By Global Study Abroad, Singapore

13 August 2018

Study Group partners with the University of Waikato, one of New Zealand’s prestigious universities.

 

In a nutshell, the University of Waikato is ranked 274th in the world, among the world’s top 1.1% of universities according to the 2019 QS World University Rankings. Waikato is also rated between 351st and 400th in the world and 4th in New Zealand by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2018. This University aims to provide world-class quality education and research, bringing about a fulfilling and distinctive experience, and forging strong international links.

 

Waikato Pathway College is located in Hamilton, New Zealand’s fourth largest city, with a vibrant multicultural community and a feel of nature. New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland is just a short distance away.

 

This partnership is an expansion of Study Group’s New Zealand higher education pathway model. This means that students will now have more programme choices, progression options and study locations around the country. New Zealand offers a high quality, globally respected higher education that is affordable and safe. On top of that, there are opportunities to obtain a work visa after graduation.

 

The following are the courses offered in Waikato Pathway College:

• Certificate of Attainment in Foundation Studies
• Certificate of Attainment in Academic English
• General English Programme

 

Study Group will use its expertise in global education marketing and recruitment to grow and support the diverse international student community at Waikato Pathway College, starting in October 2018.

 

Click here for more information on the University of Waikato

 

Alternatively, you can call us at +65 63521121 or email us at info@gstudyabroad.com

 

Study Abroad, Think Global!

 

(Photo source: Bellerbys College Website)

 

By Global Study Abroad, Singapore

06 August 2018

Bellerbys College is a series of three private international co-educational boarding schools based in the UK that is owned by Study Group International.

 

Why do students choose Bellerbys College? The answer lies in 2 factors: Confidence & Choice

 

 

(Photo source: stockphotosecrets.com)

Confidence

In Bellerbys Foundation programme, the class size averages about 10-11 students. This give students more chance to interact with their teachers. Students in Bellerbys spend 25 hours per week which gives them an extra month to work on their academic abilities and social skills that will prepare them adequately for the university. In addition, Bellerbys also organise outdoor enrichment programme.

 

Students can choose from 12 different subject pathways shown below:

• Art and Design
• Business, Finance and Management
• Marketing
• Computing
• Chemical Engineering
• Engineering
• Humanities
• International Relations and Politics
• Law
• Media
• Science and Pharmacy

 

Students are required to take 10 modules (including core modules: English Skills and Computer IT) per pathway.

 

 

(Photo source: stockphotosecrets.com)

Choice

Bellerbys College provide students with weekly personal tutor service to guide them with the universities of their choice and prepare them for UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). Bellerbys also organise a bi-yearly university fair with over 40-50 universities present as well as planned visit to various universities. These, therefore, enable students to make a more informed choice.

 

(Photo source: Bellerbys College Website)

Take note that Bellerbys students would not be allowed to change their foundation pathway once confirmed. However, they can change to a course within their selected pathway in university. Once students have completed their foundation, they will be required to take an IELTS test (correct as of the time of writing, to be updated).

 

For more information on Bellerbys College, do drop us an email at info@gstudyabroad.com or fill in the enquiry form below. We also welcome walk-in consultations. Global Study Abroad provides free consultation services and offer scholarships and bursaries.


Study Abroad, Think Global!

 

 

(All photos are extracted from Bellerbys College website and stockphotosecrets.com)

By Global Study Abroad, Singapore

31 July 2018

Failed to make the cut for Physiotherapy in a local institution? Looking for a fulfilling overseas study experience? Fret not, because here in Global Study Abroad, we guide you in making your choice in this crucial phase of your life.

 

 

This article reveals some pathways that will eventually land you a Doctorate in Physiotherapy from a recognised American University.

 

But before that, we present to you the list of recognised qualifications in Physiotherapy from the United States:

 

1. Boston University
2. MGH Institute of Health Professions
3. Northwestern University
4. University of Pittsburgh
5. University of Southern California
6. Washington University in St. Louis

 

A standard route to mainstream American Universities makes up the first of the pathways. Students can pursue their Bachelor’s Degree from accredited American institutions such as those stated above, earning a cumulative GPA of 3.0 and above at the end of the course. Students are also required to complete prerequisite electives such as Chemistry and Physics.

