Question 1

Is my IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with bands listening 6, reading 6, writing 7.5, speaking 7) acceptable for Canada, Germany, USA, and other countries in UK/Australia for a Master's?

Accepted Answer

Yes, your IELTS score of 6.5 overall (Listening 6, Reading 6, Writing 7.5, Speaking 7) is generally acceptable for master's programs in Canada, Germany, the USA, and other major study destinations. - Canada: Most universities accept 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0, but some competitive programs may require higher scores. - Germany: Many institutions accept 6.5, though some specialized courses may need higher bands. - USA: 6.5 is accepted at many universities, but top-tier or competitive programs often require 7.0 or above in each band. - Other countries (e.g., Australia, UK): 6.5 overall is commonly accepted, but certain fields may expect higher scores. Requirements can vary by university and program and are subject to change. If you have a specific course or university in mind, your LeapScholar counsellor can confirm the latest requirements for you.

Question 2

What is the total budget including tuition and living expenses for one year of study in Canada?

Accepted Answer

The total annual budget for studying in Canada typically ranges from CAD 39,000 to CAD 62,000, depending on your program and lifestyle. - Graduate tuition: Around CAD 24,000/year (typical) - Undergraduate tuition: About CAD 41,700/year (typical) - Living expenses: CAD 15,000 - 20,000/year (includes accommodation, food, transport, health insurance) These figures are approximate and subject to change based on your city, program, and personal choices. If you need a more tailored estimate, please connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.

Question 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

Can we withdraw the living cost amount shown in the bank account after visa approval in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can withdraw the living expenses amount from your bank account after your Canadian study permit is approved. The main requirement is to show proof of funds during your visa application process. However, it's wise to keep enough funds available for your initial expenses in Canada, such as accommodation deposits and transportation. Make sure you have access to sufficient money to support yourself during your studies, as expected by Canadian immigration authorities. If you need more guidance, reach out to your LeapScholar counsellor.

Question 8

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.

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