How I Got Two Scholarships and a Grant to Study at Oxford

EWAN French, from Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, managed to secure two scholarships and one grant to study engineering science at Oxford. He told Student World Online why applying for financial aid is a matter of course for many students at the prestigious UK university.

Oxford is a prestigious university, but it was more than this that made me want to study here. Being surrounded by some of the brightest in their fields, both students and tutors alike, is a priceless experience that invariably lends itself to fascinating conversation and the opportunity to learn about more than just the subject you study.

Oxford is a beautiful city filled with diverse people from all walks of life, making it always possible to find something that interests you. Last year I became involved with orchestras, world music and even Quidditch!

Despite the fees in Britain being much lower than the States, it was still important for me to apply for scholarships to make it easier for my parents!
My Oxford scholarship is in fact a culmination of separate awards to form a total of £5,500 towards tuition fees (usually £9,000 a year for domestic students and approximately £19,000 for international students). There are many awards, each with their own criteria and amounts. I aim to inform on some of these, as well as perhaps demystifying the process a bit.

With such an abundance of awards and scholarships out there it only takes a bit of research before you find extensive funds available to you (when you have the appropriate financial background). My experience of it has been that in general there seem to be more 'lump sum' grants available for students studying in science or engineering fields, but there are certainly also funds directed at other fields. Some of these are offered by individual universities or departments, whilst many are set up by private funds or companies (occasionally with the added bonus of admittance to their internship programs!). I shall outline the ones I have personally pursued, since to enumerate all would be impossible!

The first grant I applied to was the IET Diamond Jubilee scholarship, offering £1,000 per year. This depended on achieving at least three 'A's at A-level and maintaining 60% at university. It required just an online application and questionnaire to be filled out. This is for people studying a science-related discipline at accredited universities.

In addition, I got a general grant worth £1,000 from IET for people achieving at least a 2:1 at university. This is competitive and required a positive reference from my tutor. The details for both can be found on the IET website.

The final award was a BP scholarship for £3,500 per annum, which was rather more involved. It required completing a questionnaire and aptitude test; passing these, there is then the possibility of an interview.

BP Stem Scholarships are now worth £5,000 a year and up to eight awards are available every year at Oxford for undergraduates who are studying chemistry, earth sciences, engineering science, materials science, mathematics or physics, though joint honours students are not eligible to apply.

These represent only a fraction of the resources available so I strongly recommend further in-depth research.Funding university through scholarships is very much a matter of course at Oxford, and does not affect how you are viewed within the university, if only affirming your academic suitability to study there.

Despite this piece being far from exhaustive, I hope that it had provided you with a bit of insight into the scholarships available and that there is so much out there to help you study your course if you just look hard enough.

Read More »

Facebook AI Research Residency Program for International Students in USA, 2018

The new Facebook AI Research (FAIR) Residency Program is now available for international students. The Facebook AI Research (FAIR) Residency Program is a one-year research training program with Facebook’s AI Research group, designed to give you hands-on experience of machine learning research.

The AI research residency experience is designed to prepare you for graduate programs in machine learning or to kickstart a research career in the field. This is a full-time program that cannot be undertaken in conjunction with university study or a full-time job.

Scholarship Description:

• Application deadline: January 26, 2018
• Course Level: This is a one-year research training program.
• Study Subject: The residency is ideal preparation for applying to top graduate programs in machine learning. Exceptional performers are welcome to interview for full-time positions at Facebook.
• Scholarship Award: Residents will be paid a competitive salary.
• Nationality: International students
• Number of Scholarships: Numbers not given.
• Scholarship can be taken in USA (Facebook Menlo Park and New York locations)

Eligibility for the Scholarship: 

Eligible Countries: International students are eligible to apply for this program.

Entrance Requirements: Applicants must have a

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field such as Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent practical experience.
• Completed coursework in Linear Algebra, Probability, Calculus, or equivalent.
• Coding experience in a general-purpose programming language, such as Python or C/C++.
• Familiarity with a deep learning platform such as PyTorch, Caffe, Theano, or TensorFlow.
• Ability to communicate complex research in a clear, precise, and actionable manner.

Preferred Qualifications

• Research experience in machine learning or AI (as established for instance via publications and/or code releases).
• Significant contributions to open-source projects, demonstrating strong math, engineering, statistics, or machine learning skills.
• A strong track record of scholastic excellence.

English Language Requirements: Applicants whose first language is not English are usually required to provide evidence of proficiency in English at the higher level required by the University.

Application Procedure: 

How to Apply: To apply to the 2018 Facebook AI Residency Program, you will need to complete the application and submit the following items:

1. CV/Resume (including links to GitHub, professional web pages, publications, or blog posts as applicable)
2. Personal statement
3. Academic grade transcript

Note: All materials must be in PDF format.

Scholarship Link

Read More »

What's the Difference Between Scholarships, Grants and Bursaries?