 

Foundation pathway is another option that can be considered. Kings Education, in particular, guarantees graduation from a Top 100 US University. There are various transfer options such as the 2+2 transfer pathway in which students spend the first 2 years in Kings and the remaining 2 at the transfer university.

 

Community College is a cheaper option that is unique to the US. Green River College, in this case, provides student a 2+2 transfer pathway in which students will take a two-year program in USA through Green River College and transfer into the final two-year of a top US university. On top of that, students will be able to gain access to top universities without needing to take test preparations such as Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT).

 

 

We hope this article has provided you with the relevant information you need to make a choice. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any more enquiries. Alternatively, you can fill up the enquiry form below. Global Study Abroad is willing to take the extra mile to help you achieve your dream.

 

By Global Study Abroad, Singapore

24 July 2018

The University of Sheffield International College is proud to present the new St Vincent’s Place accommodation which is scheduled to open in Mid-August. It is fully managed by the University of Sheffield.

 

St Vincent’s Place, located just 2 mins away from the International College building, is a great fit for international students studying in Sheffield. This striking new development markedly includes a beautifully renovated Roman Catholic church which is a social space for students with a range of communal facilities. St Vincent’s Place offers over 500 fully-furnished and high quality student apartments and studios, not to mention free wifi access. All students under the age of 18 are guaranteed an accommodation in St Vincent’s Place.

 

(Accommodation must be booked at least three weeks prior to the start of term: Deadlines – Sept: 17th August | Jan: 7th Dec | March/April: 1st March)

 

USIC offers a 44-week contract (8 Sept 2018 – 13 July 2019) to students who have accepted the offer. The tenancy period aligns very closely with term dates including re-sit period. In addition, USIC allows the extension of tenancy if necessary.

 

Full tenancy at St Vincent’s Place is fixed at approximately £6,456. Any reservation of room made will require a £150 deposit. (Student can claim a refund if they choose not to take up tenancy) All tenants will receive a #BigSheffieldWelcome pack, which includes bedding & kitchen utensils, upon checking in. The rental of cluster flats in St Vincent’s Place at an estimated fee of £147 per week is another option. Rent includes all utility bills, basic insurance, high speed Wi-Fi, Residence Life activities and events. Additionally, there are studios available at £187.50 per week.

 

Once you have confirmed your offer to study at the college, a link will be send to you for registering an account on the University’s accommodation booking portal which can be used to manage payments, select and reserve your room.

 

 

Below shows a breakdown of the booking process:

 

• Opt-in for accommodation on your application
  
• Confirm your offer to study at the International College
  
• University Accommodation team will contact you via email (usually within a week‭)
  
• Set-up a password and login to the Accommodation portal (StarRez)
  
• Choose your accommodation and complete your application.
• Receive Residence contract via email (July)
  
• Accept terms and conditions and set up preferred method of payment
  
• Pay deposit (£150) to secure your room
  
• Collect room keys on arrival (details included in pre-arrival documents)
  
• Make any remaining accommodation payments directly to the University.

 

The University provides round the clock on-site security so students can focus on their studies and Residence Life Mentors who are Sheffield seniors living in the accommodation to help students adjust to life in the campus.

 

 

For more information on Sheffield’s latest accommodation, please do drop us an email at info@gstudyabroad.com or fill in the enquiry form below. We also welcome walk-in consultations. Global Study Abroad provides free consultation services and offer scholarships and bursaries.



Study Abroad, Think Global!

 

By Global Study Abroad, Singapore

17 July 2018

University of Sheffield International College (USIC) unveils a new Biological and Life Sciences foundation pathway route for students to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Dental Surgery at the University of Sheffield campus, come September 2018. 

