Frequently Asked Questions
The most significant difference between GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) and GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) is that the GMAT is used exclusively for business school admissions whereas the GRE is used for a wide variety of graduate programs.
The F-1 student visa is a non-immigrant visa category which allows international students to enter the USA and study at certified institutions under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). This visa is the preferred choice for those aspiring to pursue academic studies or language training programs at U.S. universities or colleges. The application process for the F-1 visa is initiated only after securing acceptance from an accredited U.S. educational institution, making it a vital step in the journey of international students seeking educational opportunities in the United States.
IELTS full form is International English Language Testing System. IELTS is the world’s most widely accepted English language test and is a gateway to study, work or migrate abroad.
IELTS can take you to Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK, USA and other parts of the world. The test covers four sections i.e. listening, reading, writing and speaking. IELTS is recognized by over 11,000 organisations worldwide and is recognized by Universities, Colleges, Immigration & Employers in many countries and they have their own IELTS score requirements. After getting good band scores in IELTS exam worldclass opportunities in English speaking countries will be open to you.
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is an expedited study permit application stream for international students who want to pursue higher education in Canada.
Designated Learning Institution Canada is a college/university approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. To apply for a study permit, candidates need an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI). DLI is allotted a DLI number. Make sure your institution is on the approved list of DLIs from official site of Canada (www.canada.ca), otherwise you study permit may be refused. Designated Learning Institutes offers programs that make eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP).
The Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is a vital document issued by a UK university to international students accepted for a course of study in the UK. This letter serves as concrete proof of the student's acceptance and plays a pivotal role in the UK student visa application process. It not only provides evidence of the student's acceptance to a UK university but also verifies that the student meets the necessary requirements for obtaining a student visa.
The full form of GIC is Guaranteed Investment Certificate, which is a vital component for covering living expenses for international students in Canada. As of now, international students applying for a study permit through the Student Direct Stream are required to have a minimum GIC of CAD 20,635.00. This amount was raised from CAD 10,000.00, effective January 1, 2024, to enhance financial protection for international students in Canada.
A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) is a Canadian investment that guarantees a rate of return for a fixed period. It serves as proof of funds to support living expenses for the initial year of a student's stay in Canada. Several banks and financial institutions offer GICs that meet the required criteria, including:
Scotiabank
SBI Canada Bank
ICICI Bank
Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)
HSBC Bank of Canada
Habib Canadian Bank
Bank of Beijing
Bank of China
Bank of Montreal (BMO)
Bank of Xian Co. Ltd.
China Everbright Bank
Industrial and Commercial Bank of China
RBC Royal Bank
Simplii Financial
TD Canada Trust
Desjardins
These institutions offer GICs tailored to meet the financial requirements for international students studying in Canada.
The requirements for the Student Direct Stream (SDS) in Canada are essential for students planning to pursue their studies there. Here's a breakdown of the English language proficiency test scores required for SDS applicants:
CAEL: A minimum overall score of 60 is necessary.
CELPIP: Applicants need a score equivalent to a Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) score of 7.
IELTS Academic: An overall score of 6.0 is mandatory.
IELTS General Training: A minimum score of 6.0 is required in each section.
PTE Academic: Applicants must achieve an overall score of 60.
TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 83 is necessary.
It's essential to note that as of August 10, 2023, four new English tests (CAEL, CELPIP, PTE, and TOEFL) have been introduced for SDS applicants, alongside the previously accepted IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training tests.
It's crucial to verify the latest requirements from official sources before making any decisions regarding your application. Please check the updated with the latest information from official sources to ensure a smooth application process.
Canada, USA, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Malta, Germany, Ireland, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Cyprus, Italy, Spain, Poland, France, Russia, Singapore, Dubai, Switzerland. The best country for Indian students can vary depending on individual preferences, academic interests, career goals, and budget considerations. Each country offers its own unique advantages and opportunities for international students. Ultimately, the best country for Indian students will depend on their individual preferences and goals. It's essential for students to research each destination thoroughly, consider factors such as academic programs, cost of living, immigration policies, and career prospects before making a decision.
The Schengen area is comprised of 27 European countries that have collectively established unified entry and exit requirements, effectively eliminating internal border controls. These countries include: Schengen Countries: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland. Before making any decisions regarding travel to these Schengen countries, it's crucial to verify the latest requirements from official sources. Stay updated with any changes in entry regulations and procedures to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
The full form of CELPIP is the Canadian Language Proficiency Index Program. The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) is a comprehensive English language proficiency test widely accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for various permanent residency and immigration pathways, as well as for professional certifications from diverse organizations.
IELTS UKVI (IELTS United Kingdom Visas & Immigration) emerges as a distinguished Secure English Language Test (SELT), sanctioned by the UK government, specifically tailored for those seeking to validate their English language proficiency in support of UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) applications. Unlike the standard IELTS, individuals applying for a UK visa are required to take the IELTS test approved for UKVI purposes.
