Category Archives: Studying Abroad

What are the important things a parent or a student has to consider while pondering overseas education?

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There is one major thing that both the parents and students should do while pondering overseas education- that is, they have to do a thorough search about the course the student wants to study, the college or university he wants to join and the job prospects of the course he wants to pursue.

It is true that it’s the duty of an overseas consultant to evaluate the student for his potential and suggest him a course and a college that will suit his taste and needs, but it is also very important for the student to research and find all the things that are important to him. Like the campus he is going to join, the city he is going to live in, part-time job prospects in that city, its climate or in other words everything that will affect the quality of his life in the new country.

Often it happens in such a way that a student wants to join a course that’s suggested to him by his friends or his family. While their suggestions have value, it should be noted that a student should follow his own ambitions and skills while deciding on a course. Normally the student can find all about the course and what all is expected from him as a student while studying for that course from the college/university website. Research the website thoroughly. Know everything that’s there to know.

It’s really necessary to have an understanding of these things beforehand

  1. Accreditations of the course

  2. Professional licensing that the course enables after completion

  3. Mandatory or optional internship

  4. Required grades to get into internship programs

  5. Learning outcomes

  6. Credits divided among semesters

  7. Courses covered in each semester

  8. Flexibility in selecting majors/minors

  9. Career outcome

He has to learn about the job market and the possibilities that are offered. He should develop an understanding of the political, social and economical scenarios so that it’s easier for him to blend in.

While asking for information from relatives and friends regarding the course and the college he is contemplating his admission is okay, never take their words as final. They may not be in a position to advise him as they are not career or education professionals. Practice caution.

Also, know that overseas education is not a vacation trip to a foreign land where you go to leisure. A decision to study abroad is a serious decision involving a large amount of money and personal time- so respect that. Do the necessary research regarding the course and the country so that one is prepared beforehand.

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About Ms. Nicy Binu, Director, Santamonica Study Abroad

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With over a decade’s experience in international education, Ms. Nicy Binu is the brain behind Santamonica’s overseas student program and has steered the organization to a position where it figures today among the prominent overseas education facilitators in India. You may contact her at +91 6282 903 703 for overseas education queries and doubts.

How to write an effective statement of purpose (SOP)?.

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Gaining admission to a reputed overseas institution of your choice is no Child’s play. A well written SOP or Statement of purpose submission goes a long way in ensuring that coveted offer letter.  SOP being a self written document, submitted to the institution, reflects the overall character of the student and can make or mar his/ her prospect of getting an offer letter. A little effort from ones part along with proper guidance, knowledge about the purpose of this document can help one come out with a winning statement of purpose.

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

1)  Be original to the core

Your SOP should present your original self.  Be original in your presentation, copying someone else SOP can only spoil your chance as an SOP that gets offer letter for some ones else may not work in your favor.  Though honesty is highly appreciated, being superfluous is not recommended. Admission officers are seasoned professions who will see through if your try to outsmart them, so stick to the original and you will surely clinch the offer letter.

2) Show genuine interest in the institution you are applying

Template SOPs can be real spoilers.  So, even if you’re applying to many institutions at a time, make sure the SOPs are differently written and according to the institution and program, you are applying for .Mention, how you intend to gain from the program offered?  How it will further enhance your current qualification?, Your future job prospects etc which will convince the admission officer that you are genuinely interested in gaining admission to the particular institution and  not making education as a pretext to move abroad.

3) No essays please

SOP is no place to exhibit your writing expertise.  A SOP need not be in flowery language it need only be in simple English. You would have ample opportunities to write in epic proportions once you have gained entry.  Remember that you are writing to the admission officer who might be reading hundreds of SOPs and hence don’t have the time and patience to read it all. So as far as possible, make it simple, clear and concise.

4)  Proof read

Writing a SOP can be time consuming but it is worth it.  Read it umpteen times so that you can come out with amendments. Look for spelling mistakes, punctuations, grammatical mistakes etc, as an error free SOP is the best way to impress the admission officer.

5) Get your SOP reviewed

Getting your SOP reviewed by someone else is the best thing to do as they might be able to find out flaws you might have overlooked and can give you feedback about how convincing your SOP is and how original it sounds. Though not experts, they might be able to come out with a point or two, you might have missed.  So leave your ego apart and get the stuff reviewed.

