December 4, 2010

U.S. College and University

(AZ) Arizona Western College
(AZ) Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University -AZ
(AZ) Phoenix College
(AZ) Pima Community College
(AZ) Rio Salado College
(AZ) Scottsdale Community College
(CA) Citrus College
(CA) Academy of Art College
(CA) CA State Polytechnic University, Pomona
(CA) California State University-Chico Campus
(CA) Foothill College/De Anza
(CA) Fresno Pacific University
(CA) Riverside Community College District
(CA) San Diego, University Of
(CA) San Francisco State University
(CA) San Jose State University
(CA) Santa Ana College & Santiago Canyon College
(CA) Santa Monica College
(CA) University of California, Riverside
(CO) Colorado College
(CO) Colorado State University
(CO) Colorado State University- Pueblo
(CO) Colorado Technical University - HTIR
(CO) Denver, University of
(CO) Westwood College of Technology
(CO) Otero Junior College
(CT) Bridgeport, University of
(CT) Fairfield University
(CT) Quinnipiac University
(CT) Teikyo Post University
(FL) Digital Media Arts College
(FL) Webber Int'l University
(FL) Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - FL
(FL) Florida Metropolitan University (CCI)
(FL) Jacksonville University
(FL) Nova Southeastern University
(FL) Saint Thomas University
(HI) Hawaii Pacific University
(IA) Cornell College
(IA) Iowa State University
(IL) Columbia College-Chicago
(IL) Eastern Illinois University
(IL) Illinois Institute of Technology
(IL) Loyola University of Chicago
(IL) Southern Illinois University
(IN) Manchester College
(IN) Oakland City University
(IN) Southern Indiana, Univ. Of
(IN) University of Evansville
(KS) Emporia State University
(KY) Western Kentucky University
(KY) Brescia University
(KY) Campbellsville University
(KY) Morehead State University
(LA) Louisiana at Monroe, University of
(LA) Lousiana College
(LA) McNeese State University
(MA) Dean College
(MA) Emmanuel College
(MA) Fisher College
(MA) Massachusetts College of Art
(MA) Simmons College
(MD) Baltimore International College
(MI) Finlandia University
(MI) Grand Valley State University
(MI) Saginaw Valley State University
(MN) Argosy University/Twin Cities
(MN) Saint Catherine, College of
(MO) Drury University
(MO) Northwest Missouri State
(MT) Montana State University-Billings
(NC) Central Piedmont Community College
(NC) Fayetteville State University
(NC) North Carolina at Pembroke, Univ. Of
(ND) North Dakota State University
(NE) Wayne State College
(NE) Midland Lutheran College
(NH) Franklin Pierce College
(NM) Eastern New Mexico
(NM) New Mexico Highlands University
(NM) New Mexico Junior College
(NM) New Mexico State University
(NV) Community College of Southern Nevada
(NV) Nevada-Reno, University of
(NY) Dowling College
(NY) Wells College
(NY) Caldwell College
(NY) D'Youville College
(NY) Iona College
(NY) Metropolitan College of New York
(NY) Mohawk Valley Community College
(NY) New York Film Academy
(NY) Rockland Community College
(NY) School Search USA
(NY) St. Thomas Aquinas College
(OH) College of Wooster
(OH) Wittenberg University
(OH) Ashland University
(OH) Findlay, University of
(OH) Hiram College
(OH) Kigezi International School of Medicine
(OH) Lakeland Community College
(OH) University of Toledo
(OK) Oklahoma City University
(OK) Oklahoma State University-Main Campus
(OR) Oregon State University
(PA) Dickinson College
(PA) Drexel University
(PA) Arcadia University
(PA) Duquesne University -Office of Int'l Affairs
(PA) Edinboro University of Pennsylvania
(PA) Gannon University
(PA) Keystone College
(PA) Marywood University
(PA) Point Park College
(PA) Scranton, University of
(PA) Chestnut Hill College
(SC) St. Benedict, College of
(TN) Middle Tennessee State University
(TN) University of the South
(TX) Dallas Baptist University
(TX) Angelo State University
(TX) Southern Methodist University
(TX) St. Mary's University
(TX) Stephen F. Austin State University
(TX) Texas State University
(UT) Utah State University
(VA) Hampden-Sydney College
(VA) Randolph-Macon Woman's College
(WA) Yakima Valley Community College
(WI) Wisconsin-Eau Claire, University of
(WI) Wisconsin-La Crosse, University of
(WI) St. Norbert College
(WI) University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
(WV) Davis & Elkins College
(UT) Snow College
(HI) University of Hawaii-Hilo

10 Things to know about New GRE Pattern 2011.

Test 2011
1.Better Design:
The new design is Multi-State Design, where you can go back and forward in a particular
section and edit the answers. You can mark and go back to a question and answer. It is
different from the way the current GRE works. The goal is to create a more natural test
experience.

