Higher studies
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.
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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.
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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
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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/
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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Distance Learning: Top Universities Offering Online Courses for International Students
As the world grappled with the reality of the pandemic, most of the academic activities across the world moved to online platforms. Educational institutions utilized technological tools to provide classes and even hold exams. And with that, the concept of distance learning resurged in the limelight. Many renowned universities offered distance learning even before the pandemic. With time, it is becoming a popular and convenient way of attaining a higher degree. This article looks at some of the best international universities providing distance learning opportunities.
What is Distance Learning?
The concept of distance learning is nothing new. The earliest example of distance learning dates back to the 1840s. Back then, Sir Issac Pitman taught shorthand to his students via postal mail. However, today’s concept of distance learning largely differs from that of the 1800s.
Distance learning today essentially mimics an actual classroom with teachers and students. Universities across the globe partner with platforms like Coursera, and edX to provide certification courses to aspiring students. Some universities offer these courses on their own platform. Recently, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees are also made available through distance learning opportunities.
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8 Best Universities in the World with Distance Learning Opportunities
This list includes universities offering certificate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. It's important to note that distance learning bachelor’s programs are less common than master’s or certificate courses.
University College London
University College London or UCL was founded in 1826. It was established after the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. In addition to their London campus, the university has campuses in Qatar and Australia.
UCL has 11 academic wings ranging from arts and humanities to medical sciences. It ranks 12th in US News’ list of Best Global Universities. The university offers 403 undergraduate degrees. Additionally, it offers 621 master’s degrees, and 271 online courses/degrees. The online courses are a mix of certificate as well as postgraduate degrees in all of their available academic wings.
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Study in New Zealand: Application process, cost for international students
From the creeks of Wellington to the nestled cityscape of Christchurch, the southern end of the Pacific treasures the beautiful country of New Zealand. This small island country is also a growing hub for higher study. With a rich culture, excellent academia, and perfect career growth opportunities, New Zealand can be a higher study destination. Let’s take a look at the study opportunities in New Zealand for international students at the bachelor, master's, and Ph.D. levels.
Why Study in New Zealand?
New Zealand has somewhat modest options compared to Nordic and central European countries. It might even pale compared to its Tasmanian rivals Australia with just 8 universities in total.
But that’s where the catch is. Even though New Zealand has only 8 universities, all of them are listed in the top 500 of the QS World Ranking. Additionally, all the New Zealand universities are part of the Lisbon Qualification Recognition Convention, which allows their degree to be recognized in 50 countries across the world.
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The universities and curriculum are inclined to research as every university offers excellent pedagogy and outcome-based study facilities. New Zealand also offers up to 3 years of post-study visa to secure a job and build a career.
Additionally, the quality of life index in New Zealand is very high at 188 suggesting a perfect mix of PPI, health security as well as overall economic well-being.
Higher Study In New Zealand
New Zealand has a total of 8 universities and over 100 specialized institutions for training-based studies as well as Polytechnic studies. International students can access any of the universities or institutes, but the high concentration has always been on the university.
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Popular streams include business and engineering, with a strong choice for life sciences as well. The university tracks accept students through an individual assessment based on available positions.
There is no centralized admission process in New Zealand for all universities. There are two intakes in New Zealand each year, one in February and the other in September.
Application for the February session starts around September of the previous year, whereas the application for the September intake starts around May of the same year.
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For bachelor's, students will have to exclusively follow the central admission process of each university. For thesis-based masters and Ph.D., a prospective student can contact professors to supervise and they might fast-track the application process through recommendations.
Application Process
There are several steps involved in the admission process in New Zealand. And it all starts with choosing the right major and stream.
Choosing a Major
Since New Zealand has only 8 universities, there aren’t any dedicated websites for searching different streams and majors in different universities. So students will have to individually visit the admission section of the universities.
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You can check out the details here:
-University of Auckland
-University of Otago
-University of Canterbury
-Victoria University of Wellington
-Auckland University of Technology
-Massey University
-University of Waikato
-Lincoln University
In addition to streams and courses, students can also follow these websites for admission timelines and guidelines.
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Required Documents
The second thing to consider is the required documents for the application. New Zealand doesn’t have any specialized requirements like some Nordic countries. Standard certified copies of documents are accepted either through mail or web portal. Some of the common documents applicable across the board include –
-Official Transcripts (Last completed Degree) -LOR -Statement of Purpose -Language Proficiency certification (IELTS/TOEFL iBT) -Proof of application fee payment -Bank statement -Additionally, some universities or majors may specifically require a GRE or GMAT score in case of applying for an MBA. Be sure to check that before proceeding.
