In the previous episode of the Student Speak series, we covered Aakanksha Garhwal’s academic journey so far, university, course, and her motivation to study abroad. In this episode, let’s dive deeper into her research mechanism, shortlisted study destinations, ambitions, entrance exam, and when she will apply for her student visa.

Key Highlights:

• Research mechanism
• Were countries other than Germany and the UK on her mind?
• Her ambitions
• Her entrance exam
• When will she apply for the student visa?

Research mechanism

Initially, Aakanksha had planned to study in Germany, which is popular for its vibrant student community. Many of her peers are studying there, which further encouraged her to study in Germany. She later connected with an education consultant. These consultants are experts in guiding aspirants who want to study abroad. Counsellors cleared all her doubts, which boosted her confidence and further assured her that she was on the right path. The consultant shared the list of universities, their brief background, fee structure, employability rate, etc., that helped her make well-informed choices.

Also Read: Everything you must know about Masters in Finance in Australia

So, her education consultant helped immensely with the research, which motivated her to select her university. However, she verified all the information shared by her counsellor and friends. She went a step ahead by connecting with students who are studying at Oxford Brookes University via LinkedIn. She learnt about the accommodation available at the university and the opportunities after completing her studies. She made up her mind only after evaluating all the views and information gathered from all the online and offline resources.

Were countries other than Germany and the UK on her mind?

It can be overwhelming to choose from the extensive range of options. So, she decided to choose between Germany and the UK. Her consultant mentioned that it is necessary to have some work experience before moving to Germany. Also, she needed to learn German, which would have cost her one more year to understand the basics. On the other hand, the UK has an English-speaking population with several opportunities in the domain she is currently pursuing. This motivated her to choose the UK as her final study abroad destination.

Her ambitions

Any product-oriented company, especially the automobile industry, fascinates her the most. So, she has elaborate plans to work with a product-based organisation to gain experience. This will help her settle down and comfortably pay off her education loan, too. Her long-term goal is to introduce her own brand. To be an entrepreneur, she will require funds, and she wants to achieve this dream all on her own, without depending on her parents.

Also Read: What you must know about the acceptance rate at Stanford University

Her entrance exam

Depending on the course and the university, students have to appear for entrance exams such as Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). Additionally, they also have to appear for English proficiency tests such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), Pearson Test of English (PTE) or Duolingo English Test (DET) exams. Some universities waive the entrance exams. Therefore, it is advised to check the university-specific requirements.

Aakanksha’s education consultant informed her that she did not need to take any tests. However, she decided to appear for the IELTS exam around May 2024. This way, she will be ready with the test scores, if required, for any reason. She shared a unique way she implemented to prepare for her IELTS. Since she has a bunch of peers who have studied abroad, she made a group chat where all her friends tutor her, guide her, and provide her tips over the weekends. Additionally, she also explored various online resources and YouTube channels to understand the format, types of questions, number of questions, etc.

When will she apply for the student visa?

Aakanksha will be appearing for her university interview in June 2024. Her university will then provide her with a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). Once she receives her CAS, she will then apply for her student visa. Her education consultant will assist her with her visa process and has assured her that within 2-3 weeks, her student visa will be ready.

Also Read: All you need to know about student accommodation in the UK

So, in this episode, we have captured Aakanksha’s research mechanism, shortlisted study destinations, ambitions, entrance exam, and when she will apply for her student visa. In the next episode, we will cover SOP & LOR, how she found her perfect education loan partner, and her valuable tips for study abroad aspirants. Meanwhile, if you have any doubts, please share them with us. We will be glad to answer them all.