The full form of PTE is Pearson Test of English. PTE stands as a globally recognized provider of secure English language tests. Conducted by the Pearson PLC Group, PTE offers language testing services for study applications worldwide, as well as for visa applications related to work and migration in countries such as Australia, the UK, New Zealand, Canada, and others. PTE plays a crucial role in assessing English language proficiency. The PTE Academic exam, designed for students seeking admission to universities or institutions, evaluates candidates in four key sections: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
IELTS has two types of modules : IELTS Academic and IELTS GT (General Training). Both tests assess your English language skills in listening, reading, writing and speaking. The Speaking and Listening tests are the same in both modules, but the Reading and Writing tests are different. The IELTS Academic test is usually for entry into university/college whereas IELTS General Training is used for work or immigration abroad.
Advantages of Studying in Canada are: High Quality of Education, World Class Universities & Colleges, Internationally Recognized Degrees, Affordable Tuition Fees & Living Costs, Focus of Skill Development, Vibrant and Lively Campus Life, Scholarships, Work while you Study, Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP), Permanent Residency, Job Opportunities, Cultural Diversity, Safe, Peaceful & Friendly Environment, Warm Welcoming Country, Low Crime Rates, Best Quality of Life & more.
GCMS Notes (short for Global Case Management System) serve as a comprehensive source of detailed information about your application status and progression from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). In cases of visa refusal, the GCMS Notes provide detailed reasons for the denial, enabling applicants to enhance their re-application.
The full form of AP English is Advanced Placement Programs. The College Board's Advanced Placement (AP) Program offers two distinct AP English courses for U.S. high school students: AP English Language and Composition and AP English Literature and Composition. These college-level courses are designed to provide students with a rigorous curriculum that prepares them for higher education.
The full form of GRE is Graduate Record Examinations, and Educational Testing Service (ETS) conducts it. There are two types of GRE tests i.e. GRE General Test and GRE Subject Test. The GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) assesses a candidate's proficiency in fundamental arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis, along with college-level vocabulary. Crucially, it evaluates the ability to analyse and evaluate written material, think critically, and solve problems. GRE is widely recognized for MS courses in the USA and is also accepted internationally for MBA programs. GRE scores remain valid for five years.
The full form of SAT is Scholastic Assessment Test. SAT is an examination designed and administered by the College Board. The primary purpose of the SAT is to assess the readiness of high school students for college, providing a common data point that colleges can use to evaluate and compare all applicants. The exam comprises sections covering reading, writing and language, and math. In the reading and writing sections, subjects like social sciences, history, psychology, and science are included, while the math section assesses skills in algebra, data analysis, problem-solving, and advanced math. It is commonly taken by students aspiring to pursue undergraduate courses, especially for studying in the US or Canada. The USA, Canada, India, Japan, UK, Italy, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, UAE, Malaysia, Singapore are some of the countries where universities may have SAT requirements for admissions.
The full form of ACT is American College Testing. The ACT is a standardized test that holds significance for students aspiring to pursue undergraduate programs in the USA and Canada. The Act assesses high school student’s readiness for college. The Act is widely accepted by colleges and universities and plays a pivotal role in the admission process. This comprehensive exam evaluates candidate’s proficiency in written, mathematical, verbal, and scientific skills. The exam comprises four main sections—English, Math, Reading, and Science—along with an optional Writing section.
The major intakes for colleges and universities in Canada are Fall (September), Winter (January) & Summer (May).
1. Apply for re-consideration through web form if you think that your visa application met all the requirements as mandated by IRCC; or 2. File an Appeal before the Federal Court through Canadian Lawyer if you think that your visa application met all requirements as mandated by the IRCC; or 3. Re-apply again with the letter of explanation if you think that there was mistake or shortcoming in your earlier application. You can check the reasons of refusal from the GCMS Notes and rectify the mistakes.
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Canada allows international students who have graduated from eligible designated learning institution (DLI) with eligible program to remain in Canada and work full time after completion of certificate, diploma or degree program. PGWP may be valid between 8 months and upto 3 years depending on the length of the study program completed. PGWP is pathway to obtain Canadian Permanent Residency (PR).
Advanced Diploma (3 years), Diploma (2 years), Certificate (1 year), Bachelors Degree (4 years), Graduate Certificate (8 to 12 months), Post Graduate Diploma (8 to 12 months), Masters Degree (2 years).
There is no pass or fail score in IELTS. The results are reported in band scores from 1, the lowest, to 9.0, the highest, in half band increments. The rating is as below: 0 – Did not attempt the test; 1 – Non user; 2 – Intermittent user; 3 – Extremely limited user; 4 – Limited user; 5 – Modest user; 6 – Competent user; 7 – Good user; 8 – Very good user; 9 – Expert user.
The overall band score is the average of the four component scores (i.e. of writing, listening, speaking, reading), rounded to the nearest whole or half band. If the average of the four components ends in .25, the overall band score is rounded up to the next half band, and if it ends in .75, the overall band score is rounded up to the next whole band. If the average ends with a fraction below .25 or .75, the overall score is rounded down.
