Study Abroad
Staying Safe When Studying Abroad: Essential Considerations
Studying abroad is a dream for many, offering quality education, cultural exploration, and a global perspective. However, this exciting journey comes with challenges and safety concerns that students must navigate. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure a safe and enriching experience abroad.
Before You Leave Home: Key Preparations
Research Your Destination
Thorough research about the destination country is crucial. Each country has unique rules, regulations, customs, and social norms. What may seem like a new experience to you could be viewed as cultural appropriation by locals. Utilize resources like Google, YouTube, and social media for insights on where to live, what to eat, what to avoid, and potential scams. This preparation will give you a solid head start.
Read more: Distance Learning: Top Universities Offering Online Courses for International Students
Health Checkup and Vaccinations
If you have any medical conditions, a pre-departure health checkup is advisable. Keep a copy of your medical report and your medications for personal and emergency reference. Additionally, many countries have specific vaccination requirements. For instance, Japan requires the measles and rubella vaccine for all visitors. Check if your destination has similar prerequisites and consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance for emergencies.
Kyrgyz Deputy Minister of Education assures safety for Bangladeshi students
Kyrgyzstan Deputy Minister of Education Rasul Abazbek on Wednesday (May 22, 2024) assured the safety of Bangladeshi students in the country.
He gave the assurance when Bangladesh Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan (resident in Tashkent, Uzbekistan) Dr Md Monirul Islam met with him, according to a press release.
Bangladeshi students in Kyrgyzstan capital are safe: Foreign Minister
Minister of the Embassy M Nazmul Alam was present at the meeting, according to a press release.
Addressing a recent incident in Bishkek, the ambassador emphasised the need for a safe and favorable environment for Bangladeshi students studying in various Kyrgyz universities. He urged the Deputy Minister to allow online classes for the next few months, catering to the students' requests. The Ambassador also highlighted the potential for expanding bilateral cooperation in education between Bangladesh and Kyrgyzstan.
“Conveyed our concerns to Kyrgyzstan; no Bangladeshi student severely injured”: Foreign Minister
Deputy Minister Abazbek assured the ambassador that both government authorities and university administrations are committed to ensuring the safety of all foreign students, including those from Bangladesh. He also promised to positively consider the request for online classes and expressed interest in signing a Memorandum of Understanding on educational cooperation with Bangladesh.
Ambassador Islam further discussed issues related to education, security, accommodation, transportation, and food with university officials. The university authorities assured the Ambassador of their vigilance and active efforts to ensure the well-being and security of Bangladeshi students.
Mob attack in Kyrgyzstan: Panicked Bangladeshi students want to return home for a few weeks
Where to Learn the French Language in Dhaka
French is becoming increasingly popular among professionals and students in Bangladesh. Being one of the leading international languages of the world, skills in the French language can open career and academic opportunities for Bangladeshis. Besides, several European countries and Canada value French language skills for immigration. Let’s delve into several learning centers in Dhaka that offer French language courses.
Some Popular Places to Learn French in Dhaka City
Alliance Française de Dhaka
Alliance Française de Dhaka or AFD is the premier organization in Bangladesh for learning French. The non-profit organization has been working in Bangladesh since 1959 and is playing a key role in promoting French art and culture in the country.
AFD offers French learning options for children, teens, and adults. They have both extensive and intensive courses for each level. In addition to A1, A2, B1, and B2, AFD also has a “Beginner” course to start things off from absolute basics. All of the classes are conducted offline.
The course duration is about 40 hours for the extensive program and 76 hours for the intensive one. The cost varies depending on the age group and course type. The fees range from 3,500 BDT (non-beginner children) to 16,600 BDT (extensive adults). The intensive program for adults can cost up to 19,800 BDT with books.
Read more: Essential Skills to Learn Before Going to Study Abroad
Institute of Modern Languages (IML), Dhaka University
The Institute of Modern Languages of Dhaka University is one of the oldest language research projects and learning institutes in Bangladesh. Founded in 1974, IML works as an instituted faculty under Dhaka University and offers bachelor's, master's, Ph.D., and M.Phil. in selected linguistics and culture.
