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Study UK: Is taking the IELTS compulsory?

Last updated on: March 24, 2008 12:11 IST

Do you want to study in the UK but don't know whether you qualify?

Does and HSMP visa allow students to pursue full-time academic courses?

What are the chances of employment in the UK after completing a professional course there?

To answer these and a host of other related questions, UK officials including Paul Michael chatted with Get Ahead readers on March 5.

For those of you who missed the chat, here's part II of the unedited transcript:

Part I: 'Can a family friend sponsor me?'


somebady asked, Goodafternoon, I am planning to persue certificate or diploma course in event planning and there after starting a business in same field, is it possible to obtain work permit after completion of these cirtificate or diploma course?

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. There are several options available to those who complete their studies in the UK and are awarded Degree from UK Universities. These are: • International Graduate Scheme - for those who have completed Degrees in the UK and can stay on in the UK for one year to seek employment (to be extended to 2 years from 1 April 2008). • Fresh Talent working in Scotland for those who have completed HNDs and above at a Scottish Institute and allows you to stay in Scotland for 2 years and allows you to work. In addition if you are planning to study a diploma there are other ways of staying in the UK and these are for those who qualify for a work permit and further details can be found on the following website: Working in the UK - www.workingintheuk.gov.uk


nishita asked, hi, i just wanted to know if its possibe for someone to et a work visa once they get to the uk on a visitors visa.my parents are in the uk currently and have been there for the past four years and i wanted to visit htem but need a job to support me once i get there. my father is a pastor there and thus would not be able to support me.

Jon answers, Thank you. If you are issued with a visitor visa then you cannot switch into the work permit category. It is illegal to work on a visitors visa. If you wish to work in the UK, you must do so on either HSMP or Work Permit visas. For further information, please refer to www.workingintheuk.gov.uk


Shuvodeep asked, hello.. can you please enlighten me about the various scolarship schemes available for studying in the UK. I would also like to know about the maximum amount of scolarship on the course fees that any candidate can get?

Aprajita answers, Thank you for participating in this session. There are a number of scholarships available for studying postgraduate courses in the UK. These range from part to full scholarships and sometimes cover the entire tuition + cost of living. For more information: www.britishcouncil.org/india-scholarships.htm  


Ayush asked, UK is known for lack of good job opportunities. IS that true?

Jo Cheeseborough answers, Ayush. Thank you for your question. I am sorry but I am unable to comment on how difficult it is to get jobs in the UK I suggest you look at the following website which should be able to offer you advise about working in the UK www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk . Jo


anishamalhotra asked, thanks fr answering previous doubts. one more pls, like australia,(i) are balance from current account statements considered.. and if yes, last balance or minimum balance. (ii) Also, are RBI Bonds, Mutual funds and shares acceptable

Paul Michael answers, Thankyou for your question. We will consider funds in a current account with any balance. It makes it easier for us to see that the funds are available if they have been accumlated over a period of time. However if you are cashing in fixed deposits or bonds or shares and there is then a large deposit to the account you will need to show the source of the funds by showing the transfer from one account to another.


akbar asked, Hi Paul Can you tell me can i work on student permit

Paul Michael answers, You are permitted to work part time for 20 hours per week during your studies and full time during holidays.


abinay55 asked, How r the job prospects in UK when compared to US?

Jo Cheeseborough answers, Abinay55. Thank you for your question. I am sorry but I am unable to comment on how difficult it is to get jobs in the UK I suggest you look at the following website which should be able to offer you advise about working in the UK www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk . Jo


somebady asked, Hello, which is the best university to study advertising in UK?

Aprajita answers, Thank you for your question. There are a number of institutions offering advertising, an excellant course search facility available on www.educationuk.org . For comparative ranking of institutions, please check on www.hero.ac.uk/rae  and www.tqi.ac.uk  


Ambar asked, Hi Paul/Jon, last question from my side,Can a HSMP holder pursue full time studies in the UK?

