Study Abroad

The best Attractions abroad 5 haunted study

Happy Halloween study abroad enthusiasts! Today we bring you a few trips abroad scary-good study, with a haunted twist - we countdown the best attractions haunted five to visit during his studies abroad.5 studies abroad in England - with more than 35 000 years of history, there are always a few buildings haunted! Don't forget to visit the attic at 50 Berkeley Square, which is supposed to be haunted by the spirit of a young woman who committed suicide by jumping from the window of the upper floor.4 study abroad in Ireland - castles abound in this lush landscape. Discover the Castle Leslie Monaghan of country which is supposed to be inhabited by Norman Leslie, who died abroad in 1914 and returned to the Castle as a ghost.3 studies in Germany - the Babenhausen Barracks, which is now a Museum, are supposed to be visited by the ghosts of the German soldiers in the second world war period uniforms.2. to study abroad in France - if you visit the famous Eiffel Tower during his studies abroad, take the time while you're up for listen you could just hear the screams of a girl who was pushed out of the tower by an angry lover whom she refused to marry.1. study abroad in Italy - recently popularized by the Group of the Bastille, Pompeii is a famous tourist attraction with a horrible past. More than 2,000 people died during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 ad. To this day, visitors report heard shouting, see shadows and even smell of sulfur.You must be connected and logged with your accounts to share content with a quick action.Join or login with your favorite social networks. <a href="http://www.studyabroad.com/b/study_abroad_news/archive/2013/10/31/the-top-5-haunted-study-abroad-attractions.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

The best Attractions abroad 5 haunted study

Happy Halloween study abroad enthusiasts! Today we bring you a few trips abroad scary-good study, with a haunted twist - we countdown the be...

2:23 PM

Help to find the best college for you: #CollegeSearch Twitter Chat

Have you started your College Search yet? Find a college that fits your needs, personality and educational goals can be so overwhelming, you don't know where to start. But don't worry, we are here for you covered!On 5 September at 16:00 ET, we will talk with GoEnnouce College Prowler, noodles and education tuition.io for advice on College visits, the application process and what to look for in your search.Please join us in using the hashtag #CollegeSearch and ask us your questions for expert advice.Ce : College Search Twitter ChatWhich: Experts in education GoEnnounce, EducationDynamics, College Prowler, education of noodles, tuition.io and you!When: Thursday, September 5 at 16:00 etOu : Twitter, using the hashtag #CollegeSearchYou must be connected and logged with your accounts to share content with a quick action.Join or login with your favorite social networks. <a href="http://www.studyabroad.com/b/study_abroad_news/archive/2013/08/26/find-the-best-college-for-you-collegesearch-twitter-chat.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Help to find the best college for you: #CollegeSearch Twitter Chat

Have you started your College Search yet? Find a college that fits your needs, personality and educational goals can be so overwhelming, you...

8:33 AM

Buenos Dias, Costa Rica!

Hola, amigos! Unfortunately, I am writing this blog from the United States. I woke up wanting to rice, beans and fresh fruit for breakfast, but settled for a Nutrigrain bar. You see, I recently came back from a recess to the Costa Rica program and have not been able to leave the habits I picked up in Costa Rica behind.The time I spent studying abroad in Costa Rica is something I'll remember for a lifetime. I learned so much about people and their way of doing business. For example, Costa Ricans run punctually "tico"; This means that they are willing to back and are not always fast. This country has a job at mentality direct, very different from the work life of mentality which is held by many people in the States.<img alt="study abroad in costa rica" src="/7002Costa-Rica-2D00-Congress.jpg" title="study abroad in costa rica">Costa Rica is a beautiful place. I love that it is so diverse, due to its location. One side of the country has the Caribbean Sea, while the other borders the Pacific ocean. This allows you to experiment with different environments, without traveling outside the country. Our guides Fernando and Gabi were great. Fernando went further to ensure that we learned about the culture and pushed us to try the drinks and food of Costa Rica. Gabi we have in places that most people do you experience, as the Congress of Costa Rica. While there, we were able to meet with a member of Congress and travel of the building. The speakers were very interesting as well; I really enjoyed learning about the differences in business between the United States and the CR.<img alt="study abroad in costa rica" src="/6406Costa-Rica-2D00-hot-springs.jpg" title="study abroad in costa rica">My favorite part of the trip was all outdoor activities. Whitewater rafting/tubing, Tyrolean, horseback riding, visiting a hot spring and the deep sea fishing was all amazing experiences. I would definitely recommend a program intersessional to Costa Rica to anyone who sees it. Learn you a lot about the culture while having fun... oh and let's not forget the school credit! Dr. Lanier, alias 'Master P' is a great teacher to go with. She makes the journey interesting and very involved. I've fallen in love with the culture of Costa Rica and certainly will visit the country in the future. Until then, buenos noches, America.Elizabeth Domingue is an MBA student at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. She participated in a programme of intersessional in Costa Rica.You must be connected and logged with your accounts to share content with a quick action.Join or login with your favorite social networks. <a href="http://www.studyabroad.com/b/study_abroad_news/archive/2013/11/08/buenos-dias-costa-rica.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Buenos Dias, Costa Rica!

Hola, amigos! Unfortunately, I am writing this blog from the United States. I woke up wanting to rice, beans and fresh fruit for breakfast, ...

3:28 AM

Affordable Study Abroad Destinations: Canada

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota No doubt about it, it's a cheap time to study abroad in Canada! Right now the US dollar is at its highest against the Canadian dollar since September 2010, at 1.06. Meanwhile, the euro to Canadian dollar exchange rate is at 1.38, the highest since November 2011. What this means is that, for you, when you exchange currencies, you'll receive far more Canadian dollars.Why is the exchange rate so good? So, how come there's such a great opportunity for you here? Well, it's because Canada's economy is slowing, which makes the Canadian dollar cheap as chips. Canada expanded just +0.1% in April, which drove up currencies like the US dollar and euro, and brought down the Canadian dollar. Furthermore, you can expect the exchange rate to get better, so long as Canada's economy keeps slowing. For example, the IMF just cut its forecast for the Canadian economy next year by -0.2%, which may weaken the Canadian dollar further. So, yes, it's a cheap time for you to study in Canada, but it could soon get even cheaper! Given this, if you decide to study in Canada, how can you make sure you get the most Canadian dollars possible? Here are 3 tips to help you:1. Keep an eye on the exchange rate. Like it or not, the foreign exchange market is volatile, and the exchange rate available one minute will be gone the next. You must keep an eye on what the Canadian dollar is doing, or at least ask someone to watch it for you. Speak to a foreign exchange broker, and you can ask them to contact you when the exchange rate is best.2. Don't buy your Canadian dollars at the last minute. This is worst thing you can do if you want a great exchange rate. After all, it means you'll be stuck with whatever exchange rate is available, even if it's bad. Far from getting the most Canadian dollars you can, you'll have to accept what you're given. Instead, buy your Canadian dollars in advance!3. Get confirmation that your transfer has gone through. Of course, you'll want to know the moment your money arrives in Canada. It's a stressful thing, after all, sending money from one country to the next. To give you peace of mind, ask for a confirmation when your transfer is finished.To find out when you can get the best Canadian dollar exchange rate, sign-up for Pure FX's free newsletter today. We'll send you an email the moment the best exchange rate becomes available.Peter Lavelle is a currency dealer at foreign exchange broker Pure FX. To learn more about getting the best exchange rate when you study abroad in Canada, email him at peter.lavelle@purefx.co.uk. You must be logged in and connected with your social accounts to share content with Quick Share. Join or Sign in with your favorite social networking sites. <a href="http://www.studyabroad.com/b/study_abroad_news/archive/2013/07/26/affordable-study-abroad-destinations-canada.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Affordable Study Abroad Destinations: Canada

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota No doubt about it, it's a cheap time to study abroad in Canada! Right now the US dollar...

9:03 PM

Crossing Cultural and Language Barriers While Studying Abroad

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota The authors of this blog may be compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites and various other topics. Even though the authors of this blog may receive compensation for posts or advertisements, the views, opinions, and positions expressed by the authors and those providing comments are theirs alone, are not endorsed by, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, and positions of StudyAbroad.com or EducationDynamics, LLC. StudyAbroad.com and EducationDynamics, LLC make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability, or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in or resulting from this information or any losses or damages arising from its display or use. <a href="http://www.studyabroad.com/b/study_abroad_news/archive/2013/06/13/crossing-cultural-and-language-barriers-while-studying-abroad.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Crossing Cultural and Language Barriers While Studying Abroad

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota The authors of this blog may be compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websi...

2:25 PM

Study #AbroadOnBudget: Tips From the Experts

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota Students, are you dreaming about studying abroad in Sydney, Rome, or the jungles of Costa Rica, but feel like it’s impossible because of cost? We hear you. Studying abroad can be an expensive endeavor – but it’s not necessarily out of reach!StudyAbroad.com, GoEnnounce.com, Noodle Education, and College Prowler are coming together to give you some tips to plan a fantastic study abroad trip that fits your budget.Join us for a Twitter chat on Thursday, June 20th at 2pm ET. Ask the experts your questions and get the answers to make your dream a reality.Use the hashtag #AbroadOnBudget to chat with us. We’re looking forward to helping you start your study abroad journey!What: Study Abroad on a Budget Twitter ChatWho: Education & Study Abroad Experts GoEnnounce.com, StudyAbroad.com, Noodle Education, College Prowler…. and you!When: Thursday, June 20th at 2pm ETWhere: Twitter, hashtag #AbroadOnBudgetWhy: To make your study abroad dreams fit your budget!You must be logged in and connected with your social accounts to share content with Quick Share. Join or Sign in with your favorite social networking sites. <a href="http://www.studyabroad.com/b/study_abroad_news/archive/2013/06/13/study-abroadonbudget-tips-from-the-experts.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Study #AbroadOnBudget: Tips From the Experts

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota Students, are you dreaming about studying abroad in Sydney, Rome, or the jungles of Costa R...

