FAQ-Study Abroad
Studying abroad provides students with a global perspective, enhances language skills, and offers exposure to different cultures. It also improves career prospects by making students more adaptable, independent, and skilled in their fields.
Consider factors such as the quality of education, course availability, language of instruction, living costs, cultural environment, and visa regulations. Research universities based on their rankings, student reviews, and the success rate of graduates.
Eligibility criteria vary by country and institution but generally include academic qualifications, language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.), entrance exams (if applicable), and financial proof for covering tuition and living expenses.
Financial options include scholarships, grants, student loans, and part-time work opportunities. Many universities offer scholarships for international students based on merit or need. Researching and applying early can increase your chances of securing financial aid.
The process typically involves selecting a course and university, preparing necessary documents (transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statement), taking required tests (like IELTS, TOEFL), and submitting an application through the university’s portal or a centralized system.
Familiarize yourself with the test format, practice regularly using available study materials, take mock tests, and consider enrolling in preparatory courses if needed. Consistent practice and understanding the test structure are key to performing well.
Accommodation options include on-campus housing, off-campus apartments, homestays, and shared housing. Each option has its pros and cons regarding cost, convenience, and cultural experience. It’s advisable to secure housing well in advance of your arrival.
Pack essentials such as important documents (passport, visa, acceptance letter), clothing suitable for the climate, personal items, medications, and electronic devices. It’s also helpful to bring some local currency and adapters for your electronics.
Keep an open mind, learn about the local customs and traditions, make friends with both locals and other international students, and participate in cultural activities. Utilizing student support services and joining clubs can also help ease the transition.
Job prospects vary by country and field of study. Some countries offer post-study work visas, allowing graduates to gain work experience. Building a strong network, utilizing university career services, and gaining relevant experience through internships can enhance your employability.
Each country has its own processing fee for study visas. But processing fee for some of main destinnations is as follow:
Australia: The fee for a student visa is AUD 2,000. Additionally, you must arrange for health cover for the entire duration of your study.
USA: The SEVIS fee for a study visa is $350 and Visa Application Fee is $185. From 1 Oct, 2025 new $250 Visa Integrity fee.
UK: The visa fee is GBP 524, and there is an additional health surcharge of GBP 776 per year.
Canada: The visa fee is CAD 150 plus an additional CAD 85 for biometrics.
These fees are subject to change, so it is always a good idea to check the official embassy or consulate websites for the most current information.
FAQ-Tourist Visa-Canada, UK, USA
- Canada: Valid passport, completed visa application form, proof of financial support, photographs, and a letter of invitation (if applicable).
- UK: Valid passport, completed visa application form, proof of financial means, travel itinerary, accommodation details, and a passport-sized photograph.
- USA: Valid passport, DS-160 form confirmation page, visa application fee receipt, appointment confirmation, photograph, and travel itinerary.
- Canada: Typically 2-4 weeks, but it can vary based on the volume of applications and specific cases.
- UK: Usually 3 weeks, but it may take longer during peak times or if additional documentation is needed.
- USA: Generally 3-5 weeks, including the time for the interview and visa processing.
- Canada: Up to 6 months per visit.
- UK: Up to 6 months per visit.
- USA: Typically up to 6 months, as determined by the Customs and Border Protection officer at the port of entry.
- Canada: Usually no interview is required, but one might be requested.
- UK: Generally, an interview is not required, but you may be asked to attend one.
- USA: Yes, an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate is mandatory for most applicants.
- Canada: Yes, you can apply to extend your stay from within Canada.
- UK: No, you generally cannot extend a standard visitor visa beyond the 6-month period.
- USA: Yes, you can apply to extend your stay by filing Form I-539 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Canada: The fee is typically CAD 100.
- UK: The standard visitor visa fee is £115.
- USA: The visa application fee is USD 185.
- Canada: Bank statements, employment letters, and proof of assets to show sufficient funds for your stay.
- UK: Bank statements, pay slips, and any other evidence demonstrating your ability to support yourself financially during your stay.
- USA: Bank statements, employment verification, and any other financial documents that prove you can cover your expenses during your visit.
- Canada: No, working is not permitted on a tourist visa.
- UK: No, working is not allowed on a standard visitor visa.
- USA: No, employment is prohibited on a tourist visa.
- Canada: Yes, but ensure you have the appropriate visas for any other countries you plan to visit.
- UK: Yes, you can travel to other countries, but must check entry requirements for each destination.
- USA: Yes, but make sure you comply with the entry requirements of the other countries you wish to visit.