Contrary to what many students believe, a SOP is not an expert’s job, it is something that can be done with a little bit of practice and guidance.  Getting it written by someone though, might spare you the trouble, can have disastrous consequence.  Be very clear that, as far as your admission is considered a template SOPs receive very little leniency from the part of Admission officers.

Still have concerns,  contact Santa Monica study abroad, your trusted overseas education consultant with over 13 years of experience with association across 10+ countries and over 200 universities/institutions of repute with services ranging from Colleges short listing to application submission, liaising with Universities, visa guidance, scholarship assistance, financial aid, education loan assistance to pre departure and post landing assistance.  Please feel free to reach us on0484 -4140999.

 

How to select the best Study Abroad destination for you?

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So, you have decided to study Abroad, Great decision indeed,  but with the number of country options available,  one is sure to get confused, which is quite natural as there are different factors that one needs to take  in to account before deciding on a particular country. Asking a few questions yourself would help clear this confusion to a large extend.

Q1 which is the best country to offer programs connected to my area of study?  Will it add value to my current qualification?

 Q2 what is the state of the economy of the destinations under consideration what will be my job prospects there post study

 Q3 where does the institution in my preferred study destination category stand in terms of ranking?

 Q4 Am I looking for a conventional study destination or less conventional one?

 Q5   How much can I afford for my foreign education?

 Q6 How much funding can I receive for my study?

 Q7 Will I be comfortable studying in an English speaking or non-English speaking country?

 Q8 what kind of culture I want to experience is it something that is similar to mine or totally    different?

 Q9 what type of a person am I?  Do I prefer urban environment or prefer the quiet country side?

Asking these simple questions can help you decide the best country to study abroad.  Still confused about taking a right decision? Fix a free counseling session with experts   at  Santa Monica study abroad, your trusted overseas education consultant with over 13 years of experience with association across 10+ countries and over 200 universities/institutions of repute, on the following number  0484 -4140999.

 

WORLD CLASS OVERSEAS EDUCATION – YOUR PATH TOWARDS A BRIGHTER FUTURE !

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Despite the current world wide economic slump economists are still optimistic about (BRICS) countries especially India emerging as a world super power in the coming century. Gone are the days when a country’s status was fully based on its strategic location, natural resources, economic and military power.  Human resources with high qualifications and skills on par with International standards are now the bench mark in determining whether a country is a real power or not.

Under these circumstances, education, especially foreign education has gained great prominence. As against the earlier convictions of our older generation which prided in providing wealth to their offspring, today’s parents consider  giving the best education for their children  towards ensuring a  prosperous and successful life  for them, which has led to the steady increase  in the number of parents exploring overseas  study options  for their  children. They are willing to spend lakhs   without even considering their financial restrictions as they firmly believe education thus gained would be one’s permanent and most important possession which would open up new vistas towards career growth and prosperity. They also feel that this would open up avenues for their children to settle in an affluent country and build a successful life for themselves

Gone are the days when education was just considered as a means to make one wise. The world has become a global market thanks to the growth of information technology and the globalization of economies which has led to nations competing with each other to become predominant players. Internationally acclaimed study programs coupled with innovative teaching methodologies have appealed  to many a Indians to look for overseas studies as the first option as the present generation with  high expectations from life   does not find much hope in Indian Universities and colleges  which are yet to achieve quality standards on par with international standards Their  outdated syllabuses and traditional courses  are  no match   to the futuristic courses offered abroad  Even the handful of prestigious Institutions in the country  unfortunately remain out of bound to even above average students owing to strict entrance exams  and reservation criteria’s.

It is a sad fact that a country  like India  that used to offer  quality education  to the world  in the  ancient times through its world famous universities  Nalanda and Takshila  is  at the bottom of ranking with regard to institutions  of  repute are concerned . It is but unfortunate, that an aspiring student has to depend on overseas avenues in his search for quality education, unless India raises its educational systems on par with International standards.   Till such time   the best option before Indian students and parents would be to choose  the best course in a country which they believe would offer the very best of education and post study  offer them great job opportunities  both abroad and back in their country.

For  more information about  Study Abroad options available  give us a call on 0484 – 4140999

Why You Should Study in Switzerland?

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It Is A Huge Step For Any Student To Study Abroad, And The Options Are Endless…… So What Makes “SWITZERLAND” Stand Out As One Of The Favourite Study Destinations In The World?10176078_655820924454438_6822762203254166961_n

Here are ten reasons why you should consider studying abroad in Switzerland.