THERE are three ways in which students can receive monetary support when studying in the UK. Scholarships, grants and bursaries all offer some sort of financial assistance for students who need it or for those who apply for it. The three of them are different, usually because of the ways in which they’re awarded but also how they’re decided. Here’s a quick overview about what they are and how you can get your hands on them.
Bursary

A bursary is a lump of cash that’s awarded to students based on the financial support they can get from their parents. It works on a sliding scale, meaning students whose parents earn below a certain threshold will be entitled to receive more money than someone’s whose parents earn above it. And, of course, if your parents are Beyoncé or Donald Trump, it’s likely that you won’t be entitled to anything at all. Your bursary will come directly from your university and the great news is that you won’t have to pay it back.

How do I get it?

In the UK, bursaries can be applied for through your university’s website, but make sure you’re definitely able to apply – universities all have different rules and regulations about this kind of thing. The government, through local authorities, also sometimes offer bursaries, as do charities.

Scholarship

This award is given based on some sort of excellence – be it academic, sporting or other talent. The award is usually a reduction in tuition fees, or extra money to assist with living costs and can be awarded to a superb saxophone player or fantastic footballer. Most universities will have their preference as to what kind of scholarships they offer, for instance a university with a good track record on the field would rather offer a scholarship to a sportsman than someone with straight 'As' in Chemistry. Of course, if your grades are exceptional, most universities offer a scholarship for this, and that’s usually just to tempt you to choose their university. Oh, to be young and brainy…

How do I get it?

All universities will have an application process – very rarely will you be scouted out while swimming 50 laps of the pool in 30 seconds like they do in college films. For a more practical scholarship, there might be an audition or test game to make sure you’re worth the cash, and for academic scholarships, an exam might be given. More often than not, though, your 15 A*s are enough to satisfy them.

Grant

This monetary gift is usually given for a very specific purpose, like studying abroad or undertaking research that costs a bit of money. This usually comes directly from the university itself and will be based on whether your cause is worth the money you’re asking for. If you want to study in Spain for a year because… er… the weather’s really nice… it’s likely that you won’t be given it. Should you want to research the pH levels of the soil around Mount Vesuvius for your dissertation, then that’s more likely to get a green light.

How do I get it?

For a specific piece of research, like a dissertation, a proposal and plan will probably have to be submitted to the awarding officer. There might be an informal interview or chat about the plans, just so they know that you’re up to something above board, but so long as the grant is genuinely needed there’s rarely problems in getting it. 

Read More »

Most shocking News: Scientist created human-Dog

NORTH AMERICA – Scientists have created a
hybrid life form by ‘Human-Dog’ a cross
between humans and dogs, to entertain/cater
market of super rich people who like
collecting unique pets.
Dr. William Bateman, 43, who have created
these human hybrids explains “There is only
so much you can buy a person who has it
all.”
Animal rights groups are up in arms, as Paul
Cross, 27, activist with the Animal Defense
League explains “If one my children saw these
creatures, they’d scared half to death. Imagine
one of them sucking on your toes, in a dark
alley”.

Dr Bateman explains some of the advantages
having Human-Dog hybrids, “They’re very
intelligent and unique and they can also
communicate, as their vocal cords are
functional. This means, not only can they keep
you company like a dog can, they can talk and
even read with little training.”
Currently these Human-Dog Hybrid is being
sold around $5 million. Not only are they
being sold in North America, but there are
orders for them in Manchester, Cardiff and
London.
Experiments to create half-men, half-beasts or
Human Hybrids are not legal in most
jurisdiction. The construction of such hybrid
life forms is now prohibited in most states.

Read More »

Unusual UK scholarships

Why not opt to spend more time in the library than at a part-time job?

STAYING afloat financially whilst at university can be challenging, stressful and at times seemingly impossible. Getting a part-time job will help ease the strain but could impact on your studies if not managed carefully. There are a number of scholarships out there that you may not have heard of. 

Here is a list of some of the more unusual scholarships and bursaries that you have probably never heard of, what you need to do to get them and also some tips for finding other ‘hidden’ avenues of funding.

Always start close to home when you're looking for a scholarship or bursary

Start with your own institution

This is probably the simplest thing to do: try searching for your university on ScholarshipSearch. Use their search bar to find your institution and see if you’re eligible. It’s worth a try because they say that millions of pounds go unclaimed each year.

I also came across this grid outlining what each institution offers which could be useful, and all funding should also be listed on your institution website.

The Vegetarian Scholarship

This one is slightly more obscure. If you are vegetarian or vegan (and can prove that you have been over the long term) and an undergraduate then you could be eligible for this one off £500 payment from the Vegetarian Charity!

Every organisation, from the armed forces to local councils, is worth contacting about their bursaries 

The Royal Navy

This scholarship is a little better known than the one above! The Navy has funding available for engineering students at universityand some eligible people in the sixth form. If the Royal Navy deem you eligible you will receive a guaranteed place at Naval College too. In-depth information can be found below.

