Move fast and secure your admissions in colleges especially if you wish to study abroad. , photo credit: freepik
IIt is that time of the year when acceptances roll in, especially for those applying to study abroad. But as the dust settles, the simple question of “what next” looms large. Here are some guidelines:
general guidance
Accept your offer as soon as possible. It is always possible to withdraw from one college and get accepted to another. But getting accepted allows you to move on to the accommodation and visa procedures. Most countries have a May 1 deadline, so analyze your offers during March and April.
Keep funds in your bank account Which reflects your ability to pay the fees and living expenses for one year. You will need to submit a financial statement in order to receive the initial visa documents from them.
connect with others who plan to attend the same university. Having that support makes it easier to plan and make adjustments there.
Prepare for Visa Interview. Questions will be about reasons for studying abroad, work plans, accommodation, your financial circumstances and funding your studies.
America
I-20: This important document proves that you are legally enrolled in a program of study in the U.S. Once you have received your acceptance letter, you must submit it to your chosen university, usually by May 1. I-20 takes about two weeks, so plan ahead
Accommodation: Many universities have a mandated policy that first year students must live on campus. The housing department usually sends paperwork and a questionnaire asking about your lifestyle and interests. Book your accommodation as soon as you decide on a university. Sign up for a meal plan in the first year. Others may use off-campus housing websites but start the process as early as possible.
DS-160: Complete and submit this form online prior to your interview at the Consulate. The barcode number on the confirmation page is required to book your interview. Then pay the SEVIS fee, book your slot, collect your documents and go for the interview.
Canada
Accommodation: Book by March 31 (or even earlier), especially for Vancouver and Toronto schools, where accommodations fill up fast.
Acceptance: Pay your acceptance deposit at your chosen university by 1 May or 1 June. Students moving to Quebec must also obtain a “Certificate of Acceptance” from the province of Quebec (CAQ).
Pre-Application Medical Examination: You may need to undergo a medical examination before applying for a study permit. Visit a Panel Doctor in India.
study permit: Apply for it as soon as you accept your offer. You will need to show proof of your funds to cover fees and living expenses.
transcript: Send final transcript to your chosen university
the UK
After receiving reverts from universities, choose a firm and insure universities on your UCAS portal. Most UK offers are conditional, so the visa process can only begin once you have a firm offer. Send your final score to your firm and insurance options and get a fixed offer. If you are unable to meet the conditions, either appeal to the university to consider your final scores or start looking for other universities in a “clearing” round.
Confirmation of Acceptance: Once you have received a confirmed offer, request a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance of Study) interview. First of all, you have to give “Pre-CAS Interview”. If this is successful, a CAS draft will be sent to the University and you will be provided with a CAS letter, containing a CAS number which confirms your unconditional offer and your acceptance. You will need a CAS number to apply for a visa.
Visa Process: As part of the application, you will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). Once the online application is completed and documents submitted, pay the fee and an interview will be scheduled. This is the last step of the application process.
Accommodation in UK: Begin your search for accommodation as soon as you have accepted your offer. Many universities provide on-campus accommodation for international students for a separate fee. Otherwise seek off-campus housing with the help of the housing department and/or by connecting with other students.
Lastly, learn to cook, as many students get bored of college food quickly. Learning to balance good eating habits with exercise and study habits is vital to student success!
With inputs from Kritika Malhotra
The author is Founder and CEO of Inomi Learning, a Gurugram-based career and college guidance firm. info@inomi.in