 

 

In this pathway, students will study core modules consisting of Academic English Skills, Academic & Lab Skills and Academic Skills (Personal Development) as well as specific subjects (Chemistry, Biology and Foundational Mathematics) in the School of Clinical Dentistry to prepare for the Dentistry undergraduate program.

 

Here are some key facts to note:

Intake – September (Yearly)

Course Length:

• Foundation: Three terms (1 year)
• Undergraduate: 5 years

Minimum Age required: 

17 on the first day of school

Entry Requirements:

English Language:

Academic IELTS for UKVI – 6.5 (Minimum 6.0 for all skills)

Academic:

AS levels:

As for Chemistry and Biology, Minimally B for another subject

International Baccalaureate (IB) – 30 points

A levels – Minimally 2 Bs and 1 C

Polytechnic Diploma (Singapore) – Preferably a GPA of 3.0 and above

OR any other national equivalent

 

 

 

Progression requirements:

Once you accepted the offer to study at USIC, you will be offered a place at the University of Sheffield. However, this offer is subjected to the following criteria:

 

Academic: Minimum 70% GPA in the Biological & Life Sciences Pathway, with a minimum of 70% in Biology 1 & 2, and Chemistry 1 & 2

 

English Language: Minimum 70% for Academic English Skills, with a minimum of 65% in each component

 

Other Criteria:

 

• Completion of Discover Dentistry Mass Online Open Course (MOOC)
• Minimum score of 50% in the School of Clinical Dentistry
  Enhancement Elements Assessment
• No *‘red flag’ outcome in Situational Judgment Test recruitment outcome (in the form of an interview)
• UKCAT above threshold set at the discretion of the
  Admissions Tutor

 

*As this is a part of the recruitment process into the medical field, candidates need to be able to display their sensitive and empathetic side.

 

Fees:

Foundation:
Standard 2018 price: £17,620

 

Degree:
Annual Tuition Fees*

 

Year 1 = £21,450

Years 2-5 = £37,300 per annum

 

Annual NHS Dental Service Increment For Teaching (SIFT)*
Year 1 = N/A

Years 2-5 = approx. £33,000 per annum

 

* Based on 2017-18 rates, but subject to inflationary increases

Total cost over 6 years of study: £320,270

Average cost per annum = £53,378

 

University of Sheffield’s Bachelor Degree in Dental Surgery is internationally recognised and fully accredited by the General Dental Council (GDC). In addition, the School of Clinical Dentistry is linked to the Charles Clifford Dental Hospital, where the majority of clinical teaching takes place. Students can be assured that they have a high chance of being employed in their home country.

 

There’s still time for this September’s intake. If you have any enquiries about Sheffield Dentistry pathway, please do feel free to contact us through our email at info@gstudyabroad.com or fill in the enquiry form below. We also welcome walk-in consultations. Global Study Abroad provides free consultation services. We offer scholarships and bursaries.

 

Study Abroad, Think Global!

 

 

By Global Study Abroad, Singapore

Published on 13 July 2018

“Embracing Diversity”

Kings Education Special

During the USA Education Seminar on 9th June, we had a chance to talk to Ms Jane Elliott to find out what Kings Education has to offer and her views of studying abroad. Ms Jane Elliott is the Regional Manager in the South-East Asia branch of Kings Education.

 

Q1: Could you tell me about your role in Kings Education?

A: My role in Kings Education is Regional Manager for South-East Asia based in Bangkok, Thailand and taking care of our students, agent partners, partner schools in Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia.

 

Q2: What are some unique qualities of Kings Education?

A: First and foremost, in Kings Education, we always put students first. The students in our centres in the US and UK are the heart of everything we do. Hence, we focus on helping applicants apply to their ideal course of study with us. We help them to progress onto the university they aim to go to and have an enjoyable and fulfilling experience. At the same time, gaining these important qualifications will benefit them in future. That, I would say, would be our top priority.

 

Q3: What is the culture like in Kings?