- Canada: You can reapply after addressing the reasons for denial or appeal if applicable.
- UK: You can reapply with additional documentation or request an administrative review if you believe there was an error in the decision.
- USA: You can reapply after addressing the reasons for denial. There is no formal appeal process, but you can seek further guidance from the consulate.
FAQ- Spousal Open Work Permit-Canada
- A Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) allows the spouse or common-law partner of a temporary foreign worker or international student in Canada to work for any employer, without needing a specific job offer.
Effective January 21, 2025, the Government of Canada has implemented significant changes to the eligibility criteria for Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWPs) for spouses of international students and foreign workers.
For Spouses of International Students:
Spouses or common-law partners may now apply for an open work permit only if the international student is enrolled in one of the following programs:
- Master’s programs that are 16 months or longer
- Doctoral programs
- Select professional degree programs, including:
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS, DMD)
- Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor (LLB, JD, BCL)
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- Doctor of Optometry (OD)
- Pharmacy (PharmD, BS, BSc, BPharm)
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN, BNSc)
- Bachelor of Education (BEd)
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng, BE, BASc)
The international student must provide proof of enrollment in one of these eligible programs.
For Spouses of Foreign Workers:
Spouses or common-law partners may apply for an open work permit if the foreign worker:
- Is employed in a Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) 0 or 1 occupation, or
- Is employed in select TEER 2 or 3 occupations within sectors experiencing labor shortages or aligned with government priorities, such as:
- Natural and applied sciences
- Construction
- Healthcare
- Natural resources
- Education
- Sports
- Military sectors
Additionally, the foreign worker must have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit at the time the spouse applies for the open work permit.
Additional Changes:
- Dependent children of foreign workers are no longer eligible for family open work permits.
- Open work permits issued under previous criteria will remain valid until their expiration.
- Spouses of workers covered by free-trade agreements and those transitioning to permanent residence are not affected by these changes.
These measures are part of Canada’s efforts to strengthen the integrity of its temporary residence programs and address labor market needs.
- The SOWP is typically valid for the same period as the spouse’s study permit or work permit.
- You can apply online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. You will need to provide supporting documents, including proof of relationship, a copy of your spouse’s study or work permit, and evidence of your spouse’s status in Canada.
- Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate or evidence of common-law partnership)
- A copy of your spouse’s valid study or work permit
- Evidence of your spouse’s status in Canada (e.g., enrollment confirmation or employment letter)
- Completed application forms and payment of the application fee
- Yes, the application fee is CAD 255, which includes the work permit processing fee (CAD 155) and the open work permit holder fee (CAD 100).
- Yes, you can apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit from outside Canada. The application process may differ slightly depending on the visa office responsible for your country.
- Processing times vary depending on the applicant’s location and the volume of applications. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Check the IRCC website for current processing times.
- Yes, you can apply to extend your SOWP if your spouse’s study or work permit is extended. Submit the extension application before your current permit expires.
- Yes, you can study short-term courses (less than six months) without a study permit. If you plan to enroll in a program longer than six months, you must apply for a study permit.
FAQ-Super Visa Canada
A Super Visa is a special type of visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to visit Canada for extended periods. It is a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 10 years, allowing stays of up to 2 years per visit.
Parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents are eligible to apply for a Super Visa. The applicant must meet specific requirements, including providing proof of the relationship and meeting financial and medical criteria.
- Proof of the parent or grandparent relationship with the Canadian citizen or permanent resident (e.g., birth certificate, family tree)
- A letter of invitation from the host in Canada
- Proof of private medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company
- Evidence of financial support from the host (e.g., income statements, employment letters)
- Completed application forms and payment of application fees
Applications can be submitted online or on paper through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Applicants must complete the required forms, gather supporting documents, and pay the application fee.
- Processing times vary depending on the applicant’s location and the volume of applications. It typically takes a few weeks to several months. Check the IRCC website for current processing times.
Applicants must provide proof of private medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company. The insurance must be valid for at least one year, cover health care, hospitalization, and repatriation, and provide a minimum coverage of CAD 100,000.
- Yes, you can apply to extend your stay in Canada while on a Super Visa. You must submit an application for an extension at least 30 days before your current status expires.
- Yes, the host in Canada (child or grandchild) must meet a minimum income threshold to support the parent or grandparent. This is determined based on the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) and varies depending on the size of the host’s household.
- The application fee for a Super Visa is CAD 100. Additional fees may apply for biometrics and medical exams.