A candidate may take the IELTS test as many times as he likes till he acquires the desired IELTS score. There are no restrictions on taking the IELTS exam. The retake of the exam costs the same as the first attempt of the test.
There are four modules i.e. writing, listening, speaking and reading. The writing module is the toughest and difficult among the above four modules.
IELTS test is designed to assess the language ability of candidates who need to study or work where English is used as the basic language of communication. IELTS is required for entry to universities/colleges abroad.
The IDP delivers IELTS test in India. IELTS exam is conducted 48 times in a year to assess student’s proficiency in the English language.
The IELTS is designed to help you work, study or migrate to a country where English is the native language. This includes countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK, USA and other parts of the World.
The IELTS exam requires a recommended minimum age of 16 years. The IELTS exam is applicable to anybody over the age of 16.
The Listening, Reading and Writing sections of all IELTS tests are completed on the same day, with no breaks in between them. The Speaking section, however, can be completed up to a week before or after the other tests. The total test time is 2 hours and 45 minutes.
List of 10 Top Best Universities in Canada are: University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario; McGill University, Montreal, Quebec; University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia; University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec; University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta; McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario; University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario; Western University, London, Ontario; University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario; University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta.
A Student Visa is primarily serves an authorization to enter Canada. You may need to apply for a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) at a Canadian embassy or consulate. A student visa or TRV (temporary resident visa) is a document that grants permission to enter / re-enter Canada.
In addition to a student visa, international students also require a study permit. This permit is issued by a Canadian border services officer at the port of entry, provided that all required documents are in order. A study permit is a crucial document that enables international students to pursue their studies at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada and authorizes their stay for educational purposes. Even if you possess a student visa, the border officer has the authority to deny entry into Canada.
SOP is also known as letter of explanation. This letter is a personal statement a student shall prepare in a letter format to be attached with the study visa application. SOP is a very important document as embassy officer knows and understands you through SOP. SOP is highly recommended to be submitted with the application for Canada Study Visa. SOP is a summary of the student’s background for the immigration officer to understand and assess you and pays a major role in grant of study visa.
The full form of QS is Quacquarelli Symonds. QS World University Rankings is an annual publication of university rankings by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS). It is the most widely viewed university ranking worldwide. QS Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) offers unrivalled data, expertise and solutions for the global higher education sector. Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) is the world’s largest global higher education network, connecting universities, business schools & students. The QS World University Rankings are a ranking of the world's top universities produced by Quacquarelli Symonds published annually since 2004.
The IELTS Speaking test is a crucial component of the IELTS exam, lasting 11-14 minutes and comprising three parts: Introduction and Interview (4-5 minutes), Long-turn Cue Cards (3-4 minutes), and Discussion (4-5 minutes). Examiners evaluate performance based on four key criteria i.e. Fluency and Coherence, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, and Pronunciation.
The IELTS Listening test is a vital aspect of the IELTS examination, evaluating candidates' ability to comprehend spoken English across various scenarios. Lasting 30 minutes, the test comprises 40 questions based on four recordings covering different contexts: a daily life dialogue, an everyday topics monologue, an educational conversation, and an academic monologue.
The GMAT Focus Edition is an updated version designed to meet the changing needs of business schools and applicants. Designed to cater to the needs of today's aspiring business leaders, the GMAT Focus Edition is the latest iteration of the GMAT exam. The exam consists of 3 sections with a total duration of 2 hours and 15 minutes. There are 64 questions in total, distributed as follows: Quantitative Reasoning (21 questions, 45 minutes), Verbal Reasoning (23 questions, 45 minutes), and Integrated Reasoning (20 questions, 45 minutes).
The IELTS Reading test is a critical part of the exam, assessing candidates' English reading skills with 40 questions across three sections. Each correct answer receives 1 mark. Whether Academic or General Training, the test structure remains consistent, though text styles differ. Candidates have 60 minutes to complete. The Academic test includes academic passages, while the General Training test features practical texts.
The IELTS Writing test comprises two modules, Academic and General, both designed to assess written communication skills through two tasks each. In Academic Writing Task 1, candidates describe visual data in a minimum of 150 words within 20 minutes, while Task 2 entails writing a minimum 250-word essay expressing and justifying an opinion in 40 minutes. In General Training, Task 1 requires composing a minimum 150-word letter in 20 minutes, and Task 2 involves crafting a minimum 250-word essay with supporting arguments in 40 minutes.
Benefits of GMAT Exam
The GMAT, or Graduate Management Admission Test, offers numerous benefits for individuals aiming to build a career in business or management. GMAT scores are acknowledged by over 2000 business schools worldwide, including more than 7000 Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master in Management (MIM) programs, making it the preferred choice for admission into these prestigious institutions. Beyond academia, a strong GMAT score also holds significance in competitive job markets, especially in fields like finance and consulting, where it underscores one’s analytical and problem-solving skills. Whether it's for MBA applications, job opportunities, or personal growth, the GMAT stands as a vital step towards achieving success in the dynamic world of business and management.