Currently, IML offers non-degree certificate courses in 13 different languages including French. The French language course curriculum comprises 1 year in the junior certificate course and senior certificate course. The minimum requirement to be admitted to the junior certificate course is to have at least a 2.5 GPA in HSC.
There’s also a 3-month long short course (60 Hours) on French language. All of the classes are conducted offline. The application fee is 500 BDT and the course fee is 9,500 BDT.
BRAC Institute of Languages (BIL), BRAC University
BRAC Institute of Languages or BIL is the third UGC-approved language research institute of Bangladesh. BIL started its journey in modular form offering English language courses to the students of BRAC University back in 2005.
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Over the years, the modular structure evolved into a structured language research institute which was then renamed as BIL in 2012.
As part of its Modern Languages curriculum, BIL offers courses in 7 different languages including French. Currently, BIL offers on-campus offline beginner-level courses in French. The course fee for the program is 6150 BDT.
Shield Language Academy Dhaka
Shield Language Academy Dhaka is another leading institute for learning French in Dhaka. With over several years of experience, Shield is a trusted language learning center specializing in different languages.
Shield Academy offers A1 to B2 level programs for the French language. The duration for each of the courses is 4 months with 2 classes per week. The cost of each course is 16,500 BDT. Additionally, the admission fee will be 1000 BDT and the textbook and workbook fee will also be 1000 BDT.
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AIUB Institute of Continuing Education
AIUB Institute of Continuing Education started its journey back in 2007 as a means to provide technical skill development programs to the graduates of the university. The aim was to make them industry-ready and initiate essential skills to thrust them ahead in the job market.
Over the years, AIUB ICE has expanded into a diverse foray of skill development including foreign language courses. Currently, it provides A1, A2, B1, and B2 level French courses to its students as well as outsiders.
The duration of the French course of ICE is about 4 months. Classes are held on Fridays and the medium of instruction is online. The cost of each level is 9000 BDT.
Daffodil Institute of Languages, Daffodil University
Daffodil Institute of Languages was formed as part of Daffodil University’s outreach upskilling program. DIL aims to provide certified knowledge of foreign languages to individuals to help in their career prospects. Currently, DIL offers certificate courses in English, pre-university English, Japanese, Chinese, French, and Quranic Arabic.
Read more: 10 Best Free Android Apps to Learn English Vocabulary
Currently, DIL is offering an A1-level French course. The duration of the course is 2 months with three classes per week. The cost of the course is 30,000 BDT including the registration fee for the A1 DELF exam.
Free Websites for Online IELTS Mock Tests
Preparing for the IELTS (Higher Education International English Language Testing System) exam is crucial to achieving academic and professional goals. One effective way to enhance your readiness is by taking online IELTS mock tests. These practice tests are simulations of the actual exam that not only familiarise the test takers with the format of the real IELTS test; but also provide insights into their strengths and weaknesses. Let’s explore some popular free online platforms to take IELTS preparation tests.
Best Free Websites for Online IELTS practice Tests in 2024
British Council Bangladesh
The British Council is one of the most reliable choices for free IELTS mock tests, particularly beneficial for Bangladeshi students. This platform uniquely focuses on the authenticity in maintaining test standards. Their tests closely emulate the actual exam, providing a realistic test environment.
The official IELTS website's free practice tests cover all sections and ensure a comprehensive simulation with detailed answer keys and band score estimations.
You can take your practice test here
https://takeielts.britishcouncil.org/take-ielts/prepare/free-ielts-english-practice-tests
Read more: Essential Skills to Learn Before Going to Study Abroad
IELTS.live
IELTS.live distinguishes itself by offering an interactive experience, providing immediate feedback for test-takers to pinpoint areas for improvement. This free platform is valuable for those desiring dynamic practice sessions.