- No, the Super Visa does not permit the holder to work or enroll in long-term studies in Canada. The primary purpose of the Super Visa is to allow parents and grandparents to visit their family members for extended periods.
FAQ- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Canada
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit that allows graduates of eligible Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies. However, for students applying for a study visa on or after November 1, 2024, the program they enroll in must meet the “field of study requirement” to be eligible for the PGWP.
To be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), any student submitting their study visa application on or after November 1, 2024, must meet the following criteria:
University Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD:
- CLB/NCLC level 7 in all four language skills.
- No specific field of study required.
Other University Programs:
- CLB/NCLC level 7 in all four language skills.
- Must be enrolled in an eligible field of study.
College/Other Programs:
- CLB/NCLC level 5 in all four language skills.
- Must be enrolled in an eligible field of study.
- The length of the PGWP is based on the length of the study program:
- For programs between 8 months and less than 2 years, the PGWP will be valid for the same length as the program.
- For programs of 2 years or more, the PGWP may be valid for up to 3 years.
- For one-year Master’s programs, the PGWP can be valid for up to three years.
You can apply online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. You’ll need to provide documents such as your official transcript, a letter from your institution confirming completion of your program, and proof of your status in Canada.
- You must apply for a PGWP within 180 days of receiving written confirmation (such as a transcript or official letter) from your educational institution indicating that you have met the requirements for completing your program.
Yes, if you apply for a PGWP before your study permit expires, you can work full-time while waiting for a decision on your application.
- The application fee for a PGWP is CAD 255. This includes the open work permit holder fee of CAD 100 and the work permit processing fee of CAD 155.
No, the PGWP cannot be extended. It is a one-time permit issued for the maximum duration based on your study program length. However, you may explore other work permit options or pathways to permanent residency if you wish to stay in Canada longer.
Yes, having Canadian work experience on a PGWP can make you eligible for various permanent residency programs, such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under the Express Entry system.
If your study permit expires before you apply for a PGWP, you may lose your status in Canada. You can apply to restore your status within 90 days, but you cannot work until your status is restored and your PGWP is approved.
FAQ- OPT for the USA
OPT is a temporary employment authorization for F-1 visa students, allowing them to work in the United States in a field related to their major area of study. There are two types of OPT: pre-completion (while still in school) and post-completion (after graduation).
F-1 students who have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year at a U.S. institution. They must also be in good academic standing and intend to work in a field directly related to their major.
Students can work up to 12 months on OPT per education level. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) graduates may qualify for a 24-month extension, giving them a total of 36 months of OPT.
Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), Form I-20 endorsed by your Designated School Official (DSO), a copy of your passport, visa, I-94 form, and two passport-sized photos.
Yes, but you must carry your OPT card (Employment Authorization Document), a valid F-1 visa, a valid passport, and a letter from your employer confirming your employment.
No, you do not need a job offer to apply for OPT. However, once you receive your OPT, you must find employment related to your field of study within 90 days of your OPT start date.
- Yes, you can change employers while on OPT as long as the new job is related to your field of study and you report the change to your DSO.
For post-completion OPT, you can apply up to 90 days before and up to 30 days after your program end date. It’s recommended to apply early due to processing times.
If your OPT application is denied, you can appeal the decision or reapply if the denial reason can be addressed. You should consult with your DSO for guidance on next steps.
Yes, you can apply for permanent residency while on OPT. Many students transition to H-1B status, which can be a pathway to a Green Card.
F1 Visas will now be issued for a maximum of 4 years, Students movinf for higher studies need to obtain new visa stamps as they progress
FAQ-CPT for the USA
CPT is a type of work authorization that allows F-1 students to engage in employment as part of their curriculum, such as internships, cooperative education, or practicum, which is integral to their academic program.
F-1 students who have completed one academic year in their program and have a job offer related to their major. Graduate students whose programs require immediate CPT can apply without the one-year requirement.
There is no specific limit on the duration of CPT, but if you use 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you will lose your eligibility for OPT. Part-time CPT (20 hours or less per week) does not affect OPT eligibility.
Yes, you need a job offer to apply for CPT since the employment must be directly related to your field of study and integral to your academic program.
Form I-20 with CPT endorsement from your DSO, a job offer letter from your employer, and any additional documents required by your school’s international office.
Yes, you can work for multiple employers while on CPT as long as each job is directly related to your field of study and approved by your DSO.
- Yes, but you must carry your I-20 with the CPT authorization, a valid F-1 visa, a valid passport, and a letter from your employer.