1. A Great Opportunity to interact with students and scholars from different parts of the Globe.

2. The Universities in Switzerland are mostly aided by the government and the fee is reasonably low.

3. Low student /faculty ratio and small working groups enhance a better learning environment.

4. A Swiss University provides a wide spectrum of courses that evoke the chance of employment in your favourite sector.

5. An International environment is the best opportunity to establish inter-cultural contacts and to have invaluable insight into a different culture and grow as a person.

6. In most Swiss Universities an academic year is divided into three periods- September to December, late January to early May, and late May to July. Such frequent intervals give ample opportunity for students to focus in their studies as well as to relax.

7. All Swiss Universities share a drive for quality in teaching and research, resulting in their consistent ranking among the best universities in the world.

8. High quality of life.

9. The country is home to many International government
organizations and non-governmental organizations and so the place is a friendly environment to International students.

10. Switzerland, being situated in the heart of Europe, is the crossroads of several languages and cultures. It has people from all over the World.

Am I Eligible to Study Abroad?

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To study abroad and capture new heights are a dream of all…………..! But then the most important question rises, “Am I eligible to study abroad??”

The requirements to study abroad may vary with the country, course and the college/university you choose. Still there are certain basic credentials you need to meet.

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Here are those indispensable eligibility criteria that are required to Study Abroad:

1. EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS: The Educational requirements depend on the course and the college / university you are applying for. Those who have successfully passed 12th grade are eligible to Study Abroad.

2. CLEAR BACKGROUND: Besides an education qualification, a background check will be undertaken which involves scrutinizing your financial capacity, interests, professional experience etc.

3. ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY: It is mandatory to submit an English proficiency test score (IELTS, TOEFL or PTE). However, some countries provides exemptions too.

4. MEDICAL FITNESS: You need to be medically fit i.e.; you have to undergo tests to ensure that you do not possess any communicable diseases and should produce the certificate showing your fitness while you apply.

Changes in Canadian Student Visa Regulations

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The Citizenship & Immigration Canada has recently announced some changes in the International Student Visa Program for students applying for intake from Jan 2014.

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Here are the details of the changes:

• ATTENDANCE: As per the new regulations, the International Students are supposed to register and mark their attendance regularly at the institution to which they are obliged to. Otherwise their status in Canada will be made illegal.

• HANDPICKED INSTITUTIONS: International Students can enroll only to those institutions that are approved by Canadian Government from January 2014 on-wards. This is to safe guard the International Students from the fraud or unrecognized institutions.

• POST STUDY WORK PERMIT (PSWP) PROVISION: Only those foreign students graduating for the approved Canadian Universities & Colleges will be eligible for Post Study Work Permit.

• PSWP ELIGIBILITY: The Full-time students, who had regularly attended a course of minimum EIGHT months which will lead to Certificate, Diploma or Degree, will be eligible for PSWP.

• WORK OFF-CAMPUS WITHOUT PERMIT: All regular foreign students attending a course of minimum EIGHT months at any approved Canadian educational institutions & holding valid study visa/permit will not be required to apply for separate Off-Campus Work Permit, they will be allowed to work 20 Hours per week on their Student Visa itself, which means there will be NO waiting period of SIX months for newly landed International Students in Canada, they can work On-Campus/Off-Campus immediately after registering with their designated University or College.

The new regulations will come into force in June 2014.

Sydney and Cork in Top Friendliest Cities in the World

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Are you opting to study abroad? And do you want to study in the most friendliest cities in the world?

Abroad101, the world’s largest student study abroad review site, has come up with the top friendliest cities in the world by surveying students who visited a foreign country for their higher studies. Abroad101 latest ranking are based on 16,000 student reviews collected on various factors including overall ratings given by students, number of reviews available, recency of reviews available, and so on.

In the new ranking, Cork in Ireland, and Sydney in Australia have been selected in the Top Ten Friendliest Cities in the World.

Cork, the second largest city in Ireland, is located in the south of Ireland and is also an important place for higher education. University College Cork (UCC), a constituent university of the National University of Ireland, offers a wide variety of courses in Arts, Commerce, Engineering, Law, Medicine and Science.University College Cork - National University of Ireland

The highly reputed Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) offers a variety of third level courses in Computing and IT, Business, Humanities and Engineering. The National Maritime College of Ireland is also located in Cork and is the only college in Ireland in which Nautical Studies and Marine Engineering can be undertaken.