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. There is no restriction upon HSMP holders studying in the United Kingdom.


apurba asked, which is the best university of masters in electrical engineers in UK

Jo Cheeseborough answers, Apurba. Thank you for your question. For guidance on courses and institutions in the UK please contact British Council via their website at www.educationuk.org . Jo


apurba asked, which is the best university of masters in electrical engineers in UK

Paul Michael answers, For details of course and institutions in the UK please contact British Council via their website at www.educationuk.org  


Jeetander Gandhi1 asked,  need to know which university is around birmingham and advisable for Mba

Paul Michael answers, For details of course and institutions in the UK please contact British Council via their website at www.educationuk.org 


seema asked, hi, i want to know the procedure for applying a student visa

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. Once you have a valid offer from a UK institution you will then be able to apply for a visa to go to the UK as a student. You need to be able to show that you meet all of the requirments of paragraph 57 of the UK immigration rules. You need to be able to show that you have sufficient funds to finance the cost of your studies accomodation and living expenses have sufficient english ability and that you intend to follow the course. You should provide any evidence to support your application and then submit your application to your nearest VFS office. We have a number of trusted partners who we suggest you speak with, and they do not charge for this service.


Jnyanesh asked,  Which is the best university to do higher education in Master in Finance or any other finance course

Paul Michael answers, For details of course and institutions in the UK please contact British Council via their website at www.educationuk.org  


lali asked, sir, i m computer engg. diploma holder. so plz guide me what is the further scope for me in UK

Aprajita answers, Hello Lali, thank you for your question. If you wish to identify your education opportunities in the UK, the official web site to check for information is www.educationuk.org. You can also visit British Council office and attend our weekly briefing sessions on most Wednesdays at 3 pm.


sirish asked, can anyone tell abt the work visa in UK

Paul Michael answers, For details about seeking employment in the UK please visit www.educationuk.org


akbar asked, Currently I want ot do a MBA in IT for Wales University. So is it possible i can work in an IT firm.

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. When you apply for a visa, you must show us sufficient funds to pay for the total costs of studying in the UK. We are unable to take account of any income that you might earn in the UK. During term time you are able to work 20 hours a week During the holidays you are able to work full time. 20 hours is the maximum that you can work and cannot be aggregated over a month. You are not permitted to work more than 20 hours in a week during term time.


saharsh asked, hw is essex univ...can u suggest me good univ. for management & finance studies

Paul Michael answers, Thankyou fopr your question. For details of courses and institutions in the UK please contact British Council via their website at www.educationuk.org


ANUJ asked, CAN SOMEBODY TELL ME THE PROCESS FOR DONIG MS IN NETWORKING FROM US/UK.

Aprajita answers, Thank you for your question. Masters courses in UK are for one year duration and the entry requirements at most institutions are a bachelors degree in the same subject/related subject and an IELTS/TOEFL score. Any work experiece help strengthen your application. The folowing web sites have an excellant course search facility: www.postgrad.hobsons.comwww.prospects.ac.uk . The comparative ratings by discipline are available on www.hero.ac.uk/rae  


wiseroy asked, Hello, I am a british citizen (Indian origin),currently studying in India. I have been placed at a reputed Law firm in India and i need to enroll within three months of joining.I would have to obtain Overseas Citizenship of India inorder to work there and to enroll in the bar council.How long does it take for UK citizens to obtain OCI if we apply in India,would i get it faster if i applied in the UK?

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. However the purpose of this webchat is to offer advise to students who want to go and study in the UK, I am not able to offer any advise as to how you can get an Overseas Citizenship of India, I suggest you contact the Government of India


Gurusimran asked, Hi paul, I have heard that after working continuosly for 5 years in england u can apply for permanent residency.Is it true??

Paul Michael answers, Thankyou for your question. You may be eligible to apply for permanent residence in the UK after 5 years of working as long as you have been on either HSMP (Tier 1 Points Based System)or work permit terms. Time spent working in the UK under the Internation Graduate Scheme or Fresh Talent working in Scotland Scheme does not count towards this five year period.


amolmane asked, hello sir,which are the best univerities in UK for MBA

Aprajita answers, Thank you for your question. The ratings of institutions by discipline are available on www.hero.ac.uk .


zubera asked, Hi. I have 4 years of experience in india. presenrtly i am doing my Masters in Germany. So Whether can i apply for HSMP? if yes what document i need for recent salary and tax as i am student. or can i give the document about salary and tax before i was studying?

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. You need to be able to show that you have sufficient points to qualify for a HSMP, part of the points can be made up from previous earning but this is not essential. The following website should be of help. www.workingintheuk.gov.uk  


wiseroy asked, Hello, I am a british citizen (Indian origin),currently studying in India. I have been placed at a reputed Law firm in India and i need to enroll within three months of joining.I would have to obtain Overseas Citizenship of India inorder to work there and to enroll in the bar council.How long does it take for UK citizens to obtain OCI if we apply in India,would i get it faster if i applied in the UK?

