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Menu Coaching IELTS PTE Duolingo Fast Track TOEFL Spoken English Counselling Study Abroad Exam Preparation Visa Work Visa International Job Countries Canada USA The UK Australia New Zealand European Union Scholarship More Study Tips Financial Assistant Resume Writing SOP Aryan Lathiya Author Updated on June 12, 2024 5 tips to ace the IELTS test If you plan to study, work, or move to an English-speaking country, you need to take a test proving you know the language well enough to live in the country comfortably. Among these tests, IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests, accepted in more than 140 countries. Taking an IELTS test will open new career opportunities and increase your chances of getting hired in a foreign country, but getting a high band in IELTS is no cakewalk. Let’s understand how you can get flying colours in IELTS exam. Decoding the IELTS exam Understanding the IELTS test. The IELTS exam is divided into 4 sections: Listening, speaking, writing, and reading. The test takes around 3 hours to complete but the preparation time is much much higher. Listening: This section usually lasts around 30 minutes. You’ll listen to four recordings of native English speakers and then answer questions based on what you heard. Reading: The reading section usually takes about 60 minutes. You’ll read three different texts and answer questions about them. Writing: You’ll have 60 minutes for the writing section. This includes two tasks: Task 1, where you describe a graph, table, chart, or diagram; and Task 2, where you write an essay expressing your opinion or argument on a given topic. Speaking: The speaking section is a face-to-face interview with an examiner and usually takes around 11-14 minutes. You’ll have a short warm-up conversation, then the examiner will ask you to talk about a particular topic, and finally, you’ll have a discussion related to the topic. The good news, however, is that you can do much more than just mugging up lengthy IELTS guide and review books. Here are some tips that will not only help you get a better score but will also make your preparation more efficient and fun. IELTS Study Plan and Structure Develop a study plan The first step is to make a study plan. Having structure and deadlines will help you prepare for each section thoroughly and focus on the tough parts. Start by analysing your current english fluency, are you good at writing? Reading? Or speaking? Which section do you think would require the most amount of revision? Look at the paper pattern, is there a section you think would be problematic for you? If yes, allot some dedicated time to that section in your plan. A master tip to making a study plan that actually works is to set realistic expectations, keep deadlines that you know you can meet and take accountability when you miss them. Works towards staying consistent and track a progress. Keep in mind that study plan cannot and should not be concrete, make changes and update your study plan as you go ahead. This is help you stay in control of your preparation while simultaneously improving your time management skills. English Learning Practice Enhance Language Skills The best way to learn any language is by listening to that language, and that’s also a part of your IELTS curriculum, so make the most out of this section. Take out some time each day to listen to english language podcasts, interviews or even shows that interest you. The key here is to be really really attentive about what you hear. Get a grasp of different accents, especially the one used in the country you wish to move to. This will not only help you clear your IELTS but will also be beneficial for you in the long run when you move to a foreign. Generally, the IELTS exam is filled with slightly more complex words than the words we generally use, so while doing this is great for practice, it’s equally important to study the synonyms, parallel expressions etc. as mentioned in the curriculum. IELTS Student Group Put Skills to Practice Luckily, it’s really easy to put your IELTS curriculum to use in real-life situations. Doing this is especially important for the speaking section of your test. Pay attention to the new words you hear, note them down and look them up in the dictionary. Try to incorporate these words into your daily conversations or make up sentences in your head where these words would fit. You can join student groups where you only talk to each other in english, this is help increase your fluency and will make you more confident and comfortable in the language. IELTS Mock Tests Practice Mock Tests This point cannot be emphasised enough. Imagine a first-time player and a seasoned player appearing for the exact same game – EXACTLY. Be prepared before you enter the field, play a test match or two. Learn from your mistakes so that you can give your best where it really matters. For this, you can check the IDP page ( IELTS official website) and find free test papers, or you can register with an IELTS coaching classes near you that simulates real test-like environments. Get your hands on as many old IELTS tests as possible. While it’s okay if you take your own time while solving these paper initially, it’s very beneficial to time your tests after a few attempts. This will give you an idea of the time that each section demands, so that time crunch is not a concern for you on the exam day. Get Ready for IELTS Exam Prepare for the exam day When booking an IELTS test, students must schedule their test dates and pay the required fees beforehand. This allows them to have a timeframe to prepare themselves mentally and physically for the test. Preparing for the IELTS test involves more than just studying. It is also important for