Government-funded scholarships

Various scholarships are available, funded by the government, for international students. There is a particular emphasis on funding for students from economically developing countries within the Commonwealth especially for students seeking postgraduate study. Have a look here for a global list.

The Fran Trust

Another very interesting one that few people know about. This charity offer one-off payments of up to £500 for people who identify as female studying in the UK who regularly contribute papers on gender-related topics and who attend conferences.

The L’Oreal - UNESCO for women in science programme

This is specifically for highly talented scientists who identify as female. Various different bursaries are available for women at different stages of their career and education. Applications and closed for this year but will reopen for 2018 applicants. Check out their website for full details of what's available.

Write to the local authority in your hometown

This is definitely worth a try! I wrote a formal speculative letter to my council explaining my situation before university and was awarded a bursary of £500 for books. Try emailing or writing a paper letter to someone relatively senior or involved in education at your local council asking if they have any funding. Also, keep an eye out for your local newspaper as sometimes people in the community may pass away leaving sums of money that they wish to be donated to students studying in particular areas.

Read More »

The best resources for funding education and where to look

FOR most of us, gone are the days of free education. As tuition costs increase and entrance requirements become more competitive, finding available funding for university is increasingly important to a larger portion of the population. While there is no shortage of options out there, finding the opportunities that are available for your specific circumstances is often challenging. If you need a bit of guidance, here are six of the best resources for funding your education to get you started.

Scholarships from your University

Most universities offer scholarships to students fitting a certain qualification – whether it be based on sports skill, academic ability, international status or financial need. Many of these are granted automatically to qualifying students, without an additional application. All the important application details, including the requirements, process and deadlines can be found on your university’s website.  

Government Scholarships and Grants

While not as abundant as they used to be, the UK Government offers grants to help students with the cost of studying. These grants are paid directly into your bank account so they can contribute towards tuition costs, study materials, accommodation, food, or any other necessary expenses. Unlike a maintenance loan for tuition fees, you don't have to pay back grants so eligibility typically depends on a student's household income, location, or background.

Bank Scholarships

Though banks are a good option if you’re considering a loan for education, some banks in the UK also offer education scholarships. Santander bank partners with a number of universities in the UK to provide awards and funding. Applications are made directly to the university for the Santander awards. The Bank of England also offers an educational scholarship - for students from a Black, Mixed African or Caribbean background.

The Royal Navy

The Royal Navy offers a range of funding options and scholarships for students still in school, already at university or while in-service. While studying for your A-levels or equivalent qualifications, you’ll be entitled to £1,500 per year as well as a place for initial officer training. Students on an Engineer officer scholarship are entitled to a bursary of £4,000 per year while they study for their degree. Extra bonus – there’s a guaranteed job at the end of your course!

Private Scholarships

The Royal Navy isn’t the only organization pairing academic scholarships with career opportunities; plenty of businesses sponsor degrees for their employees. Also known as “degree apprenticeships,” these programmes are a way of getting a no-cost degree while gaining valuable work experience and a salary. Many corporations use this as a way of keeping their workforce supply chain stable, so require award recipients to commit a certain number of years employment.

Educational Charities and Trusts

Each year, charities and trusts make thousands of pounds worth of grants to individuals for their education. Requirements are typically restricted to students from particular groups relevant to the specific charity – often related to age, course of study, location or life circumstance. The value of these grants is typically lower than that of other scholarships and is usually designated for specific items or particular purposes.

Regardless of what university course you choose, make sure you explore all your financial options. There are a number of websites that provide detailed listings of available scholarships and don’t forget to check your university’s website. For more unique options, check out this list of 10 unusual student bursaries. 

Read More »

What Canadian Scholarships are on offer for 2017/18?

As the number of international students flocking to Canada grows, so will the number of scholarships available. Here is a list of some undergraduate, masters-level and doctorate scholarships available for international students wanting to study in Canada.

Undergraduate

University of British Columbia’s International Student Scholarships 

The University of British Columbia (UBC) offers a number of merit and need-based scholarships for international students. All international students are automatically considered for the International Major Entrance Scholarships (IMES) and Outstanding International Student (OIS) Award upon application to an undergraduate programme at the university. They also have an International Scholars Program, which offers two awards – the International Leader of Tomorrow Award and the Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award, both of which are valued depending on financial need but are sufficient to cover tuition costs and living expenses. UBC also has a number of scholarships for international students already enrolled in study at their Vancouver campus.

University of Toronto’s Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Programme

Awarded to international students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership qualities, the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence for four years. Students must meet the eligibility requirements and be nominated by their school as leaders in their community before applying. Once nominated, the student will be invited to apply for the award. The deadline for school nominations is in November; the student application deadline is in January. 