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. Unfortunately I am not able to help you with this question. However, the consular section at the British High Commission may be able to help. Our web address is www.ukinindia.com/ and you will find a section for consular enquiries.


sal asked, for student visitor visa category do i need to produce invitation letter and passport copy of the professor whom i am going to visit in UK??

Paul Michael answers, Sal Thankyou for your question. If you are going to the Uk as a student visitor you will need to show that you are going to undertake a short course of study. You will need an letter of enrolment from the insitution. A copy of the professors passport is not necessary.


sArz asked, Universities in US offer a good amount of financial aid through scholarships, waivers, assistantships etc. why does'nt univ's in UK offer same amount of aid to international students?

Aprajita answers, Thank you for participating in this session. There are a number of scholarships available, for more information, pl check on www.britishcouncil.org/india-scholarships.htm .


mdgajjar asked, i has applied for work-permit for uk. i refused 2 times. can i apply again?

Jo Cheeseborough answers, Mdgajjar. For details about work permits please visit the Border and Immigration Agency website: www.bia.homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk . Jo


jafar asked, I have completed my HSC (+2) at 1993. Any possible to study in UK

Paul Michael answers, We do not consider anyone too old to undertake study in the UK. If you have an offer letter from an institution in the UK then you are eligible to make an application for a student visa.


haja asked, I have completed my B.com degree (Regular)in 2006 with 2nd class. Now i am in middle of 28. Whether any possibilities of studying higher studies in UK?

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. Anyone can apply to study in the UK and it is down to the particular institution if they will accept you on a course or not. I suggest you contact the British Council who will be able to offer advise on courses


anilumre asked, WHAT DURATION VISA IS PERMITTED TO A STUDENT WHO DOES MASTERS FROM UNIVERSITIES LOCATED IN SCOTLAND UK AND LOOK FOR SUITABLE JOBS?

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. We will issue a visa for the duration of any unconditional course offer you hold. For instance, if it was a one year masters course, you would be issued with a 16 month visa, to allow you to extend your stay. If it were a 4 year bachelor's degree course, you would be issued with a 4 year visa.


srini asked, Is there any way to authenticate genuine UK universities? (any website link)

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. www.dfes.gov.uk  provides a list of registered training providers in the UK


Utkrishtha asked, I am doing my 10th in India from CBSE. I am interested to continue my higher studies in UK. What is the procedure?

Aprajita answers, Thank you for your question, Utkrishtha. You can either apply for academic or vocational programmes. You will be eligible to apply for A levels (broadly equivalent to 11th and 12th). The following web sites can provide you with more information: www.isuk.org.uk  www.isc.co.uk  www.hotcourses.com  


Rahul asked, Hi..Has Internation Graduate Scheme been extended? could you provide links to the same plz.

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. The International Graduate Scheme is currently a 1 year visa, allowing you to find and undertake work with the possibility of switching either to work permit or HSMP employment. Yes, the time period of this visa will be extended from 1 year to 2 years from Summer 2008-unfortunately there is no exact date as yet.


SHAIK asked, I HAVE APPLY FOR VISA BUT THER REJECT ME WITH OUT ENQURY NOW WHAT SHALL I DO NOW

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. I am not aware of the details of your application but if your application attracts a right of a appeal you should submit your grounds for appeal and your case will be reviewed, this they then be heard by an immigration Judge in the UJ the outcome of any appeal can take some months and your appeal will be heard in the UK.


kapil asked, Hello, I am here in UK with Sole Representative Visa valied for 2 years, I want to know if I can use this Visa to work for any other organization if my present organization agrees to leave me

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. Your visa is currently for employment with a specific company in the work permit free categories. If you left this company, you would need to apply for a work permit visa, or for a fresh visa to work as a sole representative of another company.


aspiringbee asked, Hi Paul. There was a recent news about HSMP that the points one would accumulate by studying in one among the 30 colleges in the HSMP list, would be discontinued. I am referring in particular to the MBA colleges. Is it true that Oxford and Cambridge MBA graduates too would have to earn the points like anybody else to qualify for HSMP ?

Paul Michael answers, Thnakyou for your question. Yes, this is an important change to the Point Based System (PBS). We will be accepting, in India, Tier 1 General (old HSMP eqivalent applications) from 1 April 2008. At this stage MBAs form the Top 50 business schools world wide will cease to automatically qualify an applicant for the new Tier 1 visa. A qualifaction from one of these schools will ofcourse attract 50 points toward the 75 needed to qualify under Tier 1 general.


shalini asked, Hello Paul ,I wanted to study my MBA in UK Could you please let me know the prospects and palcements in uk b-schools and also the fee structure

Aprajita answers, Thank you for participating in the session. Every in institution in UK has a career cell/ job centre where a lot of advice and guidance on jobs is given. The institutions will not gaurantee job placements but will support you by providing guidance. There are many career fairs as well that many institutions participate in. Please check on www.ukcosa.org.uk  www.educationuk-in.org  


khaleel asked, i am a 10+2 pass student i want to do my bachelors in uk college rather than university like telford college is it make any negative impression before the consulate regarding issuing the visa?

