Question 1

Do people generally prefer the January intake or the September intake for study abroad in UK/Canada?

Accepted Answer

Most students prefer the September intake for studying abroad, as it aligns with the main academic year and offers a wider selection of courses and scholarships. - September intake: Chosen by over 85% of international students in the UK and 50 - 60% in Canada. - January intake: Less common but growing, with benefits like reduced competition, faster visa processing, and a chance to start sooner if September deadlines are missed. Your best option depends on your program availability, application readiness, and personal timeline. If you need help deciding which intake suits you, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.

Question 2

If I do another course after this one, will I get a two-year visa or just a one plus one year visa in Canada?

Accepted Answer

You will typically receive a study permit valid for the full duration of your new course, plus an extra 90 days. The exact length depends on the new program's duration, not a fixed "one plus one year" or "two-year" format. The additional 90 days are provided to prepare to leave Canada or apply to extend your stay. Study permit durations and policies are subject to change. If you need help with your next steps or permit extension, please contact your LeapScholar counsellor.

Question 3

What are the post-study work permit durations for one-year and two-year courses in Canada for a Master's?

Accepted Answer

For Canada, the post-study work permit (PGWP) duration depends on your course length: - One-year program: PGWP valid for up to 1 year. - Two-year program (or longer): PGWP valid for 3 years. - Master's degree: As of 15 Feb 2024, graduates are eligible for a 3-year PGWP even if the program is less than 2 years, if all other criteria are met. Your passport must be valid for the full PGWP duration, as the permit cannot exceed your passport’s expiry. PGWP policies are subject to change. For guidance on your specific situation, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.

Question 4

What is the total tuition fee for the course I am applying to in Canada for a MBA?

Accepted Answer

Tuition fees for MBA programs in Canada typically range from CAD 30,000 to CAD 120,000 for the full program, depending on the university, program duration, and location. Top institutions may charge higher fees - for example, the University of Toronto's Rotman School is around CAD 131,120, while McGill University's Desautels Faculty is about CAD 99,500. These amounts are subject to change and vary by university and program. Be sure to also budget for living expenses, which can add CAD 15,000 - 30,000/year. For exact fees based on your chosen university, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.

Question 5

Should I retake IELTS if I plan to go for January intake in Australia/Canada?

Accepted Answer

It depends. Your IELTS score of 6.5 from December 2024 is typically valid for two years, so it should be accepted for January 2027 intake at most universities in Canada, the USA, Australia, and the UAE. However, some universities require the IELTS score to be valid at the time of application or enrollment, and may not accept scores older than two years. Since your score will be close to expiring, you may need to retake the IELTS if a university has stricter requirements. If you are unsure about a specific university's policy, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor for guidance.

Question 6

What are the expenses involved in studying and living in Canada for a teaching course?

Accepted Answer

You should budget CAD 25,000 - 65,000/year for studying and living in Canada for a teaching course. This includes both tuition and living expenses, which vary by program, city, and lifestyle. - Tuition (Master’s): CAD 15,000 - 50,000/year (varies by university and program) - Accommodation: CAD 800 - 1,800/month (higher in major cities) - Food: CAD 200 - 400/month - Transportation: Around CAD 156/month (city dependent) - Health insurance: CAD 600 - 1,000/year (subject to change) - Books & supplies: CAD 500 - 1,000/year - Personal expenses: Varies by lifestyle These figures are approximate and subject to change based on location, institution, and personal choices. If you need a more detailed estimate based on your specific course or city, your LeapScholar counsellor can help.

Question 7

Once the Canadian post-graduate work visa starts, is there a time limit within which I need to get a job?

Accepted Answer

No, there is no specific time limit to secure a job after your Canadian Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is approved. The PGWP is an open work permit, so you can work for any employer or take your time to find the right job. However, the PGWP is typically valid for up to three years, depending on your study program length. Once it expires, you cannot continue working unless you have another valid permit or status. Finding a job sooner can help you gain Canadian experience, which is valuable if you plan to apply for permanent residency.

Question 8

Which country would be better for research and PhD studies in UK/Canada?

Accepted Answer

The best country for your PhD studies depends on your research interests, funding needs, and long-term goals. Here’s how the UK, Canada, and New Zealand compare: - UK: Offers a wide range of research opportunities, strong funding options (including fully funded studentships), and a Graduate Route visa for up to 2 years post-study work. Work rights during studies: up to 20 hours/week. - Canada: Known for high-quality research institutions and diverse programs. Funding is available through scholarships and assistantships. The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows up to 3 years of post-study work. Work rights during studies: up to 20 hours/week. - New Zealand: Focuses on innovative, practical research with some fully funded scholarships. Post-Study Work Visa available after graduation. Work rights during studies: up to 20 hours/week. All three countries offer strong research environments and post-study work options (subject to change). Your choice should align with your research field and preferred location. For tailored guidance, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.

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