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 www.britishcouncil.org Study Abroad
Link to 'Archive' www.enjoyingenglish2008.org i - Studying Abroad - general information - Beware - School Abroad... a cautionary note - So you want to study in the UK - Don't just keep it to yourself - Studying in the USA - Study Abroad ... Australia - UK University warning - Pakistani students fight to clear their names (UK) - *** The world's top 100 universities 2010
Studying abroad is the dream of many students, and understandably so.
However, other than making the decision of what and where to study, there are many other factors to consider, including costs. You can find details of universities and the courses they offer on the search engines - see separate lists.
I will use the UK as an example, as that is my home country, with which I am familiar. Most of the comments I make, apply to a greater or lesser degree to other popular destinations, notably; USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and European countries, particularly Holland and France.
Costs for foreign students in Britain are enormous due to a number of factors; the exchange rate, i.e., the number of RMB to the pound - currently around 15RMB to 1GBP. The cost of living in the UK is high, at least 10 times, and often 15 times more than in China. Thirdly is the high cost of tuition fees for foreign students; again this is often 10 times higher than a British student would pay. The reason is simple, however the universities may try to justify the situation. It is simply that, enrolling foreign students is seen as a way of providing universities with more income - more money. They would probably deny that statement. However, it is interesting that in 2000, British Prime Minister, Tony Blair, urged universities... 'to enrol at least 25% of it's students from overseas by the year 2010.'
Some estimates say that the amount of money a student needs for 1 years tuition, books / stationary, accommodation, living and travel expenses is 150,000RMB*. I think the true requirement, if you are living independently of friends or relatives is between 200,000 and 225,000 RMB to maintain a quality of life.
By 'quality of life', I mean that university life in the west includes not only study, but also enjoying sporting, artistic and cultural activities. The idea is to make the student a 'whole' person, with varied experiences and interests.
In the UK, most students from outside the European Union (EU), require a VISA**. Although about 90% of applications are granted, it is by no means guaranteed that a visa will be issued. There are many reasons for this; sometimes political, but more often, that information on the application form is proved to be false - usually relating to parents income, or that the authorities suspect that that the applicant may have other motives for their request, e.g., entry for illegal work.
Culture is another important factor. Some describe the differences as 'a gap'. I suggest that 'distinctive contrasts' is a more accurate description. Life in the west is very different from that in China. People live their lives very much more independently, which can lead to foreigners feeling isolated and lonely.
Since coming to China in 2000, work has given me little opportunity for contact with western people, let alone my fellow countrymen. My friends and colleagues are mostly Chinese. It is thanks to their generosity and support, that I have settled down. Although I am not Chinese, I don't feel like a foreigner. On the other hand, most Chinese students I know in the UK, live with other Chinese students, and eat Chinese food. The problem is not being able to adapt to local life, rather it's being able to bond and make connections with local people.
Many students going abroad find the emotional and social adjustment difficult. The bond and reliance here (China), is more intense than in the west. Students spend less time forming relationships, which can lead to feelings of lack of confidence, and in extreme cases, isolation and homesickness. Homesickness can be a very serious problem; feeling lonely and unloved, affecting your motivation to work / study, your appetite, sleep patterns and ultimately, your health.
From my experiences of working with Chinese students, studying abroad is not necessarily the best option. Educational standards in China have improved dramatically during the past 6 years, and will continue to do so. Peking University is in the World's Top 20 universities ranking. Other Chinese Universiities are heading for the Top 100.
I cannot count the number of times I have heard a student say, 'My university is not one of the best.' But I can tell you this, that figures from the United States, the UK and Europe, show that an able, dedicated student, will achieve their potential, wherever they study.
* this compares with about 10,000+ RMB at a good Chinese University.
** VISA's... Overseas students studying in the UK are allowed by law, to work part-time. I think it is 14 hours a week, which fits in with the availability of part-time work in pubs, restaurants and supermarkets, particularly at weekends. You will be issued with a National Insurance Number for medical care after 6 months. Prescriptions have to be paid for. You will also receive a 'green card', allowing you to work within certain limitations.
Overseas students are not allowed to come to the UK and then save for studies by doing full-time work. Neither are overseas students permitted to take time out of university to earn money to finance the rest of their studies. As with most countries, you would risk having your visa withdrawn or a renewal, refused.
Many private colleges and companies are only in the business to make money. Their commitment to students and their parents to trovide 'good education' is very limited. Some go to lengths of including words like 'Cambridge' or 'Oxford' in their name. It is easy to assume that these schools or colleges are somehow attatched to, or endorsed by the world famous Universities of Oxford or Cambridge. This may be mis-leading, but is not necessarily illegal.
