Traveling on your own can be quite a daunting experience. Traveling with kids? Even worse, sometimes. You’re dragging your luggage on one hand and the other is carrying your youngest child while you’re dividing your time between screaming out for your child to come back and ask your teenager to help a little. It gets crazy a lot of times. There are times when people straight out crash after their holidays because of the pressures that come with traveling with their children. We have some handy tips for traveling with your children you can use for a relative hassle-free holiday.

Plan ahead: This goes without a saying. Make sure to plan your trip ahead. Check your passports and that of your kids to be sure they are still valid. It doesn’t hurt to still have about months before its expiry date. Book your tickets and hotels (We have amazing deals and packages at Silver Cloud travels to take the stress of you). Do your research on what is acceptable and what isn’t in the country you’re going to. Find out about the weather there to know what to pack. Just be sure to have the basics and pack only what you need.

Take your time: Take your time; with everything. Whether you’re shopping at your destination or you’re at the airport or sightseeing, take your time. Kids love to explore and see new things. Don’t just hurry them on from place to place.

Plan activities for them: What better way to keep them in line than to keep them busy? Have fun activities lined up for your children every step of the way. It could be a small game of remembering bus stops as you commute, colouring books, puzzles; anything to while away time. The activities should also involve other members of the family and not just the children. Have family games handy. You can even ask them to keep a travel journal and draw or write about things they experience during the journey or hand them their own camera to take pictures. But be sure not to have too many activities planned for them.

Avoid the sugar: I’m talking about sweets, ice cream, chocolates, etc. Some children have the tendency to get really hyper when they take a lot of sugar, making them even harder to control. Instead of sweets, pack fruits, vegetables, nuts, and savory snacks for them.

Brand them: Kids tend to wander. Whether it is at the airport or when you’re sightseeing, there is a very high tendency you kid would find something that catches his or her fancy and follow that thing when you’re busy with something else. Be sure to write your kid’s name, your name, and your phone number and attach it to a part that can be very visible on your child. You can have it on their armor attached to their clothes.

Loosen up: Don’t be so uptight about things. You would end up not enjoying your vacation. Breathe and live a little. It is a vacation after all. It is easy to forget you’re supposed t be pampering yourself to in all of this. Be flexible and loosen up. Even with the rules you set. Setting rules are a great way to keep your kids in check but don’t be too strict on them. You’d be surprised at how well they’d behave.

This blog post is originally from Top Tips For Traveling With Kids and written by silvercloudtravels

This article covers the top 3 Universities in the UK that accept your  NECO (National

Examination Council) results from Nigeria. If you are a Nigerian student seeking universities in the UK that accept NECO results, then this article is for you.

In this article, we will provide you with all the necessary information about the top 3 universities that accept NECO results in the UK from Nigeria. We will guide you through the list of universities in the UK that are willing to accept your NECO results and explain what qualifications they require.

These universities stand out among their peers and offer exceptional opportunities for Nigerian students using their National Examinations Council results from Nigeria to apply. We strongly recommend that you consider these universities and take advantage of the opportunities they offer.

NECO, known as the National Examinations Council is an educational body in Nigeria that administers the Senior Secondary Certificate Examination and other exams in Nigeria during June/July and in  November/December. Before now, National Examination Council was exclusively used in Nigeria but over the years a lot has evolved.

In the past, NECO’s validity was limited for use within Nigeria alone, especially for students who would like to further their education. In cases where students do not meet up with the required number of credits for a particular course in the university, they can merge NECO results with WAEC (West African Examinations Council) and use it to apply for their chosen course only in Nigeria.

This is How NECO works in Nigeria

A student who is trying to gain admission to study Mass Communication into a university in Nigeria needs a minimum of  at least 5 credits in English, Mathematics, Literature in English,  Economics and Government and or Commerce.

The student has credit passes in three subjects in WAEC but has an ordinary pass in the rest of the subjects in the WAEC, the student can augment with NECO if he/she passed those subjects in NECO. But as stated earlier, that only happens in Nigeria back then and does not apply outside Nigeria. WAEC is what applies to all West African countries.

Brief History of NECO’s Inception In Nigeria

NECO was established in 1999 with the primary goal of providing a credible assessment of academic performance for all learners across Nigeria. It is worth noting that NECO was the first federal body in Nigeria to provide academic candidates with subsidized registration.This has helped to make education more accessible to a wider range of students.

The organization has since maintained a high level of credibility and has continued to provide quality services to students across the country. Overall, NECO’s contributions to the Nigerian education system are commendable.

NECO is widely recognized as one of the most reliable and trusted assessment bodies in Nigeria. Today, Its exams are recognized throughout Africa and provide a platform for measuring student’s achievement, aptitude, and skills.

This helps to ensure that education standards in Nigeria are of the highest quality. We strongly recommend that students take advantage of the opportunities provided by NECO to demonstrate their abilities and achieve their academic goals.

The Difference Between NECO and WAEC

WAEC and NECO are two major examination bodies in Nigeria. The primary difference between them is that NECO operates solely within Nigeria, while WAEC is an international examination authority that operates across borders.

WAEC has gained recognition in foreign countries, and its certifications are highly regarded. On the other hand, NECO’s certifications are not recognized abroad. Therefore, if one intends to pursue education or employment opportunities outside Nigeria, it is advisable to obtain a WAEC certification.

ALSO Read: How to write a statement of purpose for UK

A Positive Shift in the Difference Between NECO and WAEC

There is good news for Nigerian students today regarding NECO and the good news is that Nigerian students can now study abroad using their National Examinations Council results because some universities in the UK  have started accepting NECO results for admission into their schools.

This is a major breakthrough for Nigerian students seeking to study in the USA and Canada. This development has opened up more opportunities for Nigerian students to pursue their academic goals in foreign universities.

Nigerians seeking higher education abroad can now rejoice as more US and Canadian institutions have recognized the NECO certification apart from some universities in the UK which is the major focus in this article

This is a major step forward in smooth-running and accelerating the process of attaining qualifications abroad, which in the past took months or even years as students are required to sit certain international exams whose results they will use to apply to for studies abroad.

However, with this development, valuable opportunities that were once missed can now be seized. It is important to note that good grades are a requirement for Nigerian students using NECO results abroad.

It is advisable for interested students to start preparing for their NECO exams early and aim for excellent results to increase their chances of gaining admission into their preferred universities. This is a positive step towards improving the quality of education in Nigeria and boosting the country’s international reputation.

Read Also: How To Get A Credit Transfer From A Nigerian University To a UK University

Universities in the UK That Accept NECO Results.

Several universities in the UK have begun to recognize the National Examinations Council (NECO) results from Nigeria as a reliable means for potential students to pursue higher education. This development presents a unique opportunity for Nigerian students to further their studies abroad.

Below is a comprehensive list of universities in the UK that welcome applicants with National Examinations Council results. Prospective students are encouraged to explore these options and take advantage of this promising opportunity.

1. Kent University

Kent University, located in Canterbury, is the oldest university in the UK and is renowned for its exceptional teaching standards. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various disciplines, including Art, History and Zoology.

Whether you’re interested in the arts or sciences, Kent University is sure to have a program that suits your academic interests. I highly recommend considering Kent University for your higher education needs.

Kent University is among the universities in the UK that have flexible requirements for admission. They accept NECO results as part of their admission process, which is a great opportunity for students who have taken the exam.

However, it is important to note that there are additional requirements that must be met. These requirements are necessary to ensure that students are well-prepared for the academic rigor of the university.

We highly recommend that students who have taken the NECO exam and are interested in attending Kent University should review these requirements carefully and ensure that they meet them. With Kent University’s acceptance of NECO results, students have a great chance of being admitted to this prestigious institution.

To be considered for admission to Kent University using your NECO, you must meet specific requirements which includes having a minimum of five subjects with a C or 6-grade point average, including English.

Additionally, foundation programs must be completed before proceeding into programs that require higher average grades. It is important to note that Kent University evaluates applicants based on their merit in addition to these requirements. We strongly encourage applicants to meet these standards and showcase their best qualities in their application.

2. Sheffield University

Sheffield University is another excellent choice for those looking to study in the UK with their NECO results. Located in South Yorkshire, England, it offers undergraduates and postgraduates a comprehensive education experience.

Sheffield boasts state of the art facilities and world-leading teaching staff, making it one of the most sought-after institutions in the country. With courses ranging from Medicine to Law and Business Management to Engineering, Nigerian students will surely find their courses here.