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Cost of Higher Education in New Zealand
With just 8 universities, it's pretty easy to break down the overall cost of education in New Zealand.
The cost of bachelors in New Zealand is roughly 32,000 NZD per year which translates to about 2121228 BDT (1 NZD = 66 BDT). On the other hand, the cost of master's is about 35,000 NZD or 2320093 BDT. The cost gets reduced for Ph.D. at around 8000 NZD or 530307 BDT per year.
The New Zealand regulation stipulates that you show at least a year’s tuition fee as a bank statement before arriving in New Zealand. Of course, there are other opportunities to cover the tuition fees, and we’ll discuss that in the next points.
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Scholarship Opportunities in New Zealand
Since the higher study options themselves are limited in New Zealand, the scholarships are also somewhat limited. There are little to no scholarships available at the bachelor's level, with most of the scholarships available at the master's and Ph.D. levels.
Most of the available scholarships are university-based and students are either referred for the scholarship by the professor (in the case of thesis-based masters) or considered by the central admission authority.
Some notable scholarships include –
Lincoln University International Taught Master Merit Scholarships
Wellington Master’s by Thesis Scholarship
Tongarewa Scholarship at Victoria University of Wellington
University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship
University of Waikato International Excellence Scholarship
Energy Scholarship at the University of Canterbury.
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Cost of Living and Work Opportunities in New Zealand
The cost of living in New Zealand is on the higher side, mostly due to the high rent fees in city centers. A single-room apartment may cost up to 1500 NZD. Combined with personal expenses and utilities, the cost comes in at around 3000 NZD per month or 198865 BDT.
Students are allowed to work 20 hours per week at max with 40 hours being the cap at summer vacation.
Thankfully, New Zealand has a high minimum wage starting at around 18.50 NZD per hour.
After completion of the study, a student can convert their student visa into a job visa. The median salary for a fresh graduate in New Zealand stands at around 80,000 NZD or 5303071 BDT per year.
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Final Words
Even though New Zealand is a small island country across the end of the Pacific, it still boasts some of the best education in its limited capacity. With over 20,000 international students currently pursuing different degrees at different levels, New Zealand is also growing to be a multicultural, cosmopolitan country. The lenient immigration law combined with ample work and career prospects should be a positive indicator for Bangladeshi students wishing to pursue higher studies in New Zealand.
Study in Ireland: Application process, cost for international students
From the Wild Atlantic Way to the Brú na Bóinne, Ireland is undoubtedly one of the most scenic countries in the world. Being part of the British Union, the country thrived in the middle to late middle ages and today presents a mix of cultural heritage and modernity. The country has professed development in the education sector.
Ireland owns some of the best higher study institutes in the world which have steadily positioned the country as an affordable, world-class higher study destination among prospective students. Let's look at the process and requirements to study bachelor, master's, or Ph.D. in Irish higher study institutions.
Why Study in Ireland?
The main reason to study in Ireland has to be world-class, progressive, and innovation-led studies in almost every discipline. And it's just not in words; the OECD report of 2019 puts Ireland as the 4th best study destination in the world. In addition to that, the Bloomberg Innovation Index of 2020 puts Ireland as the 12th most innovative country in the world.
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Beyond its academic and innovative rigor, Ireland is home to some of the most scenic places in the western hemisphere. From the castles to the ridges to the shires, the views will fill your senses, unlike anything.
Another great thing about Ireland is the stay-back visa. Ireland welcomes its international graduates to stay back, find jobs, and contribute to the Irish economy. In that regard, the country offers up to 2 years of stay-back visa for students to find a job and settle in Ireland.
Higher Education in Ireland
Like most other EU countries, Ireland offers higher education through bachelor's, master's, and Ph.D. There are generally two intakes per year, one in the fall and the other in the spring. The spring semester starts in early January, and the fall semester starts in early September.
The bachelor's generally last for about three to four years, the masters for about one and a half to two years, and the Ph.D. usually lasts for about three to five years.
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How to Apply to Ireland for Higher Studies
There are several steps for applying to Ireland for higher studies. Here are the main ones.
Finding the Right Course
The first thing to do is to find the right course. If you are a student applying for bachelor's, you can choose streams based on your preference. And if you are a student applying for a master's or Ph.D., then you can choose courses based on your bachelor's stream or research interest.
The Education in Ireland portal is the perfect place to search for streams and degrees available at each of the degree levels. It is a repository for all the existing higher education programs in Ireland. You can easily find your desired course here.
