa if signature at the end of form are not similar to signatures on your passport
Q: How much duration visa will be issued to me & can I travel to Pakistan during holidays?
A: For UK ¨C Visa will be issued for the duration of course plus 4 months
For Australia ¨C For full course duration
It is multiple visa & you can travel to Pakistan whenever you like
Q: Can I transfer to other country after arriving in UK / Ireland / Singapore / Switzerland?
A: Yes you can, but its advisable to spend at least 1 academic year & complete your course before transferring to other country. You have to TAKE VISA for that country & have to fulfill all student visa requirements for that country including Sponsor, Bank letter etc)
Q: My visa was refused for UK / Ireland, can I reapply & what are chances now?
A: YES. You can reapply whenever you like. You must provide us refusal letter so that we can see on what grounds you can reapply. For Ireland ¨C If you are refused, its better to do appeal. Our appeal person will help you filing it & its FREE. Please contact our nearest office or send email at shakeelpk2002pk@yahoo.com
UK ¨C You may reapply with stronger documents & addressing the reasons of refusal. For example if your visa was refused stating that your English is poor, you must supply IELTS / TOEFL score in your second attempt.
Q: Do IELTS / TOEFL compulsory for Visa?
A: UK- No. it¡¯s not compulsory although chances of success will greatly enhanced if you have IELTS / TOEFL valid score.
Australia ¨C IELTS is mandatory. Minimum band 5.0 is required
Q: What if I do not have sponsor & can not arrange bank statement?
A:UK ¨C Your own bank account is required
Australia ¨C Your parents, brothers, sister, spouse can sponsor you with 6 months bank statement.
Q: What is visa processing time?
A: For UK ¨C Its 3-4 weeks
AUSTRALIA - Its 3-4 months
Q: I was refused some years back & now I am looking to reapply. Can I make a new passport or apply on same passport?
A: You may apply on new valid passport.
Q: I have issued visa but I cannot go now. Can I extend my visa for further one month?
A: No ¨C Visa once issued CAN NOT be extended & if you will not travel in visa time period, you have to reapply & have to go through all visa procedure again
UK ¨C Visa is usually issued for 1-3 years & you can travel at any time
Ireland ¨C Visa is issued only for 3 months & you have to travel before start of course with 3 months
AUSTRALIA ¨C Visa is issued for complete course duration.
Q: I want to contact visa section, how can I?
A:UK ¨C British High Commission, Ramna 5, Diplomatic Enclave, Islamabad.
www.britainonline.org.pk
Email Visa Section British High Commission Islamabad: visqry.islamabad@fco.gov.uk
Tel: 051-2822131-5 ( All sections )
FAX: 051 2824728 or 2279355
Australia ¨C Visit www.immi.gov.au
Admissions & applications
Course choice, selecting a University, Application procedure, Documents for admission, Application fee, Sessions, Time factor
Q: What course should I select?
A: You must select a relative course for your future studies or course of your choice. For example if you have done BSC Computing from Pakistan, a Masters degree program in Computing will be excellent choice. Following are some popular choices of Pakistani students
Pakistani FA/ICOM/FSC - ¡ú BBA ; BSC Computing; B-Engineering ; Diploma in Hotel Management ; Foundation Program; Diploma in Computing; ACCA / CAT
Pakistani BCOM / ICOM / - ¡ú BBA with exemptions ; MBA; PGD in Business; Hotel Management; ACCA; Foundation Year
Pakistani 4 years BSC Computing - ¡ú MSC Computing; MSc Engineering; Pre Masters Program; MBA
Pakistani BA 2 years- - ¡ú Hotel Management, BBA, ACCA, Foundation Year
Pakistani BE 4 years - ¡ú Masters in Engineering; MBA; Pre Masters Program
Pakistani Medical Degree MBBS- ¡ú Post Graduate MSC program in Health related sciences; Pre Masters program
ACCA / CAT - ¡ú BBA; ACCA; Diploma in Accountancy; BA Finance; Foundation Year
Q: What major factors I should consider to select a University abroad?
A: You MUST consider the following factors
Your selected program availability in selected University - Please browse University web site & contact there International office or concerned department to verify that course of your choice is open. DO NOT forget to see through curriculum details of your selected program at University web site / brochure
University Fee & living costs in that city :
Kindly ask International office to give you EXACT details of International Students. Kindly ask for every detail like Tuition fee, books, Library fee, Lab fee, Exam fee, Health insurance,
Accreditation / Recognition of University in Pakistan & in abroad
Facilities at University ¨C Classrooms, Labs, Research opportunities, Housing facilities, general reputation of University
Location of University ¨C in big city or in small town
Q: What documents are usually required for admission in overseas Universities?
A: Most of the Universities requires following documents from International Students for admissions, scholarship applications & enrolments
Fully completed application form. Do not leave any area blank. The sections which are not applied on you, mark them X
Copies of all academic documents, experience certificates, co curricular activities, character certificates, degrees / mark sheets etc
2 Recommendation Letters from the teachers commenting on your academic suitability, performance in there class, English level proficiency
Student Essay / Statement of purpose written by applicant himself on 1 page outlining his / her past academic history, future plans & giving reasons why you chose the course you are applying.
