Whenever I hear the word ‘London’ the first thing that comes into my mind is the famous ‘London Bridge’.  But the city is absolutely more than that, more than kings and queens and their palaces, and more than being a financial and fashion hub.   London is in fact a common point where great minds, ambitious dreams, and dynamic imaginations of students from every face of the planet meet and start their journey.  Top calibrated and globally recognized universities and colleges are just a few of the reasons why international students choose London to be their second home.  Check for yourself and you will see why…

Preparation and Financial Assistance

Students anywhere in the globe can contact the UKCISA and British Council for the latest information and procedures in applying for student visa.  The British Council also features an online catalog where students can search for various scholarship grants and awards from UK universities, non-profit organizations, and private institutions.

Institutions, Programs, and Courses

Universities in London can be categorized into two classifications.  The first is the federal University of London which is one of the largest universities in Europe.  It has 19 colleges and 12 institutes all of which control its own admissions and degree courses and are in fact universities in their own right.  Some of the leading and distinguished colleges of the University of London include University College London (UCL), King’s College London, Queen Mary, London School of Economics and Political Science, Birkbeck, Institute of Education, Goldsmiths, and the Royal Holloway.  The second are universities that are not part of the University of London such as the Imperial College London, City University, Brunel University, London South Bank University, Middlesex University, and the University of East London.

These universities and colleges are at par with various institutions in the US such as MIT, Berkeley, and the University of California.  Undergraduate, postgraduate, and advance studies and programs are available under different fields – Art, Design, Architecture, Business, Management, Finance, Media, Humanities, Law, Healthcare, Medicine, Veterinary Science, IT, Science, and Engineering.

Transportation

London has certainly one of the most modern and organized transportation systems in the modern world.  Students can avail of the Oyster Card with a discount of 30% on a selection of travel cards.  From coaches, double-decker buses, black cabs to high-speed trains your chosen university or college is just a step away from your home.  If you are the traditional type you can also hit the road with bicycles which are gaining popularity nowadays or simply walk around the city and savor its history, architecture, and style.

Accommodation

Regardless if you are taking a short or lengthy course, finding your next home sweet home will never be a problem in London.  You can choose from studio flats, apartments, to flashy penthouses throughout the city and its suburbs, name it London has it.  Nearly all universities and colleges offer accommodation for foreign students.  International students are recommended to read the UKCISA Guidance Note – ‘Accommodation for international students’ for various do’s and don’ts in choosing their place to stay.

Lifestyle, Health & Safety

And what is school without experiencing some fun?  Foreign students will be awed on what London can offer.  Cafes, discos, shopping havens, fine restaurants, art centers, exotic markets, museums, whatever can make you relaxed and unwind London is definitely the city where you live life in its fullest.  Students staying for 6 months or more can access hospital treatment for free from the National Health Service (NHS).

In 2007, 3 German universities were included in the top 100 and 11 in the top 200 of the THES – QS World University Rankings.  Germany schools and universities provide first rate education for foreign students, wide range of programs and studies, and exceptional research and teaching by balancing theory and application.  And to top it of, German cities boast of its striking landscapes, lively customs and traditions, modern transportation system, and mouth-watering cuisines.  But before you get all excited it is very important to plan ahead and list down all you need to complete before packing your books and clothes.  Like any other countries, admission to German colleges and institutions can be a cumbersome experience if you do not plan well…

Who do I need to contact?

The first thing to do after making a shortlist of German universities and courses you are interested in is to contact the university.  They can help you prepare important documents and other necessary prerequisites.  There are basically general requirements for foreign students but some universities may demand additional tests and documents depending on the course or program.  It is also recommended to check out The Application Services for International Students (uni-assist).  It is joint venture of German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), more than 85 German higher institutions, and the Conference of University Rectors (HRK).  They have centralized information database regarding German universities and institutions, admission requirements, and other helpful details.

What are the preparations I have to make?

For the application for admission foreign students must prepare the following documents: authenticated true copy of the certificate of admission (diploma, certificates, proof of higher studies); proof that you have passed a university entrance from home country (for undergraduates); test certificate for proficiency in German language (for international programs English proficiency instead); and passport photographs.

If your school certificates do not qualify for admission studies in Germany then you can take the Feststellungsprüfung (Assessment Test).  It is held twice a year and consists of not less than 3 subjects including a German language test.  Alternatively, you can also prepare for the Feststellungsprüfung at a Studienkolleg by submitting a written application to the university/institution you intend to attend.