7:53 AM

Photo Contest abroad world language study of Pearson

Photo Contest abroad world language study of Pearson

The authors of this blog may be compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites and various other topics. Although the author...

2:52 AM

Air Travel Essentials to Pack in Your Carry On

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota A long haul flight can be stressful, dull, and uncomfortable. Many travelers would rather have a root canal that be stuck in the middle seat on an airplane. Any travel perks that existed in the past — food, blanket, earplugs and a movie — cost an arm and a leg on most flights today. The seats seem to have gotten smaller too, and if you've ever endured a 20-hour flight, you know that long distance travel can be a lot like contortion. What you pack in your carry on bag, however, can make the flight more manageable. If you want to survive a long haul, then you're going to need these in-flight essentials.From tablets to new smartphones, tech gear is a must when traveling. Whether you want to finish up some work before the vacation really starts or tap into the in-flight WiFi to enjoy some entertainment, electronic devices are ideal for passing the time. That doesn't mean you need to pack every electronic device you have into the carry-on. When it comes to tech, we have a tendency to over-gear when we travel. However, don't forget the apps. A city guide will help you find that perfect restaurant when you're in Paris.Books, magazines, cards and crossword puzzles are old travel standbys. That flight from Boston to Bangkok might be the only time of the year you actually get to read a book, so make the most of it. If crossword puzzles aren't your thing, opt for Sudoku instead.Is that your stomach growling? Airplane food is notoriously bad. These days a turkey club sandwich might also run you $10. Save room in your carry-on for snacks.There's something about the altitude and the boredom that will have you reaching for a power bar.Pack at least one change of clothes in your carry-on. It's no secret that checked luggage gets lost, and the last thing you want is to be stuck in a pair of pants and a sweater when you land in the Caribbean. Tylenol, deodorant, a tooth brush, tooth paste and other hygiene products should be packed as well. If your luggage gets lost, you have all the stuff you need for a day or two, as that's how long it might take to get your bag back.There's always going to be something you forget to pack when you travel. Actually, let's re-phrase that. You're always going to need something you had no idea you were going to need. PopSugar recommends packing random items like band-aids, stain remover and Vaseline. You never know if those old sandals are going to take a toll on your feet, or if you're going to accidentally spill some Primavera sauce on your fancy white shirt.No travel kit is complete without earplugs, eyeshades and a blow-up pillow. Getting good sleep on a plane is difficult. Many travelers doze, but getting some serious shut-eye is something else entirely. However, if you're on a long flight that's jumping time zones, you don't want to feel like a jetlagged zombie when you land. Bring items that are going to make you feel more comfortable.You must be logged in and connected with your social accounts to share content with Quick Share. Join or Sign in with your favorite social networking sites. <a href="http://www.studyabroad.com/b/study_abroad_news/archive/2013/06/10/air-travel-essentials-to-pack-in-your-carry-on.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Air Travel Essentials to Pack in Your Carry On

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota A long haul flight can be stressful, dull, and uncomfortable. Many travelers would rather h...

8:19 PM

Canberra - beyond Wikipedia

It seems that there are not so long that I got a life changing email telling me that I was accepted to the programme of exchange of the University of Canberra. After the rush of adrenaline, I install just type "Canberra" in my computer. I applied with my heart goes to the Australia, but I barely knew something about Canberra! I read that Wikipedia could tell me but these few statistics and images hardly tell the story - the history of the best year of my life.<img alt="study abroad in canberra" src="/5633luke2D00study2D00abroad2D00in2D00canberra.jpg" title="study abroad in canberra">What makes this year the best year of my life you are claiming? Well, I could make a list of 100 parts long in about five minutes, and it would be just the beginning. But what was unique to the University of Canberra (or UC, as we call it)? To begin with, it is the program of study abroad and Exchange at UC. After hearing a fellow Cal Poly students who have studied abroad all around the world, I believe that the UC program is first-rate. Thrown into this mysterious and magical land, they started me on the right foot. The first week was a programme filled with travels around the city and topped with a trip to Sydney for all students abroad 50 study from dozens of countries. A week and I already had a lot of friends! But this was only the beginning!I showed to my apartment of thirteen people in Res immediately met old my twelve housemates, as well and everything 100% pleasure. Living on campus in Res old was the funnest place I've ever lived. In fact, it was so great, it even became the basis for my main project of architecture! There was never a dull moment - weekly events of Res old with more than 100 people, family nights in the common room, there's always something to do.To decide where to study abroad, I underestimated the importance of the framework. For me, being on a blown full Australian University campus was key rather than a small study abroad campus full of other Americans. Live on campus gave me the best of both worlds - immersion in the culture also living with all my roomies Ausi and the comfort of living with other students and a few other Americans next door. Oh! Did I mention kangaroos see run even though campus all the time? It is a site that I will never forget! In addition, clubs of students such as SIC and SECCS put on events and parties throughout the year.With only two days of class per week there is enough time to explore. Canberra, the largest city, I lived, was full of things to do. There are always events large city like Floriade, Skyfire and the Balloon Festival Fireworks festival. There were tons of epic concerts featuring some of the best bands in the world; David Guetta, Flo Rida, Hilltop Hoods, LMFAO, Kaiser Chiefs, Def Leppard and many others! Concerts of the Festival as foreshore, Groovin ' Moo and Stonefest - many of them right on campus! Of course, Canberra has a professional Rugby Union and rugby league and the game of Aussie Rules Football casual. Then, being the capital, there is the plethora of museums, the zoo, the Parliament building and more. In just three hours from Sydney, I did it up thirteen times during the year! I had a lot of Sydney at the time wherever I was! By air, it's a quick jump to almost anywhere. Melbourne, Cairns and the great barrier reef, New Zealand, Fiji and my favorite, Darwin!Do not know if you can afford it? How about $17 / h for the minimum wage and only 4% unemployment sound?Study abroad in Australia the biggest problem is that I can't wait to go back, and almost every other study studying abroad from the University of Canberra feels the same way. In fact, a year later, many have already made comeback or even moved there!Looking back, I can not imagine going anywhere else to study abroad.You must be connected and logged with your accounts to share content with a quick action.Join or login with your favorite social networks. <a href="http://www.studyabroad.com/b/study_abroad_news/archive/2013/08/05/canberra-beyond-wikipedia.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Canberra - beyond Wikipedia

It seems that there are not so long that I got a life changing email telling me that I was accepted to the programme of exchange of the Univ...

2:43 PM

Étude abordable des Destinations à l'étranger : Le Royaume-Uni

Down, down, down with the book!Sterling looks a whole lot like become cheaper in the next six months, if the new Governor of the Bank of England, Mark Carney, gets his way. Mr. Carney wants to inject billions in economic recovery (called quantitative easing) in the economy of the United Kingdom, to spur growth. If it does, the book will tumble, because all these billions devalue the currency.Sterling is already at a minimum of 3 years against the U.S. dollar to 1.48 in anticipation of this stimulus. In addition, the euro could soon reach its highest level against the pound since November, 2011, at 0.88, on the same cause.Of course, what this means for you, is that when you exchange currency, you will get a total plu book. Your money will go further, that you are able to go longer, do more things and see more of United Kingdom.3 tips to get the best exchange rate book Of course, everything simply because sterling is inclined in the fall, you will need still to know how to take advantage of the exchange rate. Here are three tips to help you do so:1. don't expect the book to fall and fall forever. If you plan to buy books, you might have an exchange rate in mind that you would be perfect. However, unless the exchange rate is realistic, may wait you for this 'perfect' exchange rate very long. In other words, the book is down, does not mean that it will fall forever! Instead, to know what rate of Exchange, you can reasonably hope, talk to a broker in foreign currencies for some tips.2. keep an eye on fees and commission when you exchange currencies. When you exchange currencies, the last thing you want is to pay for the costs and the commission. For example, if a bank allows you to transfer your money to the United Kingdom, you might pay up to $40 per transfer. To remedy this, shop around, then find a service that charges you extra to buy your books. Use a currency exchange broker, for example, and you don't pay extra for your transfer.3. process with someone you love and trust! If you are studying abroad in the United Kingdom, chances are that you will move a lot of money. Given that, it is vital that you are dealing with a money transfer service that you like and trust. So before you transfer your money, get an idea whether if you feel comfortable using the service you are thinking. If you do not, it could be worth trying elsewhere.Peter Lavelle is a dealer in foreign currency broker to Exchange FX Pure.Pour learn to get the best exchange rate when you study abroad in England, email him at peter.lavelle@purefx.co.uk. It would be happy to give you advice of experts.You must be connected and logged with your accounts to share content with a quick action.Join or login with your favorite social networks. <a href="http://www.studyabroad.com/b/study_abroad_news/archive/2013/08/02/affordable-study-abroad-destinations-the-uk.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Étude abordable des Destinations à l'étranger : Le Royaume-Uni

Down, down, down with the book! Sterling looks a whole lot like become cheaper in the next six months, if the new Governor of the Bank of En...

9:08 AM

Why are the programmes of the intersessional period so popular?