To be considered in Sheffield University using your National Examinations Council results as a valid qualification for admission,  you must meet the following conditions which are obtain a minimum of grade of C in English language in the National Examinations Council exam, have NECO results that are not more than five years old at the start of your program, and have good NECO results to be exempted from taking the IELTS exam. 

If you are unable to provide proof of English proficiency, it is possible to submit an official letter from a previous employer that certifies your competence in the language. The letter should include the date you began working for the company and describe how you utilized English in your role.

This documentation can be used to demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers or academic institutions. We highly recommend obtaining such a letter if you are in need of English proficiency certification.

3. Manchester University

Another university in the UK that accepts National Examination Council results from Nigerian students applying to study in the UK is Manchester University. Manchester University is a highly esteemed educational institution in the United Kingdom.

It has been providing top-notch education since its establishment in 2004. The university is pleased to accept applicants with National Examinations Council results, offering equal opportunities to all. Manchester University has produced an impressive list of alumni who have achieved great success in their respective fields, making them some of the most accomplished individuals worldwide. We strongly recommend considering Manchester University for your academic pursuits if you are applying with National Examinations Council results.

In this article, we have listed the top 3 universities in the UK that accept NECO results from Nigerian students aspiring to study abroad which are Manchester University, Sheffield University and Kent University. We also listed other qualifications and requirements that these universities require alongside your National Examination Council results.

If you would like to speak with a study abroad expert about how you can start your study abroad process, do well to message us here. We will be glad to assist you with your study abroad process.

This blog post is originally from 3 Universities In The UK That Accept NECO Results and written by silvercloudtravels

Planning a family vacation can be a daunting task, as each family member has different preferences and needs.It can be quite challenging to find the perfect destination but proper planning and communication can make it possible to create a memorable and enjoyable vacation experience for all in the family

Planning a vacation for a family requires lots of budget. It is quite different from Solo travel where you can wake up one morning and decide to fly to wherever your heart leads.But we can’t say the same when an entire family of three or above is involved. You have to carefully plan, so that each member of the family enjoys and has the best vacation experience.

Also, a vacation is quite different from a business trip or meetings hence, you need to take out time to consider available locations and how the features of that Location appeals to the needs of each family member.

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How to plan a Family Vacation

1. Put each family member into consideration.

The first step to planning a family vacation is to consider the needs of each family member. You may start by having a family discussion where you discuss potential destinations and activities to try out during the period of the vacation.While discussing this, also remember to include your budget, time of travel and accommodations.

Under budget, you want to review your finances and see whether it will cover the needs of each family member for the vacation trip and also cover any unexpected excesses that may be accrued as a result of unforeseen circumstances.

Remember, unforeseen circumstances must not always be in the negative, it can also be in the positive. You may come across a new opportunity that will be too good to miss and you sure will not  want to miss out on it; think about that and include it in your budget.

Then under time to travel, you want to consider how the timing affects the activities of each member of the family. For instance, does it affect the employment of anyone in the family? Does it affect the academic calendar of the children or other members of the family?

Remember, a vacation is meant to be a relaxing moment for each family member and it will be great to have everyone fly with little or no worries about how their activities back home will be affected while they take out time to relax.

If the kids are not on vacation from school at the time of your family vacation trip, and are too young to be left behind, you may want to speak with their school authorities to see how they can help the kids cover up what they may miss during the period that they will be away from school.

Also, if your spouse is not on official leave, it will be reasonable to ensure they write and obtain an official leave from their employers so that they can be fully involved with your family vacation trip without worrying about losing their jobs.

In cases where the damage that will be done by involving each member of the family at the time of the trip will be too severe, you may consider choosing another convenient time for the trip. For instance, will the kids miss their promotional exams because of the trip, will your spouse be at the risk of losing their jobs because of the trip?

Remember, vacation does not have to be once in a lifetime and there are no hard and nail rules that say it must be within a specific period of time. The goal is for everyone to take time out and go cool off and rest so if the timing is not convenient, consider adjusting it to a time that will be convenient enough for everyone.

Another thing to consider in terms of “time” is to know what the weather condition of the vacation location is as at the time of traveling. We all know that weather conditions differ from place to place and every weather condition affects each person differently. For instance, in Nigeria, we have basically two seasons which are the dry season and wet season.

These two seasons actually consist of three significant climate zones which are a tropical savanna climate, sahelian hot and semi-arid climate and the tropical monsoon climate.

These climates affect different regions of Nigeria in each two seasons that exist in Nigeria which are the wet and dry seasons. These changes affect each person differently, hence the reasons we often hear people talk about the period of season they enjoy the most.

During the dry seasons, some persons may prefer the Harmattan season which is usually cold as a result of winds from the Sahara yet very dry that lots of persons are compelled to use extra moisturizer to keep their skin moist and prevent it from looking flakey.

Those used to these weather conditions are accustomed to being able to manage it properly, hence whatever the outcome is in each season,it can hardly be different from what they are used to.

But unlike an environment that we are used to, vacation locations are environments that we or members of our family going on the vacation with us are or may not be used to, hence taking time to understand the actual season of the vacation location we wish to travel to at the time of plan will help each family member to be prepared to manage the condition properly.

Imagine traveling to Walt Disney World, Florida when winter is at its peak and you, some or all members of your family are not adequately prepared to handle the weather condition in that season, of course the vacation may not be so enjoyable and some may even give in to cold or  flu and no one will ever want to have such a vacation memory.

The goal should not just be about having a vacation but having a memorable vacation that stays retained in the memories of each member of your family for as long as possible.

2. Set a budget and stick to it

Having considered the needs of each family member, the next on your bucket list should be “budget”. Having a well detailed budget will enable you to know if you are truly ready to handle your family vacation project or not.

A budget helps you to have an advanced plan on how you will spend your money, what to spend it on and also determine if you have enough money to spend or not on a particular project, item or gadget.

With a well planned budget, it’s easy for you to discern if you are spending in the right proportion. You will be able to detect when you are about to spend too much on an item and think whether it’s necessary or not.

Keeping and maintaining a budget is easy if you keep a daily track of your income and expenses, with that, it’s very easy to determine your monthly/annual income and also know what is left of your income after your expenses each day. Whether you are a high income earner or a low income earner, keeping track of your daily expenses will make your budget easy especially for a family vacation plan. One look at your balance from the sources you spend on daily, you already know how much cash you have to plan for a family vacation.

What to Consider When Budgeting A Family Vacation.

When you want to plan a budget for a family vacation, there are five crucial things you must consider. One is accommodation reservations, two is food, very important and three is activities, the fourth is clothes and the fifth is travel insurance.

• Accommodations Reservations: You have to determine what it will cost you to pay for a comfortable accommodation that will accommodate every member of the family. You also need to book early enough so that you can get the best there is available. Going on a vacation as a family can be quite stressful especially when some members of the family are kids and toddlers but if you can make them comfortable, then it will be less stressful.

You can look up some or all of the types of accommodations to expect during vacations and plan to choose what is best for your family according to their age, needs and preferences.Also remember that you will need to book activities ahead of time so that you don’t get disappointed or have any member of your family disappointed on arrival.

• Flight Tickets: In your budget, you should also consider the cost of tickets and the best airline for your location.Also remember that, each airline offers different sorts of comfort and convenience at different rates, so you want to consider which one suits your budget and stick to it.

• Shopping List: Depending on where you and your family are headed for your family vacation trip, you may need to shop for new items like clothes, shoes, bags, or even camping items.Apart from these, some groceries like cookies and chips to snack on during flight may also be required depending on the age of your kids, should they exhaust what they will be served on board.

• Miscellaneous: You may already have all you require, or all you think you need and be all set but ensure to set aside a certain amount of money incase of any eventuality while on vacation with your family.

Read Also: Tourist Visas For Visiting Canada in 2023

Locations to visit for family Vacation

1. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

One of the best places we recommend for family vacation is the Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, Florida. This park has some of the most thrilling sites that will create a lasting memory for a family vacation especially in the minds of your little humans.

Being the first park in the United States, it has a blend of natural scenery and wonders. Yellowstone National park has about 500 geysers and the midway geyser basin is quite a sight to behold. 

Apart from geysers, the park also have the Larma Valley which is home to some animals

It will be both thrilling, exciting and educational to visit this park as a family and it will sure create a long lasting impression on your little humans.