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. Providing that the institution is on the DIUS register it will not make any negative impression. Each application is asessed on its own merits.


Linda asked, could please tell me something about the new igs scheme

Paul Michael answers, Linda Thank you for your question. Currently The International Graduate Scheme is a 1 year visa, allowing you to find and undertake work with the possibility of switching either to work permit or HSMP employment, as long as you have completed your studies in the last year and obtained the required level of qualification . Yes, the time period of this visa will be extended from 1 year to 2 years from Summer 2008-unfortunately there is no exact date as yet.


rishi asked, Hi can u advise me good Consultants who can help me get education in UK .

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. The British missions in India have a 'trusted partner' scheme, high quality student agents who will help you with obtaining a place at a UK college or university, and then help you with the visa process. The list of trusted partners can be found at www.educationuk.org.


shalini asked, i want to work as cabon crew member in uk whjat should i do

Jo Cheeseborough answers, For details about work permits please visit the Border and Immigration Agency website- www.bia.homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk . Jo


contessa asked, Hi if i want to go on work visa wat shud i do?

Jo Cheeseborough answers, For details about work permits please visit the Border and Immigration Agency website- www.bia.homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk . Jo


rishi asked, Hi can u advise me good Consultants who can help me get education in UK .

Aprajita answers, Thank you for your question. A list of authorised agents/ representatives of UK institutions is available on www.educationuk.org


Manoj asked, hello this is manoj i want to know about the bank balance process i am not able to make a bank balance

Paul Michael answers, Manoj You do not have to show funds in a bank account. We will consider education loans, funds set aside from provident funds and funds gained from the sale of shares or bonds. It does however make it easier for us to assess if these funds are transferred into a bank account and importantly that the source of the funds is explained and shown.


gurdeep asked, if a student in enrolled in 4 years bachelor degree do he need to show 3 years tuition fee + 3 years living expences?

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. We like to be able to see that you have liquid funds available to finance your studies in the first year, for any subsequent years of study we like to be able to see that the funds will be available to you to draw from in any future study years


Rajesh asked, Sir I wish to go UK. Some of our family friends are there in UK and they are ready to sponser me to come there by study visa. Sir is there any age boundation fo study visa I am of 30 years.

Paul Michael answers, Rajesh There is no age limit to applying for a visa to study in the UK. Paul


Nikhil asked, Hi, I want to pursue ACCA course at LCA in London. Do i need to show funds in my bank account, if yes how much. And is it easy for me to egt visa for this course?

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. You will need to provide evidence that you can maintain and accommodate yourself in the UK without taking full time employment. So, you will need to provide evidence that you can pay for your course and your living expenses for the length of your course. I can't give exact figures as it depends upon where you are studying, the cost of your course and the length of your course.


nishashee asked, Please reply to my query. I have done my Bcom in 2000 and now i am keen to do my MBA from UK. What best options do I have for the same and what would be the fees and what is the immigration procedure?

Sean answers, The British council will be able to offer advise on instritutions that may be suitable for you. The course fees will depend on what institution you study at, however the British council recommend that for the total cost of your accomodation and living expenses will be 7300 pounds per year.


minda asked, I have a reputed UK university M.Phil degree in social science and have returned to India since completion. Is there not any way to look for a job in the UK? because at the least I would like to repay my loans as an employment here in India would take me at least 7-8 years.

Paul Michael answers, Minda As long as you have completed your study in the last 12 months you may wish to consider the International Graduate Scheme. This is currently a 1 year visa, allowing you to find and undertake work with the possibility of switching either to work permit or HSMP employment. there is no exact date as yet.For further details please visit www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk/  


madhan asked, hi i finished B.Tech in India, what i should do further for higher studies

Aprajita answers, Thank you for your participation. Masters courses information available on www.postgrad.hobsons.com These are one year intensive programmes starting in September/October at mot institutions. Some institutions also have a second intake in Jan/Feb. The basic requirement is a bachelor's (every institution will have a minimum marks requirement) and an IELTS/TOEFL score. Pl do include any work experience details in your application as well, as it can help strengthen it. Log on to www.educationuk.org for further information.


chandran asked, what are the requirements for uk imigration?