A: It’s a very friendly culture. We want students to be aiming high, many academic contents are available. Students are coming to us because they want to enter top universities in the US and UK. They need to be determined, ambitious and aiming for good things in the future. This happens within a supportive environment in Kings. We have an open-door policy in every centre. Students can therefore approach us whenever they need help in academic or pastoral matters. We also want to help students develop their self-reliance and confidence. This is because we are usually their first experience of studying overseas. Being away from their families and home country can be new, different and daunting. We want to be the environment that help our students to settle in, develop their confidence and skills.

 

Q4: How will Kings Education benefit prospective students?

A: Because we have a range of centres and courses, we have different study options available. We would like to look at the progress of prospective students in terms of their academic level, language level, confidence level, their areas of interest, and find out what they are aiming for. For example, they may be a student in Singapore who has done their O’levels or GCSE, we will look at that academic level, their progress, their character and confidence etc. If their goal is to, for instance, pursue a degree in finance at UCLA in the United States, we will recommend a study path best suited for them and assist them accordingly. We will guide students as much as possible to make sure they are on the right path.

 

 

Q5: What are the benefits of studying abroad?

A: A key aspect is developing a global outlook. I am from the UK but I live in Thailand. I am very fortunate to experience life in the West and the East. It has taught me more about people, human nature, similarities and differences between people. It gives you a perspective of the world and helps you to better understand different cultures. In addition, you will develop key skills such as empathy, cultural awareness, cultural understanding and patience while living in a different country and dealing with different nationalities.

You can’t get those skills from a textbook or even a classroom in Singapore and Thailand but only through an experience. I advise young people financially supported in pursuing a long-term programme to take that opportunity which will open up future possibilities. If they’re financially constrained, they can try looking for short-term study options. They can consider doing a short study program in a country near them. This provides a living experience abroad and working with different nationalities.

 

Q6: How can students overcome their challenges when they are studying abroad?

A: For us, it starts when they apply with us. We have close contact with our students while they’re still in their home country. We also provide detailed information about visa, health insurance, cultural awareness and others before they leave their home country. When they arrived, we pick them up from the airport and ferry them to their residential accommodation.

We have staff based in the accommodation with them, induction programs to teach them about life in their new home and introduce our staff that will help them. They will also have the opportunity to interact with local students, allowing them to stimulate faster and get used to life in a foreign country. For example, if a student from Singapore enrol into our centre in the US, they will be studying with American students from day 1. We guide and advice our students from the start, making them better prepared and settled in.

 

Q7: What tips & advice do you have for prospective students studying abroad?

A: Do your research. There are different options ranging from top-rated schools to further education colleges in the UK and community colleges in the US. Individuals should then decide what they want and not what others want for them. For example, they can decide for themselves where they want to study in future and do whatever it takes to achieve their goals.

 

Epilogue..

DK: It has been a very insightful moment, i’ve learnt a thing or two from you. As an international relations student, i understand the importance of diversity and the need to be cosmopolitan. Studying abroad can thus help us to be more aware of this. This allows us to understand different cultures better. 

JE: I agree with you, I think it’s a valid point. It fascinates me when you group different students in a joint project. For instance, if you grouped a student from Germany, China and Nigeria together, they will have very different approaches and views. This could be on how a project should be run and learning how to listen to others, changing their opinion at times. They acquire skills such as tact diplomacy and persuasiveness when working with different nationalities and understanding international outlook.

 

 

For more information about Kings Education, please do drop us an email at info@gstudyabroad.com or fill in the enquiry form below. Global Study Abroad provides free consultation services. We offer scholarships and bursaries!

 

Study Abroad, Think Global!

 

By Global Study Abroad, Singapore

 

Can’t get direct admittance into University? Sign up for courses at the University of Sheffield!

 

What are foundation/pre masters courses?

For students who do not meet the entry requirements to gain direct admittance into their desired undergraduate/graduate degree programmes, you can take a foundation/pre masters course before progressing into their desired degree programme. This applies to O level students too! Why Sheffield? Well, asian progression at Sheffield is high at 83% for foundation students and over 90% progression for Pre Master students! Hence, you can still get a second chance to study at one of the most highly ranked universities in the UK! Besides, very few highly ranked universities offer such fast track courses.