Overall, Yellowstone National Park, Wyonming has other beautiful sites that are quite appealing and there are lots and lots of fun activities one can explore there from Horseback riding, to boating and swimming and hiking, it is one of the most suitable locations for a family vacation.

2. San Diego, California

Another beautiful location to explore as a family is San Diego, California. San Diego California is known for its beautiful scenery of natures’ best features like beaches, and parks. Its beaches are swimmable and the beach sand is perfect for sandcastles’ building for you and your loved ones.

Also, San Diego is home to the USS Midway Museum, San Diego zoo and the Balboa park which are all filled with family friendly and fun activities and games for all ages. The city also has accommodations to suit all budgets so it is another beautiful location for family vacation.

3. Niagara Falls, New York

Niagara Falls has some of the most attractive sites and activities for everyone in the family to explore during a family vacation trip.

In Niagara Falls, one can hike through the ruins of the first hydroelectric power station or hike through some of the best trails in the country.

One can also visit the Observation Tower which provides the only wide view of all the three Niagara Falls or spend time watching the different species of birds right from the observation towers.

Niagara Falls also has one of the best restaurants that caters to the needs of visitors to the Falls. You can choose from a variety of American cuisine to classic dishes such as  Niagara fish and chips, burgers, beef on weck etc.

Or you can choose from desserts like chocolate cakes or cheese cakes. There is definitely something for everyone in the family when it comes to food, fun activities and games.

4. Walt Disney World, Florida

Walt Disney World, Florida is another beautiful location to visit with your family. One of the exciting features of Walt Disney World is that it has lots of attractive scenes for kids especially.

It has parks with themes and lots of cartoon characters that will definitely thrill your little humans.

Walt Disney World has four individual theme parks that a family can choose to explore. From the EPCOT, to Hollywood studios, to the Animal Kingdom and the Magic kingdom, a family vacation to this location is certainly going to be  a never to be forgotten vacation for everyone in the family.

5. Washington D.C.

Another Location in our recommendation for family vacation is Washington D.C. This place is home to about 20 museums and some monuments which means a visit to this location will not only be exciting but educational as families can explore the historical arts and some monuments and also learn the history behind it.

Washington D.C is also features the Smithsonian’s National Zoo which is home to different species of wildlife like the Abyssinian ground hornbill, American Alligator, Aquatic Caecilian just to mention a few. It will indeed be thrilling and exciting to get a close view of these wonderful sights and families can make a beautiful vacation memory when they travel to this location for their family vacation.

Summary

This article has highlighted five amazing places to visit as a family during family vacation trip. The article also gave budgeting tips to families planning a family vacation and highlights some of the features of the five suggestions given here as the top 5 locations for family vacation.

We are sure that the suggestions in this article will help you decide on your next vacation location with your family. If you would like someone to plan your family vacation for you within your budget, reach out to Silvercloud Travels. We will be glad to plan a suitable family vacation for you within your budget.

This blog post is originally from Top 5 Locations for Family Vacation and written by silvercloudtravels

Majority of students would like to study in Canada but they may have been discouraged because of the high tuition fees by most universities and institutions in Canada. But the fact remains that Canadian institutions are more affordable than institutions and colleges in the United states of America and the United Kingdom.

Though relatively affordable compared to schools in the US and the UK, Canadian institutions still offer a variety of courses and programs at affordable prices.  There are also high quality courses and degree programs that are highly affordable in Canada. This means that you can still study a great course in Canada without having to spend too much on tuition fees.

Though Canada is a safe place to live, the cost of living is quite high compared to the cost of living in Nigeria. Therefore, Nigerian students planning to study in Canada need to be strategic about  their plans on how to cope with living in Canada while studying there.

Also Read: Five Important Study Guides For International Student

What are some affordable ways to study in Canada?

Generally. A Lot of people hold the opinion that studying in Canada is unattainable or out of reach for a Nigerian student because of the presumed high cost of tuition, but this opinion is flawed because there are still some institution whose price is not too exorbitant that is out of reach for an average Nigerian Student.

The truth is, despite the high cost of living in Canada, there are certain ways to cut costs and live according to your means when studying in Canada. In this article we have listed certain suggestions that if carefully followed will help you cut costs and afford your stay in Canada while studying.

In order to afford to study in Canada consider the suggestions we listed below.

1. Shop clothes and shoes from Thrift

As a student who is low on budget, you do not want to complicate things further by shopping from expensive stores. Most thrift stores actually have high quality items at affordable prices so, you should source for items like clothes and shoes from a thrift store to save cost.

2. Enroll in an affordable institution

Remember that, this article is meant to show you affordable ways to study in Canada so, you would not want to choose an institution whose tuition fee is high. Every city, state or country has different institutions with different tuition fees, so you should focus on finding a very affordable institution.

3. Be wise with your associates

Our associates are bound to influence us either for good or bad. In the midst of our associates comes peer pressure and a competitive desire. If among our associates are peers whose social class is different from ours, we may find ourselves struggling to meet up with their exorbitant lifestyle and this will likely frustrate our plans to live a budget friendly life that is within our financial capacity.

You may be under pressure to buy things you don;t need, spend exorbitant amounts on unnecessities just to impress your peers and at the end of the day, you may likely end up getting into lots of financial crises and worsen your financial status.

Although, you will like to make connections with others who are not in the same social class with you, just to create better opportunities in the future, you want to keep it at a level where you don’t get unnecessarily pressured to live a lifestyle that you can not afford.

4. Cut down on commuting expenses

Yes, as someone with less finances who wants to live an affordable lifestyle in Canada while studying, you need to cut down on how much you spend commuting from place to place, especially on short distances that likely cost the same price as long distances.

You may need to cover some distance on foot to save more. This tip has a double advantage as walking is also considered as an exercise, so while you walk to save, you also walk to stay healthy.

5. Do not joke with student discounts

Many retail organizations offer discounts to students when they present their school identity card. You are encouraged to move around your student Identity Card in case you will need to shop while out, you may just be fortunate to get a student’s discount at the presentation of your Identity Card and save yourself some discount.

Make your own meals: Eating out may be convenient for a student but the truth is cooking your own meal is a lot cheaper and healthier too. Instead of spending the sum that should make you a meal for the whole day or for two days, why spend it on just one square meal a day at the cafeteria?

Making your own meal is one way to live within your financial limitations so that you don’t run into debts or get into financial crises as a student on a budget

As we stated earlier, different schools have different prices in every city and country likewise Canada. One of the affordable ways to study in Canada is to find an institution with a very flexible and affordable tuition fee.

In this article, we have listed some of the Canadian institution known to offer the best rates and tuition so far and they are  Athabasca university, University of Regina, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Royal Roads University and University of Saskatchewan

Read Also: How to get a credit transfer to a UK University

Financial support for Nigerian Students in Canada

As a Nigerian student studying in Canada or a Canadian university, there are some means to assist you financially to help you achieve your academic goals. The Canadian government offers a variety of scholarships and grants to international students, including those from Nigeria.

In addition, many Canadian universities have their own financial aid programs, which can provide additional support. We have outlined some of those means here to help you afford your study in Canada or a Canadian university on a budget.

A. Study Grants and Scholarships

Scholarships and grants are a form of financial support that can be provided by various entities such as institutions, organizations, governments or individuals to assist international students in financing their studies.

These forms of financial assistance can cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other related costs. It is highly recommended that as an  international student whose dream is to study in Canada on a budget,  research and apply for scholarships and grants to reduce the financial burden of your studies.

By doing so, you can focus on your academic pursuits and achieve your goals without worrying about financial constraints. As a Canadian student, you  have access to numerous scholarships and awards and many of them are free. This means that you will not need to pay it back.

These may be one-time awards or annual grants, available throughout the student’s time in higher education. Usually, these scholarships and grants are merited via Successes in academics, athletics, philanthropy, or the arts.

These are often used as a determining factor for offering scholarships and grants to students. In order to maintain eligibility for the scholarship or grant on an annual basis, it is imperative that certain requirements are met.

These requirements may include achieving a specific grade point average or completing a certain number of credit hours. It is highly recommended that applicants thoroughly review the terms and conditions of the scholarship or grant in order to ensure that they are meeting all necessary criteria. Failure to do so may result in the loss of funding for subsequent years.

It is our sincere hope that all applicants are able to successfully renew their scholarship or grant and continue to pursue their academic goals with the support of this funding. Scholarships and grants are widely available from numerous sources.

Some of these sources include postsecondary schools, nonprofit foundations, community organizations, government agencies, and private businesses.  It is important to research each source thoroughly to determine which scholarships and grants are available and which ones are the best fit for your needs.