Additionally, this website provides free online practice tests for all sections and allows users to assess readiness and identify improvement areas. Thus it enriches the overall IELTS preparation experience. Feel free to conduct a mock test here
https://www.ielts.live/collection/23/ielts-ac-mock-with-answers-(-vol-1-)
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E2 Test Prep
E2 Test Prep is unique for its adaptive learning, customising difficulty levels based on individual performance for an efficient IELTS preparation journey.
The platform offers valuable free resources, including timed mock tests, vocabulary quizzes, and concise grammar lessons. It is ideal for Bangladeshi aspirants seeking a tailored and effective approach to IELTS readiness. You can take a mock test through the link below
https://promo.e2language.com/free-full-ielts-mock-test/
Read more: Higher Education Abroad: How Bangladeshis Can Open Student Files
Mentors
Mentors is one of the most popular platforms for IELTS preparation in Bangladesh. Besides offering physical classes and practice tests for IELTS preparation, Mentors offers a user-friendly online interface, providing free resources for IELTS preparation. With a diverse range of question types, the platform presents comprehensive practice experience that can be accessed online.
Perfect for self-assessment, Mentors offers free mock tests for all sections, vocabulary quizzes, and grammar lessons. Ultimately it supports a well-rounded IELTS readiness journey. You can take a practice test here
https://www.ielts-mentor.com/ielts/ielts-quiz
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IELTS Liz
IELTS Liz emerges as another notable free resource for IELTS preparation, especially catering to Bangladeshi students. The platform garners praise for its clear explanations within comprehensive test modules.
This offers a varied array of free materials, including mock tests, vocabulary lists, and grammar lessons. So, it serves as a valuable tool for skill enhancement for IELTS preparation.
You can check your IELTS preparation through the links below
https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-reading-lessons-information-and-tips/
https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-listening/
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Why is Canada limiting international student permits? Who will be affected? Here are the details
In a move that marks a significant shift in its immigration policy, the Canadian government has announced a plan to limit the number of international student permits over the next two years. This decision, as reported by CBC, comes amidst growing concerns over housing availability and the operations of certain private colleges in the country.
The federal government plans to approve approximately 360,000 undergraduate study permits for 2024, which is a 35% reduction compared to the numbers from 2023. This cap will be distributed across Canadian provinces and territories based on population, leading to potentially sharper decreases in regions where the growth of the international student population has been deemed unsustainable.
Canada’s Immigration Minister Marc Miller highlighted that in some provinces, the reduction in permits might reach around 50 percent. Provinces and territories will have the autonomy to decide the allocation of permits among their universities and colleges. This cap is set to remain for two years, with a reassessment planned for the end of this year regarding the number of permits to be issued in 2025.
Read: US embassy holds “Super Friday” to help meet huge demand for student visa interviews
The immigration minister expressed concerns about the practices of some small private colleges, criticizing their exploitation of international students. He accused these institutions of operating under-resourced campuses, lacking adequate student support, while charging high tuition fees and substantially increasing their intake of international students. In a detailed interview with the CBC, Miller spoke about institutions offering dubious business degrees, with possibly hundreds of such schools operating in Canada, a number that has surged in recent years.
Alongside the permit cap, the Canadian government announced significant changes to the post-graduation work permit program. Starting September, international students enrolled in programs under curriculum licensing arrangements with private colleges will no longer be eligible for post-graduation work permits. Conversely, graduates from master’s and other short graduate-level programs will soon be able to apply for a three-year work permit. Spouses of international students in master’s and doctoral programs will also be eligible for open work permits.
Read: Bangladesh requests Germany to expedite student visa processing
The housing crisis in Canada, exacerbated by the influx of international students, played a critical role in this policy change. Mike Moffatt, an assistant professor at the Ivey Business School at Western University and a senior director at the Smart Prosperity Institute, emphasized the urgent need for such measures. He pointed out the substantial impact of international students on housing markets in various cities, with low-income renters struggling for limited rental spots and investors buying single-family homes for student rentals, which hinders first-time home buyers.
Read more: Australia changes int'l student visa rules
Recent polls indicate increasing public concern about the influence of immigration levels on the housing situation in Canada. This policy shift by the federal government reflects an attempt to address these multifaceted issues, balancing the needs of the education sector, international students, and the broader Canadian community.