How does the admission process take place?

Now that you have all the necessary documents and passed various tests it is time for the real thing.  Submit an application for admission to the college with all the required papers and fees, again requirements and charges may vary so check it first with the university.  For most schools, application should be submitted on or before January 15 or July 15 for the summer and winter semesters respectively.  The admission office checks and validates all the requirements and conditions for your requested program/study.  You will then receive a letter rejection or letter of admission.

The grandeur of Spain is one of the world’s sought after travel experiences.  Its majestic history, magnificent castles and monuments, romantic cities, and very warm people make it a favorite destination in the world.  SpainExchange travel guide makes it easy for visitors to know more about Spain without reading articles with hundreds of lines.  Topics are categorized to suit the kind of information you need.  From arts, culture, gastronomy, history, places to visit, government and politics, religion, to economy.  Name it SpainExchange has it.  No more browsing of seemingly endless web pages without getting the information you want.

SpainExchange features a unique Spain Tour – personalized educational tours for high schools and colleges.  The tours consists of exciting and remarkable sights and experiences such as discovery of Spain, history, the Al-Andalus legacy, landscapes and civilizations and so much more… Here are 5 reasons why choose SpainExchange Educational Spain Tours:

• You get the tour you want
• Your tour is yours alone
• You get more for what you pay
• You enjoy extra treats
• Your students will have an educational experience they will never forget.

Who says learning and traveling don’t go together?  SpainExchange Educational Spain Tours makes it all possible.  Mo more worries on itineraries, lodging reservations, transpirations, travel guides and other services, they got it all covered.  For more information visit http://www.spainexchange.com/spain_tours/index.php.

Spain has also remarkable list of schools and universities celebrated not only locally but also received international citations.  Finding schools in Spain is very simple using SpainExchange search engine.  The lists are grouped based on the following:

• Universities in Spain
• Graduate and Professional Programs
• Spanish Language and Culture Programs
• Career Colleges and Vocational Programs
• International Primary and Secondary Schools
• Spanish Language Schools in Spain
• US Study Abroad Programs in Spain
• Online and Distance Learning Courses

Students can also narrow their search by specifying the type or area of study, province where to study, and type of school – public, private, language school, etc.  Studying in Spain has never been this easy.  With SpainExchange, its hassle free and you get more than what you deserve.  Just follow this link http://spainexchange.com/users/register.php?user_lang=en and fill up all the necessary information and you are ready to go…

]]> http://abroadstudy.wordpress.com/2009/05/15/study-and-travel-in-spain/feed/ 0 darenkyle http://abroadstudy.wordpress.com/2009/05/15/study-abroad-2/ http://abroadstudy.wordpress.com/2009/05/15/study-abroad-2/#comments Fri, 15 May 2009 15:39:12 +0000 darenkyle http://abroadstudy.wordpress.com/?p=82 ]]>

Studying in other country can be a very exciting and unforgettable experience.  You meet new friends, explore unknown territories, and learn new ideas.  But it could also be the opposite.  That is why it is important to prepare yourself and plan ahead.  SpainExchange features simple tools that can help every students make the most of their experience while studying abroad.  Students can search for programs and various courses, the best international schools, participating exchange students, and different student housing accommodations.  And best part of it, it is easy to use, and it is free!

• Study Abroad

SpainExchange eases every student’s nightmare in browsing which courses and studies are offered by which schools and universities.  Courses, degrees, and various programs are grouped accordingly by country.  All you have to do is select your preferred country and a list of offered graduate, professional, and vocational programs – grouped by category, are displayed.  Do not waste your time searching from hundreds or worse thousands of subjects or studies you don’t actually need.  Specify the country, select from a group of studies, and choose your specific course.  It is as easy as 1, 2, and 3.

• Featured Schools

Looking for cream of the crop international school?  SpainExchange features schools that are globally recognized and meet international standards.  With “FeaturedShools”, students are assured that they are taking only the best among the best with a good career path after their studies.

• Student Exchange

It is always fun to meet new people and experience new cultures.  And that is the reason why SpainExchange makes it more exciting for exchange students through their simple and effective search engine.  One can search by destination or country of origin.  Students can easily access if the country they intent to go has exchange students.  Also, student can search for host families.  Match your personality and other preferences with the hosting families’ details.  It is a smart thing to know your hosting family, they can be really warm and nice, or the opposite.