There are an impressive number of programs of short duration during the intersessional period (between spring fall and January semesters), why? We have some ideas... <img alt="intersession programs" src="/1411Costa-Rica-2D00-group.jpg" title="intersession programs"> Flexibility of intersessional. Your goal is to finish a degree, by filling in a certificate, or simply to earn credit while you learn, intersessional January helps you reach your goal with the flexibility you need.Lighten your load of. Recess is an opportunity to reduce the burden of next year, resume a course, or get the jump on your studies, as a new student. It offers another option to access credits from courses on weekdays, Monday to Friday. And in many cases, you can earn credit toward a program more - in just a few weeks.Take the credits in a concentrated period of time. Generally, the intersessional period programs last seven to 15 days. Intersessional programs can provide you with the opportunity to take courses that might otherwise be full and take unique courses and workshops that are not available in other semesters.<img alt="intersession programs" src="/0336Costa-Rica-2D00-hiking.jpg" title="intersession programs">Economic studies abroad. Costs are generally very comprehensive and include generally almost all expenses: costs of tuition, accommodation, excursions, class related visits, group meals and medical insurance.Winter blues blow. Best of all, it will shut the cold of winter, especially if you decide to travel in a tropical country where January is the best time of the year, as Costa Rica.Fast track your learning this January Intersession, check the University of Louisiana at Lafayette course in science at Costa Rica next January.This is a guest post by Gabriela Gutierrez, President of visit Costa Rica.You must be connected and logged with your accounts to share content with a quick action.Join or login with your favorite social networks. <a href="http://www.studyabroad.com/b/study_abroad_news/archive/2013/11/15/why-are-intersession-programs-so-popular.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Why are the programmes of the intersessional period so popular?

There are an impressive number of programs of short duration during the intersessional period (between spring fall and January semesters), w...

2:58 AM

Student stories: studying abroad in Rome

<img alt="study abroad in rome" src="/6082John-Cabot-2D00-Lynette-Quezada-2.jpg" title="study abroad in rome">My name is Lynette Quezada, and I am a major International Affairs at John Cabot University. I'm from Miami, Florida and the daughter of a Mexican father and a Cuban mother. As long as I can remember I have been fascinated by cultures and policies between the nations.I came to John Cabot University in the fall of 2012 with an expectation of diversity and opportunity, and so far John Cabot has exceeded all my expectations. It was a bit harsh in my first semester of setting that I was on my own for the first time, and I was also transition of American culture in an American University in the middle of Italian culture.Many students who come to John Cabot initially underestimated the challenge of living in a completely new environment. The first two months were not the easiest and I always missed my family, but finally the community John Cabot helped me to overcome this period of transition. On the first day, orientation leaders were extremely welcoming and advised me to join student clubs and become active in student activities, and therefore, I joined the drama club, where I performed in "The Wiz" and "Grease" and pleaded for the recognition of women with the Ipazia Club. I am currently Secretary of the Student Government, and I'm enjoying every second.  I found that John Cabot community is full of students who have lived the same experience I did and were more than willing to sit on a cappuccino and listen to my problems and worries.<img alt="study abroad in rome" src="/3326John-Cabot-2D00-Lynette-Quezada-1.jpg" title="study abroad in rome">Small John Cabot University classes allow students to learn to know their professors, who has a huge impact on my academic experience.  I am interested in working with international development, human rights and the relationship between religion and politics.  Classroom discussions certainly contributed to open my state of mind and focus on my future in allowing me to learn international perspectives of my classmates and learn with teachers who have professional experience in the field.  John Cabot offers internships and direct exchange programmes which allow students to have real work experience and study abroad. I currently intend to study abroad this semester of spring in Seoul, South Korea, and I intend to implement by the Office of Career Services of Cabot for an internship in China during the following summer.John Cabot has opened many opportunities in my life that once seemed impossible.  For training in International Affairs, I certainly couldn't have chosen better!This is a guest blog from Lynette Quezada who studied at the John Cabot University in Rome.You must be connected and logged with your accounts to share content with a quick action.Join or login with your favorite social networks. <a href="http://www.studyabroad.com/b/study_abroad_news/archive/2013/11/18/student-stories-studying-abroad-in-rome.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Student stories: studying abroad in Rome

My name is Lynette Quezada, and I am a major International Affairs at John Cabot University. I'm from Miami, Florida and the daughter of...

8:54 PM

Affordable Study Abroad Destinations: Australia

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota Is it a submarine? Is it a lead balloon? No, it’s the Australian dollar at a cheaper exchange rate than it's been since 2010!Right now you can get a better Australian dollar exchange rate than at any time in the last three years, making Australia a far cheaper place to study abroad.The US dollar is at 1.11 against the Aussie, a record high exchange rate not available since October 2010. Meanwhile, the euro to Australian dollar exchange rate is at just under 1.45, the best exchange rate since September 2010. The Australian dollar looks set to keep falling for the foreseeable future, making this a long-term opportunity.Why is the Aussie so cheap? Well, first, because Australia's economy is on the rocks. Australia has shed about 11,000 full-time jobs in the last two months, with little hope of an upturn. At the same time, the economic outlook for the rest of the world is brightening. American shoppers are at their most confident since 2007, and the Eurozone could soon exit recession. So, what we've got is the perfect recipe for most currencies to gain against the Australian dollar!Given this, what can you do to make the most of the exchange rate if you decide to study abroad in Australia?1. Don't assume the exchange rate will always get better. Just because you can get more Australian dollars at the moment, doesn't mean the Australian dollar will always be cheaper. Instead, if you like the exchange rate, it's better to exchange currencies sooner rather than later. The foreign exchange market is volatile, meaning a good exchange rate can very quickly disappear.2. Talk to a currency dealer about what might happen next. Right now, it looks as though the Australian dollar will continue to become cheaper. However, a month from now, this might not be the case. This is because the foreign exchange market is volatile, meaning it's hard to tell what'll happen down the line. For more up-to-date advice before you exchange currencies, talk to a currency dealer.3. Talk to more than one company before you exchange currencies. The exchange rate you're offered can change dramatically depending on who you talk to. In fact, your bank may offer you an exchange up to 4% worse than that you'll receive from a foreign exchange broker. Before you buy your Australian dollars it pays to make sure you're being offered the best exchange rate possible.Peter Lavelle is a currency dealer at Pure FX, a foreign exchange broker. If you have any questions about getting the best exchange rate when you study abroad in Australia, feel free to email him at peter.lavelle@purefx.co.uk.You must be logged in and connected with your social accounts to share content with Quick Share. Join or Sign in with your favorite social networking sites. <a href="http://www.studyabroad.com/b/study_abroad_news/archive/2013/07/19/affordable-study-abroad-destinations-australia.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Affordable Study Abroad Destinations: Australia

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota Is it a submarine? Is it a lead balloon? No, it’s the Australian dollar at a cheaper exchan...

2:29 PM

Day international universities

Day international universities

The authors of this blog may be compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites and various other topics. Although the author...

8:19 AM

Five scholarships abroad to explore the world

Scholarships abroad studies can allow qualified students travel the world, engage in studies and experiments which ideally make the world a better place. Here is information on five scholarships for study abroad that may be available to students qualified to be used alone or with other amounts for a program of study abroad.The American University of Cairo Simpson scholarship for study abroad This scholarship study abroad can help a qualified student finance a semester or two abroad in Egypt, a rich country with the political, social and cultural structures dynamics and identities.Amount: $2500 USD Deadline: 15 March (date annual limit - could change each year) Number of scholarships: 10 Host institution: American University of Cairo Includes: $2500 USD/semester with a maximum of two semesters Criteria: students must be interested to study Egyptology and studying anthropology, history, Ethnology, classics, political science, social science, art or performance. In addition, students must have a cumulative 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale, have the permission of their University of origin to study at AUC and comprehensive Introduction offers courses at home before traveling to the AUC.The stock exchange of LankaCorps This scholarship can allow eligible graduate students with a background of Sri Lanka to "engage professionally in the social, economic and cultural development" in Sri Lanka. It is intended for Sri Lankans living in the diaspora "who have limited experience with the country of their heritage." The program allows scholars living and working in Sri Lanka for six months.Quantity:Program expenses covered (round-trip plane ticket for expenditure in the country, a monthly stipend and health insurance) Deadline: 28 January Number of scholarships: 5-7 Criteria: students must be of Sri Lankan heritage and American or Canadian citizenship. They must be aged between 21 and 30, have at least a Bachelor's degree with excellence and demonstrate leadership skills and civic engagement. They must also be in excellent health and interested in using their education to contribute to the development of Sri Lanka.Price of the Japan-United States Friendship Commission subsidy The Friendship Commission Japanese-American "is an independent federal agency established by Congress in 1975 to strengthen the US-Japan relationship by educational, cultural and intellectual exchange. Its mission is to support mutual understanding from person to person and promote partnerships that advance the common interests between the Japan and the United States. "In short, this grant helps build friendship and goodwill in the world! Why not study abroad and contribute to the world at the same time?Quantity:Variable (including tuition, travel and subsistence expenses) Deadline: March 1st and August 1st Number of scholarships: 75 Criteria: need to go and study in the Japan or the United States.The travel my Bug Fellowship This award is for financially eligible poor Americans who wish to travel abroad. Candidates are judged based on the educational merit, originality and quality of writing.Amount: $1000-2000 USD Deadline: March Number of scholarships: Variable Criteria: applicants must be U.S. citizens who are in good health, in need, intellectually curious financially and more than 16 years. They must be willing to develop travel to countries outside the United States and share stories and photos of their travels. Their trips are from 1, 2 or 3 months.The monthly grant CollegeWeekLive This scholarship study abroad takes a fun departure from traditional stock exchanges that have eligibility criteria and the extensive application process. This award merely requires recipients to create an account, view and visit American colleges online and crossed our fingers.Amount: $1000 USD Deadline: once a month Number of scholarships: 12 Criteria: you must create an account and visit at least 3 American colleges online per monthYou must be connected and logged with your accounts to share content with a quick action.Join or login with your favorite social networks. <a href="http://www.studyabroad.com/b/study_abroad_news/archive/2014/03/11/five-study-abroad-scholarships-for-exploring-the-world.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Five scholarships abroad to explore the world

Scholarships abroad studies can allow qualified students travel the world, engage in studies and experiments which ideally make the world a ...