University of Toronto

Graduate

University of Toronto’s African Leaders of Tomorrow (ALT) Scholarship Programme

The ALT Scholarship Program grants 130 scholarships to qualified candidates from sub-Saharan Africa to pursue a Master’s degree in public administration, public policy or public finance at a Canadian university. The award covers airfare, tuition, living expenses and a fixed allowance. It also incorporates a professional development component, which includes mentorship and networking opportunities as well as the development of a professional development plan. Applicants must be between 22-35 years old, be fluent in either French or English, and have worked for 2-5 years in the public sector, civil society or in research institutions in Africa to qualify.

Watch Esther Njambi talk about her time at the University of Toronto:

Alberta Innovates Scholarships

Alberta Innovates Graduate Student Scholarships are awarded to thesis-based students studying in a full-time graduate program in research areas that are strategically important to Alberta, including Information and Communications Technology (ICT), Nanotechnology, and Omics. Scholarships are available for students studying at the University of Alberta, University of Calgary or the University of Lethbridge; applications should be made directly to the relevant university. Both domestic and international students are eligible.

Doctorate

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship Program

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, funded by the Canadian government, are three-year scholarships with a value of $50,000 CAD per year. There are up to 167 awards available to Canadian citizens, permanent residents of Canada and international students who are pursuing a doctoral degree at a Canadian institution. Deadlines for applications are in early November.

Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships

The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation awards up to fifteen doctoral scholarships each year to candidates pursuing humanities and social science related research. One out of every four scholars may be a foreign national registered in a full-time doctoral program at a Canadian institution. The award is valued at $40,000 CAD per year for three years, plus an additional $20,000 per year as research and travel allowance.

No matter where you’re from or what Canadian institution you want to study at, make sure you do your research well in advance to find out the best scholarship options for you. Visit each university’s website to find out more details about their specific international student scholarships.

Read More »

Business School Scholarships for Postgraduates

THERE are many excellent justifications for getting a Masters in Business, including better career opportunities, higher salary potential and momentum for launching your career in a new industry or country. While increased credibility and enhanced knowledge and skills are some of the many benefits that motivate people to seek a postgraduate business degree, cost is one of the biggest deterrents. Considering average tuition for business schools in the US is almost US$115,000, while even the cheapest MBA in the UK will set you back more than £4,000 a year, it’s not surprising that concern over debt is making some students question taking on a postgraduate business degree.  Let the benefits outweigh the cost, and instead of taking on debt you may never be able to repay, consider applying for these business school scholarships for postgraduates. 

Cass Business School, City University of London

Cass Business School offers a number of scholarships for full-time MBA students, most of which award 50% towards the cost of tuition fees. Applicants can apply for up to 3 of more than 10 available scholarships, though only 1 scholarship will be awarded per candidate. Scholarships are available for students who have received high GMAT scores, previous entrepreneurial experience, women with STEM backgrounds and military service. Advisors suggest choosing scholarships that relate closely to your strengths and to focus on what makes you unique. Remember to plan your time effectively because applications are time consuming and applying early improves your chances. The only caveat is that the scholarship will be deducted from the second fee instalment in January.

Birmingham Business School, University of Birmingham

Birmingham Business School offers nine scholarships for full-time MBA students, many of which cover the full cost of tuition and are offered to international students from developing countries. Scholarships are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with the expectation that all scholarships will be allocated by April of each year. Award winners also receive a variety of other benefits, including support from the Deputy Director as your personal tutor, careers support and guidance and networking opportunities through sector groups. Assessment is made based on a candidate’s MBA application, CV, and personal statement, with the University offering interviews over the phone or Skype for students from abroad. 

Henley Business School, University of Reading

Henley Business School offers a number of scholarships and bursaries for students studying in UK-based MBA programmes. A variety of criteria apply depending on the scholarship or bursary applied for, with most looking for outstanding candidates they feel will add value to the programme and all successful candidates will need to hold an offer of a place on a full-time MBA programme. While scholarships and bursaries for the flexible MBA programmes are offered on a rolling basis – and therefore candidates are advised to apply early – awards for full-time or executive programmes have strict deadlines, usually around the end of June. Amount awarded varies, but there are many 100% scholarships awarded in various categories.

University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh offers a number of Business School MBA and MSC scholarships. After receiving an offer of a place on their MBA programme, candidates are eligible to apply for a number of scholarships.  Ranging in value from £5,000 to £20,000, there are nine MBA scholarships, each with different eligibility criteria, including diversity, entrepreneurial experience, business achievement, leadership experience and for Americans who have a strong affinity with Scotland. Business School MSc scholarships are awarded, based on merit, to candidates who can demonstrate excellent academic performance and have the potential to enrich the diverse academic and cultural of the programme. No separate applications are required for MSc scholarships; all successful applicants to the programme will be eligible and automatically considered.

Warwick Business School, University of Warwick

Warwick Business School (WBS) is offering more than £2million in scholarships for their 50th anniversary year (2017) and applications are accepted throughout the year. Students applying to WBS will automatically be considered for a scholarship, but those applying to study for a full-time or Executive MBA will need to submit a 300-word written statement explaining why you believe you should be awarded a scholarship. 

