Tag: abroad

  • How to apply online for studying abroad without spending agent fees

    How to apply online for studying abroad without spending agent fees

    If you’re looking to apply for studying abroad without any agent fees, follow these steps:

    Steps to follow for studying abroad

    Research:

    Start by researching different universities and courses in the country you want to study in. Look for universities that offer scholarships or have affordable tuition fees for international students.

    Choose a University:

    Select a few universities that align with your academic goals and preferences. Consider factors like program quality, reputation, location, cost of living, and scholarship opportunities.

    Check University Websites:

    Visit the official websites of the selected universities and explore their admission sections. Look for information about the application process, required documents, deadlines, and any specific requirements for international students.

    Fulfill Admission Requirements:

    Ensure that you meet the admission requirements for your chosen university and program. This may include submitting academic transcripts, standardized test scores (such as the SAT or TOEFL), letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

    Apply Online:

    Most universities provide an online application system. Create an account on the university’s admission portal and fill out the application form. Provide accurate and detailed information about your academic background, personal details, and any other required information.

    Write a Statement of Purpose:

    Draft a compelling statement of purpose (SOP) that explains your motivation for studying abroad, your academic and career goals, and how the chosen program aligns with them. Highlight your strengths and unique qualities that make you a suitable candidate.

    Obtain Recommendation Letters:

    Reach out to your professors, mentors, or employers who can write strong recommendation letters for you. Provide them with the necessary information about the university, program, and your achievements, so they can write personalized letters highlighting your skills and abilities.

    Financial Planning:

    Research scholarships, grants, or financial aid options available for international students. Many universities and external organizations offer scholarships based on merit, need, or specific criteria. Additionally, consider your personal finances and develop a plan to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and any other costs.

    Submit Application and Documents:

    Complete the online application form and upload all required documents, including your academic transcripts, test scores, SOP, and recommendation letters. Ensure that all documents are properly attested or certified, if required.

    Pay Application Fees:

    Some universities charge an application fee. Check the payment methods accepted by the university and submit the application fee online.

    Track Application Status:

    After submitting your application, keep track of its status through the university’s admission portal or online system. Check for any additional documents or steps required.

    Visa Application:

    Once you receive an acceptance letter from a university, you’ll need to apply for a student visa. Research the visa requirements of the country you’ll be studying in and gather all the necessary documents, such as proof of admission, financial statements, and a valid passport.

    Prepare for Interviews (if required):

    Some universities may require an interview as part of the application process. Prepare for interviews by researching common interview questions and practicing your responses.

    Follow Up:

    Maintain regular communication with the university’s admission office to ensure that your application is complete and to address any inquiries or additional requirements.

    Remember, while you can apply directly to universities, it’s always a good idea to seek guidance from educational consultants or study abroad forums to gather insights and advice from students who have gone through the application process.

  • 765,000 people left Pakistan in 2022

    765,000 people left Pakistan in 2022

    765,000 people left Pakistan in 2022 to seek better educational opportunities outside the country, Waqas Ahmed reports for Express Tribune. Compared to the 225,000 departures in 2021 and the 288,000 immigrants in 2020, these numbers are almost quadruple.

    Almost 92,000 people in the list are doctors, engineers, informational technology experts and accountants by profession

    .
    “The effects of the deteriorating economic situation as well as political uncertainty have begun to affect the workforce of Pakistan,” a bureau official said while talking to The Express Tribune.

    “Hundreds of thousands of young men, including highly educated people, who are worried about inflation, unemployment and uncertain economic and political situation, are going abroad every year in search of employment,” he added.

    According to the documents, more than 92,000 graduates, 350,000 trained workers, and the same number of untrained labourers left the country in 2022. The documents additionally revealed that 736,000 individuals visited the Gulf states.

  • SBP reduces cash-carrying limits by 50% for international travel

    SBP reduces cash-carrying limits by 50% for international travel

    The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) said in a statement that the cash-carrying limitations on foreign currency for international travel have been cut in half to $5,000 (or equivalent in other foreign currencies) each visit and $30,000 per year for individuals aged 18 and over.

    Under-18s (minors) will be subject to a 50 per cent reduction in both ceilings, or $2,500 per visit and $15,000 per year.

    The cap on withdrawing foreign currency in cash, however, will continue to be $1,000 per visit and $6,000 per year for visitors to Afghanistan.

    Now, overseas debit and credit card transactions are also subject to the same annual cap ($30,000).

    To curb speculation and the grey market, the SBP and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) have independently decided to work together against illegal foreign exchange businesses.

    The yearly trip cash limits, according to the central bank, won’t take effect until January 1, 2023, but the per-visit limits will be effective right away.

    A $30,000 yearly restriction on overseas transactions was also imposed by the SBP after it discovered that debit and credit cards were being used for transactions that “are not linked with the profile of the individual or are meant for commercial purpose.”

    SBP advised banks to “ensure that the use of debit and credit cards for international transactions was aligned with the profile of cardholders and for their personal needs only”.

    “It is emphasised that the purpose of debit/credit cards is to facilitate individuals in making payments for transactions that are of personal nature. The limits on these cards as well as payments through them, both domestic and international, should therefore be aligned with the profile of the cardholder,” it said.

    It continued by stating that it was the customer’s duty to make sure that their annual quota was never exceeded. However, banks are required to track these caps for every person on a combined basis.