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Menu Coaching IELTS PTE Duolingo Fast Track TOEFL Spoken English Counselling Study Abroad Exam Preparation Visa Work Visa International Job Countries Canada USA The UK Australia New Zealand European Union Scholarship More Study Tips Financial Assistant Resume Writing SOP Aryan Lathiya Author Updated on March 15, 2024 Canada International Student Visa Updates You Should Know About With an huge influx of foreign students in canada, it has become a prime destination for so many students worldwide because of its welcoming environment and post-graduation opportunities. According to a report, Canada hosted more than 1 million international students in 2023. As a study abroad destination, the number of universities in canada for International students have received more applications than ever before. Following the record-setting year, Canada has introduced a number of visa updates that can potentially change the trajectory of Canadian international student intake. Let’s dive into them first. How to Apply? Application Process The Canada Student Visa allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. To apply for a Study Permit, students must first receive an acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution in Canada. Alongside the acceptance letter, applicants are required to prove they have sufficient funds to cover their tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation. The application process can be completed online or through a paper application, but online submissions are typically faster and recommended by the IRCC. Applicants may also need to provide biometrics (photo and fingerprints) as part of their application and, in some cases, undergo a medical examination. While the canada student visa processing can be complicated, working with a consultancy firm like Planet Education Navsari can help you to simplify the process. One of the key benefits of the Canada Student Visa is that it allows students to work part-time on campus without a separate work permit. Additionally, students may be eligible to work off-campus for up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as winter and summer holidays, without a work permit. After completing their studies, graduates from eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to gain Canadian work experience. This work experience can benefit those who wish to apply for permanent residence in Canada through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) within the Express Entry system. The Canada Student Visa opens the door to world-class education and offers opportunities for work experience and permanent settlement, making it an attractive option for international students worldwide. Government Regulations & Updates Canada International Student Visa Update The Canadian government has announced several changes that could affect canada international student visa requirements. The details are as follows: Introduction of new temporary federal cap: According to recent updates, a temporary federal cap has been imposed on the intake of international students. The number of study permits approved in 2024 is expected to decrease by 35% compared to 2023, bringing the total down to 360,000. This cap is projected to remain in place for the upcoming year, and the decision on any further caps for 2025 will be taken towards the end of 2024. This move has been undertaken to manage the influx of international students and ensure that resources are utilised effectively. Changes to Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility criteria: Starting from September 1, 2024, international students who begin their study programs in private colleges delivering licensed curriculum will not be eligible to apply for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs). PGWPs are essential for international students who wish to work in Canada to gain work experience after completing their studies. This change will impact those who choose private colleges to pursue their education. It is important to note that this change does not affect students who enrol in public institutions offering licensed curriculum. Updated cost-of-living requirements for students: Effective from January 1, 2024, international students who wish to apply for study visa in Canada (study permit canada) will be required to demonstrate that they have adequate financial resources to cover their living expenses while they are in the country. As per the new regulations, the minimum amount of funds that international students must prove they have access to has been increased to $20,635 from the previous requirement of $10,000. It is important to note that the financial requirement may vary for students who plan to move to Quebec. This change in the regulation aims to ensure that international students are financially prepared to support themselves during their stay in Canada, and it will help them avoid any financial hardships or difficulties while they pursue their academic goals in the country. Longer PGWPs for master’s graduates: Canada is set to introduce a new policy allowing students who have completed a master’s program to obtain a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) valid for up to three years. This new policy will benefit international students by providing them with extended opportunities to work in Canada after completing their studies. Before this change, only students who had completed a program of study that was at least two years in length were eligible for a three-year PGWP. This new policy is expected to come into effect on July 26th, 2021 and will be applicable to all students who have graduated from a master’s program at a designated learning institution in Canada. Changes to Spousal Open Work Permit eligibility: Effective February 14, 2019, only spouses or common-law partners of international students studying in master’s, doctoral, or professional programs at a designated learning institution (DLI) will be eligible to apply for an open work permit in Canada. This policy change aims to support the attraction and retention of international students in Canada, as well as to assist their spouses or partners in obtaining valuable work experience and contributing to Canada’s economy. It is important to note that this policy only applies to international students studying at a DLI in Canada, and not to those studying online or outside Canada. What
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Menu Coaching IELTS PTE Duolingo Fast Track TOEFL Spoken English Counselling Study Abroad Exam Preparation Visa Work Visa International Job Countries Canada USA The UK Australia New Zealand European Union Scholarship More Study Tips Financial Assistant Resume Writing SOP Aryan Lathiya Author Updated on March 9, 2024 UK Dependent Visa: Documents, Eligibility and Financial Requirements Moving abroad for study or work offers excellent career growth prospects. However, one of the most challenging aspects of moving abroad for students and professionals is having to do everything alone. Well, the good news is that family members of the person holding a valid visa can also move to that country to be closer to them. This can be achieved by obtaining a UK dependent visa. UK Dependent visa and types What is a UK Dependent Visa? A UK dependent visa is a type of visa that allows certain family members of UK citizens or settled persons to join them in the United Kingdom. These visas facilitate family reunification by enabling spouses, partners, children, and elderly parents to live with their UK-based relatives. The specific types of UK-dependent visas include: Spouse or Partner Visas Child Dependent Visas Parent Visas Each visa type is tailored to the unique circumstances of the applicant and their relationship with their UK-based family member. Dependent visas grant holders the right to live, work, study, and access public services in the UK for the duration of their visa’s validity, providing an opportunity for families to be together and share in each other’s lives. Who are dependent? Who qualifies as a dependent? You can bring your partner and children as dependats to come to UK or extend their stay a longer, if any of the following conditions are fulfilled. You are a government-sponsored student starting a course that lasts longer than 6 months You are a full-time student on a postgraduate level course (RQF level 7 or above) that lasts 9 months or longer If your postgraduate level course starts on or after 1 January 2024, it must be either: a PhD or other doctorate (RQF level 8) a research-based higher degree Your dependants A dependant partner or child is one of the following: your husband, wife or civil partner your unmarried partner your child under 18 years old – including if they were born in the UK during your stay Whether it be UK dependent visa for spouse, UK unmarried partner visa or UK dependent visa for parents, understanding the requirement as laid down by the UK government and guidance from a trusted visa consultancy such as SLCS can help you to speed up your application. UK Dependent Visa requirements. Can I Apply For a UK Dependent Visa? The UK has recently announced some changes to dependent visas. Starting from January 2024, only students pursuing post-graduate courses or PhD programs will be eligible to bring their family members on dependent visas. If you meet the eligibility criteria for a UK dependent visa, you will have to go through the visa application process, which includes providing evidence of a genuine relationship, meeting financial requirements, and fulfilling accommodation and care responsibilities, where applicable. Documentation for UK Dependent visa Document Checklist For Dependent Visa When applying for a UK-dependent visa, you will typically need to provide a range of documents to support your application. While specific requirements may vary depending on the type of UK dependent visa requirements you are applying for and your circumstances, standard documents include: Passport Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) Application Form Photographs Proof of Relationship Financial Documents Accommodation Evidence English Language Proficiency Health Insurance Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results (if applicable) Additional Supporting Documents Comprehensive supporting documents can strengthen your visa application and increase the likelihood of a successful outcome. UK dependent visa financial requirements Financial Requirements, Cost and Sponsorship Financial stability is a key consideration in the UK-dependent visa application process, as applicants must demonstrate the ability to support themselves and their family members without recourse to public funds. The UK government sets specific financial thresholds that applicants must meet, which vary depending on the type of visa and the number of dependents included in the application. Common sources of income used to meet financial requirements include employment earnings, savings, investments, and financial support from family members or sponsors. Sponsors play a crucial role in the application process, assuming responsibility for meeting the applicants’ and their dependents’ financial needs throughout their stay in the UK. Sponsors and applicants need to understand their obligations regarding financial maintenance and support to ensure a successful visa application. UK dependent visa process Application Process for UK Dependent Visa The application process for a UK-dependent visa involves several key steps, outlined below: Determine Eligibility: Before beginning the application process, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the specific type of UK-dependent visa you are applying for. Common types of dependent visas include spouse or partner visas, child dependent visas, and parent visas. Review the UK dependent visa eligibility requirements outlined by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to confirm your eligibility. Gather Required Documents: Collect all the necessary documents required for your visa application. These may include a valid passport, completed visa application form, proof of relationship with the UK-based family member, proof of financial means, accommodation details, English language proficiency (if required), and any other supporting documents specified by the UKVI. Complete Online Application: Fill out the online visa application form on the UK government’s official visa application website. Provide accurate and truthful information in your application, as any discrepancies or inaccuracies could lead to delays or refusal of your visa application. Pay Visa Fees: Pay the visa application fee and healthcare surcharge (if applicable) as part of the online application process. The healthcare surcharge covers access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay in the UK and must be paid upfront for the duration of your visa. Schedule Biometrics Appointment: If required, schedule an appointment to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) at a visa application centre
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Menu Coaching IELTS PTE Duolingo Fast Track TOEFL Spoken English Counselling Study Abroad Exam Preparation Visa Work Visa International Job Countries Australia Canada USA The UK New Zealand Scholarship More Study Tips Financial Assistant Resume Writing SOP Aryan Lathiya Author Updated on February 29, 2024 What is F1 visa and what are F1 Visa Requirements? Over 1 million international students are currently studying in the USA. To study in the country, you need a student visa from the government, also known as the F1 visa. In this blog post, we will share with you a detailed overview about the F1 Visa, its requirements, process flow and expert tips that you can help you study in USA. This visa is typically granted to students once they have secured admission to US educational institutions such as colleges, universities or schools. It is worth noting that the F1 visa is not the only visa type available to students in the USA. Depending on the type of course you have chosen, you may be eligible for either the F1 or M1 visa. Comparatively speaking, F1 visa holders have more flexibility in extending their stay beyond the duration of their program. They can do this by engaging in optional practical training extensions or pursuing further academic studies. How is an F1 visa different from an M1 visa? F1 vs. M1 Visa: Choosing the Right Student Visa for You F1 and M1 are both student visas. However, the eligibility criteria differs. If you are moving to the USA for an academic or language training course, which is usually the case, you’ll need to get an F1 visa. On the other hand, an M1 visa is opted by students who are pursuing a vocational course or non-degree program focusing on practical skills and training, such as automotive repair, cosmetology, or culinary arts. M1 visa holders are typically granted a fixed period of stay based on the length of their program, with limited opportunities for off-campus employment. Conversely, F1 visa holders may be eligible for optional practical training (OPT) and curricular practical training (CPT), which allow them to gain work experience related to their field of study while enrolled in an academic program. How to Get an F1 visa? Eligibility and Requirements for an F1 Visa Getting an F1 visa is mandatory for students who want to study in the USA. To be eligible for an F1 visa, you must fulfil certain requirements. Firstly, you need to be accepted by a school in the USA that has been approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Secondly, you need to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. You can do this by scoring well in exams like IELTS, PTE, TOEFL etc. Alternatively, you can enrol in an English language program to show that you can effectively communicate in English, which is the primary language of instruction in most American schools. Lastly, you need to provide evidence that you have sufficient financial resources to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs during your stay in the USA. This is to ensure that you can support yourself financially without relying on public funds. The financial resources you show must be enough to cover your expenses for the entire duration of your stay, which is typically the length of your program of study. It is generally useful to seek help from a study abroad expert for the visa processes as it increases the chances of success. At Planet Education Navsari, we have a proven track record of having helped over 25000 students achieve their study abroad dream. Documents Required for F1 Visa Application Documents Needed for Your F1 Visa Application When applying for an F1 student visa to study in the United States, the following documents are commonly required: Passport Form I-20 DS-160 confirmation page Visa application fee receipt Academic transcripts and diplomas Financial documents demonstrating ability to cover expenses Other supporting documents as required Some Useful Tips When Applying for an F1 Visa Expert Tips for a Successful F1 Visa Application When applying for an F1 visa, it’s essential to be well-prepared and thorough in your approach. Here are some useful tips to consider: F1 visa process is a little complicated, begin the application process well in advance of your intended start date for your academic program. This allows ample time for completing the required documentation, scheduling interviews, and addressing any unexpected delays. Choose SEVP-approved schools that offer programs aligned with your academic and career goals. Research the schools thoroughly, considering factors such as program reputation, location, campus culture, and support services for international students. Obtaining a Form I-20 from your prospective school, completing the DS-160 visa application form accurately, and preparing for the visa interview. Financial Planning: Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs during your stay in the United States. Prepare financial documentation, such as bank statements, sponsorship letters, or scholarship awards, to support your visa application. Practice Interview Skills: Practice answering potential interview questions and familiarize yourself with common visa interview procedures. Be prepared to discuss your academic plans, reasons for choosing the United States, ties to your home country, and intentions to return upon completing your studies. Be Honest and Transparent: Provide truthful and accurate information throughout the visa application process. Avoid misrepresenting your intentions or circumstances, as this can lead to visa denial or future immigration issues. Keep Documents Organized: Keep all required documents organized and easily accessible for the visa interview. This includes your passport, Form I-20, DS-160 confirmation page, visa application fee receipt, academic transcripts, financial documents, and any other supporting materials. Can I work with an F1 visa? Can You Work on an F1 Visa? Understanding the Regulations On-Campus Employment Opportunities for F1 Visa Holders As per the regulations for F1 visa holders, international students are generally not allowed to work off-campus, except under certain limited circumstances such as optional practical training (OPT), curricular practical training (CPT), or if they are facing severe economic hardship.
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