Proof of English Language proficiency. Following proofs are usually accepted,
IELTS ( 5.5 for UG ; 6.0+ for PG courses)
TOEFL ( 220+ CBT )
WELT ( Warwick University English Test )
British A levels with good English grades
A letter from the institution last attended commenting on your reading, writing & hearing English level
British Council, American Center or NUML English course certificate
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Important Information for study abroad
Finding a Quality Program
What resources are available to help you find a study abroad program?
What issues should you consider when looking for a program?
Where can you find information on the strengths and weaknesses of programs in your host country?
How can your U.S. home campus study abroad office help you?
Selecting the Right Program for You
What are your personal goals for wanting to study abroad?
How many other students participate in the program each semester/year?
Will you be studying at a U.S. university, a local university, or neither?
What study abroad program group size and class size would be ideal for you?
Do you prefer to be in a class with local students, other U.S. students, or an international group of students?
Does the program emphasize "total immersion" in the language and culture, or are you placed solely with other students from the U.S.?
Do you prefer to receive all of your instruction in the local language, in English or a combination?
Is the program you have chosen affordable?
Can your program administrator put you in contact with any past program participants so you can ask them questions about their personal experiences abroad?
Who Runs Your Program?
What are the main differences among the five general types of program sponsors?
Can you identify which one of the five general types of program sponsors your program has and why you prefer that type of program?
What kind of relationship does your home college/university have with the study abroad program you have chosen?
How long has the program been in existence (a new program doesn't necessarily mean a bad program)?
What is the program's current financial situation?
Financing Study Abroad
Have you spoken with an advisor in your school's Financial Aid department?
Do you know what your financial aid package does and does not cover in terms of study abroad expenses?
Before taking out a loan, have you looked at all other options (scholarships, grants, jobs, etc.) first?
For which scholarships, fellowships and grants are you eligible?
How does the cost of living abroad compare to the cost of living at home in the United States?
Have you started budgeting your income and/or saving money to provide for the program costs and cost of living abroad?
What categories do you need to create in your budget book/ledger (rent, food, clothes, entertainment expenditures, etc.)?
Do you try to give all your purchases a "work value" in order to see the time it will take you at work to earn the money to buy them?
Are there any other ways to cut back on expenses (i.e. coupons, not eating out, etc.)?
Can you think of any odd jobs that you might be able to do in your neighborhood in order to earn extra money (i.e. washing cars, babysitting, walking dogs, etc.)?
Have you taken care of all your financial aid and scholarship forms so that you continue to have financial support at your U.S. home campus when you return?
Application Process
Does your personal statement/essay sound like a "written handshake” and make a good first impression?
What are some of your best qualities and talents you can emphasize in your personal statement/essay?
Have you made sure to include in your personal statement/essay why you want to study abroad?
If your GPA isn't the greatest, can you explain why, or include other activities you've been involved in instead?
Have you written, re-written and asked someone to look over your personal statement for you (especially if you have to write it in the local language)?
How many letters of recommendation do you need, and have you given your contacts plenty of time to write their letters of recommendation?
Did you get a good night sleep, dress professionally and read about your host country’s current events before your interview?
Were you polite and well-mannered when answering all your interview questions thoroughly and specifically?
Pre-Departure Planning
Where do you get a visa if needed and a passport?
What other documents are required by your host country, in order to be issued a visa (a bank statement, letter of invitation, police record, proof of insurance, etc)?
What should you do if you lose your passport or visa while abroad?
Have you inquired about getting an International Student Identification card (ISIC card)?
What do you have to do to vote in U.S. elections (primary, run-off, special and general) while you are abroad?
Have you set up power of attorney to make decisions on your behalf back home if you are unable to?
How Foreign Laws Apply to You
Do you know how the legal system works in your host country and in the countries to which you will be traveling ("innocent until proven guilty" or "guilty until proven innocent")?
What kinds of laws do students from the United States break in your host country and other countries (perhaps, unknowingly)?
What are your program's specific set of rules to be followed, in addition to any local/national laws?
Is consumption of alcohol legal in your host country and in the countries you will visit? If so, what is the legal age for alcohol consumption?
What are the penalties for drug use in your host country and in the countries you will visit?
How do locals and local laws deal with harassment and sexual assault (a cultural norm, supportive of victims, blame victims, prosecute, etc.)?
What kinds of legal assistance can the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate provide you?
Planning Communication While Abroad
What is the telephone and fax numbers (regular business hours and emergency after hours) for your program's administration office both in the United States and in your host country?
Do you know the address of your program office in the United States and the address of your place of residence while abroad?
Have you given out all of your contact information (e-mail, phone and fax numbers) to your emergency contacts in the United States and in your host country, as well as to family and friends?
Have you kept a record of everyone to whom you have given out your address, and asked them to alert you before they send you anything in the mail?
Will you need a cellular phone while in your host country?
If you plan to bring your PDA, will it work abroad?
Where can you get the best deal on calling cards, in the United States or abroad?
