top of page
Frequently asked questions
General
MBBS Abroad
Study In UK
Study In USA
Study In Canada
Study In Australia
Study In France
Study In Germany
Study In New Zealand
Visa Refusal F&Qs
Scholarships F&Qs
Study In Europe
Education Loan Assistance
SOP & LOR Guidance
The best overseas education consultants in Andhra Pradesh offer complete support including university selection, application processing, visa assistance, education loans, scholarships, and pre-departure guidance. Think Big Global is a trusted overseas education consultancy in Visakhapatnam helping students secure admissions in top countries like the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and Europe.
Career training programs in Visakhapatnam help students improve their communication skills, interview preparation, test readiness, and global career planning. With proper training and mentorship, students can increase their chances of securing admissions and building successful international careers.
Students looking to prepare for the GRE in Visakhapatnam can join professional test preparation programs offered by trusted overseas education consultants. Think Big Global provides expert GRE coaching, structured study plans, practice tests, and personalized guidance to help students achieve competitive scores for international admissions.
When selecting an overseas education consultant in India, prioritize experience, transparent processes, verified university partnerships, and a strong visa success rate. Think Big Global offers comprehensive services, including admissions, visa assistance, education loans, scholarships, and pre-departure support.
Think BIG Global is a leading overseas education consultancy and visa assistance company based in Visakhapatnam, India. We help Indian students achieve their dream of studying abroad by providing end-to-end guidance — from choosing the right country and university to visa processing, SOP writing, education loans, and pre-departure support. We have helped thousands of students gain admissions to top universities in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Germany, Ireland, France, Netherlands, New Zealand, and other destinations.
Students in Dwaraka Nagar can find career training programs that focus on communication skills, interview preparation, test coaching, and study abroad guidance. Think Big Global in Visakhapatnam offers structured career training and overseas education support to help students achieve their global goals.
VisaCart is Think BIG Global's dedicated visa assistance platform. It streamlines the visa application process for students, making it simpler and faster to prepare and submit visa applications for countries like the UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, and more. VisaCart provides step-by-step guidance on documentation, application forms, and interview preparation — all in one place.
Applying abroad on your own is possible, but a consultant significantly reduces the risk of mistakes that can cost you time and money. Consultants like Think BIG Global have deep knowledge of university requirements, visa rules, and application timelines. We help you choose the right universities, craft a strong profile, write a compelling SOP, and navigate the visa process — increasing your chances of admission and a successful visa outcome. Our experience with thousands of student cases means we anticipate problems before they arise.
Think BIG Global supports you at every stage of your study abroad journey. Our services include free profile evaluation, country and university shortlisting, application and documentation support, SOP and LOR assistance, test preparation (IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT, PTE), education loan guidance, visa application support through VisaCart, scholarship guidance, MBBS Abroad counseling, and pre-departure orientation. We are your single point of contact from the first consultation to the day you board your flight.
Yes! Think BIG Global offers a free profile evaluation and initial consultation to all students. During this session, our expert counselors will assess your academic background, career goals, financial capacity, and preferred destinations. Based on this evaluation, we provide personalized recommendations on suitable countries, universities, and courses — completely free of charge, with no obligation.
Most Indian students with a completed 10+2 (for undergraduate programs) or a bachelor's degree (for postgraduate programs) are eligible to apply for overseas universities. General requirements include a satisfactory academic record (typically 60% or above), English proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE), and in some cases standardized test scores (GRE or GMAT for higher studies). Specific eligibility depends on your target country, university, and course. Think BIG Global's free profile evaluation will tell you exactly where you stand and which options are best for you.
Choosing the right country depends on several personal and practical factors: your academic goals and course preferences, budget (tuition + living costs), post-study work opportunities, ease of getting a visa, potential for permanent residency, and personal preferences like climate and culture. For example, Germany offers low or no tuition fees, Canada and Australia offer strong post-study work rights, the UK offers a shorter program duration, and the USA has globally prestigious universities. Our counselors at Think BIG Global will help you weigh all these factors and find the best fit for your profile.
Each country has distinct advantages. UK: 1-year master's programs, strong academic reputation, 2-year post-study work visa; relatively higher tuition. USA: World-renowned universities, strong research culture, OPT/CPT work options; higher costs and complex visa process. Canada: Affordable, welcoming immigration policies, 3-year post-graduation work permit, strong PR pathways. Australia: High quality of life, 2-4 year post-study work visa, affordable compared to USA/UK; strong Indian community. The best choice depends on your course, budget, and long-term goals. Think BIG Global can help you compare these options in detail.