2:15 AM

Foreign students in the United States and Americans are studying abroad reach record

Hundreds of thousands of Chinese students are flocking to U.S. colleges and universities, helping to drive the number of foreign students to record levels in America.Similarly, all many times of American students are studying abroad, although there is much less and they tend to do a lot more short periods than students to come to the United States.The findings are released Monday in an analysis that was conducted by a non-profit group that has worked with the State Department.They say international education programs make more cultural enrichment advance; they are also an economic boon for communities that welcome foreign students and students themselves, that improve their competitiveness of labour.Foreign students contribute about $24bn annually to the U.S. economy and about two-thirds of them primarily pay their own way, or make their families, according to the Institute of International Education and the Department of State Bureau of educational and Cultural Affairs.All told, 819 644 students came to the United States to study abroad during the school year 2012-13. The largest number came from China, India, South Korea, Saudi Arabia and the Canada. It is a record, with an increase of 7% from a year earlier and 40% for more than ten years ago. Despite the increases, students represent less than 4% of all students.There was a slowdown in the number of students who come to the United States in the years after the attacks of 9/11, partly because of visa problems, but the number has since bounced back.About 235,000 international students come from China, an increase of 21%. A middle class booming combined with a view that America has quality and universities colleges were the contributing factors described under the guidance of the application. About a third of businesses surveyed and management upon their arrival, according to the report."Chinese students and their parents are looking for the quality of education, get the importance of international education and it's America as the No. 1 destination, because we have the capacity to host foreign students," said Allan Goodman, president and CEO of the Institute.The number of students in the study of Saudi Arabia to the United States surged by 30% for the 45 000. These students are largely funded by a Saudi Government almost scholarship program in its tenth year, the report said.The main destinations for foreign students have been the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, the Urbana University of Illinois at Champaign, Illinois, Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, New York University and Columbia University in New York.In contrast, 283 332 U.S. students studied abroad for college credit - an increase of 3% from the previous year.During the past 20 years, it has tripled the number of American students studying abroad. But less than 10% of American students study abroad during their college years. The United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, France and China have been the main destinations.Attention related to the Olympic Games in Beijing and more classes taught in English are factors from lead more American students to China, Goodman said. A Department of State called Strong 100 000 program, officially launched in 2010, is designed to send 100,000 American students in China, over a period of four years.The report found that 14 887 Americans studied in China in 2011-2012 - an increase of 2%, but that includes step students travelling to China for large programs."We encourage study abroad, either in the short term, long term, if it has credit, which," said Evan Ryan, a State Department official, on a conference call with journalists. <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/education/2013/nov/11/us-study-abroad-research-china-uk" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Foreign students in the United States and Americans are studying abroad reach record

Hundreds of thousands of Chinese students are flocking to U.S. colleges and universities, helping to drive the number of foreign students t...

8:31 PM

Why China learns its lessons off by heart

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota <img alt="Chinese pupils recite rules for being a good child " data-pin-description="Children at a Chinese primary school recite rules for being a good student. Photograph: China Photos/Getty Images" height="276" itemprop="contentUrl representativeOfPage" src="/Chinese-pupils-recite-rul-008.jpg" width="460"> Children at a Chinese primary school recite rules for being a good student. Photograph: China Photos/Getty ImagesIt's 7.30am and the walk to class takes me past scores of Chinese students reciting English in preparation for a constant stream of tests and exams.I only recently arrived to study in China, but it doesn't take long to observe that here memorisation is paramount. Remembering rather than understanding appears to be the principal goal of the education system – and that seems archaic to the Western eye. However, the Chinese believe memorising provides a route to understanding.Professor An Ran, dean of international education at South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, explains: "Whereas Westerners see memorisation and understanding as mutually exclusive, Chinese tend to see them as related phenomena."International studies show that China is among the most successful education systems in the world, which would seem to validate this approach.Given that functional literacy in China requires a knowledge of 3,000-4,000 characters, it is easy to see why repeating and remembering is so important.At UK universities, the ability to apply understanding is the primary goal. Dr Amanda Sives, politics lecturer at the University of Liverpool, says: "University is not about memorising dates, remembering quotes, or learning narratives. It involves understanding ideas and concepts and being able to use them to develop relevant, evidence-based arguments."In China, the focus on memory begins early – and the three years spent in high school are almost solely dedicated to preparation for the gaokao, or university entrance exam.A former student at my university, Xiao Yu, tells me that for these three years he studied eight hours a day, Monday to Friday, and then a further six hours on a Saturday. This only increased when he went on to university, studying biotechnology, almost entirely in English.So important is the gaokao, that students have reportedly resorted to using intravenous drips to extend the time they are able to spend studying.Of course, both education systems have strengths and weaknesses; I am not here to pass judgment on a system I have barely two months knowledge of. What is interesting though, is how education in China prepares its young people for the future.Xiao says teaching methods heavily influence the subjects students go on to select. Years of rote learning create an inherent preference for science, maths and business subjects, while the arts are largely ignored.This is not a coincidence, as China looks towards becoming the major world power in the 21st century. It is already creating a generation of scientists, engineers and business leaders, with the skills vitally needed in a rapidly developing nation.Studying for the joy of learning and the expansion of our knowledge is one of the great freedoms we enjoy in the UK. At the same time though, my experience so far has allowed me to appreciate how well memorisation as a learning method is working for the Chinese. <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/education/mortarboard/2013/jan/02/china-learns-lessons-by-heart" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Why China learns its lessons off by heart

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota Children at a Chinese primary school recite rules for being a good student. Photograph: Ch...

2:46 PM

Lack of information turns students off studying abroad

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota <img alt="The technical university in Cottbus, eastern Germany" data-pin-description="The technical university in Cottbus, eastern Germany. Germany is among the most popular destinations for British students abroad. Photograph: Michael/Getty Images" height="276" itemprop="contentUrl representativeOfPage" src="/The-technical-university--008.jpg" width="460"> The technical university in Cottbus, eastern Germany. Germany is among the most popular destinations for British students abroad. Photograph: Michael/Getty ImagesA lack of information is stopping students from studying abroad, even though they believe the experience would boost their job prospects, according to research by the British Council.The study, which surveyed 2,239 UK students, found that just 20% consider overseas study, with concerns about cost and language ability among the perceived barriers.Despite this, three quarters feel their degree alone is not enough to secure the job they want. Almost all students considering overseas study believe the experience will give them the edge in the jobs market and of the students who are not, 60% feel it would improve their employability.When asked about information resources only 24% of UK students felt they had enough information to make an informed decision about studying overseas. A third of those surveyed said they had to work hard to find the right information, while 24% said they did not have enough information to make an informed decision.Only a quarter of UK students say the introduction of higher tuition fees in the UK has influenced their decision whether or not to study abroad.The British Council hope to encourage more students to consider international education with the launch of a new website that will bring together detailed information on education opportunities around the world. The site will include advice such as how to secure funding, apply for visas or healthcare. It will offer guidance for parents to help them understand the options and what the benefits and risks might be.Dr Jo Beall, the British Council's director of education and society said: "This research goes a long way to helping us understand what is really holding young people in the UK back from the opportunities that are available that we know – and they believe – will make them more employable, and our country more globally competitive in the long term."It's vital for young people now to gain intercultural skills, employers have made it clear that they greatly value people with overseas experience."Lizzie Fane, founder of ThirdYearAbroad.com, a website dedicated to overseas study says: "The more information the better – students should be aware of the year abroad before they start university, so they can plan for it properly."Some students don't do a year abroad because they see it as an added year of debt and think they'll fall behind from their friends, but a year abroad gives you a huge step up in the world of work, it teaches you inter-cultural skills, language skills and increases your independence and confidence."The year abroad makes students unique, the combination of studying working and travelling makes you stand out to employers and have something to talk about in interviews."Mike Hill, chief executive at the Higher Education Careers Services Unit and Graduate Prospects says: "If you're serious about studying abroad, you'll need to put a lot of time into researching and making it happen, but it can be worthwhile – providing opportunities to travel and immerse yourself in a totally different culture, expand your world view, and take advantage of more employment opportunities as business becomes ever more global.""The possibility of studying abroad interested me as soon as I started the Ucas process. I love travelling and thought it would be a really good thing to add to my university experience. The option to study abroad was a big factor influencing the five universities I chose to apply to."The majority of the information I got was from the study abroad representatives at my university, they were really helpful at providing information and answering any questions I had."In the end however, I chose not to study abroad as I could only go to universities within Canada or America, because very few offered my course. Also, it was going to cost me well over ?7,000 for a three month stay. This was due to the cost of flights, accommodation, meal plans (which were compulsory at all the universities I could possibly have attended), insurance and visas."I decided that I'd rather not study abroad and pay around ?8,000 for the three month period, but instead save this money in order to go travelling once I have left university.""Studying abroad was the best thing I have ever done. I lived abroad for a total of 13 months and had the chance to travel around – I saw the New Year in in Sydney. I'm not sure all university experiences can offer that."I have been asked about the experience in scholarship interviews and it has provided me with countless examples to put on application forms so I definitely think it improves employability. This has been shown by a lot of my friends who did the same course as me and have gained employment on the back of their experiences abroad. It really makes you stand out."• This article was amended on 7 March to correct the spelling of Lizzie Fane's name. <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/education/2013/mar/06/lack-of-advice-turns-students-off-studying-abroad" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Lack of information turns students off studying abroad

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota The technical university in Cottbus, eastern Germany. Germany is among the most popular de...