Foreign students can easily fall prey to the deceit and lies some institutions claim. Parents are often too eager to have their son or daughter take up further or higher education in an establishment abroad, as they see this as an opportunity for better job prospects upon graduation. That is not necessarily true either.
It is necessary to try to confirm that the college or university you have chosen, is genuine. Resources are available to help:
The TES (Times Educational Supplement) is the newspaper to read for almost all information about Education, including Chinese teachers seeking$jobs abroad. Their website is: www.tes.com , simple isn't it?
The University of Wolverhampton has two websites which are useful to students considering study abroad. They are:
www.scit.wlv.ac.uk/ukinfo.html This will give you a list of all colleges, universities and educational institutions with the words 'higher' or 'further' in their name that have been accepted by the UK Government as being 'efficient', and providing a good standard of education. It is the nearest you are likely to get to finding Government registered establishments.
Note... that if the college or university is not listed, it may not give you a fair deal and should be investigated in more depth or avoided.
So, You Want to Study in the UK.
Higher Education in England & Wales claims to provide better value for money, because courses are more intensive than in many countries. Scotland has it's own Education System, but I think the same comments broadly apply.
First Degree Courses - B A (Arts), B Sc (Science) usually 3 or sometimes 4 years, mostly taught with assignments and a short thesis.
Sandwich Courses - usually 3 years; two years in university, accompanied by 1 year's practical experience in between.
Post-graduate study may be taught or may take the form of research. It leads to a variety of degrees. They usually take 1 or 2 years, but doctorates take 3 or longer.
Classroom teaching is much less formal than in China, and you will be expected to question the teacher, join in discussions and study by yourself. You have to learn to think about the subject and make your own decisions and conclusions.
You will also find that teaching methods vary compared to$your experiences. A Lecture, similar to China, where the lecturer makes a presentation to a large group of students who take notes.
A Seminar is a small discussion group of 20 students or less, who join their lecturer or tutor to discuss a topic or exchange ideas. A Tutorial is a group of 3 or less students who join their tutor to discuss individual's work. Your Personal Tutor, may not actually teach you, but is responsible for your general well-being whilst you are at university.
From May 1st, 2006, candidates needing to re-take the test can do so on the next available testing date, allowing more time to study, so increasing thair chance of achieving a better score.
Don't neglect some kind of leisure activity to give yourself a break; a game with friends, listening to music or watching a movie before you hit the sack, will help you relax ad prepare you for the next days study.
Don't just keep to yourself
Students studying abroad tend to be very hard-working but tend to live in a closed world too much of the time. 'I have to work hard to pass the exams,' is the cry from many Chinese students studying abroad and in Chinese Universities. However, it is necessary for good alround performance and personal development to find time for hobbies, interests and relaxation, whether it is playing games, sports, watching movies or reading.
Diligent 'Chinese students$are the most hardworking and diligent here,' said Kylie Hurd, Marketing and Recruitment Coordinator at Macquarie University , Australia, which has more than 6,000 international students from 80 different countries.
Diligence seems to be something their Australian teachers and classmates in Sydney associate them with. Their devotion to study is accompanied by a closed world, both in the classroom and on the campus. Most students from the mainland are that way. The same applies to Chinese students I know, who have studied in the UK.
Students should spend more time getting involved in the wider campus life, by joining clubs and sports programmes. This would give Chinese a better understanding of university life and a better understanding of the international community and the country they have chosen to study.
In westernised countries, university is regarded as more than a place to study. It is a place to develop personality, skills, make friends and experience aspects of culture; art music and drama, for example. To be able to do that, it is necessary to mix outside your immediate group of friends, and make relationships elsewhere. A part-time job could help. It is to develop an all round personality, sometimes referred to as, 'a whole person', and can affect you future in terms of frienship, knowledge and understanding. It may even lead to enhanced career opportunities.
I have found in the past, that students are reluctant to express themselves in class unless I repeatedly encourage them to do so. It is a problem, students often sit at the back of the room, taking notes quietly. They don't ask questions and are hesitant to question or argue with a teacher's point of view.
Culture shock . Some students say the reason for that is that they've been trained to behave like that since they were in primary school.
That may be so, but the fact is that the educational environment is different, and the western life-style, for better or worse, is also different. My firm belief is that students in a classroom should be relaxed and comfortable. I encourage them to 'help each other' when they hit a difficult situation or question. The exchange of ideas and opinions, is important for creative inter-action in the classroom and for the development if individual characters. Often there is not a right or wrong answer. It is good to disagree with an opinion, provided it is possible to give valid reasons for a different one.