2. Improved Quality of Data:
The quality of the data used for the GRE Test will be better in the new pattern. New
GRE pattern is designed to measure those skills that are critical to graduate and Business
programs.

 3. Most revisions to Verbal Section
The verbal section is the most changed section of the whole GRE. There will be more
complex reasoning. No antonyms and analogies. No vocabulary out of context. New
types of questions.

4. Quantitative reasoning :
They are including a calculator to avoid distractions in test caused my minor mistakes.
They are interested in reasoning ability and not the arithmetic calculations. More
emphasis on Data interpretation and real life scenarios.

5. Analytical Writing :
There are not many major changes here but there will be expectations for more focused
responses and less generalization.

6. New Test Score Scaling :
Due to changes to verbal and quant sections the new scale for them will be 130 to
170 score scale with increments of 1 point instead of before 200 to 800 with 10 point
increments. The analytical writing section will have same scale of 0 to 6 with 0.5
increments. The new test is designed to give fair chance to demonstrate your reasoning
skills irrespective of your background.

7. First New GRE 2011 Test Scores and Test :
The first day of test is Aug 1, 2011. The scores for the tests taken between august and
October will be available in November 2011. Applicants who need to GRE Scores before
November 2011, should take the current test before Aug 2011. The score reporting will
go back to normal 10-15 day cycle after late November.

8. Paper based Testing :
If you are taking paper based test, then you have to take before Nov 2011. The test dates
that are available are : Oct 23, Nov 20 in 2010 and Feb 12, 2011. All the new changes to
GRE will be available in the paper based test too after the launch.

9. Split Test Going away :
if you are in China, Hon Kong, Korea and Taiwan, you may be used to split-test. It is
going away with new pattern. The new test will facilitate faster reporting, offered more
often on computer and can be done in same day and single sitting.

10. GRE Test prep Material :
The GRE Test prep material is available more than an year ahead of time for better
preparation. In fact, it is currently available now at GRE website : GRE revised General

Test Sample Questions

Are Old GRE Scores valid after New GRE 2011
Pattern ? How long ?

Short answer YES, they are valid. They are valid for 5 years from the Date you have
taken the test. As you know, GRE test scores are typically valid for 5 years from the date
since you have taken the GRE. Let me explain with example. Let’s say you take GRE
in June of 2010, then your score will be valid until June of 2015. That’s five years. ETS
clearly states on their website in the instructions to the US schools that GRE Test scores
will be valid for 5 years and it does not change with the introduction of the new GRE.


Will US Schools Accept old GRE Test scores if I apply
after the new GRE 2011 pattern ?

YES, They will. ETS specifically mentions in the instructions to the US institutions that
they should not discriminate between the old GRE scores and New GRE 2011 pattern
scores until the scores expire. But, they tell the schools that if a student has taken GRE
two times and applies with Old and new scores together, then they should consider the
new pattern scores. You are not at any disadvantage if you take the old or Current GRE
pattern test. Similarly, taking the new GRE pattern in 2011 not give you any advantages
with admissions either. Do not be fooled by any myths. You can see that below in the
screenshot taken from ETS GRE website.

Information on TOEFL

Required in US & in some universities of Canada. It consists of 120 points.
It is an internet based test (iBT)

 TOEFL iBT
Reading
3 Passages
36-42
60-100 minutes
Listening
2 Conversations
4 Lectures
34
60-90 minutes
Speaking
2 Independent tasks
4 Integrated – skills tasks
6
20 minutes
Writing
1 Integrated – skills task
1 Independent task
1
1
50 minutes

Information on IELTS

Required in every European country, Australia and some universities of Canada.
It consists of nine bands.

There are two versions of the IELTS test:
Academic Module
This Module is for students seeking entry to a university or institution of higher education offering degree and diploma courses.
 General Module
This module is for students seeking entry to secondary schools, for vocational training courses or immigration purposes.

Academic Module

Academic Module
SectionContentNo of QuestionsApproximate time
ListeningAudio4030 minutes
Reading3 passages 4060 minutes
Writing1. Report writing
2. Essay writing
2 tasks 60 minutes
Speaking 1. Introduction
2. Task card
3. Cross questioning
15-2011-15 minutes

December 3, 2010

General Visa Information on UK

What is a visa?
A visa is a document issued by the UK Border Agency which gives someone permission to travel to or enter the UK.  This permission is called ''entry clearance''. 