Does the mail service in your host country tend to run faster or slower than U.S. mail (i.e. how long will it take a standard letter to get to the United States)?
Can you register for next semester's courses from your host country, or can you have an advisor register for you?
Housing
What are the pros and cons of living in a home-stay, residence hall/dorm or apartment environment while abroad?
After making a list of pros and cons, which type of housing suits your needs best and why?
Will you be living in a co-ed dorm or apartment while abroad, and does your program permit co-ed living?
What can you do to help yourself prepare for the Rules, Privacy, Sharing, Telephone, Meals, Language and Social Network aspects of the type of housing you have chosen?
Can you change your place of residence abroad if things don't work out?
Packing
Have you researched the weather conditions over various seasons in the region of your host country where you will be?
Did you remember to pack all important travel documents in your carry-on, not your checked bags?
Have you considered which, and made a list of, items not to take because you can buy them when you get there?
Have you packed as lightly as possible, remembering to roll instead of fold your clothes?
Did you make an itemized list of everything you packed in your suitcases in case they are lost or stolen and you need to make an insurance claim?
Do you know how much luggage your airline allows you to check and to take on board your flight?
What are you planning to ship, and is it cheaper to pay for excess airline baggage rather than ship?
If you have decided to ship some items, who have you contacted in your host country to insure pick-up and/or payment for these items upon arrival?
Expectations
What is the general quality of facilities like hospitals, restaurants, public transportation, payphones, etc. abroad?
What modern conveniences does your host country offer (i.e. internet connection, supermarket chains, name brand stores, microwaves, cell phone service, air conditioned classrooms, etc.)?
What kind of restroom facilities and toilets are standard abroad?
How will you have to adapt your routine and schedule to life abroad?
Medical Care and Insurance
Does the program you are considering include insurance as part of its program fee? If so, what kind of insurance does it provide you?
Are sports accidents covered?
What does the plan consider to be "high risk activities"?
Is dental and/or optical care included?
Are pre-existing conditions excluded or covered?
Are sexually transmitted diseases (including AIDS) covered?
Is emergency evacuation for medical and psychological problems covered?
Should you consider purchasing your own insurance? If you do, will you not have to pay for the "package deal" insurance provided by the program?
What are the insurance policy's start and end dates? How long after the program ends are you covered?
What are the financial limits of coverage?
Does your insurance policy provider have a 24-hour assistance phone number/hotline?
Will you have to pay for medical care as you receive it, and then be reimbursed by your insurance company?
If your illness requires long-term care, for how long will you be covered?
In case of death, will the insurance company pay for repatriation - the return of your body to the United States?
If you have to return to the United States because of evacuation or medical emergency, will you be refunded for the program fee?
Basic Health and Safety
Who among the program staff should be informed of your travel plans, or who can serve as an emergency contact for your family back home?
Who are your emergency contacts in the United States? Do they have copies of your important documents? Can they make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so yourself (do they have power of attorney)?
What health recommendations has the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently made for your host country and the countries to which you will be traveling?
Do you have any dietary restrictions? If so, do they pose a problem while abroad?
How much walking will you be doing in your host country? How can you prepare yourself for higher levels of physical activity?
What should you carry in a first aid kit?
What are the general sanitary conditions in your host country? What kinds of precautions are necessary when drinking water or eating local food?
Are there any specific immunizations you must get before entering your host country and the countries to which you will travel?
If you have any pre-existing health conditions, or you need to carry special medications abroad, what should you do before you go abroad?
With whom can you leave copies of your important health-related documents?
Will your prescription drug(s) be legal and/or available abroad?
What is the generic name, and translated name (if necessary) for your medication?
Does the staff speak English, the local language, and other indigenous languages fluently to communicate the nature of any medical conditions? (Remember, many indigenous groups abroad might not speak the major language of your host country or English.)
Can your program provide for any special needs you may have (wheelchair ramps, un-timed tests, etc.)?
Do you have access to adequate medical facilities?
What is the cost of typical medical services?
What specific travel advisories has the U.S. Department of State recently issued for your host country and the other countries to which you will be traveling?
What types of crimes are common in the area/city where you will be studying and living?
What activities increase the risk of accidents and injury abroad?
How extensive, safe, and reliable is the public transportation system in your host country and the others countries to which you will be traveling?
Risk Factors and Strategies to Reduce Risk
Do your emergency contacts know how to reach you at all times?
Do your contacts have photocopies of your plane tickets, passport, visa, etc?
Why might there potentially be a need to evacuate in your particular area (fire, natural disaster, bomb threat, etc.)?
What types of notification systems are used in the event of an emergency (alarms, flashing warning lights, curfews, lockdowns, etc.)?
Does your residence, university, etc. provide more than one escape route/exit out of buildings?
What common tricks or tactics do criminals use in the regions in which you will be traveling?
Are there high rates of sexual assaults in the areas you will frequent?
Is it safe to exercise or do outdoor activities on the streets (jogging along roads, running at night, etc.)?
Is local transportation (metro, buses, taxi cabs, etc.) safe to use?
Are roads in generally good condition, or are there common road-related problems (overturned buses, potholes, collapsed bridges, etc.)?