Be sure to follow the application instructions carefully and provide all necessary supporting documents. With persistent effort, you can secure the funding you need to pursue your educational goals in Canada as an international student.

We strongly advise that as an individual seeking scholarships and awards, You should conduct extensive research well in advance before the start date of your academic year. When you do this, you will have ample time to prepare your application and increase your chances of being selected.

Remember you are not the only one who is applying for the scholarship or grant and the truth is, the organization will/may never grant everyone’s request so you have to put in more effort to increase your chances of being selected among many others.

It is also important that you thoroughly review the eligibility requirements and application deadlines for each scholarship or award. Additionally, as a student seeking financial support, you should consider reaching out to organizations or individuals who have previously received the scholarship or award for guidance and advice.

With proper research and preparation, you can greatly increase your chances of receiving the financial support you need to achieve your academic and career goals and afford your study in Canada despite having limited finances.

We highly recommend these sites, Studentawards.ca and scholarshipscanada.com as they are great  sources for information on scholarships and grants. Additionally, RBC (Royal Bank of Canada) is a generous contributor to numerous Canadian student scholarships.

It is important to note that scholarships and grants offer financial assistance to students who meet specific criteria, such as academic achievement or certain level of  financial needs. These awards can cover a range of expenses, including tuition, books, and living expenses.

We strongly advise that you find and apply for as many scholarships and grants as possible so as to maximize your chances of receiving financial support from one or all of the bodies you have applied to. Overall, scholarships and grants are an excellent opportunity for international students on a budget to pursue their education without the burden of excessive debt.

Things You must know about Scholarships and Grants.

It is important to note that every scholarship or award has its own unique application process.It is imperative that applicants thoroughly research and understand the requirements for each opportunity they are interested in pursuing.

Failure to do so may result in disqualification or missed opportunities. It is highly recommended that you carefully review all application materials and follow instructions precisely. By doing so, you will increase your chances of succeeding and may be awarded the scholarship or award you are seeking.

Scholarships and grants are forms of financial aid that do not require repayment. They are awarded based on various criteria, such as academic achievement, financial need, or specific talents. Unlike loans, scholarships and grants do not accrue interest or need to be paid back. This makes them a valuable resource for students who are seeking to further their education but may not have the financial means to do so.

Scholarships and grants are commonly awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic or extracurricular achievements, volunteer experience, and professional successes. In addition, specialized research topics, particularly for graduate students, may also be considered for such awards.

It is important for students to thoroughly research and apply for these opportunities, as they can provide significant financial assistance and recognition for their accomplishments. We strongly encourage you to pursue these opportunities and showcase your achievements to the fullest extent possible.

When seeking financial aid for college, filling out a scholarship form is often required. However, for those who meet specific criteria, an admission scholarship may automatically be granted.

This type of scholarship is a great opportunity for eligible individuals to receive financial assistance without the added burden of completing an application. It is highly recommended that you make extensive research and inquire about admission scholarships at your desired institutions to take advantage of this beneficial option.

We highly advise  you as a prospective international student to examine the websites of Canadian universities you are interested in attending. Many of these institutions offer entry scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships can greatly assist with the cost of tuition and living expenses. By taking the time to research and apply for these scholarships, you can increase your chances of receiving financial aid and pursuing your academic goals in Canada.

B. Bursaries

Bursaries in Canada are a great way for students to receive financial support for their education. Unlike scholarships and grants which are based on performance and academic merit,  Bursaries are offered to students based on their financial needs, and other criteria set by the bursary provider.

Bursaries are also a one time payment that do not require repayments. Bursaries come from NGOs and sometimes, private businesses. Students can apply for bursaries through their school or directly through the Bursary provider.

It is important to research and apply for bursaries early, as many have strict deadlines. Take advantage of these provisions and opportunities to alleviate the financial burden on your education.

Things you need to know about Bursaries.

it is an undeniable fact that bursaries, such as scholarships or grants, do not need to be repaid. This is an incredibly advantageous and beneficial opportunity for those who are eligible.

It is highly recommended to research the individual school or university website for further information on bursaries and other related opportunities. Such resources are invaluable and should not be overlooked.

The primary goal of a bursary program is to supplement the primary sources of income for students. It provides financial assistance to students who require it while allowing them to focus on their studies without any financial burden.

The bursary program is an excellent opportunity for students to pursue their academic goals without worrying about financial constraints.Therefore, I highly recommend eligible students to take advantage of this program and apply for it as soon as possible.To apply for a bursary program, it is essential to be registered as an international student at the institution you wish to study in.

C. Student loans

To obtain a study permit for Canada, you must demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover the cost of school and living expenses. Student loans are a type of loan designed to assist students in paying for their post-secondary education. This loan covers tuition, books, supplies, and living expenses.

It is important to note that student loans must be repaid, with interest, typically after graduation. We strongly encourage you to consider student loans as a viable option for financing your education in Canada but it should be your last resort not the first, remember you will have to pay back with interest. With proper planning and responsible borrowing, student loans can provide the necessary funds to achieve academic goals and succeed in the future.

Things you need to know about student Loans

Loans for post-secondary education in Canada can be obtained from either Royal Bank of Canada l or the Canadian Student Financial Assistance Program (CSFAP). If opting for a bank loan, it is important to note that RBC requires repayment within a specific timeframe and may require a guarantor’s signature before approval.

On the other hand, CSFAP is a federal program that collaborates with provinces and territories to provide revolving and non-revolving loans to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and designated protected persons from middle and low-income families.

These loans are accessible to both full-time and part-time students. We highly recommend exploring the options available through CSFAP for your post-secondary education needs.

Read Also: Amazing Reasons to study Abroad

D. Student’s Credit Card

A line of credit is a loan that allows you to borrow up to a predetermined amount. This loan is designed to assist  post-secondary education with school expenses such as tuition, books, and supplies, as well as living expenses. With a line of credit, you can borrow money, pay some of it back, and then borrow again.

The interest is only charged on the money you actually borrow. We also recommend you consider a student line of credit for those pursuing higher education. It is a smart financial decision that can help you achieve your academic goals without unnecessary financial stress. 

Things you need to know about Student’s Credit Cards

The bank usually sets the amount for your line of credit based on your course, your institution, living expenses, credit history and your ability to repay what you borrow.

You are to repay back only the amount you borrowed with its accrued interest.

For instance, if you have up to $ 5,000 CAD in your credit card, and you spend $ 2,000 CAD from it, your repayment will be $ 2000 CAD not $ 5,000 CAD. Interest rates on private student loans may be lower than those government student’s loans. Unlike loans, you can begin your repayment at any time.

E. Financial Aid from individual Educational Institutions

Individual educational institutions offer financial aid to students who need assistance paying for their education. This aid can come in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, or work-study programs.

To apply for financial aid, you need to look up the website of the institute you’re applying to, to see the requirements and complete your application. When you do, the institution will then determine the amount of aid that you are eligible for, based on your financial needs and other factors.

It is important for you to apply for financial aid early and follow up with the institution to ensure you receive the maximum amount of aid possible. Overall, financial aid can make a significant difference in your ability to afford and complete your education.

F. Work while Studying.

Another way to afford your study in Canada is to work while studying. We highly recommend this method as it will help you offset the expenses on your education and eliminate the burdens of loan repayment and interest costs.

However, before applying for a job, it is very crucial for you as a newcomer to verify if you are legally allowed to work on or off campus. This verification process is vital to ensure that you do not violate the Canadian immigration laws.

While you work and study, it is very very essential for you to keep a track record of all your income sources and expenses. Doing this will help you live within your income and help you stick to your budget plan.

In conclusion, the options outlined in this article will give you a sneak peek into how to study in Canada on a budget.

Also remember that some well respected institutions in Canada offer quite affordable programs which you can still enroll for if you plan to study on a budget. Don’t forget, you must meet certain requirements before you can be enrolled to study in a Canadian university.

To know what it will take you to run a program in a Canadian university, speak with our experts agents here and let them guide you towards actualizing your dreams to study in Canada.

This blog post is originally from 5 Affordable Ways to Study in Canada and written by silvercloudtravels

It is seemingly difficult to migrate to a UK university especially for applicants trying to migrate from Nigeria. This article will provide simple steps that will help students trying to migrate from a Nigerian university to a UK university.