There are 4 types of entry clearance document: 
  • a visa which is required by some nationals or citizens of the countries outside the European Economic Area (EEA)
  • an entry certificate which is issued to non-visa nationals;
  • an EEA family permit which is issued to non-EEA nationals who are the family members of EEA nationals; and
  • an exempt vignette for people (such as diplomats) who are exempt from the requirements of the Immigration Act 1971. 
What are visa application centres?
Where there are no visa sections in the country where you are applying for a UK visa, a visa application centre (VAC) is where you, as a visa applicant, will have to go in person to submit your application and provide your biometric information.  Our VACs are run by commercial partners.  You may also collect your documents from the VAC at the end of the process.  VACs are located in major cities for your convenience and ease of access.
Visa staff at the British mission will then consider your application and decide whether to issue or refuse your visa. In some instances it may be necessary for the visa staff to request further documents. VAC staff have no say in deciding the outcome of an application
Can I have more than one visa?
It is not possible to hold more than one visa or entry clearance. If your circumstances change you should always inform the Home Office before you leave the UK so that your permission to stay can be curtailed. Once your permission to stay has been curtailed you will be able to apply for a new visa overseas.
Can my friend or family member in the UK apply for my visa for me?
Visas for the UK can be issued only at British Missions overseas. If you need a visa, you must get it before you travel to the UK.
Can somebody else fill in my application form for me?
Yes, but you must sign the application form personally to show that the information given is true and accurate. Giving false or misleading information, or failing to give important relevant information on a visa application form, or to an entry clearance officer, will be reason for an application to be refused.  You may also be automatically refused a visa for the following ten years for using deception in an application.
Our visa application forms are available only in English and must be completed in English or with certified translation of certain documents.  This will enable us to improve the efficiency and quality of the service we provide to our customers.
Can I apply for a long-term visa?
You should give careful consideration before applying for a long-term visit visa valid for 1, 2, 5 or 10 years as there is the possibility that the visa may be refused, or issued for a shorter period than you have applied for. This could happen if the evidence you provide does not support a long term visit visa application or does not meet the entry clearance criteria. If the application is refused or the visa is issued for a shorter period, you will not be refunded your application fee.  There is no automatic entitlement to a 1, 2, 5 or 10 year visit visa.

Although there is no requirement for you to have held a short term visit visa (that is, a standard visit visa of 6 months validity) before being able to apply for a long term one, if you have not previously applied for a UK visa, you may wish to apply for a short term visit visa first.

Applications for long-term visit visas will be considered in the light of:
  • Whether the applicant can demonstrate a frequent and sustained need to come to the UK, such as family links or an established business connection.
  • Whether personal circumstances are unlikely to change significantly during the validity of the visa.  The better able the applicant can demonstrate stability over the long term the more it will support an application for a longer period.
  • Whether the applicant can support themselves in the UK without public funds, and demonstrate that they intend to leave the UK at the end of each visit.
  • Previous travel history as evidenced in a current valid passport.
Applicants under the age of 18 may only be granted a visa which is valid to six months past their 18th birthday. For instance, for a 14 year old applying for a five or ten year long term visit visa, the visa expiry date will be limited to the date that is six months after the applicant’s 18th birthday.
What if I don't understand English?
You will need to find someone who can speak English to help you complete the application form.
Your documents can be submitted in local language as long as they are accompanied by a summary in English.  You may be required to provide certified translations for some documents.  Please ask your local visa application centre or visa section for advice.
What is 'biometric' information?
All UK visa applicants, save for those benefiting from a limited number of exemptions and exceptions, are required to provide biometric data (we will take 10-digit finger scans and a digital photograph for our records) as part of the application process.
You will have to go in person to your nearest visa application centre to provide your biometrics and submit your application.
Your visa application will not be processed until you have provided the necessary biometric information.  The finger scans are electronic so staff do not need to use any ink, liquid or chemicals.  You will have your digital photograph taken at the same time and the whole procedure should take no more than five minutes to complete.  You should make sure that you do not have any decoration (such as henna), or any cuts or other markings on your fingertips before having your finger scans.  You should also make sure that if you have any cuts and bruises on your face, they have healed or disappeared before you have your photograph taken.  Digital photographs must be of your full face and you should not wear sunglasses, a hat or any other head covering (unless you wear it for cultural or religious reasons but the face must not be covered).
Please note: children under the age of five are not required to provide biometrics as part of the application process. 
Why may I need to attend an interview?
When a visa officer cannot make an immediate decision about whether you qualify for a visa, you may be asked to attend an interview. We aim to do this within 15 working days from the date the visa officer assesses your application.

Always try to make your application well in advance of your intended travel date.