Special Issues
How can you prepare yourself to deal with any prejudice you may face?
Does it matter that your cultural background, race, religion, skin color, disability, sex, or sexual orientation, etc. may place you in the minority or the majority in countries to which you will be traveling?
Crisis Management
What is your program's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and what is your personal EAP?
Is your EAP up-to-date, and do all of your U.S. and abroad emergency contacts have a copy of your EAP?
Can you identify what causes you the most stress about your plans to study abroad and why?
What steps can you take to reduce your stress/concerns about study abroad?
What are the three main phases of crisis, and what physical and emotional symptoms may result from each phase?
What are some emotions you may experience during a crisis?
What are some of the active steps you can take to make yourself feel calmer and safer in a crisis?
Adjustments and Culture Shock
What are some of the common emotional side effects of culture shock?
How can you avoid feeling frustrated, depressed or discouraged?
Can you identify any possible cultural differences--between home and your host country —that cause you anxiety?
What are some things you can do to combat stress?
What are Rhinesmith's 10 phases of cultural adjustment? (http://studentsabroad.com/cultureshock.html)
Have you experienced any of Rhinesmith's 10 phases, if so, how did you deal with your feelings?
How is culture shock like a roller coaster ride?
Do all students experience culture shock the same way, at the same time?
Why is it harmful to “fear” a country’s culture?
What is the name of your program’s student counselor (in case you need to talk with someone about your problems)?
Why might you also experience reverse culture shock upon arrival back home?
Airport Safety, Duties and Customs
Do you have all of your identification and travel documents in an accessible, yet secure, location?
What steps can you take to maximize your safety while at airports?
Did you pack your bags yourself?
Could anyone have tampered with, or put anything into your luggage before you checked your bags?
Did you accept anything from anyone before boarding your flight?
When should you fill out a duties and customs declaration form?
Were you honest in declaring everything you are bringing into or out of the United States?
How much have you spent on items you are bringing back into the U.S.?
Will you have to declare items at border control or customs that exceed a certain value?
Were you careful to avoid carrying any item that be considered illegal in the United States or abroad, or may cause you to be suspected of smuggling?
For your return trip, have you kept all documentation provided to you by your airline, and all countries to which you traveled (entry/exit verifications, etc…)?
Does your airline have any new regulations about what items can be packed in carry-on luggage, and how many carry-on items you may have?
Have you given yourself enough time to get to, and check-in, at the airport or at border checkpoints (pending any new airport/border safety regulations)?
Reverse Culture Shock
How is reverse culture shock like a roller coaster ride?
What are some of the common emotional side effects of reverse culture shock?
Do all students experience reverse culture shock the same way, at the same time?
Have you experienced any of Rhinesmith's 10 phases abroad? If so, how did you deal with your feelings? Are you experiencing similar phases now that you are back home?
How can you avoid feeling frustrated, depressed or discouraged upon return home from your host country?
How has home changed since you’ve been away?
Are you more critical or more accepting of home, and why?
What are some things you can do to combat stress at home?
Making the Study Abroad Experience Count at Home
Would you like to return abroad, and what is the best way for you to be able to return?
What do you want to do abroad - study, research, work, volunteer, intern, travel?
Who do you have to contact to begin the process of going abroad again?
If you are considering graduate school, does your home institution offer opportunities to do this abroad?
What careers are you considering that might be related to your study abroad experience?
Does your university's career center offer any special services for students considering employment abroad?
What accomplishments from your time abroad should you, or can you, include in your resume?
When coming home, is there anything you don't need anymore that you may be able to donate?
What resources are available to help you find a study abroad program?
What issues should you consider when looking for a program?
Where can you find information on the strengths and weaknesses of programs in your host country?
How can your U.S. home campus study abroad office help you?
Selecting the Right Program for You
What are your personal goals for wanting to study abroad?
How many other students participate in the program each semester/year?
Will you be studying at a U.S. university, a local university, or neither?
What study abroad program group size and class size would be ideal for you?
Do you prefer to be in a class with local students, other U.S. students, or an international group of students?
Does the program emphasize "total immersion" in the language and culture, or are you placed solely with other students from the U.S.?
Do you prefer to receive all of your instruction in the local language, in English or a combination?
Is the program you have chosen affordable?
Can your program administrator put you in contact with any past program participants so you can ask them questions about their personal experiences abroad?
Who Runs Your Program?
What are the main differences among the five general types of program sponsors?
Can you identify which one of the five general types of program sponsors your program has and why you prefer that type of program?
What kind of relationship does your home college/university have with the study abroad program you have chosen?
How long has the program been in existence (a new program doesn't necessarily mean a bad program)?
What is the program's current financial situation?
Financing Study Abroad
Have you spoken with an advisor in your school's Financial Aid department?
Do you know what your financial aid package does and does not cover in terms of study abroad expenses?
Before taking out a loan, have you looked at all other options (scholarships, grants, jobs, etc.) first?
For which scholarships, fellowships and grants are you eligible?
How does the cost of living abroad compare to the cost of living at home in the United States?
Have you started budgeting your income and/or saving money to provide for the program costs and cost of living abroad?
