FAQ

Know All About Admissions & Intakes

Unlike the single intake system in Indian education, colleges and universities abroad offer multiple intakes within an academic year. This flexibility allows students to choose from various start dates. For instance, if you miss the Spring intake, you can aim for the next available intake, such as Fall, without waiting for a year.

Q1: What are the different kinds of intakes?

Most universities abroad offer two major intakes: Fall and Spring. Some universities also offer a Summer intake, which is less common.

Intake Season Commencement Period
Fall Late August to December
Spring January to early May
Summer May (varies by university)
  • Fall Intake 2024:

    This intake typically begins in late August or early September and ends in December. It aligns with the academic year in many countries, offering the widest selection of courses and programs.
  • Spring Intake 2024:

    Starting in January and concluding in May, the Spring intake is ideal for those who miss the Fall intake. It provides an opportunity to join ongoing programs and explore new academic experiences.
  • Summer Intake 2024:

    A shorter and less common option, Summer intake usually lasts from May to July or August. It is suitable for students looking for specialized short-term programs, internships, or language courses.

Note: Always check the official website of your preferred institution for specific intake details.

Q2: Why do universities offer multiple intakes?

Multiple intakes help universities manage the high volume of applications and provide flexibility for students who face constraints in joining the Fall intake.

Q3: How do I decide which intake to choose?

Consider the following factors:

  • Availability of your preferred program
  • Academic records and entrance test scores
  • Job opportunities and internship availability
  • Your preparedness to start the course
  • Doctoral Degree – $18,000 to $42,000*

Pro Tip: Begin your applications 10–12 months before the program's start date. For Fall semester, have your scores ready by April; for Spring, start by August.

Q4: Which intake is preferred by Indian students?

Most Indian students prefer the September Fall intake, as it aligns with the completion of school or undergraduate programs in India. Additionally, Fall intake offers better opportunities for internships and research assistantships.

Studying in Australia

Q1: When do intakes generally occur in Australia?

Most universities in Australia have two primary intakes

  • Semester 1: February
  • Semester 2: July

Note: Some institutions may also offer trimester systems or rolling intakes for specific programs. Always confirm with your preferred institution.

Q2: How long does it take to get a student visa for Australia?

Student visa processing times can vary, typically taking anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on factors like individual circumstances and application volume. To avoid delays, it is advisable to apply as early as possible.

Q3: Can international students work in Australia while studying?

Yes, international students in Australia can work up to 48 hours per fortnight (two weeks) during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks.

Q4: What accommodation options are available for international students in Australia?

International students in Australia can choose from a variety of accommodation options:

  • On-campus housing: Convenient but may be more expensive.
  • Homestays: Offers cultural immersion and a family environment.
  • Rental apartments: Ideal for those seeking independence.
  • Shared housing: A cost-effective option for students looking to share expenses.

The cost and availability of these options depend on the location and type of accommodation.

Studying in Ireland

Q1: How much does it cost to study in Ireland?

The cost of tuition fees in Ireland varies depending on the program and institution. Generally, you should budget approximately €10,000 to €25,000 per year. Here’s an estimate of the annual tuition fees for different programs:

  • Undergraduate program: €9,850 to €25,500
  • Postgraduate master's degree: €9,500 to €34,500
  • Doctoral degree: €9,500 to €34,500

Q2: What are the best student cities in Ireland?

The top student cities in Ireland are:

  • Dublin
  • Cork
  • Limerick
  • Galway
  • Maynooth

Q3: Is IELTS required to work in Ireland?

While IELTS is generally required for study purposes, the minimum IELTS score for studying in Ireland is 6.5 overall, with no individual band score below 6. The requirement may vary for different institutions or programs.

Q4: What are the requirements to study in Ireland?

Admission requirements in Ireland vary by university and program, but international students typically need to submit the following documents:

  • University course or degree transcripts
  • English language test results (e.g., IELTS)
  • Work experience (if required)
  • GMAT or GRE scores (if applicable)
  • Statement of purpose
  • Recommendation letters

Q5: What are the requirements for an Ireland student visa?

The following documents are required for a student visa application to Ireland:

  • Completed application form
  • Application letter
  • Two passport-sized photographs (taken in the last 6 months)
  • Current passport and copies of previous passports
  • Evidence of enrollment in the course
  • Explanation for any gaps in your educational history

Q6: Can I study in Ireland with backlogs?

Irish institutions generally accept applications with a maximum of four to five backlogs. However, some institutions may accept only two to three backlogs depending on the program and institution.

Studying in USA

Q1: How much will it cost to study in the USA?

Tuition fees in the United States vary depending on whether you attend a public/state or private institution. Public universities generally have lower tuition fees compared to private universities. On average, you can expect to pay approximately $8,000 to $55,000 (USD) per year for tuition fees.