December 1, 2010

Course Fees & Living Expenses in Canada

     Course Fees

Approximate $10,000

Living Expenses

$400-$600 per month

Canada Student Visa

Completed Student Application form.
Completed Supplementary Questionnaire for students and postdoctoral researchers.
Official letter of acceptance from Canadian university, college or Technical Institute.
Certificate of Acceptance from the province of Quebec (Only if you plan to study in province of Quebec)
TOEFL/IELTS scores if applicable
Passport, valid for at least one year from the planned date of entry to Canada, plus valid passports of any accompanying dependants.
Bank Draft for the applicable visa processing fees.

Part-Time Work & Jobs

     Students who want to work while studying in Canada must be registered as full-time students at an eligible post-secondary educational institution participating in the Off or On-Campus Work Permit Program. For part-time work on campus for the first six months of studies (maximum 20 hrs per week), students must prove that they are in good academic standing and are able to manage their studies first and foremost. Part-time on- and off-campus work permits are available after six months of studies provided students possess satisfactory academic standing. Work placements (co-op) are often available in the programmes of study. Students can get access to up to three years of full-time employment in Canada after graduation.
     Employment opportunities for international students are limited.  You should not plan on earning substantial money from a part-time job to help pay for your studies

Available Courses in Canada

Diploma, Bachelors, and Masters Programs in
Business
Computer Science
Engineering
Fine Arts
Media/ Communications
Hotel Management

Available Universities and Colleges in Canada

Acadia University
Athabasca University
Bishop's University
Brandon University
Brescia College
Brock University
Carleton University
Concordia University
Dalhousie University
King's College
McGill University
 Sheridan College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, Ontario.
Seneca College, Ontario.
Conestoga College, Ontario.
George Brown College, Ontario.
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology,    Alberta.
College of the Rockies, British Columbia.
Vancouver Premier College, British Columbia.
Humber College, Ontario

Why Study in Canada

Huge area, relatively small population, beautiful natural environment
One of world’s wealthiest nations
Multicultural society with many immigrants 
Well-respected and sophisticated education system, and one of the top destinations for international study
Safe and interesting place to study – students should begin planning early since admissions can be competitive
 
A degree or diploma from Canadian educational institutions is instantly recognized around the world as being of the highest standard.
Tuition fees for international students in Canada are much lower than comparable countries. 
Canada spends more per capita on education than any other country in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
There are 100,000 international students from all parts of the world annually in Canada. Your educational experience is sure to be truly international.
Canada is renowned all over the world for its tradition of hospitality and tolerance. A remarkable multicultural society ensures that you will be welcomed and made to feel at home during your stay in Canada. More than 600,000 Canadians trace their roots back to India.
 
Canada is a world leader in software development, telecommunications, aerospace, engineering, urban transport, biotechnology, mining technology and environmental industries. As a student, you have a wealth of research and scholars to draw upon a variety of disciplines. 
For all that it offers, Canada has a remarkably low cost of living. Its inflation rate has remained one of the lowest in the industrialized world Professional degrees are offered at undergraduate levels
There are many One-year Masters’ degrees including MBA
Access to National Health Centre; which is free for students registered on courses of six months or longer
Free school education for registered dependent children

Some Facts About Canada

Population of Canada: -                   34289000
Density:-                                          3.41/km2 2]
Capital :-                                          Ottawa
Currency:-                             Canadian Dollar
        
  The approximate currency exchange rate is: 
           1 Canadian Dollar = 33 - 38 Rs.

Applying for a work visa/permit when you have finished studying and you have a job offer

suitable to your qualification; or
two years to obtain practical experience
obtaining a membership or registration from a
New Zealand professional association which
requires more than two years of relevant
practical work experience.
To be eligible for a work visa/permit under our
Study to Work Policy you must:
three years, if you are working towards
course in New Zealand or one that would qualify
for points under the Skilled Migrant Category
of Immigration New Zealand’s Residence Policy
have successfully completed a three-year
to the course or qualification you have completed
have evidence of an offer of employment related
no later than three months after the end date of
your student permit for that qualification or hold
a graduate job search work permit.
If you are working towards obtaining a membership
or registration from a New Zealand professional
association (such as the New Zealand Institute
of Chartered Accountants or the New Zealand
Registered Architects Board), and are therefore
applying for a three-year work permit, you must also:
have recently finished your qualification, and apply
registration is a requirement for you to fully
perform your professional duties
have evidence that such membership or
considered relevant practical experience by the
professional association, including but not
limited to documentation from the professional
association, or from the employer, stating how
the employment meets the requirements set
by the professional association
have evidence that the employment is
the requirements for registration or
membership of the professional association.
have a New Zealand qualification that meets
If you have an offer of employment relevant to
your qualification, you may apply for a work visa/
permit under the Study to Work Policy. This work
visa/permit may be valid for a maximum period of: