How to choose a country for education?

The choice of country depends on the budget as well as personal interest of the student. Mostly all countries now are offering a very wide range of courses. A student must first of all choose which country offers him the best choice of course as well as provides him/her employment opportunities.
Example: Taking the financial aspect into consideration the courses in UK are only for 1 year and that cuts down the cost of studies substantially when compared to USA / Australia. At Safeway Immigration we help you make this analysis and then zero-in on a country that suits you best

When should a student apply for admission in University/College?

Generally, in most universities and colleges in UK and USA, there are two intakes, mainly in September and Jan/Feb; while in Germany the intakes are in April and October.
It is advisable to procure admission 3 months prior to the intake month. This ensures a smooth process and a comfortable and timely preparation. To avoid all this we advise you to make your choices and decisions well in time.

Are IELTS / TOEFL necessary to get an admission in the University / College?

UK: IELTS or TOEFL
USA: IELTS or TOEFL and GRE or GMAT or SAT
Germany: IELTS or TOEFL and GMAT or GRE
Although, IELTS & TOEFL examination is not necessary for all universities, but it is definitely an important supportive document for your application form. Proficiency in English Language is a must in order to study in any country, as the medium of instruction is English. It is important that you as a student are able to understand instructional English in order to do well in your studies. IELTS / TOEFL exams are therefore accepted proofs of proficiency in English

Can a student work along with his studies?

Yes!, Legally as per the Student Visa norms a student can work 15-20 hours per week. A student can also engage in a full time job during Vacation period (40-45 HPW) Jobs can be on / off campus in UK but only on campus jobs are allowed in USA.
But a student CANNOT:
1. Engage in any business, self- employment or provide services as a sports person or as an entertainer.
2. Pursue a career by filling a permanent full time vacancy.

What does it cost to study overseas?

It depends on the destination, course and the institution. Generally speaking UK costs about Rs.10 -14 lakhs per annum, Australia costs Rs. 8 -12 lakhs per annum and NZ costs Rs. 8-9 lakhs per annum. There are few scholarships and hence students have to be largely self-funded or avail loans from Indian banks (Indian banks applicable for Indian students). Safeway has tie-ups with some banks making the educational loans very accessible. The above costing assumes that the student is not working part time. Though part time work is not guaranteed, students are allowed to work part time off campus in Australia, New Zealand and in U.K. Several students do work part time and subsidize some of the costs.

Can I work/settle overseas after my qualification?

One can always work overseas after any qualification provided one gets the work permit. However, in order to settle (or permanent residency) one has to be aware of Government regulations. Our counsellors can provide the Government website details and general information. Australia and NZ give additional point advantage to PR applicants who hold qualifications from their countries and students with certain qualifications may be able to apply onshore without leaving the country after their studies. UK too has recently introduced certain initiatives regarding working in UK after studies.