Yes, CPT is available for both undergraduate and graduate students, but the requirements may vary depending on the program and institution.
CPT is authorized on a semester basis. You can extend it by obtaining a new authorization from your DSO for each additional semester of employment.
Using part-time CPT does not affect your OPT eligibility. However, if you use 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you will not be eligible for OPT.
FAQ-Post Study Work Permit-UK
The Post-Study Work Permit, also known as the Graduate Route, allows international students who have completed a degree at an eligible UK institution to stay and work in the UK for up to two years (three years for doctoral graduates).
To be eligible, you must have successfully completed an eligible course at a UK higher education provider with a track record of compliance. This includes undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral degrees.
The permit allows you to stay and work in the UK for two years if you have completed an undergraduate or master’s degree, and for three years if you have completed a doctoral degree.
No, you do not need a job offer to apply for the Graduate Route. The permit allows you to stay in the UK and look for work without any restrictions on the type of job you can do.
You must apply before your current Tier 4 (General) student visa expires. It’s best to apply as soon as you receive your final results from your university.
You can apply online through the UK government’s official website. You will need to provide your biometric information and pay the application fee.
- You will need your passport, your current Tier 4 visa, a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your university, and proof of completing your degree. Additional documents may be required based on individual circumstances.
The application fee is £822. You will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £1035 per year of stay.
No, the Post-Study Work Permit cannot be extended. However, you can switch to other visa routes such as the Skilled Worker visa if you meet the eligibility requirements.
Yes, if your dependents (spouse/partner and children) are already in the UK as your dependents on a Tier 4 visa, they can apply to extend their stay as your dependents on the Graduate Route.
FAQ-Post Study Work Permit-Australia
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows international students who have completed their studies in Australia to live, study, and work in the country temporarily after they finish their course.
Graduates who have completed a qualification at a degree level (bachelor, masters, or doctoral degree) from an Australian institution. The course must be CRICOS-registered, and the graduate must have met the Australian study requirement.
The length of stay varies:
- Bachelor’s degree graduates: 2 years
- Master’s by coursework graduates: 2 years
- Master’s by research graduates: 3 years
- Doctoral degree graduates: 4 years
You must apply within 6 months of completing your course. Your student visa must still be valid, or you must hold a Bridging Visa A or Bridging Visa B when applying.
- Documents typically required include your passport, academic transcripts, a completion letter from your educational institution, English language proficiency test results (if applicable), and health insurance documentation.
The application fee for the primary applicant is AUD 1,945. Additional fees apply for each dependent included in the application.
Yes, you can include your spouse/partner and dependent children in your application. They will also receive the same visa conditions as the primary applicant.
- No, you must be in Australia when you apply for the Post-Study Work Visa and when it is granted.
The Post-Study Work Visa cannot be extended. However, you can explore other visa options to remain in Australia, such as the Skilled Migration Visa, if you meet the eligibility criteria.
No, you do not need a job offer to apply for the Post-Study Work Visa. It is an open work visa that allows you to seek employment, start a business, or engage in further studies.
FAQ-Post Study Work Visa-New Zealand
To be eligible, you must have completed a qualification at Level 4 or above on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF). If you studied for a qualification below Level 7, it must be on the list of Qualifications Eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa.
The duration depends on your qualification level:
- Level 7 Bachelor’s or higher: Up to 3 years.
- Level 8 or below: Same length as your study period in New Zealand, as specified in your offer of place.
No, you cannot apply for a second Post-Study Work Visa. However, you may extend your stay if you transition to another visa category, such as a Skilled Migrant or Accredited Employer Work Visa.
With a PSWV, you can work for any employer in New Zealand. However, if your qualification is below Level 7, the job must be relevant to your field of study.
Yes, your partner can apply for a work visa, and your dependent children can study as domestic students.
No, you do not need a job offer to apply for this visa.
Generally, there are no additional English language requirements for the PSWV, provided you meet the criteria for the qualification you completed.
You can study for up to three months in total or complete a course that’s required as part of your professional registration.
Recent changes emphasize the removal of employer-assisted work visas and a shift towards open work visas, granting up to 3 years based on your qualification level. There are also specific conditions for those who studied qualifications linked to skills shortages.
You need official documentation from your education provider confirming the level and duration of your qualification. Immigration New Zealand may request additional evidence to verify eligibility.
As of August 2024, the processing charge for a Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) in New Zealand is NZD 750. This fee applies to most applicants, but it may vary depending on your location and specific circumstances. Additional fees for biometrics and other processing requirements may also apply.