 

 

How this works:

 

The University of Sheffield offers FAST TRACK foundation course and PRE MASTERS courses! With a score of 6.0 in the IELTS test, you will only need to attend about months of courses unlike foundation courses in other universities which last for close to a year. This means that if you choose Sheffield’s foundation programme over other universities’ foundation courses, you benefit from cheaper fees and cheaper accommodation as you take less English modules and stay for a shorter period of time. In addition, Global Study Abroad has got you covered because we offer free IELTS tests!

 

Students who admit into their chosen foundation routes (eg. business, engineering etc) can progress into the relevant degree programme based on their GPA. You will also benefit from small classes, meaning you can get more one to one attention from your tutor.

 

If you would like to get a masters degree but don’t meet the entry requirements, you can go through a pre masters course first before progressing into your graduate studies programme. Sheffield offers a variety of Masters programmes including law, business, urban planning etc.

 

 

Sheffield also gives out many scholarships to deserving students. There are scholarships available for students in almost every discipline. 

 

 

The deadline for March intake is almost here. Let us help you achieve your dreams!

Contact us for more details! Global Study Abroad provides free consultation services. We offer scholarships and bursaries! For more information on entry requirements and application procedures, do drop us an email at info@gstudyabroad.com or fill in the enquiry form below. We also welcome walk-in consultations. Study Abroad, Think Global!

 

By Global Study Abroad, Singapore

 

A Poly diploma holder is valued based on his/her practical skills and niche subject-based
knowledge. However, getting a Bachelor’s degree can open more doors for you. Here at Global Study Abroad we work with students to create the most suitable education plan based on each individual’s needs and goals. If you are a Poly graduate, there are many options available to you.

 

How do I get a degree in the shortest time possible?

 

With a Poly diploma, most students are able to get credit exemptions of 1-2 years at reputable universities depending on their GPA and whether their diploma matches well with their intended degree program. If you are inclined to study in the UK, US, Australia or even New Zealand, there are many options available that will allow you to attain your degree in 1-2 years.

 

Most UK and Australian universities recognise diplomas from polytechnics and grant credit exemptions.

 

Unsure of which university to apply to? Click here for more information and you may find a university that interests you.

 

Plan your education with us! Global Study Abroad provides free consultation services. We offer scholarships and bursaries! For more information on entry requirements and application procedures, do drop us an email at info@gstudyabroad.com or fill in the enquiry form below. We also welcome walk-in consultations.

 

Study Abroad, Think Global!

 

By Global Study Abroad, Singapore

(Updated 31 October 2019)

Did you know that A levels is not the only way to get into a good university? What if you can graduate earlier without even taking O levels? There are many ways to get into university and one of them is through community college. Many Singaporeans are not familiar or have not even heard of community college. Here are 5 reasons why you should go to community college.

1. Money

Studying abroad is expensive but going through the community college route can help you save money. 4-year institutions can cost up to tens of thousands of dollars and get you into debt, whereas community college tuition fees are much lower. One option is to study 2 years at a community college and then transfer to a university. Most community colleges have agreements with 4-year colleges and universities, allowing you to directly progress into the university’s degree program after you complete the related program with the college. Most universities require students to take general education modules in the first 2 years before taking classes on their major, so why not save money and spend the first 2 years in community college clearing those general education modules that you would also have to take in university anyway?

2. Time

Going through a community college to get to university may actually be a shorter route. Did you know that you can enter some community colleges after N levels? Some colleges offer high school completion programs where you obtain a high school diploma in about a year, and even have English programs that exempt you from taking proficiency tests to take academic classes. Thus, if all goes well you will graduate at least one year earlier than your peers.