I don't believe it is a teacher's job to criticise outright, put students down or make them look foolish. A teacher's objective is to encourage, support and help develop a student's development and talents. That the people in their care, will graduate with the skills necessary to be able to perform well in whatever environment they are working. They will be rounded people, able to contribute to society, making long and lasting relationships, as well being able to embark on a successful and fulfilling career.
Students living in a western country for the first time experience a culture shock. A culture shock, by definition is experiencing and being able to understand a differnet way of life, different standards of living and behaviour, different styles of art, musicl sports, drama, food - and dozens of other things encountered in every day life. When you mix outtside your immediate environment, you tend to change your way of thinking. You start to relax and enjoy life.
Don't isolate yourself. Be part of the action and discover the things that life has to offer.
Studying in the USA
How to apply. The process of applying to a US university takes around 12 to 18 months. Students usually apply to four to seven colleges and universities.
Materials . TOFEL score: Most universities require foreign students to take the TOEFL Test of English as a Foreign Language. Other tests depend on the level of studying being pursued.
Application forms: Can be found on universities websites. They require personal and education history.
Certified transcripts from prior education and teachers recommendations.
Family financial history*. Students with strong academic records may receive financial assistance to pay tuition fees.
Admissions and visas*. Universities send out their admission decision in May. Students either get acceptance or refusal letters from the universities. The university which the student accepts, will then send appropriate forms to apply for a study visa.
* Make certain that the various application forms are filled in accurately and truthfully. Your signed and dated declaration is legally binding. Information is thoroughly checked. Discrepancies or information found to be misleading or inaccurate will almost certainly result in the refusal of an offer or visa. Visa information is shared between countries such as the US, Canada, UK, Australia and New Zealand as precautions against terrorism and illegal immigration.
Study abroad - Australia. More than a third of the foreign students graduating from Australian universities, mainly Asians, have such poor English skills that they should never have been admitted, according to a study released this week (2007.05.19).
The study, done by Melbourn Monash University , found that more than 50% of South Korean and Thai students did not have sufficient English to work professionally in Australia , along with more than 43% of Chinese graduates.
Some 17% of students from Singapore and India , where English is more widely spoken, also failed to reach the required level.
Overall, 34%% of the graduating foreign students offered permanent residence visas in 2006 did not have competent English.
Almost all the 12,000 graduates tested for the survey were from Asia because these students are the most likely to apply for permanent residency after completing their studies.
The survey raises questions about university standards in Australia . It found that all grads tested had enough command of the language to cope in most situations but people who have reached this standard are still not capable of conducting a sophisticated discourse at the professional level, it said. Many overseas students struggle to meet their course requirements and universities co-operate by lowering the English demands of courses. Universities were hesitant to make students take extra language courses because this would make it more expensive and, therefore, less attractive, according to the study.
Education is Australia's fourth largest export, with foreign students paying some A$2billion to attend universities every year
UK University Warning...
Universities in the UK are warning students taking advanced exams in Comprehensive schools, the equivalent of senior middle schools in China, that they are risking rejection to university. Many students are taking subjects which are thought to be poor preparation for university courses.
Although this does not necessarily apply to Chinese students wishing to study in the UK, I think it a factor to think about. There has been a great deal of criticism in recent years from business and industry about the standard of national examinations. Generally speaking, they are looking for a well rounded education, and students who have balanced experiences in their private lives; sports, hobbies and other interests, including some kind of work experience or a part-time job.
The subjects under review are:
* Accounting & Finance
* Art & Design
* Business Studiew
* Communications
* Drama
* Media / Film / television Studies
* Health & Social Care
* Home Economics
* ITC
* Law
* Leisure & Recreation
* Performing Arts
* Physical Education
* Travel & Tourism and...
* General Studies.
Preferred subjects are; Mathematics, Sciences - especially Physics and Chemistry and Languages. This is nothing new, and has been the situation for at least the past 30 years.
I said that this does not necessarily apply to China, where jobs relating to Tourism, Leisure and others, are rapidly increasing due to China's tremendous economic growth. Sooner or lataer, the job market will be saturated as has happened already with ComputerStudies. This is why it is necessary for students to keep a close watch on the job market one or two years before they graduate. (see Jobs).
Instead of inflating grades and criticising universities, Government Ministers in the UK should listen to university experts and encourage state schools to prepare students properly. Only then will the best university education become accessible to all.