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Admission Requirements
The admission requirements in Irish Universities are in line with most EU countries. Depending on courses and streams, the application and admission requirements may vary. But you will at least need the following in any application.
-Official Transcripts (Last completed Degree) -LOR (Up to three)-Statement of Purpose -Language Proficiency certification (IELTS/TOEFL iBT) -Bank statement -Proof of application fee payment
One thing to note here is that most Irish Universities require at least 6.5 to 7.0 on the IELTS band. It's one of the stringent regulations that apply to most universities except for a few. If you cannot secure the required band score, you might have to enroll in a foundation course at your accepted university.
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Application Process
There are mainly two ways to apply to Irish Universities. Either through the central application or a professor. If you are applying for bachelors, then the central application is the only way.
But if your masters are thesis-based or you’re applying for a Ph.D., then you can opt for a professor referral as well as a central application. Note that applying through a professor’s referral ensures better chances of securing funding.
Tuition Fee and Scholarship Opportunities in Ireland
Tuition fees in Ireland grossly differ based on whether it is a publicly funded or privately funded university. Depending on the course and the university, the undergraduate tuition fee can run anywhere between 3500 euros to 8000 euros or 377,742 BDT to 863,657 BDT per year (1 EUR = 107 BDT).
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Tuition costs for masters are also similar at around 4000 euros to 9000 euros or 431828 BDT to 971614 BDT per year. Unfortunately, the cost of a Ph.D. is some of the highest in the world at around 9000 euros for non-EU/EEA students. But most prospective Ph.D. opts for funding first before pursuing a doctorate in Ireland.
In terms of scholarship, masters and Ph.D. students gets the most preference. Unfortunately, the number of bachelor’s scholarships is very limited in Ireland. Some of the common and prestigious scholarships in Ireland include –
-Dublin City University Scholarship
-University of Limerick Scholarship
-Dublin Institute of Technology Scholarship
-The Walsh Fellowship
-Central Bank of Ireland Undergraduate Scholarship
-Trinity College Dublin Scholarship.
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Cost of Living and Work Opportunities in Ireland
The cost of living in Ireland is one of the more lucrative aspects of studying in the country. Compared to other EU countries and even England, the cost of living is much lower. A student can expect to shell out anywhere between 650 euros to 1000 euros or 70172 BDT or 107957 BDT per month. Depending on location and personal spending habits, the cost can be even lower.
A full-time student can work for 20 hours per week as per the immigration law of Ireland. The time goes up to 40 hours in summer vacation. As a student working part-time jobs, you can expect to earn around 10 to 12 euros per hour.
Final Words
Beyond its picturesque cities, Ireland offers some of the best education you can find anywhere in the world. Besides education, Ireland is currently one of the most immigration-friendly countries in the world, with the government actively encouraging students to stay back and build a career in Ireland.
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So far we have discussed the admission process, tuition, and living cost of international students in bachelor, master, or Ph.D. in Ireland. Students from Bangladesh can choose Ireland as a study hub to fulfill their dreams. So what are you waiting for? Apply away to experience Irish life.
Study in Thailand: Admission process, cost for International Students
If you were to name some of the most happening places worldwide, Thailand would easily top the list. From its luscious nature, white elephants, delectable cuisines, and possibly the best nightlife experience in the globe, Thailand has more to offer than meets the eye. But many don’t know about the thriving higher education opportunity in Thailand. Let's find out whether this Asian peninsula can be your next higher study destination.
Why Study in Thailand?
As of 2022, Thailand is home to about 15,000 international students. It's easy to see why students choose Thailand. It's cheap, offers world-class education, and is a multicultural hub with a robust tourism sector.
This year 8 universities from Thailand made it to the QS Ranking of best universities across the globe. Additionally, almost all Thai universities consistently feature within the top 500 range in the Asian ranking.
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A prospective student can choose from 12 public and 39 private universities in Thailand. A regulatory body known as the Thai Qualifications Framework oversees and monitors higher education in Thailand.
The robust curriculum, industry-driven education, and practical implementation of knowledge easily make Thailand one of the best countries to pursue higher studies.
Admission Process in Thailand Universities
Just like western countries, Thailand primarily offers higher education in bachelor, masters, and Ph.D. The intakes are in spring and autumn, with expected classes to begin in the second week of January and September, respectively.
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The process of admission starts around three months before class commencement. Most Thai universities follow a rolling admission process, so students should prepare at least a year before the intended admission semester.