3. Second Chance

Say you didn’t do so well in your exams. Well, it’s not totally hopeless as doing well in community college will help you gain admittance into good universities. It is a chance to start anew and boost your GPA.
4. Smaller class size

Community colleges are generally smaller than universities and tend to have smaller class sizes. This can work to your advantage as less students in a class would mean that you get more attention from your professor and can easily approach him/her if you have any doubts. It is also easier to form relationships with professors and enlist their help in writing references for you.

5. Flexibility

In community college, you have more time to take courses and explore your interests without being pressured to decide your major immediately. This is not often the case in universities where you have to plan your academic curriculum according to your major. Deciding what you want to do in life at a young age is tough and many students switch majors halfway through their education. With community college, you get to figure out what you want at a much lower cost.

Here are some examples of outstanding community colleges:

Green River College

De Anza College

Foothill College

El Camino College

San Jose City College

Diablo Valley College

---

If you don’t meet the requirements for direct admission into community college programs, you can go through FLS. Click enquire with us for more details.

Plan your education with us! Global Study Abroad provides free consultation services. We offer scholarships and bursaries! For more information on entry requirements and application procedures, do drop us an email at info@gstudyabroad.com or fill in the enquiry form below. We also welcome walk-in consultations. Study Abroad, Think Global!

 

 

By Global Study Abroad, Singapore

(Updated 13 December 2017)

 

Applying to universities abroad can be daunting, but if you are looking to further your education in English-speaking countries and English is not your first language, then you will have an extra hoop to jump through. Most institutions will require you to take a standardised test as proof of your proficiency in English. Read on to find out which test is most suitable for you.

 

 

Which test is more applicable for my application?

Firstly, check which test scores are accepted into the institutions that you are applying to. Generally the IELTS scores are more widely accepted in the UK and Australia while the TOEFL scores are more widely accepted in the US. However most institutions accept all 3 test scores. Click here to find out which institutions accept IELTS and the band score required for admission. For TOEFL, click here. For PTE, click here.

All three standardised test score results are typically valid for up to 2 years after the test date. For instance, if you took the test on 1 March 2016, the results will be valid until 1 March 2018. Some institutions may accept older test scores but that is up to their discretion.

 

Test Dates and Locations

One important factor is the test date and locations. Be sure that the test you wish to take is available in your region. Remember to check if the IELTS, TOEFL or PTE are available in your country/region.

There is no limit on the number of attempts for each test. For TOEFL, you cannot take it more than once within a 12-day period.

 

Test formats – Which is better?

Now that we have gotten the administrative details out of the way, let’s move on to the test details. Depending on the scoring system and test format, one test may be more suited for you than the rest. Here at Global Study Abroad, we help you make the best decision for yourself.

There are two types of IELTS tests – Academic and General Training. The IELTS Academic test is usually taken for admission into university and the IELTS General Training test is usually used for visa applications. The details listed are for the IELTS Academic test.

 

 

You might be better at some components or more comfortable with certain question types as compared to others. These factors can affect your performance in the test. Here are some things to consider:

Content – For instance, the listening component for TOEFL is purely academic whereas the IELTS and PTE also test on everyday social context. Do you struggle with academic terms? Some students might also find it nerve-wracking to speak to an examiner while others might find it weird to speak to a computer. This can affect your performance in the speaking test.

Duration – The duration of each test differs and some students find it hard and tiring to concentrate for long periods of time while others have no difficulty with that.

Computer vs Handwritten – You might find it difficult to write quickly and legibly and thus be more confident in typing, or you might be more comfortable with penning down your thoughts. The IELTS is a handwritten test while the PTE and TOEFL are done on computers.

Cost – The costs for each test vary and you might want to pick a test depending on your budget. For information on fees for IELTS, click here. For TOEFL, click here and for PTE click here. Do note that the fees differ from country to country.

 

For more information on entry requirements and application procedures, do drop us an email at info@gstudyabroad.com, or fill in the enquiry form below. You can also come to our office and have a consultation with our friendly consultants! We offer scholarships and bursaries! Study Abroad, Think Global!