Alan Cooper & Laura Clark - Education Correspondent for the Daily Mail.
2008.05.19.
Pakistani students fight to clear their names after arrest in anti-terror raids. Declan Walsh in Islamabad guardian.co.uk, 03.12.2009.
• Students freed without charge say lives are ruined
• Eight forced to leave UK while two attempt to stay
A group of Pakistani students arrested but not charged after anti-terrorist raids last April are fighting to clear their names after MI5 claims that they belong to al-Qaida or are a threat to national security.
The 10 students were released without charge after the raids in Manchester, Liverpool and Lancashire, but eight have been forced to leave Britain and two remain in jail fighting deportation.
The Guardian has interviewed seven of those sent to Pakistan, who say their lives have been ruined – their studies over, money lost and little prospect of being able to travel to the west again – because of thin and speculative evidence.
Their accounts, corroborated by Home Office papers and police interview notes, raise questions about the basis of the raids. No evidence of bomb-making equipment or a specific plot emerged. Photographs used by police as evidence of "commando" training in north Wales were on Facebook, the students say, and innocent dinners were misconstrued as terrorist planning meetings.
Recently a young London woman has emerged whose testimony, lawyers say, challenges an email at the heart of the case against the students. "The whole thing is rubbish. There was no bomb factory, no link to al-Qaida and they know it," said Janas Khan, 25, a business student now back in Peshawar. "They just wanted to get us out of the country to avoid embarrassment." Khan said his life had been ruined by the experience.
Gilani said he had discussed the students with the foreign secretary, David Miliband, after his meeting with Brown and Miliband had promised him he would facilitate British visas for the students.
Pakistan's high commissioner to the UK, Wajid Shamsul Hasan, said of the men: "They have been clean-slated. Two of them are testing their cases here."
Papers lodged with the special immigration appeals commission show the case hinges on their association with a Peshawar student, Abid Naseer, 23, a computer student at Liverpool John Moores University, seen as the "central figure" behind the alleged plot, with supposed links to al-Qaida and a foreign-based terror cell.
Home Office papers relating to the other Pakistanis contain an MI5 assessment that Naseer "acted in support of AQ attack planning activities within the UK. The security service assesses that the network co-ordinated by Abid Naseer is engaged in operational activity with the most likely explanation being that it is attack planning against unspecified UK targets. The security service assesses that [name of student] has acted in support of Naseer's terrorism related activities in the UK … given the likely attack plans the network are assessed to have been involved in at the time of their arrest, they may seek to re-embark on their planned activity if permitted to remain in the UK."
The eight who returned to Pakistan did so rather than stay in maximum security jail for months awaiting an appeal against deportation.
Lord Carlile, the independent reviewer of terrorism legislation, supported the arrests in a report last week but said police should have taken advice from the crown prosecution service and had they done so fewer might have been held.
Ten Pakistani students and one British-Pakistani man were arrested. As the students were questioned the press linked them to plots, including attacks on Old Trafford, home of Manchester United, the city's Arndale shopping centre and a nightclub. Police searched 25 houses, examined dozens of laptops and mobile phones and recorded 222 interview tapes. But after 14 days they were released without charge. The British citizen, Hamza Shinwari, walked free. But the Home Office moved to deport the Pakistanis, describing them as a threat to national security. The Home Office case relies partly on secret evidence – believed to be MI5 intercepts and informant statements – which it has refused to disclose to the students or their lawyers.
In interviews with the Guardian in three Pakistani cities, seven of the men said their al-Qaida reputations were hurting their ability to find jobs or even reconnect with friends. All challenged the Home Office to disclose the secret evidence. "If there is something, let it come into the open. We will happily face a trial," said accountancy student Shoaib Khan. |
The world's top 100 universities, 2010.
Cambridge
is now the world's top university, according to a new report, which
knocks Harvard from the top spot. See how it compares with the world's
top 100 universities here
 World's top 100 universities: Cambridge University has moved into first place. Photograph: Chris Radburn/PA Harvard today forfeits first place to the University of Cambridge
in a league table of the world's top institutions, the first time in
the list's seven year history that the Ivy League university has been
knocked off the number one spot.
The QS table
is based on measures of research quality, graduate employability,
teaching and how international the faculties and student bodies are
Harvard was still most popular among the 5,000
employers polled worldwide, but Cambridge was voted best for research
quality in a survey of 15,000 academics and took overall first place.
The rankings also use citation counts from a database of academic
publishing
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