SOP stands for Statement of Purpose. It is an essay (typically 500-1000 words) you write as part of your university application, explaining who you are, why you want to study your chosen course, why you chose that particular university, and what you plan to do after graduation. A well-written SOP can significantly strengthen your application, especially if your academic scores are average. It tells the admissions committee your story in your own voice. Think BIG Global has expert SOP writers who help you craft a compelling, authentic SOP tailored to each university.
LOR stands for Letter of Recommendation. These are letters written by professors, academic supervisors, or employers who can vouch for your academic ability, character, and potential. Most universities require 2-3 LORs. Ideally, they should come from professors who taught you directly, or from employers if you have relevant work experience. A strong LOR is specific, personal, and highlights your achievements and qualities. Think BIG Global guides you on who to approach and how to brief your recommenders effectively, and we also help with formatting and structuring if needed.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests for study abroad. It tests your listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills. Most universities in the UK, Australia, Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand require an IELTS score (typically 6.0-7.0 overall, depending on the course). If English was your medium of instruction throughout schooling and university, some institutions may waive the requirement. Think BIG Global offers IELTS coaching to help you achieve your target score.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is another widely accepted English proficiency test, especially popular for applications to US universities. It tests reading, listening, speaking, and writing, and is conducted online. The main difference from IELTS is the format: TOEFL is entirely computer-based and uses American English, while IELTS includes a face-to-face speaking section. US universities typically require TOEFL scores (often 80-100 out of 120), though most also accept IELTS. Think BIG Global offers coaching for both tests.
PTE (Pearson Test of English Academic) is a computer-based English proficiency test accepted by thousands of universities and colleges worldwide, as well as for visa applications in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. It tests speaking, writing, reading, and listening, and results are typically available within 5 business days — faster than IELTS or TOEFL. A PTE score of 58-65 is generally required for most programs. Think BIG Global provides dedicated PTE coaching to help you achieve your target score quickly.
GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test required by many graduate (master's and PhD) programs, especially in the USA and Canada. It tests verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. A strong GRE score (typically 310+) can make your application more competitive for top universities. While some universities have made GRE optional post-pandemic, many top-ranked programs still prefer or require it. Think BIG Global offers GRE coaching to help you reach your target score.
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a standardized test commonly required for MBA and business-related master's programs at top universities worldwide. It tests analytical writing, integrated reasoning, quantitative, and verbal skills. A competitive GMAT score is typically 650+ for top-ranked business schools. Some universities now accept GRE scores in place of GMAT. Think BIG Global offers GMAT coaching and guidance on which scores are needed for your target MBA programs.
Academic requirements vary by country and university. Generally, for undergraduate programs, a minimum of 60-70% in 10+2 is expected. For postgraduate programs, a minimum of 55-60% in your bachelor's degree is typically required. Top-ranked universities may ask for higher scores (70-80%+). Some countries like Germany and Netherlands are stricter with academic scores, while countries like Canada and Ireland have more flexible entry-level options. Even if your scores are average, a strong SOP, relevant work experience, or research background can compensate. Our counselors will assess your full profile.
A gap year does not necessarily disqualify you from studying abroad, but it does need to be explained clearly and positively in your application. If the gap was spent productively — preparing for entrance exams, gaining work experience, learning a language, volunteering, or dealing with family/health issues — universities generally accept it. Countries like Canada and Australia are particularly understanding of gap years. The key is to address the gap confidently in your SOP. Think BIG Global's counselors will help you frame your gap year in the best possible light.
Work experience is not always required but is often beneficial, especially for postgraduate and MBA programs. For most master's programs in engineering, science, or arts, work experience is not mandatory. However, for MBA programs, most top business schools expect 2-5 years of professional experience. Work experience can also strengthen your application and visa chances, as it demonstrates purpose and commitment. If you have relevant internships or work experience, it should be highlighted in your SOP and resume. Our counselors will guide you on how to leverage your experience effectively.
The study abroad process typically takes 6-18 months from start to finish, depending on the country and intake you are targeting. Here is a general timeline: 3-6 months for test preparation (IELTS/TOEFL/GRE/GMAT), 1-3 months for shortlisting universities and preparing applications, 1-3 months to receive admission decisions, and 1-2 months for visa processing. We recommend starting at least 12 months before your intended start date. Think BIG Global will create a personalized timeline for you so you never miss a deadline.