8:11 AM

Les étudiants vont à l'étranger de se plonger dans une nouvelle culture

<img alt="The University of Nottingham in Ningbo, China" data-pin-description="A student walks through the campus of the University of Nottingham in Ningbo, China. Photograph: Qilai Shen/EPA" height="276" itemprop="contentUrl representativeOfPage" src="/The-University-of-Notting-008.jpg" width="460">A student walks through the campus of the University of Nottingham in Ningbo, China. Photography: Qilai Shen/EPAManagement courses with Chinese studies on the campus of the University of Nottingham in China has been a revelation for Adrian Fu, 21.He spent the second year of his studies in Ningbo near Shanghai and really enjoyed the opportunity to see things from a Chinese point of view: "I have studied the Chinese business law, has seen a movement fast economy first hand and discovered that the Chinese are not as quiet and reserved as you think." Like most of the students who came out with me now, I want to go back to live and work in China."Opened in 2004, the campus of teaches approximately 4,500 students - mainly Chinese - and replicates the degree syllabus, teaching standards and control of quality of the Nottingham campus.Branch campus overseas are part of the growing internationalisation of higher education. In addition to a growing international demand for degrees validated by universities in the United Kingdom, United Kingdom students benefit from the experience of learning abroad, being exposed to a different culture, outside of their area of comfort and mixing with international students.The rationale for each branch campus is different. But does do is provide education of niche either master's degree in Arabic and archaeology of University College London (UCL) Islamic to Qatar, MBA from the London Business School taught in Dubai or further degrees of accounting and business offered by the campus of the University of Central Lancashire in Cyprus. Study abroad is often perceived as a career Enhancer and experience to meet and work with foreign students can lay the foundations for future business networks.British universities most overseas campuses offer students a year abroad as an opportunity to specialize in a geographical area or region. The advantage is that as part of the same institution, students are able to perfectly combine the modules studied overseas with those studied in the United Kingdom.The report by 2012 of the Observatory on borderless higher education lists 200 graduates international branch campus. Among them, 25 British universities have foreign branches, making the United Kingdom the third place behind the France and the United States. Another 10 British universities are opening branch overseas campus over the next two years.Branch UK Campus often fill a major role in the countries where they are based. Campus branch of third round of the UCL in Education City, Qatar provides a suite of degrees of cultural heritage that may correspond to some international universities. Established two years on the back of huge financial support from the Foundation of Qatar, UCL at the Qatar operates as a Department of UCL and as a partner to Hamad bin Khalifa University of Qatar (HBKU).Master programs specialized in archaeology Islamic and Arabic, the preservation and practice of Museum and Gallery to attract an international student population. «UK students acquire a degree of quality in a subject specific topic that they can't get anywhere else in the world,» said Prof Thilo Rehren, Director of the UCL in the Qatar.The University of Nottingham has launched its campus of Malaysia in 2000. "In Malaysia, there are many research opportunities and funding sources that are not available in the United Kingdom," said Yu Hai - Sui Prof pro Vice-Chancellor (international). For example, the foreign campus conducts research on crops could only be made in the laboratory in the United Kingdom, but in Malaysia 'you can work on the ground,"said Yu. Last year 120 students left campus of Nottingham Malaysia of Semenyih studied a range of degrees between international trade and economics, psychology and international relations.One of the newest and most enthusiastic came to the overseas movement branch campus is the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan). Based in Preston, UCLan is designed to open a campus in Sri Lanka in 2014 with other campuses in Thailand and Bangladesh also planned."We see a clear trend in transnational education," says Lee Chatfield, Cyprus UCLan Rector, first company of the University. EUR 53 million (?44 8 m) - State of the campus of art, which opened its doors to students from Cyprus in October 2012, aims to attract students UK eager to spend a year abroad with accommodation and a flight back to Britain included in tuition fees of ?9,000. Chatfield said that despite the banking crisis earlier in the year, Cyprus is strategically positioned with the serving Eastern European and Middle East, in addition to a booming market.Freshman accounting diploma Henry Boocock returned from a meeting of tasting in Cyprus earlier this year. "Cypriot students really made us feel welcome and climate is a break from the rain and snow from England," said Bonakdar. «Spend a part of the academic year abroad is an experience of life - and it lets you think of opportunities of career in Europe. '' <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/education/2013/may/14/overseas-study-offers-broad-educational-experience" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Les étudiants vont à l'étranger de se plonger dans une nouvelle culture

A student walks through the campus of the University of Nottingham in Ningbo, China. Photography: Qilai Shen/EPA Management courses with Ch...

1:27 AM

Why I take a punt on Cairo

<img alt="A girl takes a photo with her mobile in cairo" data-pin-description="Studying abroad: a chance to see things from a different point of view. Photograph: Peter Andrews/Reuters" height="276" itemprop="contentUrl representativeOfPage" src="/A-girl-takes-a-photo-with-007.jpg" width="460">Study abroad: a chance to see things from a different point of view. Photography: Peter Andrews/ReutersSyria, banned. Lebanon, problematic, prohibited. The Egypt remains to be the limit of stability. For those on the subject of trigger in an Arabic speaking country, stories of former students evacuated when civil unrest broke out are disturbing.Where is there left that is safe to the Middle East for students wishing to go on their year abroad?Arabic, as Japanese and Chinese Mandarin, is evaluated to a language of five categories, the higher category in terms of difficulty and hours required for an anglophone to the master.It is well worth the time and discipline, not only for its usefulness in the areas of career including political, economic and media, but for its complexity and its cultural wealth.The University student hoping to master Arabic with the residence of one year in the Middle East has chosen a way of life, in addition to a language. While some will be develop in a new and unpredictable environment, others are not prepared to compromise their security.When my family has expressed doubts about my choice of the Egypt, I started to falter, too. The other two countries that I could choose, Morocco and Tunisia, are relatively stable and beautiful. But I do not have the luxury of looking through the lens of tourist camera. For me, the benefits of Egyptian Arabic outweigh the apprehension I feel about living there.There is no doubt the risks: a whole year has to pass smoothly enough for me to complete the full course. Following the whirlwind of the Arab spring violence, the Foreign Commonwealth Office advises against all travel to parts of the Egypt and warned against "a high threat of terrorism".For women, the harassment by males is a matter of concern, as Mona Eltahawy details in an interview.But the girls are not the only victims of sometimes annoying, sometimes brutal behavior; boys suffer also from all the days of assaults. Go to Egypt is a player, and the stakes are personal.So many things in life, however, may miss when that des is not cast. Where else could attend an ancient civilization, once again struggled to his feet at the rear of a revolution? The Egypt is perhaps not the obvious choice, but it is an exciting.I am confident that, if my University approves, Cairo is the place for me. Being young and stupid I say stubbornly that it is my life and this is my risk to take. Truth be told, after all the anguish and indecision, I look forward to go. <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/education/mortarboard/2013/jun/05/should-language-students-go-to-cairo" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Why I take a punt on Cairo

Study abroad: a chance to see things from a different point of view. Photography: Peter Andrews/Reuters Syria, banned. Lebanon, problematic...

7:37 PM

Tuition fee refugees: you may be disappointed

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota <img alt="Trinity College, Dublin" data-pin-description="The Ireland I arrived in is unrecognisable when compared with today. Photograph: Don Mcphee for the Guardian" height="276" itemprop="contentUrl representativeOfPage" src="/Trinity-College-Dublin-010.jpg" width="460"> The Ireland I arrived in is unrecognisable when compared with today. Photograph: Don Mcphee for the GuardianFaced with the prospect of ?9k fees, a record number of school leavers have chosen to go to a foreign university in the hope of getting a cheaper education.I decided to go to a foreign college before the fee hike was even on the agenda, enrolling at Trinity College, Dublin in September 2008. It seemed perfect – I could go to one of the top universities in the world, accessible by a short-haul flight and with only a small registration fee to pay.Registration cost me €800 – small change compared with the ?3,400 I was expecting to pay at an English university. At the time, few students were aware of the loophole that made first-time UK students eligible for fee remission at Irish universities. So with a budget flight booked and euros in hand, I signed up to study history.But I would hardly call my education a bargain. The registration fee has risen successively each academic year – first €800, then €1,500, €2,000 and finally €2,500 for this year. Our university newspaper, Trinity News, which I spent time editing, repeatedly features front page spreads showing students protesting against the fee rises.Dublin life isn't cheap either. First years – known as junior freshman – expect to pay €5,537 for a single room in the university accommodation, Trinity Hall. I ended up sharing a room in order to save money – around half of first year students did the same. And €5 pints at the student bar made buying a round eye-watering.The Ireland I arrived in is unrecognisable compared with today. In mid-2008, Dublin was coming towards the end of its Celtic Tiger years. But when the crash came, so did the fee hikes and the falling value of the pound. With the unpredictable Euro, new students from the UK cannot calculate exactly how much their education will cost.The UK government does not aid non-NI British students in Ireland. They would not provide me with a student loan or a maintenance grant.Students looking to cross the pond may be eligible for an Irish grant. Local councils offer student maintenance calculated based on family income. But searching through the plethora of local authorities and getting the right forms is tough – I had to ask for help from my student union.Individual universities offer hardship funds for students in dire straits, although normally only continuing students are eligible.My 4-year degree has cost around €28,000, but this figure is likely to be higher for new students who may face further fee rises. It's not far off what students in the UK expect to pay. Studying abroad has plenty of hidden costs, from currency exchange to airport transfers and trips during the summer holidays to find accommodation.Moving to Ireland was the best thing I ever did. But it was the quality of education, the people, and Dublin culture that made it fantastic – not the fee remission. <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/education/mortarboard/2012/aug/24/fee-refugees-disappointed" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Tuition fee refugees: you may be disappointed

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota The Ireland I arrived in is unrecognisable when compared with today. Photograph: Don Mcphe...