Required Document
There is no central application system in Thailand. So a prospective student will have to apply to each university individually. Depending on the universities, the required document also differs. But some universal documents apply to almost every university.
Application form
-Certificate of graduation (Last passed examination for bachelors, masters, and Ph.D.) -Academic transcripts (Last passed ones for bachelors, masters, and Ph.D.) -GRE (Only for Bachelors) -LOR -Statement of Purpose -Language proficiency certification (IELTS/ TOEFL-iBT) -Application fee payment receipt
Additionally, the transcripts need to be notarized or translated if they are not in English.
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Application Process
Almost every university in Thailand follows a central admission system as outlined by the specific university. The process applies to bachelors, masters, and Ph.D. as well.
However, for thesis-based masters, candidates may contact professors beforehand. While the applicant will still have to go through the central admission and screening process, managing a supervisor will expedite the process.
The admission process for Ph.D. exclusively requires a supervisor owing to the nature of the degree.
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For each session, the admission occurs on a rolling basis. So it's recommended to apply early.
Scholarship Opportunities in Thailand
Scholarship opportunities in Thailand can be divided into several streams. There are government-funded ones as well as organizational scholarships available for prospective students.
There are also specialized scholarships dedicated to a specific stream. For example, the SIIT scholarship (https://www.siit.tu.ac.th/admission.php?sid=21). It is one of the prestigious scholarships provided to masters and Ph.D. students who holds an exceptional academic track record and industry insight.
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The scholarship is provided to students of life sciences and engineering. The scholarship covers everything from tuition, accommodation, and living expenses for the awarded students.
Other scholarship opportunities include –
Petchra Pra Jom Klao Scholarships (https://iadmission.kmutt.ac.th/afford/scholarship)
Chulalongkorn University Scholarships for International Students (https://www.grad.chula.ac.th/en/scholarship.php?type=1)
PSU-Med ISG Scholarships (https://grad.psu.ac.th/en/news/scholarship/953-142.html)
TIPP Scholarship (https://tica-thaigov.mfa.go.th/en/page/cate-7115-what-is-tipp?menu=605b1272233f4b075654ba92)
Mahidol Postgraduate Scholarships for International Students (https://graduate.mahidol.ac.th/inter/?p=scholarship)
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While most of these scholarships are available for the postgraduate level, some are available for the graduate level as well. Almost all of these scholarships are based on merit so expect tough competition to secure one.
Associated Costs of Higher Studies in Thailand
Cost of Education in Thailand
One of the key reasons behind the popularity of Thailand as a study-abroad destination is the affordable tuition structure. But the affordability is mostly limited to public universities as private universities can run an eye-watering sum each year.
The cost of education in public universities at the undergraduate level is around 1700 euros or 1,88,063 BDT per semester. For masters, the cost is around 2000 euros or 2,21,250 BDT per semester (1 EUR = 110 BDT).
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But for a private university, the cost can be as high as 20,000 euros or 22,12,505 BDT per year for bachelors. For masters, it can cost up to 14,000 euros 15,48,754 BDT per year. The Ph.D. cost is relatively cheap at around 700 euros or 77,437 BDT per year.
Living Costs in Thailand
The cost of living in Thailand greatly depends on the location you’re staying. Downtown Bangkok would cost much more compared to Chiang Mai or Lampang.
On average, a student can expect to spend around $600 or 64,079 BDT to $1200 or 1,28,158 BDT on living expenses in Thailand every month (1 USD = 106 BDT). The sum isn’t fixed, and it will greatly depend on the lifestyle and spending habits of the student.
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Work Opportunity in Thailand
An international student will need to obtain a permit from the immigration office to be eligible for part-time jobs alongside studies. A student can work up to 20 hours per week as per the stipulated regulation.
The minimum wage in Thailand is around $9.27 per hour. So a student working 20 hours per week can expect to earn around $ 750 or 80,099 BDT per month.
Final Thoughts
Thailand has much to offer beyond its touristy cities and neon-flooded nights. The country of the white elephant is steadily becoming the perfect study-abroad destination for many prospective international students.
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The accredited certificates, practical skill-oriented education, and a great career opportunity are sure to be lucrative for many. The diverse stream of education is another plus point of Thai higher education. Even though the country is heavily focused on industrial development, arts and humanities studies are equally thriving.
Additionally, there are generous scholarships and work opportunities for students. So it won’t be very difficult to finance the education once you’re admitted to a university. On the whole, it can be said that international students including Bangladesh have scopes for higher studies in Thailand.