The earlier, the better. Ideally, you should start planning at least 12-18 months before your intended intake (September or January intakes for most countries). This gives you enough time to prepare for language and aptitude tests, shortlist universities, write a strong SOP, arrange LORs, gather documents, apply for admission, and complete visa processing without rushing. Students who start late often miss deadlines, settle for less preferred universities, or face unnecessary stress. Book a free consultation with Think BIG Global today to get your personalized roadmap.
Yes, education loans for studying abroad are readily available in India from both public sector banks (like SBI, Bank of Baroda, Union Bank) and private lenders and NBFCs. Loans typically cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and other study-related costs. Collateral-free loans of up to INR 40 lakhs are available, and some lenders offer even higher amounts with collateral. Interest rates vary between 9-14%. Think BIG Global has tie-ups with leading loan providers and can guide you through the entire loan application process, including finding the best rates for your profile.
The total cost of studying abroad varies widely by country and university. As a rough guide per year (tuition + living): USA: INR 30-60 lakhs, UK: INR 25-50 lakhs, Australia: INR 20-40 lakhs, Canada: INR 15-35 lakhs, Germany: INR 5-15 lakhs (many public universities have minimal tuition), Ireland: INR 20-35 lakhs, France/Netherlands: INR 10-25 lakhs. Germany stands out as the most affordable option. Financial aid, scholarships, and part-time work can significantly offset costs. Think BIG Global will help you plan a detailed budget based on your chosen country and university.
Popular MBBS abroad destinations include Russia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and the Philippines. The best choice depends on university recognition, medium of instruction, total cost, climate, and your long-term plan (FMGE/NExT). Share your budget and preferences and we’ll shortlist suitable options.
While visa requirements differ by country, common requirements for a student visa include: a confirmed offer letter from a recognized university, proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE), proof of financial sufficiency (bank statements, education loan sanction letter), a valid passport, academic transcripts and certificates, a well-crafted SOP, and sometimes a visa interview. Processing times vary from 2-12 weeks depending on the country. Think BIG Global's VisaCart platform assists with the entire visa application process, from document preparation to interview coaching.
Yes, most study abroad destinations allow international students to work part-time during their studies. General allowances are: UK: up to 20 hours/week during term, full-time during holidays; Canada: up to 20 hours/week on or off campus; Australia: up to 48 hours per fortnight; USA: on-campus work only during the first year, CPT/OPT options later; Germany: 120 full days or 240 half days per year. Part-time work helps with living expenses and builds professional experience. Think BIG Global will provide country-specific details based on your chosen destination.
Most popular study destinations offer post-study work visas that allow you to work in the country after graduating. In general: UK offers a 2-year Graduate Route visa; Canada offers a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) of up to 3 years; Australia offers a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) for 2-4 years depending on location studied; USA offers OPT for 12 months (up to 36 months for STEM graduates); Germany offers an 18-month job-seeker visa. These are significant pathways toward permanent residency. Think BIG Global helps you plan not just for admission but for your long-term career abroad.
Yes, many countries offer PR pathways for international students who study and work there. Canada is widely considered the most student-friendly for PR through Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs. Australia's skilled migration and state nomination programs offer strong PR pathways. Germany's permanent residence permit is attainable after a few years of working there. The UK offers ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after 5 years. PR eligibility depends on your qualifications, work experience, and language skills. Think BIG Global advises students early on which destination aligns best with their PR goals.
Yes, numerous scholarships are available for Indian students studying abroad, from government scholarships, university merit scholarships, and private foundations. Notable ones include: Chevening Scholarships (UK), Commonwealth Scholarships, DAAD Scholarships (Germany), Fulbright-Nehru fellowships (USA), Inlaks Scholarships, Tata Scholarships, and university-specific merit scholarships. Scholarships can cover full or partial tuition, and sometimes living expenses. Competition is high, so a strong academic profile and SOP are essential. Think BIG Global's counselors identify scholarship opportunities that match your profile and guide you through the application.
Accommodation options for international students typically include: on-campus university housing (dormitories or halls of residence), private student accommodations (purpose-built student housing), private rentals (shared apartments or homestays), and homestays with local families. On-campus housing is recommended for first-year students as it is convenient, safe, and helps you settle in quickly. Costs vary from INR 25,000-80,000 per month depending on the country and city. Think BIG Global's pre-departure orientation covers accommodation options and helps you arrange suitable housing before you arrive.