2:32 PM

Studying abroad: 10 Euro treats

Studying abroad: 10 Euro treats

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota Where? Copenhagen University Why? Language help. Students at Copenhagen – and indeed any Da...

8:07 AM

What's it like to study in the Netherlands?

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota <img alt="Dutch tulips" data-pin-description="EU students in the Netherlands are eligible for cheaper fees and benefits. Photograph: Michel Porro/Getty Images" height="276" itemprop="contentUrl representativeOfPage" src="/Dutch-tulips-004.jpg" width="460"> EU students in the Netherlands are eligible for cheaper fees and benefits. Photograph: Michel Porro/Getty ImagesThe media has taken a great deal of interest in Dutch Universities over recent months. The cause for this moment in the limelight? Lower fees of course.Since the coalition decided to raise the cost of a degree to as much as ?9,000 per year, the media has forecast a mass exodus of Britain's youth to the land of windmills and clogs.But although the headlines suggest that droves of eighteen-year-olds are rushing to the Netherlands, the numbers aren't that high.In 2010-11, approximately 1,350 Brits studied at Dutch universities – this compares with 1.9 million undergraduates at UK institutions. At Leiden University, where I study as a post-graduate, I know only a handful of British people.But things may be about change: in a bid to tempt young Brits over here, my university recently advertised for a British student ambassador.There are plenty of reasons to go Dutch. For undergraduates, it really is the land of milk and honey. Fees are cheap – around €1,700 (?1,367) for an academic year – and there are a multitude of benefits handed out by the Dutch government. If you're an EU student and are working 32 hours a month, you'll be eligible for a €265 grant and a free pass for public transport across the country.But don't assume that getting a job is easy. To do so you'll need Dutch health insurance and in many cases a good command of the language.From a postgraduate perspective, while the fees are reasonable, it will probably end up costing you as much to study in Holland as in the UK. Although this may be enough of an incentive in itself.Not everything over here is a bargain. Rent is extortionate, an agency fee of around €400 is charged if you attempt to find cheaper private housing – unfurnished of course, so Ikea will be your first stop – and there are hidden taxes. Only last week I received a letter telling me I have to pay €60 per month for rubbish collection.But, although life can be expensive – and my masters will probably get me nowhere – the experience is well worth the cost. I live in an attic overlooking a cathedral, and spend my free time cycling along cobbled streets and drinking with friends in canal-side jazz bars. <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/education/2012/jun/14/studying-in-the-netherlands" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

What's it like to study in the Netherlands?

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota EU students in the Netherlands are eligible for cheaper fees and benefits. Photograph: Mic...

1:29 AM

Bored with the United Kingdom? Put your laptop in your bag backpack and go study abroad

<img alt="Students stroll on the campus of Peking University" data-pin-description="Students stroll through the campus of Peking University. Photograph: Alamy" height="276" itemprop="contentUrl representativeOfPage" src="/Students-stroll-on-the-ca-008.jpg" width="460">Students walking around the campus of Peking University. Photograph: AlamyIf you want to pack your laptop and head cold, rainy, and Britain more expensive for your undergraduate degree, you are not alone. Winter in Granada sounds like it could be bearable. Studying in Siena, the approach of the spring could be embalmed. Prague is going to be great just about any time of the year.But what happens if you have a foot itchier and want to explore further? There is a whole world of higher education there: its America, Australia, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia or China as pleasure?Study outside the European Union has always seemed too expensive, the kind of expensive that hardly anyone had the means. But now that the fees of the UK have travelled up to ?27,000 for a three year degree, decide you want to study in a country outside the EU doesn't seem to be quite as profligate."There are colleges in the United States where he is not that much more," said Toni Hargis, an expatriate British and mother of two teenagers, who has just written the Guide without Stress to study in the States. It may be exaggerating a bit, because she also told "$ 23,000 year is on the lowest I've seen for a foreign student. It is about ?15,000, close to double the top UK courses yearly fee. But there, she pointed out, realistic ways to offset your costs significantly."There are many scholarships here", she says. These can be for sporting and academic prowess and can cover all or part of your tuition fees and the cost of living. "And Yes," she adds, "you are able to apply as a student non-us. For the most part, these schools [universities] have enormous endowments and can do what they like, it's their money. »One of the most serious problems encountered by young people who want to study international comes the planning and preparation phase. Understanding a different educational system, its requirements review and turnaround times, risk tripping you upwards until you have filled in your application.For American universities, you need at least 18 months, Hargis warns, do your research and all your applications. This means that to start doing serious thought, at the latest, Christmas of your first year of sixth form. And know that each application will cost you between $50 and $100, if you want to be carefully cut to the bottom of your choice rather than a scatter XY-gun approach.Universities will help if you approach him, Hargis said. "Officers of entries here are very open and well informed, and they welcome calls and are very transparent." But be careful: If you decide to pay for one of the many consultants who advise on the entrance of the University in the United States, be sure to choose one that does not have a direct interest in what institution you select. Some, said Hargis, working on the commission of some colleges, "so they will recommend perhaps schools that are not necessarily in the best interests of the student.What other parts of the world? The Australia is another popular choice, and there are universities which offer courses to the same sort of levels of rights as in the case in the United Kingdom. But, says Joanna Turner of consultants before degrees, leading institutions charge more like ?20,000 per year.She pointed out that you need to have access to serious money for any international, because you will be not be eligible for loan financing options higher education or grants that you are right if you stay within the EU.The Australia is clearly a very long way to go to check if you think that a particular campus is right for you - and a long way back if things do not work. But there are valid reasons to consider it, she said. "Regards oversubscribed areas in the United Kingdom - degrees related to medicine, for example - students will seek all over the world to see where they can get a seat".There is one other, very practical, reason why the Bank of Dad and MOM might be prepared to strain upwards for the Australia, says Mr Turner. ' Parents feel that the economy and the prospects it is much healthier than in this country. ' And if you are studying there for three years, you get a work permit for two years and then the possibility to extend it.Anna Boyd works for the student world, which hosts fairs of International University recruitment everywhere in the United Kingdom. Students must look beyond the glamour and excitement of international study and wonder if, sincerely, they think they will thrive under the constraints of living in a very different culture if away from home, she said.If the answer is Yes, then why not go somewhere completely different? 'China has a potential and there is also the Malaysia and Qatar, which have been off the radar until recently, but begin to organize courses in English,' explains. "Check out the YouTube channel, Facebook page and discover that say their students on this campus studies."Boyd said if you plan to study in a country that has only just begun to host foreign students, it is essential to ask questions of the quality of education research, or you could waste money and valuable time. You also need to be reassured that the degree that you finally travel - so check the accreditation and ensure that the qualification will be accepted in the United Kingdom.There is, of course, the distinct advantages under consideration in a fair country by train to become an actor on the market of higher education: graduated in China, Boyd said, "is much cheaper" that here, with courses cost around ?3,000 per year. Of course, you then taking in flights, charges of visa and health insurance, and many false charges which are the inevitable result of living somewhere unfamiliar and away from home.But an international diploma can give an advantage in a crowded job market. «Just study abroad makes you different, "says Boyd," approximately 22,000 students go abroad - but a degree of China, or the Malaysia you would really stand out.» <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/education/2013/sep/11/how-to-study-abroad" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Bored with the United Kingdom? Put your laptop in your bag backpack and go study abroad

Students walking around the campus of Peking University. Photograph: Alamy If you want to pack your laptop and head cold, rainy, and Britai...

6:57 PM

UK students escape the fees nightmare and head for Europe

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota Going to university is a pretty big step, but moving abroad for three years to do your degree is an even bigger one. To date it's a choice that few UK students have made – 2009 figures from the OECD show just 22,000 opting to study in another country, a tiny proportion of the two million or so who stay at home.With the introduction of much higher tuition fees this autumn, however, this is already starting to change, and there are good reasons why studying in Europe may be well worth considering. If you want do your entire degree within the EU – which means most of Europe – you'll lose your entitlement to a student loan here. But you'll find that all UK students are eligible for the same financial assistance as a home student from that country would receive.Many countries are considerably more generous to their undergraduates than we are: in Holland, for instance, you'll pay just ?1,500 a year for your course. In some countries, including Denmark and Sweden, tuition costs nothing at all.More recent figures on who's moving abroad to study are hard to find, but a survey of 500 school leavers and undergraduates carried out in March by Prospects showed that a quarter were planning to study abroad, over 70% more were considering it, and only 4% completely ruled it out.Another indication that more young people are thinking about upping sticks once they've got their A-level results is the increase in footfall at the Student World Fair. Its first event last year drew 950 prospective students. Its second, in March this year, saw 1,200 ticket-holders checking out the overseas universities that had come to show their wares."British students are in demand," says Student World Fair organiser Jemma Davies. "Their work ethos and standard of education is valued and admired."Some of the university exhibitors offer free flights and accommodation to prospective students who want to visit before applying. It's vital, says Davies, to choose your course first and then find an institution that offers excellent education in that discipline, rather than opting for a university with a party reputation.Most students are anxious about money, and living abroad in a big city could certainly cancel out some of the benefits of cheap or free tuition. Lizzie Fane, who set up student advice site called Thirdyearabroad, says living on the outskirts of a city can slash accommodation costs, even in a tourist hotspot like Florence.She also says you don't have to go to a major metropolis to enjoy studying overseas: "Students will have just as good a time, if not better, in a smaller place - you may even become a minor celeb."Homesickness is the one other factor that might spoil your experience, especially for freshers. Although you can make a beeline for home reasonably easily from most places in Europe, the cost might be a worry. But Davies says if you've picked somewhere with low fees, you'll be less concerned about the price of a ticket home. And, as she points out, "it's hardly as if rail travel or petrol are cheap here either".English speakers are lucky – many European universities will offer at least some undergraduate degree courses in English, but it's probably better in the long run to learn the language if you want to do more than mingle incestuously with your English-speaking mates. Free language tuition is usually available.Studying for a degree in architectural technology and construction management at the Copenhagen School of Design and Technology.<BLOCKQUOTE readability="16">"I came to Denmark because of an ex-girlfriend, and absolutely loved it so I stayed. Studying here is free, and many overseas students even qualify for a grant that covers some of the living costs. Plus there are free Danish lessons, though my course is taught in English. The approach is totally different from a UK uni – there's more emphasis on group work and it's more practical, so a lot more like you'd approach work in real life. I actually think the social life here is better than at home; there's a really nice community feel with everyone invited to the popular Friday bar, which is a workplace tradition as well as something students do. There's jobs to be had in my field with starting salaries of around ?48,000, and I definitely hope to stay on after graduating."</BLOCKQUOTE>Studying medicine and surgery at the University of Milan's international medical school.<BLOCKQUOTE readability="20">"At home, the increasing fees really put me off – medicine is a long course! In Italy, you pay in two instalments, one of €700, then a second of between nothing and €3,200, depending on your means.The course is taught in English, but we will be seeing patients from the third year, meaning Italian is a must. This is a relatively new course but the teaching is excellent, and with only 50 students a year, the professors get to know every student. The fact that the university has an excellent international reputation matters, as it means people will recognise your course. And Milan is a great city – you can live a very cosmopolitan lifestyle if you so wish."</BLOCKQUOTE> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/education/2012/jun/13/students-head-for-european-universities" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