• Student Housing

For students who want more control over their space, then no worry no more for SpainExchange can help you find the “perfect” house when you study abroad.  Select from a wide variety of property/housing types that includes flat, shared flats, duplex, house, studio, family shared, garage space, individual room, student residence, and many more.  Just indicate your desired country and specify the state or province.

There is no place like home.  But there is such a thing as SpainExhcange that offers you the chance to find the next best thing.  Your study abroad does not have to be boring.  You can spies it up.  Choose the field you are really interested in, find the best school, and select your lodging type.  But first, you must register in http://www.spainexchange.com/index-en.htm… Good luck on you study!

Are there times when you’ve wondered if there’s more to life than lolling around on a hammock through the long months of vacation? Are you curious about other countries and cultures? Are you keen on ‘making a difference’ in some way? Then, volunteer work abroad may be the perfect option for you. Volunteering to work in a social development project abroad expands your mind, boosts your career prospects and lets you spend your time in a way that is fulfilling.

Volunteering abroad gives you invaluable knowledge and exposure not only about the intricacies of a particular area of social development but also about a wholly different culture and people. It makes you stronger, more open-minded and adds to perspective in many ways. Apart from learning how a professional organization functions, you will spend your time constructively by learning new skills and strengthening your resume. More and more, organizations are looking at volunteer work experience as evidence of a well-rounded personality, capable of hard work (and sometimes, hardship) who will be able to work well in a team and roll with the punches if necessary.

Volunteer work also gives you a chance to to share your skills and teach others what you are best at. There is enough need in the world to accommodate different types of skills and no matter what you’re good at—writing, sketching, organizing, teaching—there is some project out there that is looking for exactly those skills. Working for a social cause also invariably leads to increased self-confidence and personal satisfaction because you are helping others and contributing to society in a meaningful way.

Volunteering abroad is also a good way to explore different career options. You can venture into an area without the fear of making a long-term commitment. It will give you a chance to explore your capabilities, experiment with what you are good at or pursue what interests you the most.

There are many areas of social development: poverty, education, child welfare, women’s rights, rural development, environmental conservation are a few of the common ones. It is important to choose the area you want to work in after careful consideration of factors such as your particular skills and interests, what you feel passionate about, where you would like to work, and how it will tie in with your goals in the future. For example, if you want to specialize in environmental studies later on, it makes sense to do volunteer work in the same area. On the other hand, if you are planning to do a Phd on watershed management at some point, you may want to look at rural development projects.

There are many websites that offer detailed and comprehensive information on such projects and help you make the correct choice in terms of a volunteer abroad program. There may also be consultants near where you live who will be able to help you in this regard. It’s also a good idea to sound off a teacher or mentor on your plans and take their advice in the matter. After all, if you are travelling halfway across the world to work for a cause, you should make sure that you choose wisely!

Transportation

Various airports are found in many cities of Spain such as Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Bilbao, Murcia, Malaga and Palma de Mallorca. Madrid and Bilbao boast of their modern and stunning airports designed by prominent architects. If you are a little tight with your budget you can try some of their low cost carriers such as ClickAir, easyJet, Blue Air, Sterling Airlines, Vueling and RyanAir.

The RENFE, Spain’s official rail carrier, and FEVE are rail systems connecting major cities of the country. They are considered to be the some of Europe’s finest because of its modern design and amenities, reliability and punctuality.

Buses, boats and car renting are also common for most people traveling and touring Spain. They are highly recommended if you want to avoid the volume of people using the train systems. You can also enjoy more the view and sceneries of the cities when riding in one these transport vehicles.

Lodging

There are various types of accommodations you can choose from when traveling Spain. Small villages located near the coasts are popular because of the warm welcome and friendly environment they give to tourists. Casa Rural or the counterpart of B&Bs in other countries is also a recommended option since it is strictly regulated by authorities, plus quality and price varies greatly. The Parador, a prominent state-owned hotel chain in Spain, can make your stay a unique since its locations are mostly found in historical places such as Moorish castles, convents, and haciendas.