Yes, health insurance is mandatory for international students in most countries. Some countries include it in their visa requirements (UK requires payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge, Australia requires Overseas Student Health Cover/OSHC). In the USA, universities often provide health insurance plans or require students to enroll in one. Germany requires statutory health insurance. The cost of healthcare without insurance abroad can be extremely high, so it is essential to have proper coverage. Think BIG Global will advise you on the health insurance requirements specific to your destination country.
Yes, popular study destinations like the UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, and Ireland are generally safe for international students. These countries have strong legal systems, active international student communities, and universities with dedicated support services for overseas students. As with anywhere in the world, it is important to exercise general safety precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and follow local laws. Most universities have 24/7 campus security, emergency helplines, and student welfare teams. Think BIG Global's pre-departure sessions include safety tips and emergency contacts for your destination.
Absolutely! Major study destinations like the UK, Canada, Australia, and the USA have large Indian communities, and you will find Indian grocery stores, restaurants, and temples in most university cities. Cities like London, Toronto, Melbourne, and Sydney are especially well-known for their Indian food culture. Even in Germany and the Netherlands, Indian restaurants and spice stores are common in university towns. Most Indian students who study abroad adapt quickly to cooking Indian food at home using easily available ingredients. The adjustment period is usually short, and you will likely find a community of fellow Indian students to share meals with.
Yes, most countries allow students to bring their spouse and dependent children as accompanying dependents. However, the rules vary significantly by country. Canada and Australia generally allow dependents to join students and even work. The UK allows dependents of postgraduate students studying at universities (restrictions apply). USA allows dependents but they cannot work on an F-2 visa. Germany allows dependents with certain restrictions. Financial requirements for supporting dependents are higher, and this affects your visa application. Think BIG Global will explain the specific rules and financial requirements for bringing family to your chosen destination.
Student life abroad is a transformative experience. Most international universities have vibrant campuses with clubs, societies, sports teams, cultural events, and student unions. You will meet peers from all over the world, participate in cultural exchange, and develop independence and resilience. Academic life is typically more practical and project-based compared to India, with emphasis on critical thinking and research. Most students report initial culture shock but quickly settle into campus life. Indian student associations are active at most universities and offer a familiar support network. Think BIG Global's alumni network can connect you with current students at your target universities.
Common parent concerns include: safety and security of their child, financial burden and loan repayment, cultural adjustment and loneliness, visa rejection risk, whether the degree will be recognized in India, and whether their child will return after studying. These are all valid concerns, and Think BIG Global addresses each one transparently. We provide safety briefings, financial planning support, connect parents with our alumni families, and help choose courses and countries where job prospects are strong. We encourage parents to attend our orientation sessions and to ask us any questions they have.
MBBS Abroad refers to pursuing a medical degree (MBBS or equivalent) at a recognized university in another country. Popular destinations for MBBS Abroad include Russia, Kazakhstan, Philippines, Georgia, and China. Key advantages include lower tuition fees compared to private medical colleges in India, no entrance exam (in most countries), and WHO/NMC recognized degrees. However, students must pass the FMGE/NExT screening exam to practice medicine in India after returning. Think BIG Global offers specialized MBBS Abroad counseling, helping students choose NMC-approved universities and prepare for licensing exams.
A profile evaluation is a professional assessment of your academic background, test scores, work experience, extracurricular activities, and goals to determine the best study abroad options for you. It identifies your strengths and gaps, recommends suitable countries, universities, and courses, and gives you a realistic picture of your chances at different institutions. At Think BIG Global, our profile evaluation is completely free and carries no obligation. It is the first and most important step in your study abroad journey — and it takes less than 30 minutes.
The typical documents required for overseas university applications include: valid passport, academic transcripts (10th, 12th, and bachelor's mark sheets and certificates), English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE), GRE/GMAT scores (if required), Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs, usually 2-3), updated CV or resume, proof of work experience (if applicable), and portfolio (for design/arts programs). Some universities may also require additional documents like an online application form, application fee payment, or additional essays. Think BIG Global prepares a complete, error-free document checklist for each of your applications.
Most study abroad destinations have two main intake periods: the September/Fall intake (the primary intake with maximum course availability) and the January/Winter or February/Spring intake (a secondary intake with slightly fewer options). Some countries like Australia also have a mid-year intake in July. The September intake is recommended for most students as it offers the widest choice of programs and the best scholarship opportunities. Think BIG Global will help you identify which intakes are available for your chosen courses and plan your application timeline accordingly.