Essential Skills to Learn Before Going to Study Abroad
Annually, thousands of students embark on a journey beyond their borders to pursue higher education. This adventure, although promising, can be laden with challenges. To navigate these waters successfully, students must arm themselves with a set of skills that transcend academic prowess. This guide delves into the top ten skills indispensable for a rewarding study abroad experience.
10 Essential Skills to Learn Before Going to Study Abroad
Independence: The Foundation of Overseas Education
Independence is the most significant transformation students encounter when studying abroad. It's a multifaceted skill encompassing self-reliance and responsibility. From basic chores like laundry and grocery shopping to more complex tasks like managing personal finances and making informed decisions, independence is critical. Developing problem-solving skills to tackle unexpected challenges is equally important, as it ensures students can handle various situations without constant guidance.
Read more: 10 Essential Life Skills for Teens to Learn before College
Research and Planning: Your Blueprint for Success
A thorough understanding of your destination's culture, legal system, and day-to-day life is vital. This means researching not just your academic institution and its curriculum, but also local customs, public transportation, and essential services. Effective planning helps mitigate culture shock and eases the transition, making your study abroad experience more enjoyable and less overwhelming.
Financial Literacy: Navigating Economic Waters Abroad
Mastering local banking systems and effective budgeting are paramount. Learn how to open a bank account, manage transactions, and understand currency exchange rates. Budgeting becomes a lifeline abroad; it involves setting realistic spending limits for various needs, including rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. Regularly tracking expenses helps avoid financial pitfalls and ensures a sustainable lifestyle.
Cross-Cultural Communication: Bridging the Gap
Adapting to a new culture requires a deep understanding of both verbal and non-verbal communication. This includes being aware of cultural norms in conversation, greetings, and gestures. Respectful and empathetic communication is key to forming meaningful relationships and avoiding misunderstandings. Embracing the local language, even at a basic level, can significantly enrich interactions and open doors to deeper cultural insights.
Adaptability and Empathy: The Heart of Cultural Immersion
The ability to adapt to new environments and empathize with different cultures is crucial. This skill is about more than just surviving; it's about thriving in a foreign setting. Adaptability means being open to new experiences, whether it’s adjusting to different academic structures or embracing unique social customs. Empathy allows you to appreciate and respect cultural differences, fostering a more inclusive and enriching experience.
Higher Education Abroad: How Bangladeshis Can Open Student Files
Every year, thousands of Bangladeshi students go abroad for higher studies. Researches show that the number of students going abroad has tripled over the last 15 years. With such a huge volume of students going abroad, there is a natural question: How are the living costs or the tuition fees transferred from Bangladesh? This is where the student file comes in.
What is a Student File?
According to the regulation of Bangladesh Bank, there is no direct channel to send money to a foreign account from an existing local savings/current account. There is also a limit on how much foreign currency can be carried in each foreign trip (US$ 12,000) as well as a limit on credit card payments.
In such a scenario, a student opting to study abroad faces an imminent challenge regarding tuition fee payment or remitting the cost of living. Some European universities require students to maintain a “Block Account” which essentially withholds the entire cost of study and disburses locally to the students as per their need.
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A student file essentially bypasses this regulation legally where the bank remits the payment on behalf of the student. A student file is the only authorized way through which a student can send their tuition fee or remit the living cost abroad.
How to Open a Student File?
The process of opening a student file is pretty straightforward. At first, the student or their legal guardian needs to open a savings account with a relevant bank that offers the student file service. After that, the bank can entertain the request for opening a student account.
Typically, a student account can be opened on the same day as that of the application. The cost of opening a student file and the documents required vary from bank to bank.
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But first, here’s what’s needed to open a savings account.
- Passport-size picture of the account holder (to be attested by the introducer)- NID/ Passport copy - Passport-size picture of the nominee - NID/Passport copy of the nominee - Utility bill copy (for address verification).
Typically, the following documents are required for opening a student file in any bank.