Jo Cheeseborough answers, Chandran. The requirements depend on the reason for travel to the UK. The rules are different for work, study and travel. For more information about visa requirements, please visit the UKvisas website- https://www.gov.uk/apply-uk-visa . Jo


puneetkjangra@rediffmail.com asked, hey i am offer letter of UCE what should i Do? how is this univeristy?

Paul Michael answers, Thankyou for your question. For details of course and institution in the UK please visit www.educationuk-in.org Paul


tarun365 asked, Hello, for Visa, what are the acceptable sources and who all can sponsor a student? Eg. Australia accepts any sponsor who got funds and willing to sponsor, does UK process goes the same way. Please Reply. Thanks

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. Yes, anybody can sponsor your studies in the UK. However, you will need to provide a full explanation of why they are funding your studies, evidence of how you are related, and also submit evidence of your sponsor's financial circumstances - their job, savings etc.


alfred asked, can i hav a scolarship 4 my further studies in UK?

Aprajita answers, Thank you, Alfred for your question. Yes there are various scholarships available; pl check on www.britishcouncil.org/india-scholarships.htm  


rishi asked, How does a person who is not financialy sound but still wants to go to Uk for studies . Any Scholarship programes are their or work part time or we can give the payment in parts.

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. The British Council will be able to provide you with information regarding scholarships in the UK. When you apply for a visa, you must show us sufficient funds to pay for the total costs of studying in the UK. We are unable to take account of any income that you might earn in the UK.


rashid asked, sir i Rashid a civil engineer working in dubai with kbr i want to work in uk

Jo Cheeseborough answers, Rashid. For details about work permits please visit the Border and Immigration Agency website- www.bia.homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk  . Jo


rishi asked, How does a person who is not financialy sound but still wants to go to Uk for studies . Any Scholarship programes are their or work part time or we can give the payment in parts.

Aprajita answers, Thank you for your participation. There are a number of scholarships available to study in the UK. Pl check on www.britishcouncil.org/india-scholarships.htm . You are allowed to work part-time for 20 hours per week during term time and full time during vacations when you are enrolled for a full time course of study which is for 6 months or more duration. Yes, you also an option of paying your tuition fees in installments.


Nitesh asked, Could you please tell me what's the process of Student Visa after recieving the Unconditional letter from the University ?

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. After you receive your unconditional offer, you will need to put all your documents together - financial documents, previous education certificates etc. You will then need to attend. You will then need to attend a VFS application centre in India - for details of application centres, please go to www.vfs-uk-in.com . You will then need to fill out an application form, have your fingerprints taken and pay the visa fee. Your documents will then be taken to the nearest British Mission for assessment. The application process at VFS will take around 30 mins and you should have a response from us in four working days.


maureen asked, i m 20 yrs married BSc and my husband is 48 yrs BCom we wish to go to UK for further education separately we shld go & how much money required for further studies can we also work in uk then

Paul Michael answers, Maureen Thankyou for your question. If you both obtain an offer letter from the UK then you are eligible to apply for a student visa. You would have to show that you sufficient funds to meet the cost of studies for you both anfd that their is sufficient money to meet the costs of your accommodation and living expenses. You are permitted to work in the UK part time for 20 hours per week during your studies and full time during your holidays. Paul


puneetkjangra@rediffmail.com asked, hey i am offer letter of UCE what should i Do? how is this univeristy?

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. The follwoing website provides information about studying in the UK www.educationuk.org . I am not able to offer advise as to how good or not so good a particular university is. Once you have an offer letter you need to apply for a visa this can be done at your local visa application centre. You should provide documentary evidence to show that you qualify for a visa. You can obtain information regarding this from VFS


khaleel asked, my elder brother completed his Ms in napier university succesfully. now i want to do my bachelors their so is there any advantage with this or any disadvantage please let me know thanks

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. No, it will not disadavantage you that your brother studied in the UK. Every application is considered on its own merits and your brother's actions are not taken into account. Likewise, it will not offer you any advantage as every application is considered on its merits.


sunil_ach asked, hello, i am intrested in doing a PHD in marketing specialising in consumer behaviour model, as per my research oxford is a good place for the same. Can you suggest someother places

Aprajita answers, Thank you for your question. There are other institutions offering marketing as well, a list is available on www.postgrad.hobsons.com . This has an excellant course search facility. You can further check on the specific institution web site for specific course content details and profiles. You are also welcome to visit the Brotish Council library from 10 am to 6 pm, Monday to Saturday and look up prospectuses of UK institutions in the resource section.