What categories do you need to create in your budget book/ledger (rent, food, clothes, entertainment expenditures, etc.)?
Do you try to give all your purchases a "work value" in order to see the time it will take you at work to earn the money to buy them?
Are there any other ways to cut back on expenses (i.e. coupons, not eating out, etc.)?
Can you think of any odd jobs that you might be able to do in your neighborhood in order to earn extra money (i.e. washing cars, babysitting, walking dogs, etc.)?
Have you taken care of all your financial aid and scholarship forms so that you continue to have financial support at your U.S. home campus when you return?
Application Process
Does your personal statement/essay sound like a "written handshake” and make a good first impression?
What are some of your best qualities and talents you can emphasize in your personal statement/essay?
Have you made sure to include in your personal statement/essay why you want to study abroad?
If your GPA isn't the greatest, can you explain why, or include other activities you've been involved in instead?
Have you written, re-written and asked someone to look over your personal statement for you (especially if you have to write it in the local language)?
How many letters of recommendation do you need, and have you given your contacts plenty of time to write their letters of recommendation?
Did you get a good night sleep, dress professionally and read about your host country’s current events before your interview?
Were you polite and well-mannered when answering all your interview questions thoroughly and specifically?
Pre-Departure Planning
Where do you get a visa if needed and a passport?
What other documents are required by your host country, in order to be issued a visa (a bank statement, letter of invitation, police record, proof of insurance, etc)?
What should you do if you lose your passport or visa while abroad?
Have you inquired about getting an International Student Identification card (ISIC card)?
What do you have to do to vote in U.S. elections (primary, run-off, special and general) while you are abroad?
Have you set up power of attorney to make decisions on your behalf back home if you are unable to?
How Foreign Laws Apply to You
Do you know how the legal system works in your host country and in the countries to which you will be traveling ("innocent until proven guilty" or "guilty until proven innocent")?
What kinds of laws do students from the United States break in your host country and other countries (perhaps, unknowingly)?
What are your program's specific set of rules to be followed, in addition to any local/national laws?
Is consumption of alcohol legal in your host country and in the countries you will visit? If so, what is the legal age for alcohol consumption?
What are the penalties for drug use in your host country and in the countries you will visit?
How do locals and local laws deal with harassment and sexual assault (a cultural norm, supportive of victims, blame victims, prosecute, etc.)?
What kinds of legal assistance can the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate provide you?
Planning Communication While Abroad
What is the telephone and fax numbers (regular business hours and emergency after hours) for your program's administration office both in the United States and in your host country?
Do you know the address of your program office in the United States and the address of your place of residence while abroad?
Have you given out all of your contact information (e-mail, phone and fax numbers) to your emergency contacts in the United States and in your host country, as well as to family and friends?
Have you kept a record of everyone to whom you have given out your address, and asked them to alert you before they send you anything in the mail?
Will you need a cellular phone while in your host country?
If you plan to bring your PDA, will it work abroad?
Where can you get the best deal on calling cards, in the United States or abroad?
Does the mail service in your host country tend to run faster or slower than U.S. mail (i.e. how long will it take a standard letter to get to the United States)?
Can you register for next semester's courses from your host country, or can you have an advisor register for you?
Housing
What are the pros and cons of living in a home-stay, residence hall/dorm or apartment environment while abroad?
After making a list of pros and cons, which type of housing suits your needs best and why?
Will you be living in a co-ed dorm or apartment while abroad, and does your program permit co-ed living?
What can you do to help yourself prepare for the Rules, Privacy, Sharing, Telephone, Meals, Language and Social Network aspects of the type of housing you have chosen?
Can you change your place of residence abroad if things don't work out?
Packing
Have you researched the weather conditions over various seasons in the region of your host country where you will be?
Did you remember to pack all important travel documents in your carry-on, not your checked bags?
Have you considered which, and made a list of, items not to take because you can buy them when you get there?
Have you packed as lightly as possible, remembering to roll instead of fold your clothes?
Did you make an itemized list of everything you packed in your suitcases in case they are lost or stolen and you need to make an insurance claim?
Do you know how much luggage your airline allows you to check and to take on board your flight?
What are you planning to ship, and is it cheaper to pay for excess airline baggage rather than ship?
If you have decided to ship some items, who have you contacted in your host country to insure pick-up and/or payment for these items upon arrival?
Expectations
What is the general quality of facilities like hospitals, restaurants, public transportation, payphones, etc. abroad?
What modern conveniences does your host country offer (i.e. internet connection, supermarket chains, name brand stores, microwaves, cell phone service, air conditioned classrooms, etc.)?
What kind of restroom facilities and toilets are standard abroad?
How will you have to adapt your routine and schedule to life abroad?
Medical Care and Insurance
Does the program you are considering include insurance as part of its program fee? If so, what kind of insurance does it provide you?
Are sports accidents covered?
What does the plan consider to be "high risk activities"?
Is dental and/or optical care included?
Are pre-existing conditions excluded or covered?
Are sexually transmitted diseases (including AIDS) covered?
Is emergency evacuation for medical and psychological problems covered?