Sydney, the most populous city in Australia, is home to some of Australia’s most prominent educational institutions. It is also a popular destination for higher education for Indian students.

The University of Sydney, established in 1850, is Australia’s oldest university, and is the largest and highest ranked university in Australia. Other public universities located in Sydney include the University of Technology, Sydney, University of New South Wales, Macquarie University, University of Western Sydney, Australian Catholic University, University of Notre Dame Australia, University of Wollongong and Curtin University of Technology.Sydney Opera House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Every year, thousands of students travel to these countries through Santa Monica Consultants and fulfill their dreams of studying in reputed foreign universities. Santa Monica Consultants, has earned high reputation with many overseas universities and institutes, and have over thousands of satisfied clients in a decade of operation.

Please contact our Counselor for a free consultation today!

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Why you should study in Australia?

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Australian qualifications are highly respected internationally and are distinguished by the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). The AQF is Australia’s national system of learning that is recognised by many other countries. Australia invests billions of dollars into education each year and Australian universities and education institutions offer world-class facilities to international students.

Favourite Reasons for Students to Study in Australia

1. People living in Australia generally speak English but they add a wonderful accent and distinct vernacular. So studying abroad in Australia doesn’t require you to learn a new language, but there are still many new phrases and meanings for you to discover during your adventure.

2. Australian seasons are the opposite to the Northern Hemisphere, summer starts in December, autumn in March, winter in June and spring in September. Due to its size, geographical location and the lack of extensive high mountain ranges, Australia has a wide range of climates with generally no extremes. The average maximum temperature is 25.5C (77.3F) and the average minimum temperature is 15.7C (60.2F).

3. Australia boasts natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef. Study abroad in Australia and you could become a certified scuba diver and explore the amazing beauty the Reef has to offer. Beyond the cities, in rural and outback Australia, it’s not unusual to see mobs of kangaroo grazing in the late afternoon sun and see the flightless emu going about its business.

4. Performance arts in Australia are a beloved tradition and well funded by the federal government. Enrich your appreciation for the arts and attend any one of the several operas offered throughout each region.

5. Australia is abundant in cultural dynamics derived from Aboriginal, Dutch and English influences. Being a multicultural country, Australia offers every type of cuisine in the world, and to accompany the finest cuisines Australia also boasts a range of wineries, producing some of the best in the world. Learning and experiencing these cultures and tastes will surely be an interesting and eye-opening period in your life.

5 Reasons Why You Should Study Abroad?

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More and more students in India and across various cities are opting to study abroad after their graduation. Major countries like UK, Canada, Australia, Singapore, Ireland, Switzerland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany and Malaysia offer excellent opportunities for students in higher education and settle there after their studies.

Students find lot of benefits in studying abroad and some of the major reasons are discussed below.

1. Promise of a Dream Future

Studying abroad gives students a variety of options in terms of number of courses that they can choose from and at the same time offer a bright future in a developed country. Some universities abroad offer very niche courses that are not yet available in India. So students will get an opportunity to learn advanced courses and settle there after their studies and have a dream future for themselves.

2. International Exposure and Better Job Prospects

Studying abroad will give students a true international exposure, since there will students coming from different parts of the world. It gives students an opportunity to mingle and learn with different nationalities, which help them understand different perspectives and become a better human being.

Even if students come back to Kerala after their studies, they will find better job prospects in the local market since they will be preferred more than their peers available locally. Most MNCs prefer student s with an international degree or with some international exposure, since they will be more accustomed to different cultures and scenarios, which directly help them handle various types of clients of the company.

3. Learn New Language and Culture

Studying abroad offers a great opportunity for students to learn a new language and culture that is completely alien to him or her. Even in English speaking countries like Ireland, their local language Irish is widely spoken. Learning a new language and culture helps open one’s mind and help them become a better individual.

4. Friends across the World

The student will be able to get to know a large number of people from different parts of the world, and thereby able to build a vast network of friends with different nationalities. A huge network of friends will help students share their interests and get new ideas from them.

5. Learn to be Independent

When a student go to a different country and stay there for long, he or she will end up doing all the things by himself, and thereby become completely independent. They will learn to plan and manage every aspects of their life and becomes more confidant and successful in their later part of life.

We at Santa Monica, the leading overseas education consultancy, have over a thousand satisfied students in our decade of operation.

Please contact our Counselor for a free consultation today!