- All academic certificates (original and copy)- All academic transcripts (original and copy)- IELTS certificate - Copy of passport - Visa document - Acceptance letter from the university - Tuition and living cost certificate - Detailed information about the financer.
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Which Banks Provide Student File Service?
Several leading banks in Bangladesh provide student file service including some government banks. However, it is important to note that due to the recent dollar crunch and new regulations from Bangladesh Bank, some banks are not opening new student files but are continuing to operate the existing ones. Also, having a savings account in the relevant bank is a key prerequisite for opening a student file.
Graduate Programs in the US: Guide for Bangladeshi Students
If you want to boost your chances of a great career, consider studying in the USA. Students from Bangladesh and other parts of the world can grab this opportunity and choose from thousands of graduate programs. This educational journey in the USA offers not just academic excellence but also opens doors to a successful future. Here is a detailed guideline for international students to find their desired graduate program in the USA.
Ways to Search for Academic Programs and Universities in the US
Before you start looking at universities in the US, define your criteria first, such as location, programs, and budget. This will help narrow down your choices and make your search more focused. After that, follow the following steps.
Start at the US Department of Education College Navigator
Begin your journey by visiting the US Department of Education College Navigator website. This comprehensive platform allows you to search for associate’s, bachelor’s, and advanced degrees (master's and doctoral), making it an excellent starting point for exploring a wide range of programs.
You can get a list of universities by applying different search filters.
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The American Center
Talking to someone who knows about studying in the US can be really helpful. In that case, you can check EducationUSA. EducationUSA is a network by the US Department of State, and they have three advising centers in Dhaka and Chattogram. You can visit one of these centers near you to get information. You may attend virtual webinars online to learn more about American universities.
EducationUSA offers precise and up-to-date information on all accredited US higher education institutions. Geared toward prospective students, the center provides comprehensive services for those aspiring to pursue higher education in the United States.
Further, EducationUSA offers step-by-step programs guiding students through the application process. Weekly seminars are conducted for each application step, and individual counseling with advisers is available to further support students in their educational journey.
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Top 10 International Scholarships for Women to Study Abroad
International scholarship opportunities for women to pursue higher studies have increased in recent years, providing more options for women to access higher education and achieve their academic and professional goals. International scholarships cover various fields of study, including science, technology, engineering, mathematics, arts, humanities, and social sciences, enabling women to pursue their academic interests and advance their careers.
In addition to covering tuition fees and other academic expenses, these scholarships also provide financial support for living expenses, travel, and other related costs. Let's take a look at some of the best scholarship opportunities for women from any country.
10 International Fully Funded Scholarships for Women
To support and empower female scholars, there are a number of scholarships available to help women pursue their education. These scholarships range from full-tuition awards to smaller grants. Here are ten scholarships for women that can help you achieve your educational goals.
1. UNESCO Scholarship for Women
The L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Awards, established in 1998, has honored 122 pioneering female scientists for their remarkable contributions to research. Five of these awardees have since been awarded the Nobel Prize.
Every year, the L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science International Awards recognize five eminent female scientists – from Africa and the Arab States, Asia and the Pacific, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, and North America – for their research accomplishments, dedication to their field, and social influence.
The For Women in Science Program has earned a reputation for excellence worldwide, providing backing to around 3,900 female scientists across 116 countries. Moreover, it has made visible the incredible achievements of these women and serves as a source of inspiration to young girls contemplating a career in science.
Depending on the country and year, this fellowship's deadline may vary from late March to Early September.
Check this link for more info: https://www.unesco.org/en/prizes/women-science
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2. British Council Women in STEM
The British Council Women in STEM Scholarships program has been operating for the last three years and is partnered with 19 UK universities. The program seeks female applicants with a STEM background who require financial assistance and who wish to motivate other women to pursue STEM careers. These scholarships are available to women from the Americas, South Asia, East Asia, Western Balkans, Central Asia, Brazil, Egypt, Mexico, and Turkey.