For more information on other business school scholarships available in the UK, visit the Association of MBAs. 

If you are after an undergraduate scholarship, read our Business School Grants for Future Entrepeneurs.

Read More »

International Student Scholarships in the US

QUICK LINK! CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE!

CAPPEX: American Scholarships matches international students with U.S. colleges and scholarships. Getting started is easy. Just fill out some basic information and get your scholarship matches.

Attending college in the U.S. does not have to be a financial burden for international students. Colleges are recruiting students like you every day in order to expand their student base and enrol bright minds from around the world. Cappex partners with universities in the U.S. to offer exclusive scholarships to qualified international students.

Find out more about American scholarships

Read More »

Tata Scholarship: 7 Essential Things to Know Before Applying

FOR Indian students, there is nothing more prestigious than the Tata Scholarship. Now, almost 5,000 individuals are proud to call themselves ‘Tata Scholars’. It’s a highly sought after award, so how do you get one? Never fear, we’ve put together our own guide to walk you through the essential things you need to know before you apply.

What is it?

You may have heard of the multinational organisation Tata before, but you may be less familiar with its affiliate, the Education and Development Trust, set up to offer monetary assistance to students. Thanks to a $25 million endowment from the Trust, undergraduate and postgraduate students reap the benefits every year. Since 1982, the scholarships have helped Indian students to receive the best education possible around the world.

Who is it for?

Most importantly (and rather obviously!), you’ll need to be an Indian citizen and have attended a secondary school in India, or be a graduate of a recognised Indian university. The Education and Development Trust supports around 120 individuals to pursue higher studies in all subjects and disciplines. Mid-career professionals up to the age of 45 who are planning to continue their studies, research or training are also eligible, as well as final year undergraduate, awaiting results. As well as having a good academic record, you’ll need to be eligible for need-based financial aid. Don’t worry if you haven’t had confirmed admission to your chosen universities yet – you can still apply while you’re waiting.

What does the scholarship award include?

While the majority of the scholarships are offered on a loan basis, selected scholars may qualify for a gift scholarship from the Jamsetji Trust and a travel grant from the Sir Dorabji Trust. The loan scholarship ranges between Rs. 1,50,000/- and Rs. 6,00,000/-, while the gift scholarship can be anything up to Rs. 10,00,000/- and the travel grant up to Rs. 50,000/-.

Do I have to attend an interview?

Following the initial screening of applicants, candidates are shortlisted to be interviewed in person by two individuals, a subject expert and the Director of the Endowment. Successful applicants are selected based on these interviews which are held in Mumbai (typically from March onward every year). You’ll need to be prepared to answer questions about your subject, and your specific areas of interest, as well as know your career path. In some cases, a phone interview may take place before the final interview in Mumbai.

How do I stand out from the crowd?

Tata want the brightest and the best students around, so the application process is rigorous, but we’ve got some tips to help you stand out. The experts aren’t just concerned with your academic ability; they place an emphasis on your extra-curricular activities too, so don’t neglect your hobbies and personal interests. They want a well-rounded individual. A good Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) score is also very important when applying for studies overseas, and you can always improve upon your current score if you need to, to increase your chances.

How long do I have to submit my application?

There’s no set date for submitting your application but you should have completed your form at least 45 days before you are due to depart overseas.

Where do I begin?!

All applications must be submitted online so visit jntataendowment.org to get the process started. Each application must be accompanied by a personal statement of up to 800 words and a letter of recommendation written by a professor if you are studying or an employer if you are working.

So there you have it! It may sound daunting but there’s no reason why you couldn’t be one of those scholars, so get started and dive in. Good luck!

Read More »

Get That Scholarship

Graduates celebrate at Nottingham Trent University

A SHORTAGE of money is often the main thing stopping talented students from studying abroad. But help is out there if you know where to find it. Follow our top tips on how to get that scholarship.

Be ahead of the game
Scholarships are highly competitive and writing a successful application is hard work – so the earlier you start looking, preparing and applying the better.

Do your research
If you know the country where you want to study, start with a general internet search for scholarships in that country for students of your nationality. Scour the websites of your favourite universities and look for government-aided schemes in both your native country and the country you want to study in. Brazil, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait are among the governments that have recently expanded their scholarship programs, while the British Council in India has just launched an INR 100 million scholarship program for Indian students who want to study in the UK.

You may also find privately-awarded scholarships that match your chosen degree or other criteria such as your gender, language, religion, interests, financial need or society membership. Think about relevant employers, trusts, charities and research bodies and check their websites to see if they award scholarships. Scholarships come from a variety of sources. For example, one in five international students in the US is primarily funded by their college or university while 7% are funded by their home government, 1% by the US government and 2% by other sources in the student’s host country.

Check the tuition fees and living costs at the universities you are interested in to check you can afford to go there, even with financial help.Approach university departments or school careers advisers directly.