In recent times, the number of Nigerian students trying to migrate to a UK university tends to escalate and one of the reasons this happens, is because of the ceaseless strikes that affects the study system in Nigeria, making students seek for a better and stable educational system elsewhere such as the UK.

In this article, we have highlighted some easy steps to help you migrate to a UK university from a Nigerian university. In as much as it is not a simple task, it is also not an impossible task, hence you have chances of being so fortunate if you carefully consider each of the steps we have listed in this article.

READ ALSO: Five amazing reasons to study abroad

But why may a Nigerian student want to migrate to the UK to continue or finish their studies? Or better ask yourself, why do you want to transfer to the UK to finish or continue your studies?

There is no doubt that the UK’s  educational system is more advanced and the structures well equipped than that of Nigeria, hence many students who are opportune to migrate from their studies from Nigeria to the UK Even those who do not have the opportunity are always on the lookout for such opportunities.

Another reason that will prompt a student to want to migrate is the endless strikes from ASSU (Academic Union of Universities) which often delay students and put them behind their peers from other countries academically.

This destabilizing system has even made many students lose interest in studying, thus killing their academic dreams and goals.

This contributes to a decrease in the number of students who would have loved to become graduates and have high chances of getting a well paying job at the end of their studies as Nigerian Corporate organizations choose certificate over skills.

This entails that even if you become skilled with many digital or workplace abilities and you do not have at least one degree to your name, your chances of getting a well paying job in a corporate organization in Nigeria is very slim.

ALSO READ: High in demand skills in 2023

Also, as stated earlier, the UK’s education system is higher than that of Nigeria, and certificates from a university in the UK is more globally recognize than certificates acquired from most Nigerian Universities so for students who wish to create a global opportunities for themselves like working in other advanced countries, will rather migrate to the UK to complete their studies so that they can secure their future. So, how do one finally migrate to a UK university from a Nigerian university?

Well before we go further in this article, you have to understand what credit transfer is. Credit transfer is the transfer of credits of completed courses or units taken by a student from an institution to another institution different from the one he or she got the educational experience from.

For this to be effective, the student applying for transfer of credit from their institution to another must have completed at least 200 level or above and also have CGPA (Calculated Grade Point Average) not less than 2.0. Also, the course he or she is transferring from must align with the course he/she wishes to study in the new institution.

Knowing this is very vital to the first thing you must do as a student who wants to transfer from their previous institution to another.

Another vital information that you need is to know if you’re qualified for credit transfer which will be treated in the next subtopic.

Are you qualified to get a credit transfer from a Nigerian University to a University in the UK?

It is very important for you to understand what it takes to qualify for credit transfer in the United Kingdom. Understanding the qualifications involved is in fact the first step to the process and also lets you know how ready you are to migrate to a university in the UK from a Nigerian university.

Before you apply, you must

• Have earned at least 6 credits from a recognized Nigerian university and must have completed your secondary education
• Provide evidence of proficiency in English language with a C grade or higher in IELTS, TOEFL and iBT with an overall score of 80%
• Complete all your major courses before the deadline of your course application
• Ensure that all academic transcripts, birth certificate and other necessary documents required by the institution you are applying are all intact
• Ensure that your personal statement is well written and optimized, meeting the requirement for acceptable personal statement by that university.

Once you have all these intact, you are now ready to apply for a transfer of credit to a UK university from a Nigerian university.

Transferring from a Nigerian University to a University in the UK

Step 1: Do proper research

This step is very important and should not be played. This is because through research will give you more insight about the changes you are about to make. Remember you are about to do what is referred to as “Credit transfer” or “transfer of credits”  in most cases, therefore you need to be thorough before you embark on your journey.

While  conducting your research, you want to find out if the school you are applying to in the UK has the very course you were studying in your previous institution in Nigerian. As stated earlier, you must remember that you must have completed a portion of your course, at least up to 200 level or above before applying for transfer of credit.

Also, note that your school profile from your transferring institution, your transcripts and all your semester grades will be required by the school you are transferring to. This will bring us to the next crucial step which is to check the grade requirement.

Step 2: Check the Requirement of the Grades

This part is very very crucial. This is is because, when we introduced what the concept of “credit Transfer’ is to you in this article, we made stated that, most universities will require your CGPA not to b less than 2.00 but you must understand that most schools in the United Kingdom will require you to have a credit unit of at least 2.2 or even higher.

In fact, if you aspire to do “credit transfer” from your institution from the outset, you have to become intentional about your grades. Having up to the minimum required amount of grades will give you high chances of being accepted by the institution you are applying to in the United kingdom.

Also bear in mind that some universities in the United Kingdom also accept some graduate-level degree courses from other countries if it is from a verifiable and recognized institution and meet  up with their requirements.

While you check to see the required grades that are approved for “credit transfer’’ from the University you are choosing in the United Kingdom, be sure to also check the sites of whichever university you intend to study, in case you intend to round off your undergraduate program before you apply, and look up the course or courses you may want to apply for to see the credit requirements of that course.

Doing this will set you prepared ahead of time for your studies in the United kingdom.

Step 3: Speak with Your Academic Counselor

This very step is very crucial. You should consult the Academic counselor of your institution and find out from them about your decisions to apply for “credit transfer”.

Remember, their job is to assist you with an extensive variety of academic matters and help you select courses and ensure that the courses they recommend for you will align with what is required of your core courses so that you can meet up with graduation.

They are, in no doubt, the best people to give you advice concerning your decision to apply for credit transfer. If you can have access to the Academic counselor of the university you are applying for, they will give you useful information regarding financing your studies, course requirements, campus life and accommodation.

Having all this information handy will help you to re-evaluate your decisions, weigh your readiness and be even more certain about your decisions and readiness.

Step 4: Check with the institution you are applying to

I’m sure that if you were able to get in contact with the Academic counselor of the institution you are applying to, he/she may have asked you about how much information you have about their institution before reaching out to them or they may probably direct you to their website to get some information while they of course answer some.

Most vital information about many institutions can be found on the institution’s official website, including important support email addresses that you can send questions to and expect feedback in a few days’ time. You certainly do not want to neglect this part because there is no better place to get information about a school you’re not in physically besides their website.

There are possibilities that information about the best way to apply for your study visa can be found on the website of the school you are applying to study in or perhaps, if you speak with a customer care support directly from the website. Please be very careful not to make any financial commitment until you are sure that you have the right information.

Step 5: Get your Visa

It is very common for many citizens living in their home country to worry less about getting their international passport unless the need gets so pressing.

But as an aspirant of international education, we want to be sure that you must have gotten your international passport before now. If you have not gotten it, you can look up the Nigerian Immigration Service Portal to apply for your international passport.

Besides your international passport, you also need a passport photograph, your birth certificate and evidence that the school you intend to study in has granted you admission.

When applying for a visa, you must ensure that your visa does not expire before the end of your program. If this happens, You will need to ask help from a UK home officer for permission in order to complete your studies.

Step 6: Fill out the UCAS form

The next important step is to fill out the Universities and Colleges Admissions form, also known as UCAS form. If you are well versed in navigating the digital world, you may apply to the school directly or speak with a qualified travel agency  to help you through this step.

When filling out the UCAS form, ensure you indicate your year of enrollment and state if it is an entry point of two or 3 as applied to you.

Remember that you can not go through admission process without having an SOP otherwise known as Statement of Purpose to help you with  your visa application, you can send a message to us here and let our visa experts help you apply for your student visa.

This blog post is originally from 6 Steps on How to Get a Credit Transfer from a Nigerian University to a UK University and written by silvercloudtravels

This article highlights 5 important study guides to prepare you as an international student in the US. Being an international student in the US is not so easy, but if you arm yourself with the right information before embarking on your study, you will likely find most things easy as an international student. You should  bear in mind that no two countries are the same, different countries and institutions have things that set them apart from other institutions and countries, therefore it is paramount that you have this information handy, assimilate and keep it as a reference material while you make your plans to become an international student.

Information, they say, is powerful and those who are not well informed may likely become deformed. That being the case, before you embark on your journey to study in the US., you need to arm yourself with the right information so that you don’t get stuck along the way. In this article, we have highlighted 5 important study guides to prepare you as an international student in the US.

1. Make research about your program

Our first guide to helping you prepare as an international student in the US is to research your program. You need to know what it takes to study the course you are applying to study. In the US, Postsecondary education has six degree levels which are associate, bachelor, first professional, master, advanced, intermediate and research doctorate.

The United States of America also offers a postdoctoral degree but does not offer a second or higher doctorate degree. As an international student, you want to be sure of all the available options before making your choice.