UNESCO reported that in 2019, women only made up 30% of the world's researchers, and only 30% of female students choose STEM-related fields in higher education. Despite this, the number of women in STEM has been gradually increasing, with the current figure standing at 35% (Anon, 2022). This scholarship program is focused on providing more opportunities for girls and women in the STEM fields.
Scholarship applications are accepted in September-October.
Check this link for more info: https://www.britishcouncil.org/study-work-abroad/in-uk/scholarship-women-stem
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3. CFA Women's Scholarship
Now the number of Chartered Financial Analysts or CFA-certified professionals is increasing all over the world. The CFA Institute offers scholarships to women to pursue a career as a CFA. The scholarship is given to specifically encourage women working in the investment management sector.
Under this scholarship program, the cost of signing up for the CFA Program has been waived, and the fee for taking the exam is now only $350. Usually, two application windows are offered for the scholarship from September to August.
Check this link for more info: https://www.cfainstitute.org/en/programs/cfa/scholarships/womens
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4. Australia Awards Scholarship
The Australian Federal Government's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade administers the Australia Awards, an international scholarship program designed to help students from other countries contribute to the economic and social development of their homeland.
There are opportunities to study in different universities in Australia through scholarships in 7 departments, including blue economy, health, industry-commerce, and public policy-economy-governance. This scholarship is given for Masters only. Female students are especially encouraged to apply for this scholarship. Generally, an IELTS score of 6.5 is accepted, but women can apply with a score of 6.0. Usually, the application window remains open from March to the end of April.
Check this link for more info: https://australiaawardsbangladesh.org/
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5. Generation Google Scholarship (EMEA)
The Generation Google Scholarship: for women in computer science was created to support students who are pursuing a degree in computer science and to help them thrive in technology and become influential figures in the field. Selected recipients will be granted 7,000 EUR (or its local equivalent) for the 2023-2024 academic year. This scholarship will be awarded based on the individual's dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion, leadership qualities, and academic success.
Any full-time female student can apply for this scholarship from the beginning of April, and the deadline is the end of April.
Check this link for more info: https://buildyourfuture.withgoogle.com/scholarships/generation-google-scholarship-emea
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Ausbildung in Germany for Non-EU Students including Bangladesh
Germany is known for their robust economy and education system. Being one of the strongest economies in the world, there is a constant need for foreign labor in the economy in its diverse sectors. So how does Germany go about hiring this foreign labor? That is where Ausbildung comes in. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Ausbildung for non-EU stuents and how students from Bangladesh can apply for Ausbildung in Germany.
What is Ausbildung?
Ausbildung means vocational training or apprenticeship. Germany has a strong industry-oriented job education which falls under its diverse categories of industries.
So rather than simply diverting the prospective workforce into class-based theoretical education, Ausbildung allows for a combination of theoretical and industry-oriented training to make every candidate industry ready.
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This allows for a hands-on experience that churns out a more effective and skilled labor force all the while reducing pressure on the higher academic degree. Unlike other countries of the world, Ausbildung is an important part of the German education system and an integral gateway to the industry.
Types of Ausbildung
In Germany, there are several types of "Ausbildung" or vocational training. The most common types of "Ausbildung" in Germany include:
Dual vocational training ("Duale Ausbildung")
Dual vocational training is the most common type of Ausbildung in Germany. In this curriculum, an Azubi or apprentice goes through both theoretical as well as practical learning. It’s a mix of technical as well as textbook learning and can last up to two and a half to three years. Apprentices are generally absorbed as skilled labor in their major fields.
Read More: Higher Study in Germany: Scholarship Opportunities for Bangladeshi and Other International Students
School-based vocational training ("Schulische Ausbildung")
School-based vocational training limits the learning prospects to the classroom only. In this type of Ausbildung, an Azubi will strictly be part of theoretical learning in a vocational training or technical training institute. Most of the students graduating from Schulische are generally certified, technicians.
Further vocational training ("Weiterbildung")
This form of training is for individuals who have already completed vocational training or have significant work experience in a particular field. It provides additional qualifications and skills that can help advance their career or improve their job prospects.