Check the small print.
Scholarships may cover full tuition fees and living expenses or, more commonly, just part of the tuition fees. Some come with special conditions attached such as a clause stating that the student must work at a particular company or in a particular country after graduating.

Apply for lots
Competition is tough for scholarships so give yourself the best chances by applying to any scholarship program that matches your profile. It’s also a good idea to find the lesser-known, smaller awards and competitions as the funds add up.

Sell yourself
The personal statement is the most important part of the application and is the best opportunity to highlight the skills and abilities that mark you out from the crowd. Check and double-check what the sponsor is looking for, then tailor your statement to those aims. Be passionate and positive and give specific examples of how your achievements have made a positive impact. Mention your voluntary work, work experience, awards and hobbies. Universities will want to know how you will contribute to the institution during your studies, while private scholarship sponsors might be more interested in your long-term potential and leadership abilities.

Have a good online profile
Remember that scholarship sponsors will probably google your name and try to find out more about you, so make a good impression.
Remove any embarrassing or offensive content from Facebook, Twitter or other social media outlets. And project a professional image, using channels such as Linkedin, Youtube, About.me and eLance. Read more tips about managing your personal brand. 

Read More »

5 Myths About Student Life in the UK

Myths about student life in the UK have been around for almost as long as the universities have - for better or worse. Since the medieval era students have been berated for being lazy, drunk and disobedient, and though not a lot has changed there, recent generations have slightly glorified this image. Add that to the clichéd images of penniless students living on baked beans and tea, the running not-so-funny joke about the lack of graduate jobs and general disappointment that not all universities look like Hogwarts, and you might start to wonder why you chose to study there in the first place.

But fear not – Britain is a great place to study, regardless of all the hyperbole. Allow us to put your mind at ease as we bust 5 myths about student life in the UK.

Nightlife is the student’s raison d'être

Students in Britain are notorious for liking a good night out, and you may enjoy it too – but there are other things going on at UK universities as well. If nightclubs aren’t your thing, or you simply feel like doing something else, there are plenty more low-key places to socialise like pubs, bars and cafes. Many universities also hold events like concerts, fayres and exhibitions, and there are lots of other things you can get involved in, from the university sports teams to radio stations and newspapers. More alcohol-free events, and even alcohol-free accommodation, are available now, so that all students can feel included.

Fresher’s Week is nothing but wall-to-wall fun

For those who don’t know, Fresher’s Week is the time just before term begins at UK universities, where students go to parties, social events and get settled into their accommodation. It is a great opportunity to make friends and enjoy your newfound freedom, but it can also be quite overwhelming - especially to international students getting used to their surroundings. Now, plenty of people love Fresher’s Week, but it’s important to bear in mind that not everyone will be used to loud, communal living, nights out and being away from home. Have fun, but be nice, and don’t be afraid of asking for help and support if you feel that you need it.

Everyone lives on a shoestring

Yes, a lot of students in the UK budget and shop frugally in order to save themselves some money, but it isn’t all tinned food and overdrafts. Like any group of people students come in all shapes and sizes, and so do their wallets. In fact, university students in the UK are also known for some pretty reckless spending – which might explain why some end scrimping and saving later on. So, just because you’ll be studying in the UK does not mean you’ll inevitably have money worries. To find out how to make a budget and stay on top of your money, check out this short video.

You’ll make friends instantly (and for life)

This really does happen for some people, and that’s great, but sometimes it does take a little time and effort to find people you click with at university than people make out. If you don’t feel like you really gel with some of your flatmates or the people already on your course, don’t panic – in the UK there are so many student societies, and for so many different interests, that you are bound to find like-minded people. International students can often find societies full of people from their home country, and activities cover everything from chocolate appreciation to Quidditch. Just check out your university website or contact them for information on what’s available.

 If you don’t go to bed exhausted, you’re not doing it right

Going to a British university, you’d be forgiven for forgetting that being sleep-deprived isn’t the norm. It seems commonplace, if not desirable, to be partying, studying or socialising through the day and into the night, with some sporadic sleeping in between. Medical students, in particular, have a ‘work hard, play hard’ reputation. On the surface this looks fun but, despite all the people you may know with semi-superhero schedules, it does take its toll eventually. Don’t push yourself too hard, too fast – think marathon, not sprint. And, if you can, master the art of daytime napping...just in case.

Read More »

Why Do You Want to Study Abroad? 6 Tips to Inspire Your Essay

APPLYING to study abroad is a tricky thing, especially when it comes to answering that all-important essay question: why do you want to study abroad?

It sounds like a simple enough query, but try to write an answer and you’ll quickly realise how difficult it is. You may want to study abroad so you can ‘broaden your horizons’ and ‘see the world’, but with so many millennials yearning to travel, these have become clichés. In this article, we’re going to give you some tips on how to write your personal statement, and cogently explain exactly why you want to study abroad to your new university.