Should you consider purchasing your own insurance? If you do, will you not have to pay for the "package deal" insurance provided by the program?
What are the insurance policy's start and end dates? How long after the program ends are you covered?
What are the financial limits of coverage?
Does your insurance policy provider have a 24-hour assistance phone number/hotline?
Will you have to pay for medical care as you receive it, and then be reimbursed by your insurance company?
If your illness requires long-term care, for how long will you be covered?
In case of death, will the insurance company pay for repatriation - the return of your body to the United States?
If you have to return to the United States because of evacuation or medical emergency, will you be refunded for the program fee?
Basic Health and Safety
Who among the program staff should be informed of your travel plans, or who can serve as an emergency contact for your family back home?
Who are your emergency contacts in the United States? Do they have copies of your important documents? Can they make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so yourself (do they have power of attorney)?
What health recommendations has the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently made for your host country and the countries to which you will be traveling?
Do you have any dietary restrictions? If so, do they pose a problem while abroad?
How much walking will you be doing in your host country? How can you prepare yourself for higher levels of physical activity?
What should you carry in a first aid kit?
What are the general sanitary conditions in your host country? What kinds of precautions are necessary when drinking water or eating local food?
Are there any specific immunizations you must get before entering your host country and the countries to which you will travel?
If you have any pre-existing health conditions, or you need to carry special medications abroad, what should you do before you go abroad?
With whom can you leave copies of your important health-related documents?
Will your prescription drug(s) be legal and/or available abroad?
What is the generic name, and translated name (if necessary) for your medication?
Does the staff speak English, the local language, and other indigenous languages fluently to communicate the nature of any medical conditions? (Remember, many indigenous groups abroad might not speak the major language of your host country or English.)
Can your program provide for any special needs you may have (wheelchair ramps, un-timed tests, etc.)?
Do you have access to adequate medical facilities?
What is the cost of typical medical services?
What specific travel advisories has the U.S. Department of State recently issued for your host country and the other countries to which you will be traveling?
What types of crimes are common in the area/city where you will be studying and living?
What activities increase the risk of accidents and injury abroad?
How extensive, safe, and reliable is the public transportation system in your host country and the others countries to which you will be traveling?
Risk Factors and Strategies to Reduce Risk
Do your emergency contacts know how to reach you at all times?
Do your contacts have photocopies of your plane tickets, passport, visa, etc?
Why might there potentially be a need to evacuate in your particular area (fire, natural disaster, bomb threat, etc.)?
What types of notification systems are used in the event of an emergency (alarms, flashing warning lights, curfews, lockdowns, etc.)?
Does your residence, university, etc. provide more than one escape route/exit out of buildings?
What common tricks or tactics do criminals use in the regions in which you will be traveling?
Are there high rates of sexual assaults in the areas you will frequent?
Is it safe to exercise or do outdoor activities on the streets (jogging along roads, running at night, etc.)?
Is local transportation (metro, buses, taxi cabs, etc.) safe to use?
Are roads in generally good condition, or are there common road-related problems (overturned buses, potholes, collapsed bridges, etc.)?
Special Issues
How can you prepare yourself to deal with any prejudice you may face?
Does it matter that your cultural background, race, religion, skin color, disability, sex, or sexual orientation, etc. may place you in the minority or the majority in countries to which you will be traveling?
Crisis Management
What is your program's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and what is your personal EAP?
Is your EAP up-to-date, and do all of your U.S. and abroad emergency contacts have a copy of your EAP?
Can you identify what causes you the most stress about your plans to study abroad and why?
What steps can you take to reduce your stress/concerns about study abroad?
What are the three main phases of crisis, and what physical and emotional symptoms may result from each phase?
What are some emotions you may experience during a crisis?
What are some of the active steps you can take to make yourself feel calmer and safer in a crisis?
Adjustments and Culture Shock
What are some of the common emotional side effects of culture shock?
How can you avoid feeling frustrated, depressed or discouraged?
Can you identify any possible cultural differences--between home and your host country —that cause you anxiety?
What are some things you can do to combat stress?
What are Rhinesmith's 10 phases of cultural adjustment? (http://studentsabroad.com/cultureshock.html)
Have you experienced any of Rhinesmith's 10 phases, if so, how did you deal with your feelings?
How is culture shock like a roller coaster ride?
Do all students experience culture shock the same way, at the same time?
Why is it harmful to “fear” a country’s culture?
What is the name of your program’s student counselor (in case you need to talk with someone about your problems)?
Why might you also experience reverse culture shock upon arrival back home?
Airport Safety, Duties and Customs
Do you have all of your identification and travel documents in an accessible, yet secure, location?
What steps can you take to maximize your safety while at airports?
Did you pack your bags yourself?
Could anyone have tampered with, or put anything into your luggage before you checked your bags?
Did you accept anything from anyone before boarding your flight?
When should you fill out a duties and customs declaration form?
Were you honest in declaring everything you are bringing into or out of the United States?
How much have you spent on items you are bringing back into the U.S.?
Will you have to declare items at border control or customs that exceed a certain value?
Were you careful to avoid carrying any item that be considered illegal in the United States or abroad, or may cause you to be suspected of smuggling?