While researching to see the options you have available, you should consider looking for an educational advising center in your country . These centers are responsible for giving advice to international students on higher education. They can also help students find study opportunities in the United States. You can also look up colleges by type of institution, locations and key programs.

Another area of focus during your research should be to know if the School you’re looking to study in the United states, is Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certified. Also find and listen to the experiences of other international students and learn a thing or two from them.

ALSO READ: STUDY IN THE US WITH F1 M1 VISA

2. Fund Your Studies

The next step after research is for you to fund your studies. When planning to study in the US., you must bear in mind that the US. Government does not provide loans, grants or help with scholarships to international students. You will need to find alternative sources of income to gain financial aid during the course of your study. We have listed some options you can try in preparation to fund your fees as an international student in the US.

One of the options you can try when seeking financial aid as an international student is to try exchange programs administered by the U.S. Government, though these exchange programs only render help to qualified international students. These programs are available for all levels and you can look up to see if you are qualified to benefit from this program here.

 In addition to this, there is also the Fulbright Program. This program is led by the US. Government and is in partnership with over 160 countries worldwide. The Fulbright Program offers international educational and cultural exchange for passionate and accomplished students, scholars, artists and many other professionals to study, teach or pursue important research and professional projects. You can look up this program to see how to qualify to get financial aid for your studies through it.

Option two is to try your home country education authorities. Most countries offer financial aid to their own nationals studying in another country. Inasmuch as these authorities offer financial aid, these students must meet up with two criteria before the authorities can help. One of the criteria is, they have to be qualified for the program they have applied for.

The second criteria is they must already be admitted into an approved program or institution abroad. If You meet this criteria, you can look up your home country’s educational sites or visit their offices in your location to find out how they can help you with funds to run your international program in the US.

A third option is The International Admissions Office. Every school in the US has an “International Admissions Office”. This body coordinates international student admissions for undergraduate and graduate programs and also provides advice and assistance to students.

They also ensure that admissions procedures comply with immigration laws and regulations. Since this body provides advice to international students, they will likely let you know what scholarship options you have in their institution and guide you on the process to apply for it. Once you find a school, check their International students admission desk and find out how and if they have available financial aid to help you fund your studies and also see if you are eligible for any sort of financial aid.

The last option I can think of is Scholarships and Grants. As much as the US Government does not give scholarships to international students except on very rare occasions, many organizations offer scholarships and grants for study research. These organizations range from private foundations, businesses and nonprofits organizations. You need to do extensive research to learn about these organizations and how you can benefit from their study grants and scholarships here.

3. Finalize your Application

Universities and colleges in the US. establish their own requirements for admission. Some of these requirements are minimum scores on third party standardized tests. You are advised to follow whatever requirements the admissions office of the school you are applying to has set. Below are some of the requirements your school of interest may likely need in order to determine if you will be admitted or not.

• Test of English as a foreign Language: Otherwise known as TOEFL, is a test which is used to measure the English language skills of an applicant. You will need to check to see if the school you have applied to, do this TOEFL test so that you can prepare for it in advance.
• Beside the TOEFL, there are other tests which some schools require to determine the admission eligibility of applicants. Some of these tests are used to measure an applicant’s general academic ability, comprehension of scientific information, and analytical information which measures the readiness for graduate-level study. 

You are advised to at least take the appropriate test one year ahead of your application. These tests can be taken more than once incase your first result is low, to increase your scores. However, be advised, that this test varies according to your course, level of study and institution, therefore do an extensive research to find out which of the tests suits you depending on your course, level and chosen institution. Find out more about these tests from their individual websites. DAT, GRE, GMAT, MCAT, LSAT.

4. Apply for your visa

Another thing worthy of note is that you must be accepted by Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certified schools before you can start applying for your visa. You can find a list of certified schools SEVP here.

After the SEVP approved school accepts your application, you will be registered for the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) and pay the required fee. After this,the school will issue you a formI-20, after which you can proceed to apply for your visa at a US embassy or consulate for a student. You can carry out extensive research to learn how you can prepare for your US visa appointment and things you need to do before then. You are advised not to get any tickets till your visa is out.

This is because, if you book a flight ticket before your visa is out, they may be time discrepancies which may cause you to loose all or part of your ticketing fee, therefore, wait till your visa is out before booking for your flight.

5. Get Ready for departure

After successfully getting through the visa application process, you need to find out how to start life in the U.S. You need to find out how to live there and also learn more about their holidays, the states and places there. Also, if you desire to work  while studying there, you need to look up information for international students who wish to work during the period of their study in the U.S.

There are training opportunities available for international students and new graduates. This is an on-the-job training that adds to the knowledge gained during their academic studies. Also important is to learn about what it takes for a foreigner to drive in the U.S so as not to break any rules.

As a foreign resident in the U.S, some states will require you to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) and also a valid driver’s license from your own country and also a valid driver’s license from that state before you will be qualified to drive in that state. You will need to contact that state’s motor vehicle department to know all about their requirements. 

If you are not very fluent in the English Language, you want to immerse yourself in learning the Language so as to be able to communicate effectively, also improve basic reading, writing and listening skills so as to be able to communicate effectively with natives on your arrival.

After going through these steps and you need to speak with someone who can give you a one to one consultation on this subject matter and other related traveling matters, speak with our travel experts here and book an in-person consultation and be properly guided on how to go about becoming an international student in the United States of America.

This blog post is originally from 5 Important Study Guides to Prepare You as an International Student in the US and written by silvercloudtravels

After graduation, you will be able to work full-time in Canada. A step-by-step guide to the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) Canada application process and eligibility requirements.

Every year, thousands of international students come to Canada to study at one of its colleges or universities. Many of these students will be eligible for a post-graduate work permit once their studies are completed. PGWP Canada aims to retain students by providing them with the opportunity to work for any Canadian employer in any industry. After completing the study program (and proving written notification of eligibility for a degree, diploma, or certificate), the student has 180 days to apply for a post-graduate work permit.

This guide will explain what a Canada Post Graduate Work Permit is, who is eligible for one, and how to apply for one.

ALSO READ: 5 Ways on How to Get a Work Visa in Canada

What is Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)?

A Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) is a temporary work permit that allows international graduates to work in Canada after they have completed their studies.

The PGWP is usually valid for 8 to 36 months. It is issued following the completion of a qualifying educational program at a Canadian college or university.

PGWP Canada eligibility requirements
Individuals who meet the following criteria can apply for a PGWP Canada:

PGWP from Inside Canada

The applicant is applying their application within 180 days of completing their education program.
The applicant has obtained a degree, certificate, or diploma from a designated learning institution after completing a minimum of an 8-month program.
Throughout their studies in Canada, the applicant has maintained full-time status.

PGWP from Outside Canada

The applicant has been approved for a study permit.
The applicant has earned a degree, certificate, or diploma from a designated learning institution after completing a program of at least eight months in length.
Throughout their studies, the applicant has maintained full-time student status.

Who cannot apply for a PGWP?

Individuals cannot apply for a post-graduate work permit if their study permit has expired for more than 180 calendar days.
They have previously been issued a PGWP.
Have studied French or English as a second language.
Participated in self-improvement or general interest programs
and completed their studies at a non-Canadian educational institution in Canada

Post Graduate Work Permit Processing Time

A PGWP can take between 80 and 180 days to process. You could work in Canada while waiting for your PGWP if you applied before your student permit expired.

You have 180 days after completing all of your study course requirements in Canada to apply for your PGWP.

If you leave Canada after finishing your education, you can now apply for a PGWP abroad. Previously, applications for post-graduation work permits could only be made from within Canada. Additional evidence may be required if the PGWP application is filed outside of Canada, depending on the visa office processing the application.

PGWP Requirements Canada

Start Working in Canada as a Graduate Student
Obtain the Post-Graduate Work Permit after Completing Your Studies.

Post Graduate Work Permit Checklist

You must provide the documents mentioned in this Post Graduate Work Permit Checklist to apply for the PGWP Canada:

Form IMM 5710 (Extend my stay or Remain in Canada as a Worker)
Form IMM 5476 (Use of a Representative )
Form IMM 5475 (Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual)
Photocopies of passport pages
Photocopies of Identity Document
Photocopy of current immigration document (if any)
A Final Transcript of Completed Program
A Letter from the institution and/or the formal notice of graduation
Proof of payment
The original letter provided by the institution stating that your intended employment is an essential part of your program of study (for Co-op Workers)

ALSO  READ: 9 Simple Steps to become a Permanent Resident in Canada using Express Entry

Post Graduate Work Permit Application Process (Step-By-Step)

The Post Graduate Work Permit Application Process is summarized below:

1. Fill out a Post-Graduate Work Permit Application

Graduates must first apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit online. Minor errors in an application can result in application rejection for the PGWP. Contact RCICs to avoid any problems with your process.