Dom Ray asked, I am completed an M.Phil degree in development studies at Oxford. I now wish to work in the not-for-profit sector in the UK. However its been more than 12 months after my completion of my studies which does not allow me to apply for the ongoing schemes IGS and the likes. Is there any way where and how I could be employed in the UK in the not-for -profit sector. Thanks

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. If you have not completed your studies in the past 12 months you are correct you will not qualify under the IGS Scheme. The following website provides information about working in the UK www.workingintheuk.gov.uk  


sunil_ach asked, But is there any university which now specialises in consumer behaviour

Aprajita answers, Yes, there are UK institutions that offer consumer behaviour. Pl do a course search on www.educationuk.org


kaif asked, my elder brother completed his Ms in napier university succesfully. now i want to do my bachelors their so is there any advantage with this or any disadvantage please let me know thanks

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. You should decide which course and institution best suits your personal requirements. The British Council can help provide you with information and you may find the following website of use www.britishcouncil.org  


Nitesh asked, In Student Visa we are allowed to work 20 hours per week. If We want to work more than 20 hours per week then what's the formalties we have to do ?

Paul Michael answers, Nitesh You are only permitted to work 20 hours per week whilst you are studying. If you intend to work more hours than this then you will be in breach of the conditions of your student visa. It may be more appropritate for you to consider seeking employment and then applying as a work permit holder. Paul


MPRAJAN asked, HOW i CAN EARN MONEY FOR COMPLETING RESERCH IN ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING OR MBA COURSE IN UK

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. When you apply for a visa, you must show us sufficient funds to pay for the total costs of studying in the UK. We are unable to take account of any income that you might earn in the UK. During term time you are able to work 20 hours a week During the holidays you are able to work full time. 20 hours is the maximum that you can work and cannot be aggregated over a month. You are not permitted to work more than 20 hours in a week during term time.


Nitesh asked, After Recieving the Unconditional Letter from the University. Is there any requirement to clear the ILETS Exams for the Student Visa ?

Paul Michael answers, Nitesh You do not have to have an IELTS certificate but we do have to consider your English ability. An IELTS certificate, TOEFL score or your 12th class English score are the best ways to show your English ability. Paul


DHIVAKAR asked, IAM INTERSTING IN DOING MBA RECOMEND WHICH UNIVERSITY TO BE JOINED

Aprajita answers, Thank you for your question, Dhivakar. A list of UK institutions offering MBA programmes is available on www.educationuk-in.org. We do not reccommend which institution you should select, but the following factors can be considered when you are short-listing institutions: Course content details, match your qualifications with the entry requirements, official ratings (www.hero.ac.uk/rae), number of international students studying, location, facilities, scholarships availability, etc. Pl contact your nearest British Council for further information


Nitesh asked, In Student Visa we are allowed to work 20 hours per week. If We want to work more than 20 hours per week then what's the formalties we have to do ?

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. During term time you are able to work 20 hours a week During the holidays you are able to work full time. 20 hours is the maximum that you can work and cannot be aggregated over a month. You are not permitted to work more than 20 hours in a week during term time.


Omkar asked, My son is studing in XIth Std. of science stream and wish to opt for a career in medicine. Could you pl. suggest as to how to go about it ?

Aprajita answers, Thank you for your question, Omkar. If you wish to do a course in medicine, pl check on the UCAS web site to identify institutions (www.ucas.com) The duration for this course is five years. You are required to qualify certain entrance exams as well as fulfill the English proficiency requirement, which can vary from one institution to the other.


Paul Michael says, Thankyou all for your questions. For further details of the visa application process and studying in the UK please visit the following websites UKvisas - https://www.gov.uk/apply-uk-visa   British High Commission India website - www.ukinindia.com  Visa Facilitation Services (VFS) - www.vfs-uk-in.com  British Council - www.britishcouncil.org  Education UK - www.educationuk.org   Working in the UK - www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk   Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) - www.dfes.gov.uk/providersregister  The Council for International Education (UKCOSA) - www.ukcosa.org.uk  Border and Immigration Agency - www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk  International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - www.ielts.org  Revenue and Customs - www.hmrc.gov.uk  Visit Britain - www.visitbritain.com Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) – www.fco.gov.uk/atas  Thankyou again Paul Michael


Part I: 'Can a family friend sponsor me?'