UK students escape the fees nightmare and head for Europe

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota Going to university is a pretty big step, but moving abroad for three years to do your degr...

1:56 PM

Law students: 'and what else do I get with my masters?' | Alex Aldridge

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota <img alt="Booksellers in Paris's Latin Quarter" data-pin-description="Queen Mary University of London’s LLM in Paris offers an alternative way to pick up a new language and additional legal qualification Photograph: Brian Harris/Alamy" height="276" itemprop="contentUrl representativeOfPage" src="/Booksellers-in-Pariss-Lat-006.jpg" width="460"> Queen Mary University of London’s LLM in Paris offers an alternative way to pick up a new language and additional legal qualification Photograph: Brian Harris/AlamyBack when the economy was booming and junior lawyer jobs grew on trees, having a masters degree in law (LLM) on your CV was seen as highly desirable, with law firms and barristers' chambers valuing the benefits of an extra spell of in-depth legal study. But these days, as the downturn drags on and student debt levels spiral, there is some ambivalence about the wisdom of doing a conventional LLM before you have obtained a pupillage or training contract.Edward Walker, graduate recruitment manager at corporate law firm Pinsent Masons, sums up the prevailing sentiment:<BLOCKQUOTE readability="10">"We'd be neutral about a masters, which we don't view as intrinsically better than a year spent working in industry. Chances are, if you haven't met minimum academic requirements by the end of the Legal Practice Course (LPC), you're not going to reach it with a masters. And if you have reached it, but not got a training contract, the gap you have is not academics but elsewhere."</BLOCKQUOTE>Law schools and universities are alive to this shift in mood, with several introducing new courses to reflect an ever-more competitive legal education market where students are demanding more bang for their buck. Tuesday saw the latest example of this trend, with the College of Law announcing that it is to offer a new combined Legal Practice Course (LPC) and LLM from next year. The new "LLM LPC" will enable students to specialise in either international or national legal practice.The former focuses on examining the legal principles, structure and mechanics of cross-border transactions. The latter will be based around exploring general commercial or legal aid practice. According to which modules students take, they will be awarded either an LLM in International Legal Practice or an LLM in Legal Practice. Significantly, the cost and duration of the new course will remain the same as the traditional LPC.The thinking behind the new course was probably fairly similar to that which led City law firm Simmons & Simmons to overhaul its graduate recruitment programme earlier this year and introduce a new requirement that all its future trainees complete a firm-sponsored legal MBA alongside their LPCs. From September 2014, future trainees at the firm will begin the MBA during an accelerated LPC at BPP Law School, and then continue the course throughout the two-year duration of their training contracts.Simmons & Simmons' graduate recruitment partner Alex Brown has said that the MBA – which the firm has been offering on an optional basis since 2009 – "adds a lot of value to trainees". Certainly, it will be interesting to see whether this model or the College of Law's proves more popular with the international law firms who drive the LPC market via their sponsorship of new recruits' law school fees.The desire to "add value" is also informing the LLM programmes being offered by traditional universities. For example, LLMs that combine law with a language, or allow students to study a different legal system, are becoming more popular – a symptom of an increasingly international legal market, where law firms place a premium on language skills and experience of other cultures.Options looked on favourably by employers include the two-year law and Chinese LLM launched last year by Edinburgh University, and a host of specialist European law LLMs offered by universities including Kings College London and Kent.Intriguingly, the Edinburgh LLM includes a spell "at a prestigious Chinese University", with students expected to graduate with a "solid grounding in Chinese language." For those who don't fancy attempting to master a whole new alphabet, Queen Mary University of London's LLM in Paris – which focuses on exploring commercial law from both comparative and international perspectives, within a common law framework, but is taught in its entirety in the French capital – offers an alternative way to simultaneously pick up a new language and an additional legal qualification.Other innovative new LLMs include the broad range of part-time online courses offered by Northumbria University – enabling wannabe lawyers to work while they boost their CVs – and the specialist advocacy LLM launched this September by Strathclyde University, which is the first of its kind in Britain.Amid this array of options, some traditional LLM courses are still going strong, of course. Postgraduate legal qualifications from Cambridge or Oxford, in particular, remain highly regarded by law firms and chambers. What remains to be seen is whether students will still choose to do these courses before getting a training contract or pupillage under their belts.Alex Aldridge is the editor of Legal Cheek <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/law/2012/oct/04/legal-education-llm-law-schools" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Law students: 'and what else do I get with my masters?' | Alex Aldridge

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota Queen Mary University of London’s LLM in Paris offers an alternative way to pick up a new ...

7:23 AM

Distance learning: the best of both worlds?

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota <img alt="distance learning" data-pin-description="Distance learning means you can be taught by academics from across the world. Photograph: Sandy Young/Alamy" height="276" itemprop="contentUrl representativeOfPage" src="/distance-learning-008.jpg" width="460"> Distance learning means you can be taught by academics from across the world. Photograph: Sandy Young/AlamyTwo years ago I decided that I wanted to go back to university to study an MA. There was only one barrier: money. Did I really want to return to a life of Pot Noodles?Haunted by memories of penny-pinching as an undergraduate, I decided to do things differently. I kept my day job and signed up to a distance learning MA in international relations at the Freie Universitat Berlin.The course, which is delivered through online resources and four residential trips, offers the best of both worlds. I study at an internationally renowned university, all from my kitchen table and at a time that suits me.I'm not the only one choosing distance learning – it's a growing area for universities according to a recent Guardian article, which reported that an increasing number of professionals are updating their skills by studying remotely.Just over 10% of the students enrolled at UK universities in the year 2010-11 were studying through distance learning.But given the slump in university applications – which many have blamed on the hike in tuition fees – perhaps more school-leavers will turn to remote learning.The cost of distance learning varies – it can be as expensive as a traditional degree – but the big bonus is that you can flex your day job around your academic work.Studying at a university over 1,000km from where I live means popping over to the campus to borrow a book isn't an option. But the four week-long residential visits have been a unique experience.Each was packed with classes and evening talks, and I spent the time meeting fellow students from across the globe. While I do miss being a full-time student, technology ensures I don't miss out in terms of contact time. In fact, Skype calls with lecturers mean I have one-to-one attention on a regular basis.Of course, there are limits to distance learning. Finding resources locally is much harder when you're not based on a university campus, and teaching isn't so all-encompassing. As an undergraduate I had plenty of supplementary classes, which are sacrificed when you live so far away from your university.Another downside to distance learning is that it's harder to build friendships with classmates when you're living in different parts of the world. Although we keep in touch through a Facebook group, and get to see one another at our residential classes, nothing creates a sense of camaraderie quite like post-lecture drinks in the student union.So, as two years of studying draw to an end, what are my thoughts on distance learning? For those with financial concerns about university, or with work and family commitments, it's a great way to satisfy your thirst for knowledge and broaden your opportunities.One of the main things I have learned over my distance learning experience is that education isn't just about doing a traditional bachelor's degree: it's a lifelong journey. Distance learning makes that journey more accessible and very rewarding. <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/education/mortarboard/2012/jul/10/distance-learning-best-of-both-worlds" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Distance learning: the best of both worlds?

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota Distance learning means you can be taught by academics from across the world. Photograph: ...