2. Pay the Application Fee

Applicants must pay a CAD 255 application fee when applying for PGWP online. If your study permit expires before you apply, you may have to pay an additional CAD 350 to reinstate your student status.

Please keep in mind that if you do not apply for PGWP within 90 days of your study permit expiring, you will be forced to leave Canada.

3. Pay the Application Fee

Applicants must pay a CAD 255 fee when applying for PGWP online. If your study permit expires before you apply, you may be required to pay an additional CAD 350 to reinstate your student status.

You must leave Canada if you do not apply for PGWP within 90 days after your study permit expires.

4. Gather the Required Documents

Following that, graduates must gather the documents needed for their application. This includes proof of completion of their studies. This proof can be provided using one of the following documents:

Diploma or degree

5. Submit the Application

Following that, graduates must apply online. Following this step, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may request that the applicant submit additional documents.

Within Canada, successful applicants will be issued a Post-Graduate Work Permit. Outside of Canada, successful applicants will be issued their PGWP as well as a new visitor visa allowing them to enter the country.

How Silvercloud Travels can help you?

Prospective international students interested in studying in Canada should contact us. We can guide you through every process.

FAQs: Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP Canada)

These are some frequently asked questions about the post-graduate work permit for international students.

Is it necessary to have a job offer to apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit?

• Yes. Many international students use the Post-Graduate Work Permit to gain work experience in Canada after graduating. They then use this work experience to apply for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class program.

Can I get a post-graduate work permit after studying in Canada for one year?

• You may be eligible for a work permit after 1-year study in Canada if the program is from a designated learning institution.

ALSO READ: Tourist Visas for Visiting Canada in 2023

This blog post is originally from A Guide to Canada Post-Graduate Work Permit and written by silvercloudtravels

The USA and UK are two of the world’s most popular destinations for international students. Both countries have much to offer, but their educational systems are quite different. So, what are the differences between the USA and UK educational systems, and which is best for you?

ALSO READ: Study in the US with F-1 M1 Student Visa

1.    When you Choose your Degree Subject

The point at which you choose your degree subject differs significantly between the USA and UK higher education systems. When applying to universities in the United Kingdom, you must first decide what you want to study. You don’t just apply to study at the University of York; you apply to study Business or Law at the University of York, for example.

There is some flexibility in changing your subject, but you must usually do so within your first semester. All of your classes will be related to your major.

By contrast, in the United States, you have until the end of your second year of undergraduate study to declare a major (the subject your degree will be in). Instead, you will study a core curriculum of arts, humanities, and science classes in addition to the subjects of your choice.

This allows you to explore various disciplines and determine which one best suits you before deciding on a major.

2.    Duration of Study

Another significant difference is the length of time required to complete your degree in both the USA and UK. Because of the variety of subjects you will study at a US university, your degree will take longer to complete.

A bachelor’s degree in the United States typically takes four years, whereas it takes three years in the United Kingdom. Similarly, master’s degrees in the United Kingdom typically last one year, whereas master’s programs in the United States typically last two years.

Each system has advantages and disadvantages. If you aren’t sure what you want to study yet and don’t have any time constraints, the flexibility of the US system may be ideal for you. However, if you know what subject interests you the most and don’t want to waste time or aren’t interested in studying other subjects, you might want to choose a UK university.

3.    Cost of Degrees

Many students consider the cost of a degree when deciding where to study in both the USA and UK. Tuition fees will be a significant investment wherever you choose to study, but typical costs vary between countries like the USA and UK.

In the United Kingdom, tuition fees for home students are capped at £9,000 per year. While there are no such restrictions on how much international students can pay, the average annual fee is between £10,000 and £20,000.

Costs vary greatly between universities in the United States, but international students can expect to pay between $25,000 and $45,000 per year to study for a bachelor’s degree at a public university, and up to $55,000 per year or more at some private institutions.

The length of your degree also influences the cost. Because US degrees typically take one year longer than their UK counterparts, you will need to budget for an additional year of study.

4.    Teaching and Assessment Style

Another difference between the higher education systems in the USA and UK is the typical teaching style. Degree programs in the United Kingdom are typically lecture-based, with some small-group tutorials thrown in for good measure.

Because UK universities emphasize self-directed learning, you may have few ‘contact hours’ with your tutors when attending lectures or seminars, depending on the subject you study.

In contrast, US students have much busier schedules. They usually have more homework to do and more classes to attend. Those classes will also frequently include a lot of active discussion between students and professors.

In fact, your participation in classes will account for a large portion of your grade at a US university! The majority of your grade in a UK degree will be based on end-of-year exams.

These two teaching and assessment methods will appeal to different people. If you are an independent learner who is comfortable taking exams, you may prefer to study in the UK; if you prefer a more collaborative study environment, you may prefer to study in the USA.

5.    Accommodation

Similarly, how much you enjoy spending your free time with other people may influence your choice. Both USA and UK typically provide on-campus housing for first-year students, but one significant difference is how housing is shared among students.

During their first year, students in the United States are very likely to share a bedroom with at least one other student. This is ideal if you enjoy spending the majority of your time with other people your roommate may be your natural best friend!

Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, very few universities provide shared rooms. Instead, having your own bedroom in a shared flat is much more common. Alternatively, many universities and student housing providers in the UK provide studio apartments where you can live alone.

6.    Sports Culture

Another difference between USA and UK educational systems is college sports, These are a very important part of university life in the United States. University sports teams draw large crowds to stadiums, and inter-university games are broadcast on television. Talented athletes can become local celebrities and even receive significant tuition discounts!

All of this could make the United States a very appealing destination for students with a strong interest in sports or who want to play high-profile games. Professional teams frequently select new players from university leagues, so if you want to pursue a sporting career after graduation, attending a US university could be a great option.

This is not to say that opportunities for aspiring athletes do not exist in the UK. Most UK universities offer a variety of sports teams to which you can join and compete in university leagues. However, because university-level sport is not such a big part of the culture in the United Kingdom, it’s much easier to avoid it on UK campuses if it’s not something you’re interested in.

Is the US or UK Higher Education System right for me?

These are just a few of the differences between the higher education systems in the USA and UK. Finally, the best study destination for you will be determined by your interests and priorities.

If you are passionate about one or two subjects and want to complete your degree in the shortest amount of time and on the smallest possible budget, a UK university may be the best option for you. The UK system is also ideal for self-directed learning.

However, if you want to explore a variety of subjects, have a more interactive learning experience, or are intrigued by the idea of American campus life, the USA is the way to go.

Study in the USA or UK

Whether you think it’s the USA or UK that’s right for you, we can help. We offer international students degree admission at a range of top universities and can help guide students through the application process, from choosing a subject to writing a personal statement and preparing for visa interviews.

If you’d like to know more about how we can help you, feel free to contact us and we’ll be happy to advise you.

ALSO READ: 7 Differences Between Studying in Canada or the USA

This blog post is originally from 6 Differences Between the USA and UK Higher Education Systems and written by silvercloudtravels

If you want to study abroad as an international student, you’ll find a large amount of information on our blog. Where to go for study. When to apply.  But before you read any of that, you must first answer the most important question: why study abroad? What are the amazing reasons to study abroad?

We’ll look at why you should think about studying at a university or college outside of your home country. Here are the five amazing reasons to study abroad, ranging from self-improvement to self-confidence

ALSO READ: 9 Ways Studying Abroad can Boost your Resume/CV

1. The Potential for a World-Class Education

If education is important to you (and if you’re reading this, it probably is), you may want to look beyond your local options. You may have already fantasized about attending an internationally recognized university in another country. Perhaps you’ve looked into universities and colleges in countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, Australia, or Ireland.

Each country has its own educational system, with different perspectives, teaching styles, and learning opportunities. Relying on your local education system may limit the type and scope of study you can pursue. When you choose to study abroad, your options become almost limitless.

