In the previous episode of the Student Speak series, we covered Sanket Pokar’s academic journey so far, his educational institute, course and how he found his dream university. In this episode, let’s dive deeper into his reasons for choosing Canada, how he drafted a compelling SOP, English proficiency tests, and Student Direct Stream (SDS) & Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC).

Key Highlights:

• Why did he choose Canada?
• What helped Sanket draft a compelling SOP
• English proficiency tests
• What study abroad students must know about SDS and GIC?

Why did he choose Canada?
When asked if he shortlisted any other study abroad destination, he shared he decided to trust his peer rather than researching online as he found his reference to be more trustworthy. Besides, Canada’s resilient economy, large Indian diaspora and multicultural population can benefit students immensely. Sanket had shortlisted one more Canadian university besides UCW. However, he preferred the MBA from UCW to gain comprehensive business management knowledge that will enable him to take his existing venture to new heights.

What helped Sanket draft a compelling SOP
He connected with a renowned education consultant to understand the admission process. Students must share application forms, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letter of Recommendation (LOR) and CV when applying to universities. The consultant’s guidance proved instrumental as they navigated him from application forms to SOPs. According to Sanket, SOP is a personal view, so it must be drafted wisely after considering every factor contributing to your academic journey. Therefore, he carefully crafted a perfect essay covering his inspiration to pursue his passion, a reason for choosing an MBA program at UCW, work experience, and learnings, among others. He ensured his SOP was genuine and captured every detail essential for the moderator to understand his student profile.

Sanket shared his first draft of the SOP with his education counsellor, an expert in this domain, to understand their point of view. After thoroughly reviewing his SOP, the consultant pointed out a few misses and ways to form a strong narrative. They suggested the right structure, format and key highlights to enhance his SOP. Sanket incorporated their suggestions, leading to a compelling SOP that eventually secured him a seat at his dream university.

Things to include in the SOP:

• Inspiration to pursue your chosen domain
• Reason to select your preferred study program, course, and educational institute
• Academic journey and performance
• Achievements
• Extra-curricular activities
• Certification/online courses
• Short-term and long-term goals
• Career plans

English proficiency tests
As the programs are taught in English, study abroad students have to clear English language tests such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS),  Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), Duolingo English Test (DET) or Pearson Test of English (PTE). To study in Canada, Sanket appeared for IELTS. Most Canadian universities require a minimum IELTS score of 6.5, and a score for each section should be at least 6. The exam comprises four sections: Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing.

Sanket suggested that students should thoroughly prepare for the English exams even if they are pretty confident about their English proficiency. He had joined the classes to be formally trained to take his IELTS. Before the exams, getting familiar with the exam format, type of questions, and difficulty level is necessary. He didn’t want any question or section in his IELTS to come as a surprise. Hence, he invested time to prepare for the same. He stressed that tutors are experts in this field, and their guidance will also enhance your skills and boost your confidence.

What study abroad students must know about SDS and GIC?
When you apply through Student Direct Stream (SDS), you need to have a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC). SDS expedites the student visa application process, where students can get their visas within 20 calendar days. Whereas GIC is a short-term investment mandatory to study in Canada. You have to transfer CAD 10,000 (approximately INR 6,08,000) to your GIC account. 

Sanket applied for GIC soon after the student loan was disbursed. Once his GIC account is up, he will apply for a Canadian student visa. His education consultant also recommended a GIC service provider and assisted him with the GIC application form. The amount transferred to his GIC account will be frozen till he reaches Canada. Upon landing in Canada, he can access the account once he completes the formalities and provides valid ID proof.

So, in this episode, we have captured his reasons for choosing Canada, how he drafted a compelling SOP, English proficiency tests, and Student Direct Stream (SDS) & Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC). In the next episode, let’s understand how he found his perfect education financing partner and his valuable lessons. Meanwhile, if you have any queries, please contact us, and we will gladly assist you.