Here are estimates for specific programs:

  • English language studies: $700 to $2,000 per month
  • Community colleges: $6,000 to $20,000 per year
  • Undergraduate bachelor’s degrees: $20,000 to $40,000 per year
  • Graduate programs: $20,000 to $45,000 per year
  • Doctoral degrees: $28,000 to $55,000 per year

These figures provide an indication of the general expenses involved in pursuing higher education in the USA.

Q2: What is the duration of foundation or diploma programs in the USA?

Foundation or diploma programs in the USA typically last one year. After completing the program, students are required to achieve satisfactory grades to progress to the first year of their bachelor’s degree. These programs usually begin in September, with some institutions offering additional intakes.

Q3: Can I work in the USA during and after my studies?

Yes, international students in the USA can work during their studies through co-ops, internships, part-time jobs, or even full-time work. However, work authorization is required, and it can be obtained through the school’s international office or the United States Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS). There are three main types of work authorization for international students:

  • Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
  • Optional Practical Training (OPT)
  • On-campus employment

Q4: What are the popular scholarships to study in the USA?

Some popular scholarships for Indian students pursuing higher education in the USA include:

  1. Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships
  2. Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program
  3. #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship
  4. IEFA Scholarships
  5. AAUW International Fellowships

Q5: How can I go to the USA for studies?

To study in the USA, research the course, university, and location that suits your needs. You can also seek guidance from education experts like IDP. Popular courses to study in the USA include:

  • MS in the USA
  • PhD in the USA
  • Postgraduate studies in the USA
  • MS in Data Science
  • Masters in the USA
  • MBA in the USA
  • IT in the USA
  • Artificial Intelligence in the USA
  • Business Analytics in the USA
  • Data Science in the USA

Studying in UK

We understand you may have many questions about studying and living in the UK. Here are answers to some common questions:

Q1: Is a CAS letter needed for the UK?

Yes, the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letter is essential for obtaining a student visa to study in the UK. It is an electronic document issued by your university to support your visa application. The CAS letter is provided after accepting an offer and paying the required deposit to secure your place. It contains your personal details, course information, study duration, and a unique CAS number.

Q2: Why apply for a Pre-Masters program?

A Pre-Masters program is ideal for students who face challenges meeting course entry requirements. It is designed for those who:

  • Want to switch fields after their undergraduate studies.
  • Struggle to meet English language proficiency requirements.
  • Lack a strong academic foundation in their chosen field.

This program provides the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to prepare for a master's program. It helps you enhance your academic writing, language proficiency, and familiarity with academic terms.

Q3: What are the different law degrees in the UK?

In the UK, there are two main types of law degrees for students aspiring to become legal professionals:

  1. Barrister: A barrister represents clients in court and provides specialist legal advice.
  2. Solicitor: A solicitor offers legal advice, prepares cases, and may represent clients in lower courts.

Both paths are highly respected in the UK legal system, with specific qualifications and career tracks.

Q4: How to study in the UK after 12th with a Pathway program?

Pathway programs (or foundation courses) are designed for students who:

  • Do not meet the academic entry requirements for direct university admission.
  • Have not achieved the desired score in English language proficiency tests.
  • Wish to switch fields of study.

These courses help international students improve their language skills and acquire the academic knowledge needed to pursue higher education in the UK. Typically lasting one year, pathway courses offer either a narrow or broad curriculum to support your future studies at UK universities.

Studying in New Zealand

Q1: What are the eligibility criteria to study in New Zealand?

The eligibility criteria for different academic levels are as follows:

1. For Undergraduate (Graduation) Studies:

  • Completion of an equivalent of Year 13.
  • Minimum requirement of 50-60% or above for admission.
  • English language proficiency, demonstrated through tests like IELTS.

For Postgraduate Studies:

  • Minimum score of 50-60% in undergraduate studies.
  • GMAT or GRE scores may be required for management studies.
  • Some universities may consider work experience or internships.
  • English language proficiency must be demonstrated through tests like IELTS.

Q2: Which exam is required for studying in New Zealand?

The exams required for studying in New Zealand include:

  • Language proficiency exam: IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
  • Subject-specific assessments, depending on the course.
  • GRE (Graduate Records Examination) for some graduate programs
  • UCAT ANZ (University Clinical Aptitude Test for Australia and New Zealand) for medical or health-related courses.

Q3: What is the IELTS score requirement for studying in New Zealand?

  • For a student visa: A minimum band score of 5.5 in the IELTS test.
  • For university admission: A minimum overall band score of 6, with at least 5.5 in each section of the test.

Q4: What are pathway programs in New Zealand?

Pathway programs (also known as foundation courses) are designed for international students who may not meet specific course entry requirements or are unsure about their program choice. These programs help students improve their academic skills and English language proficiency to meet the entry standards for degree programs at New Zealand universities.

Popular Courses in New Zealand

  • PhD in New Zealand
  • MS in New Zealand
  • MBA in New Zealand
  • Masters in New Zealand
  • Postgraduate Studies in New Zealand
  • Study Artificial Intelligence in New Zealand

For more detailed information, it's advisable to visit official university websites or resources.