Yes, degrees from recognized Indian universities and colleges are generally accepted by overseas universities for admission to postgraduate programs. When applying, universities assess your transcripts and may require credential evaluation (through agencies like WES for Canada). Degrees from AICTE-approved, UGC-recognized, or affiliated universities are widely accepted. The equivalence is determined by the overseas institution. Think BIG Global will verify whether your specific institution and degree are recognized by your target universities, and handle any credential evaluation requirements as part of the application process.
A pre-departure orientation is a session conducted by Think BIG Global to prepare you for life abroad before you leave India. It covers essential topics including what to pack, local culture and customs, opening a bank account abroad, SIM card and connectivity options, accommodation setup, public transport, food and cooking abroad, safety tips, academic expectations, campus life, Indian student communities, and emergency contacts. This session helps you hit the ground running when you arrive and reduces the initial anxiety of moving to a new country.
Think BIG Global stands out because we offer truly personalized, end-to-end support rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Our key differentiators include: experienced counselors with firsthand knowledge of target countries, in-house test preparation for IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT, and PTE, a dedicated visa platform (VisaCart) for smooth visa processing, strong university partnerships, transparent fee structures, and a track record of successful student placements. We are based in Visakhapatnam and deeply understand the aspirations of Indian students from this region. Our success is measured by your success.
Germany is an excellent option for Indian students, especially for engineering, technology, and science programs. Most public universities in Germany charge little to no tuition fees (only a semester administration fee of around EUR 150-350). The quality of education is world-class, and German degrees are highly respected globally. Germany also offers an 18-month job seeker visa after graduation and a clear pathway to permanent residency. The main considerations are that you may need to learn German for some programs (though many master's programs are offered in English), and the initial setup costs require planning. Think BIG Global has specialists in Germany admissions.
Ireland is an increasingly popular destination for Indian students. Key advantages include: being an English-speaking country with globally recognized universities like Trinity College Dublin and UCD, a 2-year stay-back option after graduation (Third Level Graduate Programme), a thriving tech industry with major companies like Google, Facebook, and Apple based in Dublin, relatively lower living costs compared to the UK, and a welcoming attitude toward international students. Ireland is particularly strong in computer science, pharmaceuticals, business, and engineering. Think BIG Global's Ireland experts will guide you on the best universities and courses.
France and the Netherlands are excellent European destinations for Indian students. France offers world-class grandes ecoles and engineering schools, a rich cultural experience, and relatively affordable tuition at public universities. Many programs in Paris and other cities are offered in English at the postgraduate level. The Netherlands is known for its internationally oriented universities (Delft, Wageningen, Erasmus), innovative teaching methods, and a large number of English-taught programs. Both countries have vibrant student communities, strong research opportunities, and post-study work options within the EU/Schengen zone. Think BIG Global can help you explore these options in detail.
New Zealand is an emerging study destination that offers high-quality education, a safe and welcoming environment, and beautiful natural surroundings. New Zealand universities are globally ranked, and the country is known for its practical, hands-on teaching approach. International students can work up to 20 hours per week during studies. After graduation, a Post-Study Work Visa of up to 3 years is available depending on your level of study and location. Living costs are generally lower than Australia or the UK. New Zealand is especially popular for agriculture, hospitality, IT, and healthcare programs. Think BIG Global advises students on New Zealand options.
A study abroad consultant plays a crucial role in the visa process by: helping you understand the specific visa requirements for your destination country, creating a complete and accurate document checklist, reviewing your financial documents and ensuring they meet the requirements, preparing you for any visa interviews or biometrics, submitting your application correctly and on time, and following up on application status. Think BIG Global's VisaCart platform and visa experts handle the entire process for you, minimizing the chances of delays or rejections due to documentation errors.
Required English language scores vary by university ranking and program type. As a general guide: IELTS 6.0-6.5 for most undergraduate and taught master's programs; IELTS 7.0+ for highly competitive programs like law, medicine, and top-ranked universities; TOEFL 80-100 for most US universities; PTE 58-65 for most programs. Some universities are flexible and offer conditional admission or English preparation courses if you fall slightly short. Think BIG Global provides IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE coaching to ensure you achieve the score your target university requires.
We typically recommend applying to 5-8 universities per intake for a balanced strategy: 2-3 aspirational or dream universities (slightly above your current profile), 2-3 realistic or match universities (well-suited to your profile), and 1-2 safety universities (where your chances of admission are very high). This approach maximizes your chances of getting multiple offer letters, giving you the best options to choose from. Think BIG Global will shortlist the right universities based on your profile, career goals, and budget, and manage all your applications in parallel.