Colleges and universities all over the world offer world-class, internationally recognized education. Many of them provide:

• High student satisfaction levels
• More personalized attention (smaller class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios)
• Built-in co-ops, placements, or work experience
• Unique research opportunities

Studying abroad allows you to learn things you would never have had the opportunity to learn otherwise. That alone makes studying abroad a valuable option for anyone looking to broaden their educational horizons.

2. Studying Abroad Forces You to Grow

Personal growth is difficult to define. When people talk about what helped define them and move their lives forward, they frequently describe experiences like these:

• Gaining new perspectives
• Trying new things
• Traveling to new places
• Living in a new country
• Learning a new language

The keyword here is “new.” Growing entails taking on new challenges and stepping outside of your comfort zone. And what better way to experience all of these things than by studying abroad?

Here’s the truth: studying abroad is intense, demanding, and challenging in so many ways. You must understand this before proceeding and be prepared to rise to the occasion. Becoming an international student is a fantastic way to “choose the challenge.”

You might discover a level of independence and self-confidence you didn’t know you had. You’ll be able to say, “I did that. That was my choice.”

3. To Kickstart Your Career

Let’s come back to a more grounded reason now. Personal growth is amazing, but it cannot pay the bills, most students’ top concern when deciding what to study is, how will this help me get the job I want later?

Fortunately, many study-abroad destinations offer excellent job opportunities for international students. The world requires skilled labour. Your skills may be in high demand depending on what you intend to study. While studying, you can often find and work a part-time job to help cover your living expenses and build your resume. You might even be able to find work in your field(or in a related field). Working while studying, in any case, helps you develop soft skills and network for future career opportunities.

In terms of staying in the country and working after graduation, many countries provide excellent post-study work visa options. check this out:

• Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit
• The United Kingdom’s Graduate Visa 
• Australia’s Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)
• The United States OPT (Optional Practical Training)
• Ireland’s Third-Level Graduate Program

Employers value people who have put themselves out there, learned new skills, and shown dedication to their studies, regardless of where they work. Studying abroad teaches the same skills that are frequently required to succeed in fast-paced work environments. These qualities include improvisation, collaboration, open-mindedness, willingness to learn, and adaptability to changing roles. There is no such thing as a guaranteed job.

4. Study Abroad Changes Your Life

Anyone can travel, but it is often enjoyable and temporary. It won’t change your day-to-day life. When you get home, you’ll go back to your safe bed and your normal routine.

Moving to a new location amplifies the experience of traveling and immersing yourself in a new culture. The additional goal and responsibility of finishing your education raise the stakes.

Instead of meeting other travelers and forgetting them a week later, you’ll meet other students your age. People you meet while studying abroad will become your local support network and, in many cases, lifelong friends.

Instead of hearing locals speak English and possibly picking up a few words, you’ll be educated in it! It’s amazing how quickly you can learn a new language when you spend your days reading, writing, and speaking it.

Instead of spending a week in a new city wondering what it’s like to live there, you’ll be living there. That will become your life, and for the time being, that new location will be your home.

So, what does that imply? This experience will shape you no matter where you go or what you study. If you want to learn new things and start a new chapter in your life, there isn’t a better way to do so than by studying abroad.

5. For Yourself

Tip: You’ll notice that we didn’t include “to immigrate to a new country” as a reason on this list. That should not be your motivation for studying abroad! Every country has its own immigration process, and it is never guaranteed. You never want a country’s government to think you’re only studying there to stay permanently.

Having said that, there are numerous routes to permanent residency for international student graduates. Do your research, learn more from reliable sources such as immigration attorneys, and living in a new country could be in your future!

If you want to study abroad it literally means you are starting over from scratch, abandoning everything you know, and embracing new experiences. The path of an international student is difficult, with obstacles at every turn.

However, with new challenges come new experiences. Opportunities to learn and grow. And, as countless students around the world will tell you, it’s well worth it.

Are you ready to begin your own study abroad adventure? Please contact us or visit our website. We’re here to assist you!

ALSO READ: Proof of Financial Support to Study Abroad

This blog post is originally from 5 Amazing Reasons to Study Abroad and written by silvercloudtravels

Don’t underestimate the importance of writing your statement of purpose, or SOP, as you prepare to study abroad in the UK! Your SOP tells the academic institution to which you are applying who you are and what distinguishes you from other students.

Is it your first time writing an SOP, or has it been a while? Don’t be concerned! We’ve got your back. Continue reading to find out how to write your SOP.

ALSO READ: 6 Guidelines for Writing your MBA Statement of Purpose

Things to Include in Your Statement of Purpose

Your statement of purpose should use your unique experiences to introduce yourself and explain why you’ll be a good fit for the course you’re applying to. Answering questions like the ones below can help you build the structure for your SOP:

• Who are you?
• Why are you a good candidate for this course?
• Why are you applying for this specific course?
• Where do you want your education to take you?
• How will your past experiences and education help you succeed?
• Why are you choosing this institution, specifically?

Use this opportunity to be creative and elaborate on your experiences! Try to avoid overly generalized or cliché statements.

Do not, under any circumstances, duplicate someone else’s SOP. If the admissions team suspects you’ve copied, your UK student visa may be rejected.

Tips to Consider

Now that you know what to include in your statement of purpose, here are some important tips to make before you start writing:

• Avoid copying other people’s work or experiences.
• Plagiarism is not worth it. Furthermore, your own experiences are unique!
• Mention your intention to return home.
• Follow visa rules and regulations, and don’t mention any plans to stay in the UK after completing your course.
• Allow enough time to write and edit your SOP.
• Don’t wait until the last minute! Revising your SOP can help ensure that it has correct spelling and grammar and that it is easy to read and understand.

An introduction to an SOP can look something like this:

“My name is ___, and I’m applying to the Mechanical Engineering course at ___ University. I know I’ll be a great candidate for this course because of ___ and ___. I want to study in the United Kingdom, and specifically at ___ University, because of ___ and ___. After graduating with my degree, I plan to use my experiences to ___ and advance my career back home.”

This is merely an example, not a template. Your SOP should be unique, far more detailed, and tailored to your specific experiences.

ALSO READ: 9 Common Mistakes People Make While Writing SOP

Writing a Statement of Purpose

Here are the tips to follow in writing a unique statement of purpose that stands out

1. Begin with an Outline

Begin by asking yourself the following questions:

• “Why do I want to study in the UK?”
• “Why do I want to study in my course and institution of choice?”
• “What experiences or prerequisites do I have that will help me in this course?”
• “What will I have gained, once I return home after studying in the UK?”

Once you’ve answered all of these questions, try to focus your responses on academic or personal reasons. Include your most valuable educational, employment, and personal experiences, whether they were in the distant past or more recently.

2. Write a Draft

It’s drafting time! After creating an outline, begin writing an essay that includes:

An introductory paragraph. This informs the institution about who you are and your specific background.
Body paragraphs. Each body paragraph should elaborate on one central point. List your experiences in chronological order.
Conclusion. This is a concise summary of all of the information presented in your SOP. It’s also a great place to thank the person who reads your application!
Keep the majority of your word count in your body paragraphs. Introductions and conclusions are oftentimes meant to be short and to the point. Also, confirm your institution’s preferred SOP word count.

3. Include Supporting Documentation

Do you want your SOP to stand out? Return to the experiences you’ve listed, and include supporting documentation for each one. This demonstrates to the academic institution that you have proof of your claims and an accurate educational history.

Not sure where to begin? If you’ve written about your accomplishments, including any awards or certificates. Include your resume with your most recent employment history for more information about your career. Including financial support and documentation, as well as medical documents to explain any study gaps, is always a good idea.

4. Time to Edit

You finally finish your conclusion and sigh happily. You’re done!

But, before you start playing video games or planning a night out with your friends, think about it for a second. You are not done yet. Editing is, after all, an important step. Here are a few simple tips to keep in mind:

Check that everything in your essay is correct, listed chronologically, and includes all necessary supporting documentation.
Read it aloud to make sure it sounds good and makes sense. It is extremely useful!
Request honest feedback from a friend or family member.

Editing your work is essential for an impressive SOP! Overlooked errors can be misinterpreted or make you appear sloppy. Spend enough time editing your SOP to ensure you’re covered!

Our step-by-step guide can make writing your SOP a little less intimidating. If you follow our advice, you’ll be well on your way to writing a fantastic SOP. Good luck!

Ready to start your study abroad journey? and need help with SOP, Reach out to us today, we are here to help!

ALSO READ: 5 Different Countries Student Visa Processing 

This blog post is originally from How to Write a Statement of Purpose for UK Student Visa and written by silvercloudtravels