For your return trip, have you kept all documentation provided to you by your airline, and all countries to which you traveled (entry/exit verifications, etc…)?
Does your airline have any new regulations about what items can be packed in carry-on luggage, and how many carry-on items you may have?
Have you given yourself enough time to get to, and check-in, at the airport or at border checkpoints (pending any new airport/border safety regulations)?
Reverse Culture Shock
How is reverse culture shock like a roller coaster ride?
What are some of the common emotional side effects of reverse culture shock?
Do all students experience reverse culture shock the same way, at the same time?
Have you experienced any of Rhinesmith's 10 phases abroad? If so, how did you deal with your feelings? Are you experiencing similar phases now that you are back home?
How can you avoid feeling frustrated, depressed or discouraged upon return home from your host country?
How has home changed since you’ve been away?
Are you more critical or more accepting of home, and why?
What are some things you can do to combat stress at home?
Making the Study Abroad Experience Count at Home
Would you like to return abroad, and what is the best way for you to be able to return?
What do you want to do abroad - study, research, work, volunteer, intern, travel?
Who do you have to contact to begin the process of going abroad again?
If you are considering graduate school, does your home institution offer opportunities to do this abroad?
What careers are you considering that might be related to your study abroad experience?
Does your university's career center offer any special services for students considering employment abroad?
What accomplishments from your time abroad should you, or can you, include in your resume?
When coming home, is there anything you don't need anymore that you may be able to donate?
Visa Questions
Why you choose the specified University?
Which Universities did you apply to (both admits and rejects)?
Where did you Intermediate from? (For student intending to study Under Graduate level)
Where did you Undergraduates from? (For student intending to study Post Graduate level)
Who is sponsoring/financing you?
What does your parents do?
What is your family's annual income?
How many brothers and sisters do you have?
Do you have any relatives in .... (country you want to go)?
Why don't you do this course in your country?
What will you do after completing your study?
Why Study in .... (country you want to go)?
Did you got Scholarships?
Have you got any Loans?
What is your Intermediate GPA/Percentage? (For student intending to study Under Graduate level)
What is your Undergraduate GPA/Percentage? (For student intending to study Post Graduate level)
If Parents retired? How will they pay?
Tell about your university.
Where is your university located?
What is the nearest airport?
Mention some professor names.
Tell me how can you prove that you are coming back?
Where did your brother/parents completed their studies?
Why are you leaving your current job? (For job holders)
Have you ever been to .... (country you want to go) ?
What will you do after coming back to Home?
You have so...brothers and sisters so your parents saving is for all how will they finance..?
Where do your parents live [If they live in .... (country you want to go)]?
Do you know anyone [in .... (country you want to go)] in your University?
Do you know anyone in .... (country you want to go)?
What will you do if your Visa is rejected?
Will you come back to home during summers?
What do you think, Why University is giving Scholarship to you?
If you scored less marks in past exams, you may be asked for the reason, why its less?
These are the most possible questions asked for every visa candidate during a visa interview. But, these are the most general questions only, therefore you might not be asked any of these question. But get prepared for the questions mentioned below
Which Universities did you apply to (both admits and rejects)?
Where did you Intermediate from? (For student intending to study Under Graduate level)
Where did you Undergraduates from? (For student intending to study Post Graduate level)
Who is sponsoring/financing you?
What does your parents do?
What is your family's annual income?
How many brothers and sisters do you have?
Do you have any relatives in .... (country you want to go)?
Why don't you do this course in your country?
What will you do after completing your study?
Why Study in .... (country you want to go)?
Did you got Scholarships?
Have you got any Loans?
What is your Intermediate GPA/Percentage? (For student intending to study Under Graduate level)
What is your Undergraduate GPA/Percentage? (For student intending to study Post Graduate level)
If Parents retired? How will they pay?
Tell about your university.
Where is your university located?
What is the nearest airport?
Mention some professor names.
Tell me how can you prove that you are coming back?
Where did your brother/parents completed their studies?
Why are you leaving your current job? (For job holders)
Have you ever been to .... (country you want to go) ?
What will you do after coming back to Home?
You have so...brothers and sisters so your parents saving is for all how will they finance..?
Where do your parents live [If they live in .... (country you want to go)]?
Do you know anyone [in .... (country you want to go)] in your University?
Do you know anyone in .... (country you want to go)?
What will you do if your Visa is rejected?
Will you come back to home during summers?
What do you think, Why University is giving Scholarship to you?
If you scored less marks in past exams, you may be asked for the reason, why its less?
These are the most possible questions asked for every visa candidate during a visa interview. But, these are the most general questions only, therefore you might not be asked any of these question. But get prepared for the questions mentioned below
Interview Tips
Getting In...
The consular's objective is to decide whether or not to make you a visa offer by evaluating your educational background, your strengths, as well as your level of motivation, attitude, confidence and personality. In other words, to find out if you're the right person for the visa, what is your potential for the visa and whether or not you will fit into their environment.
As a student, your objective is to satisfy the consular's objective, as well as learn those things you need to know about the country, university and the course so that you can give an intelligent answers during interview.