A conditional admission (also called a conditional offer) means the university has accepted you provisionally, subject to you meeting certain conditions — most commonly achieving a minimum IELTS/TOEFL score, providing final academic transcripts, or completing a foundation or pathway program. Conditional offers are common and can be a great opportunity if the condition is something you can realistically achieve. Once you meet the conditions and provide proof, the offer converts to an unconditional admission. Think BIG Global will advise you on whether a conditional offer is worth accepting and help you fulfill the conditions quickly.
CAS stands for Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies. It is a unique reference number assigned by a UK university to each international student they have admitted. The CAS number is a mandatory part of your UK Student Visa (Tier 4) application — without it, you cannot apply for the visa. The university typically issues the CAS a few months before the course start date. It contains details about your course, university, fees, and your academic qualifications. Think BIG Global's UK specialists guide you through the CAS issuance process and ensure your visa application is submitted correctly and on time.
An I-20 is an official document issued by a US university or college to international students admitted on an F-1 student visa. It serves as proof of acceptance and is required to apply for the F-1 visa, pay the SEVIS fee, and check in with the Designated School Official (DSO) upon arrival. The I-20 contains your program start and end dates, financial requirements, and other important details. You must maintain your I-20 and keep it updated throughout your studies. Think BIG Global's USA counselors help you understand I-20 requirements and the full US visa application process.
A Sperrkonto (blocked account) is a special type of German bank account required as part of the German student visa application. It serves as proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies in Germany. The required amount is set by the German authorities (currently around EUR 11,208 per year). The funds are 'blocked' — meaning you can only withdraw a fixed monthly amount once you are in Germany. Opening a Sperrkonto through providers like Expatrio, Fintiba, or Deutsche Bank is one of the key visa steps for Germany. Think BIG Global guides you through the entire Sperrkonto setup process.
It depends on your destination. For English-speaking countries like the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Ireland, and New Zealand, English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE) is what you need — no additional language is required. For non-English-speaking countries, you have options: Germany, France, and the Netherlands offer many postgraduate programs in English, so you do not necessarily need to learn the local language for your studies. However, learning the local language helps you integrate better, access more job opportunities, and enjoy daily life more easily. Think BIG Global advises on language requirements specific to your country and program.
Direct entry means you apply directly to the main degree program (bachelor's or master's) and enter if you meet all requirements. A pathway program (also called a foundation program or pre-master's) is a preparatory course that helps students who do not fully meet the academic or English language requirements for direct entry. Completing the pathway program guarantees or strongly facilitates progression to the main degree. Pathway programs are typically 6-12 months long and are offered by universities or pathway providers like INTO, Navitas, and Kaplan. Think BIG Global advises on whether a pathway program is the right route for your profile.
There are several ways to send money abroad for educational purposes: wire transfer through your Indian bank, forex cards (multi-currency travel cards), online remittance platforms (like Wise, Western Union, BookMyForex), and through your education loan disbursement directly to the university. Under the RBI Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS), Indian residents can send up to USD 250,000 per year abroad for education. TCS (Tax Collected at Source) applies to remittances above INR 7 lakhs per year. Think BIG Global's counselors explain the best and most cost-effective ways to manage your overseas finances.
Having backlogs does not necessarily prevent you from studying abroad, but it can limit your options. Many universities are flexible about cleared backlogs (where you re-appeared and passed), though the number of backlogs matters. Countries like Canada and Australia are generally more flexible than the UK or Germany. If all backlogs are cleared at the time of application, many universities will consider your application with a strong SOP explaining the situation. Active (uncleared) backlogs are a significant concern for visa applications. Think BIG Global will honestly assess your options and identify universities most likely to accept your profile.
The cost of living is a major factor in your study abroad decision. Cities like London, New York, Sydney, and San Francisco are among the most expensive in the world, while cities in Germany, smaller Canadian provinces, and regional Australian cities are significantly more affordable. Key living costs to consider: rent (your biggest expense), food, transport, utilities, phone, clothing, and leisure. As a rough monthly estimate: London/Sydney: INR 80,000-1,20,000; Toronto/Melbourne: INR 60,000-90,000; Berlin/Frankfurt: INR 50,000-70,000. Think BIG Global helps you build a realistic monthly budget for your target city.
bottom of page