1:47 AM

Fees discount helps students study abroad

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota <img alt="Heidelberg" data-pin-description="A year abroad may help you achieve that coveted 'global mindset'. Photograph: Alamy" height="276" itemprop="contentUrl representativeOfPage" src="/Heidelberg-003.jpg" width="460"> A year abroad may help you achieve that coveted 'global mindset'. Photograph: AlamyDavid Willetts, the man responsible for raising tuition fees to ?9,000 a year, is usually considered a villain in the student world. So it's a surprise to hear that he has announced a substantial fees discount to encourage us to study abroad for part of our degree.Those who spend two or more terms at an overseas university will pay no more than 15% of the year's fees at their UK institution, which is good news for students who want a taste of international life without the commitment of spending their whole degree abroad.Across Europe, students have been getting to know each other this way for years: 3.7 million students (pdf) each year take part in an Erasmus exchange, a mind-opening year of foreign study and fiestas.But although we Brits were invited to the Erasmus party, we haven't bothered to turn up: fewer than 1% of outgoing Erasmus students are British. It would seem that students in the UK prefer to stay on our small island, surrounded by home comforts and fellow English speakers.This is perhaps a bit harsh – many students would love to take part, but the structure of most UK courses prevent all but language students from spending time abroad.Evidence suggests that a year overseas makes students more confident, independent and employable. In a 2011 education and skills survey, over half of employers questioned said that there were shortfalls in young peoples' "international cultural awareness".A year abroad may help to achieve that coveted "global mindset". At the very least, anyone who has lived in France will know never to call a French business at lunchtime.The new proposals mean that students should pay no more than ?1,345 to their UK university when abroad – although this is still steep, especially when little or no tuition is being provided.A year abroad should not be an expensive "gap year", but a recognised and integral part of all courses – and its benefits must be available to all. Universities should work at creating funds to ensure that anyone who wants to study abroad is able to do so.Year-abroad students are sometimes criticised for partying too hard and not doing any work. But the cynics are missing the point – when else would you have the enriching experience of eating an English breakfast for dinner in a flat in Rome, cooked by Irish, French and Turkish flatmates and washed down with Portuguese liqueur?Evenings like this are a crash course in international understanding and create strong relationships that will last far longer than the headache the morning after. JK Rowling spent a year in Paris as part of her degree. Would it be going too far to say that her in-depth experience of another culture may have helped her to create the parallel world of Harry Potter?If you're starting university this year, take advantage of the funding on offer. Language need not be a barrier – intensive courses are widely available while many universities offer programmes in English. The grant also applies to exchanges outside of Europe, for those who can see themselves revising on the beach in Australia or living in an American frat house.Wherever you go, the chances are you won't be disappointed – in a survey for thirdyearabroad.com, 86% of students who took a year abroad considered it to be the most valuable part of their degree. Who knows, it may even be the most valuable year of your life. <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/education/mortarboard/2012/jun/15/fees-discount-study-abroad" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Fees discount helps students study abroad

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota A year abroad may help you achieve that coveted 'global mindset'. Photograph: Alam...

8:12 PM

Compensation 2013: thinking about studying abroad

Packing your belongings, departure from the House and to engage in a degree with a group of foreign sounds overwhelming enough without throwing in a foreign country, the new language and different time zone. But if you have ever thought about studying abroad, is perhaps the time to consider it.Broadly speaking, there are two options - full graduate student at a University in another country or enter a British University with the option to spend one year or semester abroad or a sister, institution or through a programme such as Erasmus.Students who are a full degree three or four years abroad pay tuition fees for foreign students in this country, and these may vary greatly. Three years at a top university in the United States could cost $60,000 (? 39,300) in only tuition, while he was a student in Scandinavia is usually free.If you make a year or a semester abroad organized by a UK institution, you pay no fees at the foreign University and a fraction (usually up to half) of the normal fee to your home institution. The University of Sheffield offers the possibility of studying in Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, the New Zealand, Singapore or the United States as part of a three year undergraduate degree. On the other hand, study abroad often means taking a four year degree.The United States and the Australia are popular for students of the United Kingdom options because there is no language barrier, but don't overlook not elsewhere in the world. Many universities, especially in Europe and the far East, now offers degree in French programs and some host institutions have affiliated campuses around the world. The University of Nottingham, for example, has a campus in Malaysia.But if the challenge of another seductive language, the Erasmus programme should be your first call. For 26 years, he was offering students the opportunity to study in one of the 32 European countries for a semester or a year during their studies. Students receive a non-repayable grant (the quantity depends on the country of study) in addition to their regular student loan.The advantages of studying abroad can be enormous. Immerse yourself in a different culture and pick up a language affected by new social and political structures are all gold CV, not to mention the opportunity to study in world class facilities. But, if you are interested, you should act quickly. Applications of comprehensive international study is necessary at the beginning to allow time for visa approval, while the University with one year options abroad usually applications from your first year December requires.Jess Linn, who spent a year in New Jersey as part of his degree of art, cinema and theatre at the University of Reading, said it won more than expected from the study abroad, and that was the best part of his time at the University. "The chance to experience another culture and learn about yourself is priceless. "I totally recommend it."• The site of Top universities has resources to help students seeking their options to study abroad, including an excellent guide for student visa application.• Council of Student Affairs International UK has tips and information for the student home study abroad.• Outlook has a collection of case studies of students who have studied abroad, as well as country profiles and universities.• Travel language ESL has details of language and education programs in 40 countries.• The study site Options can tell you everything you need to know about studies in Australia and New Zealand.• The National Union of students has excellent guides to study abroad, including applications and study in the European Union.• The educational exchange program Erasmus has details on its investments and semester-long the year in Europe.• The complete University Guide has articles on study abroad and information about the Fund.<img alt="Guyanne Saul" height="54" src="/Guyann--Saul-001.jpg" width="54"> Guyana Saul, 22, right LLB with French at the University of Sheffield, studied law for a year at the University Jean Moulin Lyon III in France"Apart from improving my French, the year abroad helped me to become truly autonomous. It was one of the biggest challenges of my life, but also one of the most wonderful experiences."The way we were taught was completely different. We have been spoon-fed much more information, which made me appreciate how we do things here._The most difficult part was the administration - sort of housing payments and bank accounts (a friend is still trying to close his account six months), but it did not improve my patience!"If you're ready to be thrown in the deep end for a year, studying abroad is a wonderful opportunity."<img alt="Daniel Aiken" height="54" src="/Daniel-Aiken-001.jpg" width="54"> Daniel Aiken is studied for an MEng in civil engineering at the University of Hong Kong"I didn't take a sabbatical after school, then student abroad was my way to travel and see the world. In Hong Kong, I had the chance to explore a different continent - at Christmas, I spent five weeks traveling through the Viet Nam and North Korea on a motorcycle!"I made some good friends. Hong Kong is a very international city; I met people from the India, Germany, Mauritius, Israel, Malaysia...«Study abroad certainly strengthen my resume because the largest engineering firms today are global corporations. ''"He had some difficult parts; the rules were very rigid and it was difficult to disentangle the identity cards, bank accounts and telephone numbers. "But once I installed, everything felt normal and, in general, this has been the best experience of my life - I recommend it to anyone." <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/education/2013/aug/01/clearing-advice-study-abroad" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Compensation 2013: thinking about studying abroad

Packing your belongings, departure from the House and to engage in a degree with a group of foreign sounds overwhelming enough without thro...

2:02 PM

Poland: Europe's new university destination?

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota <img alt="Krakow University" data-pin-description="Jagiellonian University of Krakow is the oldest university in Poland. Photograph: David Levene" height="276" itemprop="contentUrl representativeOfPage" src="/Krakow-University-008.jpg" width="460"> Jagiellonian University of Krakow is the oldest university in Poland. Photograph: David LeveneFrom its gingerbread treats to restaurants and pubs, Polish culture has become a part of British life. Around 579,000 Polish-born people have moved to live in the UK – all during the lifetime of today's 18-year-old university applicants.But will the increasing ties between Poles and Brits encourage more school-leavers to travel eastwards to study?Poland – hardly a top choice for international students – is currently trying to rebrand itself as Europe's new educational destination. It has long lagged behind other countries in terms of attracting students from abroad. At the moment foreign students account for only 1.39% of those attending Polish universities, with most of these students coming from Ukraine, Belarus and Norway.The number of British students enrolling at Polish universities is growing, but it remains small. In 2006-07 only 72 studied there, a figure which stood at 164 in 2010-11.Many institutions, such as Lazarski University, are making new efforts to cater to foreign students by offering degrees in English at both undergraduate and graduate level. The country's bargain courses are a major attraction for young people abroad. Juan Martin, an Argentinian studying English at a university in Poznan tells me he came to Poland for his degree "because it's cheap, much cheaper than in Argentina".Martin has a point. While students at English universities will fork out ?9k for a year's study, an entire degree at a Polish university could cost as little as ?3,017.I go to a private university, which costs me ?1,000 a year for tuition. However, all good students, including those from abroad, can get a scholarship. Last year I was awarded a ?2,000 bursary, which covered the tuition fee twice over.Living costs are also significantly lower. The University of Edinburgh calculates that the average UK student will need ?150 per week for living expenses – this includes food, accommodation and essentials, such as bus fare, but not entertainment. This is equivalent to around 750 Polish zlotys: enough to cover a month's rent for a lavish en-suite room in a hall of residence.But what is student life like in Poland? In the UK students live on or near campus, they get involved in the students' union, they join societies and do regular sports. Student life in Poland focuses on learning. All students have a full timetable, attending classes for their subject specialisation, seminars provided by other subjects in the faculty and lectures on general education – a bit like in America. All the grades count, so students study very hard.Most Polish universities don't have a students' union with bars and clubs, so student-only nights are run during the week by the city's clubs.When the country joined the EU in 2004 it was reported to have been hit by a brain drain, with many young people moving abroad. While it is true many young people did move abroad – more than half of those who left were aged between 24 and 35 – many highly-qualified people remain. Poland has no shortage of doctors and engineers. Higher education is highly valued in Poland and around 80% of graduates go on to study to master's level.Poland is also fast-emerging as the Silicon Valley of central Europe. Companies such as Dell, Google, Hewlett-Packard, Intel, IBM, Motorola, Siemens have chosen to open offices there.Even during the short amount of time I have known Poland, I've watched it modernise and develop vibrant cities. Perhaps it is only a matter of time before it becomes a first choice for Brits studying abroad.• This article was amended on 2 April 2013. It originally said 80% of young people study at master's level. <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/education/2013/apr/02/poland-europes-new-university-destination" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a>

Poland: Europe's new university destination?

AppId is over the quota AppId is over the quota Jagiellonian University of Krakow is the oldest university in Poland. Photograph: David Le...

7:58 AM