Interview Tips
Learn about the country, university and course in depth.
Prepare answers to broad questions about yourself.
Write an essay (statement of purpose) and review it.
Practice an interview with a friends or relatives.
Know the exact place and time of the interview.
Arrive before the scheduled time of your interview.
Be well groomed. Dress appropriately. Do not chew gum or smoke.
Be confident. Be smiling.
The interview should be a two-way conversation. If you don't understand anything ask questions from the interviewers, don't hesitate.
To know the process of obtaining student visa for particular nation, please follow the links at the navigation on the left.
Interview Tips
Learn about the country, university and course in depth.
Prepare answers to broad questions about yourself.
Write an essay (statement of purpose) and review it.
Practice an interview with a friends or relatives.
Know the exact place and time of the interview.
Arrive before the scheduled time of your interview.
Be well groomed. Dress appropriately. Do not chew gum or smoke.
Be confident. Be smiling.
The interview should be a two-way conversation. If you don't understand anything ask questions from the interviewers, don't hesitate.
To know the process of obtaining student visa for particular nation, please follow the links at the navigation on the left.
Documentation
Completed Visa Application Form of respective country where student intent to study.
Passport valid to travel abroad and with a validity date at least six months beyond the applicant's intended period of stay in that country.
Colored Photographs, showing a full face, without head covering with any cap, hat or sun glass against a light background. Power glasses are accepted.
Letter of Acceptance or Enrollment Letter issued by the respective university or college.
Original TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, GRE or GMAT score sheets (As applicable).
Students going to the respective countries to earn a Bachelor's degree or Master's degree should bring their most recent mark sheets or graduation certificates.
Students going the foreign country to earn a Ph.D. degree should bring their original undergraduate degree and post graduate degree mark sheets/Transcripts.
Spouses and minor children accompanying the student to the foreign country for their study should bring marriage certificates, wedding photos, and birth certificates with them to the interview, to prove the relationship between themselves and the principal applicant.
Demand drafts for the applicable fees, financial documents (Bank Transaction and Certificates), Property Valuation and Chartered Accountants Certificates as evidence to show availability of enough fund to support the education.
No Objection Letters to study abroad issued by the government of your own country.
Character Certificates, Police Reports as evidence to show that you are not engaged in any criminal activities.
Recommendation Letters from professor who have taught you.
Accommodation Letter as evidence of accommodation.
Evidence of confirmed flights to and from that country where you intend to study.
To know the the documents required by the embassy of particular country, please follow the links at the navigation on the left.
Passport valid to travel abroad and with a validity date at least six months beyond the applicant's intended period of stay in that country.
Colored Photographs, showing a full face, without head covering with any cap, hat or sun glass against a light background. Power glasses are accepted.
Letter of Acceptance or Enrollment Letter issued by the respective university or college.
Original TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, GRE or GMAT score sheets (As applicable).
Students going to the respective countries to earn a Bachelor's degree or Master's degree should bring their most recent mark sheets or graduation certificates.
Students going the foreign country to earn a Ph.D. degree should bring their original undergraduate degree and post graduate degree mark sheets/Transcripts.
Spouses and minor children accompanying the student to the foreign country for their study should bring marriage certificates, wedding photos, and birth certificates with them to the interview, to prove the relationship between themselves and the principal applicant.
Demand drafts for the applicable fees, financial documents (Bank Transaction and Certificates), Property Valuation and Chartered Accountants Certificates as evidence to show availability of enough fund to support the education.
No Objection Letters to study abroad issued by the government of your own country.
Character Certificates, Police Reports as evidence to show that you are not engaged in any criminal activities.
Recommendation Letters from professor who have taught you.
Accommodation Letter as evidence of accommodation.
Evidence of confirmed flights to and from that country where you intend to study.
To know the the documents required by the embassy of particular country, please follow the links at the navigation on the left.
Visa Introduction
What Is Visa?
Visa is a permission granted by any country to enter that country. For securing the Visa of any country, you have to apply to the consulate office of that country in your own country. 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 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.
Requirements for Student Visa
Applicants must have successfully completed a course of study normally required for enrollment, should be sufficiently proficient in English to pursue the intended course of study, should have been accepted for a full course of study by an approved educational institution, and be able to prove that sufficient funds are or will be available to defray all living and school expenses during the entire period of anticipated study in that country. They should also be able to establish to the satisfaction of the consular officer that they have binding ties to a residence in their country which they have no intention of abandoning and that they will return to their home country when they have completed their studies.
Visa is a permission granted by any country to enter that country. For securing the Visa of any country, you have to apply to the consulate office of that country in your own country. 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 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.
Requirements for Student Visa
Applicants must have successfully completed a course of study normally required for enrollment, should be sufficiently proficient in English to pursue the intended course of study, should have been accepted for a full course of study by an approved educational institution, and be able to prove that sufficient funds are or will be available to defray all living and school expenses during the entire period of anticipated study in that country. They should also be able to establish to the satisfaction of the consular officer that they have binding ties to a residence in their country which they have no intention of abandoning and that they will return to their home country when they have completed their studies.
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