1. Jot down ideas – and be honest

Write down every genuine reason you can think of as to why you are studying abroad – no matter how silly or generic they sound. Is it because you want to travel and have fun, to work in a city connected with your industry, or simply because you want to escape? Maybe you want to re-discover a culture or family roots, or study with a world-renowned academic. The reasons can be professional or personal, big or small. It’s important to know your motivations before you begin, even if you end up dressing them up a bit in the actual essay. If you really don’t know your reasons, it might be worth re-thinking things before you apply – studying abroad is serious business.

2. Root out the most important

Have you ever read something that seemed to be trying to make too many points, or discuss too many topics, at once? It can be confusing to read, and by the end, it doesn’t really feel like you’ve gotten very far. For this reason, it’s a good idea to open your answer with one main reason you have for studying abroad – the thing that really gets you feeling excited and driven – and let this be the thread that ties your whole answer together. If no one reason jumps out at you, try looking at your notes and see if any of them have similar themes: professional success, personal growth, academic discovery, feeling ‘at home’ in a particular culture, wanting to make a difference.

3. Get specific

By now, you’re hopefully feeling passionate about your answer – now it’s time to flesh it out.

Admissions officers already know students like to travel, experience new things and further their careers; they hear this all the time. What they really want to know is what makes this relevant to them. What’s the connection between your desires and their university? Answering this question well will help you stand out from the rest, which is important for popular courses.

For example, many fashion students would love to study in Paris, for obvious reasons. But if your ambition is to become a knitwear designer, and the Parisian university you’re applying for is renowned for its expertise in this area, you can make a specific connection between your ambitions and this unique opportunity. It highlights that you’ll be a good match for the university, and furthermore, that you’ve done your research.

Where you come from can be just as important as where you're going when making these links. For example, our contributor Monserrat draws a comparison between the chaotic cities of her home country, Mexico, and the well-designed cities of the Netherlands, both of which inspired her to study Urban Management & Development in Rotterdam. Again, this demonstrates a specific connection between her ambitions, the course she chose, and the location.

4. Show off

Admissions teams like details – they also like evidence. A student might say they are a knitwear enthusiast, but it’s even more impressive if they have work experience or achievements to back this up. If you have some of these, great! Make a list of any relevant accomplishments so you can weave them in (no pun intended) for added impact. This could include competitions, academic scores, grades, participation in events or exhibitions, work experience, volunteering, special training or even personal milestones. You don’t need to mention every achievement you’ve ever had, but if it reinforces a point you’re making, it makes sense to use it.

5. Put it into paragraphs

Writing your answer in clear, coherent and not-too-long paragraphs is very important. Nobody likes reading dense walls of text, or long-winded essays that take too long to get to the point. Start your essay strongly with a compelling 1-2 sentence introduction that goes straight for the topic in hand: the main reason why you want to study abroad. Then, explain and build your case in the following paragraphs using the notes and ideas you’ve gathered so far.

There is no one way of doing this, but one good piece of advice I’ve learned is this: you don’t have to write things in the right order. If you can’t think of an original opening line straight away, or are having trouble with a paragraph, just come back to it later. By then, you may have a better idea of what you want to say.

6. Draft, re-draft, and proofread!

Hopefully you know by now that it is usually a bad idea to submit a first draft of anything; this definitely applies to your study abroad application. Unless you are a literary prodigy, you will most likely need to re-draft your essay at least once. Get as many people to read it as you can – parents, teachers, friends you trust – and heed their advice. If you’re writing it in a language other than your own, try getting a native speaker to look it over too. And, whatever you do, make 100% sure there are no mistakes at all in your writing. In the age of spellcheck, there really is no excuse.

Read More »

5 ways to reduce stress when going back to University

SUMMER has come and gone but you still feel like there’s much to do before going back to university - there are more hours to sleep, more books to read, more trails to hike, more lakes to swim and even more sangrias to drink!

But the time has come and you can no longer postpone getting ready for the beginning of the new term. There are classes to choose, books and supplies to purchase, clothes to pack… There are simply too many things to do without wanting to take a Netflix break shortly after starting to think about it all.

As if being a student wasn’t stressful enough, going back to University also means going back to juggling a part-time job with academic work and a social life while trying to figure what’s next. Believe it or not, it is possible to be a stress-free student! Here is how:

1. Breathe

Going back may seem very overwhelming right now but you have done this before, so the odds are in your favour. Your classes and your professors may be new, but you will be in a known setting surrounded by your friends and familiar faces. Take a long deep breath and talk to them, they are probably feeling the same way!

2. Sleep 

The correlation between the amount of time you spend resting and your productivity is undeniable! Try to get enough sleep as often as possible. If you’ve slept in because you were up late on social media, try to switch off your devices earlier to avoid the temptation! On the other hand, if you know you will be working on an assignment until late, a power nap during the day will likely help you stay more focused when 2 AM rolls around.

3. Adopt a healthy diet

Grabbing a burger in between classes may seem like a good idea, but an unhealthy diet actually increases stress. Avoid this temptation by taking a couple hours during the weekend to meal prep for the rest of the week. This way you’re in control of what you eat and, in the end, your health and your wallet will thank you! If you run out of ideas, you can always check the hundreds of student meal suggestions online.

4. Exercise

Regular physical activity is good, but it is even better when you are stressed as it increases your production of endorphins, the hormones that make you feel good! So here is your chance to try that spin, yoga or Zumba class you’ve been wanting to. If these aren’t your cup of tea, choosing to walk instead of taking an uber or the bus can also be beneficial!

5. “Treat. Yo. Self”

Whether it’s because you have exams coming up or you just stayed up late completing an assignment, it is completely normal to wake up feeling a little blue every once in a while. When this happens, instead of stressing about what needs to be done, take it as an opportunity to take the day off and have a “me” day. Spend the day in bed watching Netflix, buy yourself a present, go out bowling with friends – the choice is yours!

You are often so busy thinking about what is next that sometimes you forget about the now! Getting good grades is excellent, but being a student is not only maintaining a good academic record. When stress comes knocking on your door, breathe before you open it and remember these tips. You will thank yourself later!

And remember, everything will be ok!

Read More »

5 Very British Christmas Traditions International Students Should Experience

CHRISTMAS means different things to different people; it’s a time of giving and to be around family and friends. Here in the UK, there are some things that, for most people, are a certainty each year. As an international student visiting the UK, there are so many Christmas customs that you might not know where to start. Here’s a list of five very British traditions you should experience to feel extra Christmassy whilst here!

Stockings

Round up those odd socks because they could come in handy: For many years, children have hung stockings on Christmas Eve. Originally plain socks were used, but over time people have begun to put up sock shaped bags specifically for holding gifts. It’s unclear where this tradition originates from, but in one story, St Nicholas is travelling through a small village and hears of a poor merchant. His three daughters cannot marry as he cannot afford to pay for the wedding. When St Nicholas hears this he throws three bags of gold coins down the chimney, which land in the girls’ stockings that are hanging up to dry. When they find the full stockings the following morning, they are full of joy, and the daughters go on to marry and live happily ever after. When this story spread, children began hanging their stockings by the fire, hoping for St Nicholas to bring them gifts too. Why not put one up yourself – Santa could be extra generous to a student in debt…

Crackers

Add some fun to the next meal with your family or flatmates by pulling some Christmas crackers. Crackers are cardboard tubes covered in brightly coloured paper, usually with a paper hat and a joke or a gift inside. Two people pull the cracker and when it breaks, whoever is left with the largest part wins its contents. Crackers were first made in the 1800s by sweet maker from London named Tom Smith, who was trying and failing to sell sweets with a riddle or motto inside. He then thought to add a loud crack when the wrappers were pulled off, and crackers were born! Nowadays crackers are generally associated with Christmas and are pulled during Christmas dinner, so why not put some pop into yours?

Christmas Dinner

Christmas Dinner is a tradition enjoyed in many parts of the world, but in Britain there are a few things you can be sure will end up on your plate. For starters, most people will have prawns or smoked salmon. The main course has changed throughout the years: during the Middle Ages, swans and peacocks were the centre piece of the dish, while it was goose in the Victorian Era. But if your taste buds aren’t very adventurous don’t panic – nowadays a traditional Christmas Dinner is usually just turkey with vegetables (including those dreaded Brussel Sprouts!). And, as if two courses aren’t enough, there’s Christmas pudding or a festive fruitcake for dessert.

The Queen’s Speech

In Britain, the broadcast of the Royal Message to the general public is an important part of many people’s Christmas Day. The tradition first began in 1932 when founder of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Sir John Reith approached King George V asking him to make a short broadcast on his new radio service. The king was not very enthusiastic, but following a hugely successful broadcast the speeches continued. To this day, Queen Elizabeth II continues to address millions of viewers and listeners all over the world on Christmas Day. Many people listen after they’ve had their Christmas Dinner – the perfect excuse to sit down and relax after eating so much you can barely move!

Christmas Carols

It’s not Christmas until the Christmas songs start playing, and for Brits a number of these are traditional Christmas carols. The origin of Christmas carols dates back thousands of years when, in Europe, Pagan songs were sung at the Winter Solstice celebration. Early Christians then took over the pagan celebrations and adapted them to celebrate Christmas, changing the carols with it. Although this tradition began to die out around the Middle Ages, it began to make a comeback around Victorian times when people began singing Christmas music in villages in England. Popular carols such as “Good King Wenceslas” were written during this time. Nowadays, people in the UK still sing carols that were sung many years ago, either at a church service or knocking door to door (also known as carolling). So if you’ve got a good voice (or not so good, who cares!) why not try singing along?

~

These are just five British traditions you should experience, but there’s so many that you’ll have more to experience next year. Merry Christmas! 

Read More »