Food and Dining

Spaniards are known for their exquisite taste in food and wine. They usually eat light with a lot of vegetables with a mixture of meat and fish. Lunchtime normally starts between 1:30pm to 2pm and ends before 9pm. Dinner is served at 8:30pm or 9pm. Between these times, nearly all restaurants and cafes are closed except for big cities that serve until midnight. To make your travel a memorable one, you could try one theses Spanish dishes: Mariscos (popular shellfish in Pontevedra); Pescaíto frito (mouth-watering fried fish served in southern Spain); Paella (rice dish that can be served with seafood, chicken, or rabbit); and Tortilla de patatas (egg omelet mized with fried potato).

Festivities

Since more than 75% of Spain’s populations are Catholics it is no surprise that many of its local and national festivals are celebrated in Catholicism to the religion such as the Holy Week, Fiesta de San Isidro (May 15 in Madrid), and Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos (parade for the 3 Kings, celebrated in the 5^th of January). Other local celebrations you should watch out for are the Festival de Patios (2-week event when some locals open their houses to visitors to show their old Patios), Fallas (held in March in Valencia), Seville’s April Fair (consist of flamenco dancing, drinking of sherry and bullfighting), and the world-famous La Tomatina (a massive tomato fight in Buñol.

Shopping

For people who love shopping while traveling, you can find designer brands such Zara, Mango, Camper and Bershka in major cities and it could save you some cash. Popular department and specialty stores in Spain include the El Corte Ingles, Casas, Camper and For. The Kukuxumusu t-shirt is a favorite souvenir for many tourists that have funny designs and various subjects about Spain.

Over time Spain has established itself as one of the most visited country in the world. Hundreds of cities in Spain reflect its vast history, vibrant culture and contemporary lifestyle. Aside from Madrid other cities that are worth your time includes the following:

· Barcelona – is Spain’s second largest city and the capital of Catalonia. It has many modern structures, colorful and lively night life and famous beaches and resorts. You should also try visiting the musical fountains in Placa d’ Espanya, Casa Batlló and Torre Agbar office tower, it offers a magnificent view at night.

· Bilbao – is the city capital of Vizacaya in Basque Country. It is famous for various museums such as the Guggenheim Museum, Museo de Bellas Artes, Basque Museum, La Ria Maritime Museum, Museo Taurino, Museo Diocesano de Arte Sacro (Museum of Sacred Art) and the Museo de Reproducciones Artísticas (Museum of Artistic Reproductions)

· Córdoba – located in the region of Andalucia with a population of 350,000. the city of Cordoba is famous for its La Mezquita, the 3^rd biggest Mosque in the world with a cathedral built inside of it. other places to visit include the Calleja de las Flores, La Sinagoga, Medina Azahara, Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos and Plaza del Cristo de los Faroles.

· Seville – the capital of Andalucia, the financial and cultural district of southern Spain. Never miss to drop by at the Sevilla Card, this special card provides free admission to a good number of museums, monuments, unlimited use of public transportations and other freebies. The Cathedral of Seville, Real Alcazar, the Jewish Quarter, Torre de Oro, Parque Maria Luisa, Plaza de España, Universidad de Sevilla, The Museum of Fine Arts at Plaza del Museo and Casa de Pilatos

· Valencia – considered to be the birthplace of paella, Valencia is the capital of the Old Kingdom of Valencia. The best places to visit are the City of Arts and Science, Barri del Carme, the Seu, the Llotja, Mercant Cathedral, and the old Turia river bed. It also recently hosted the 2007 America’s Cup.

Second to Italy, Spain has the most number locations declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site with a total of 40 found all over the country such as the Historic Walled City of Cuenca, Monastery and Site of the Escorial, Palau de la Música Catalana and Hospital de Sant Pau, Burgos Cathedral, Old Town of Segovia and its Aqueduct, Rock Art of the Mediterranean Basin on the Iberian Peninsula, Vizcaya Bridge and many more.

The cities of Granada, Santander, León, San Sebastian, Cadiz and Jerez de la Frontera are also much recommended. Each city offers a unique and diverse culture that every visitor will surely find remarkable and something to make you keep coming back for more. There would no dull moments in Spain once you stepped in any of these cities. Exploring each city will be a new and exciting experience you will never forget.

After deciding which country to study and what course to take, another decision every international students has to make is choosing the best place to stay. It is very important to find the best accommodation. This does not mean it has to be fancy and state-of-the-art. The key in finding you second home is looking for one that suits your personality and of course budget!

Luckily, SpainExchange offers easy-to-follow searching procedures for international students looking for residence. Students can easily search by country and region. Almost every city can be the next best thing after your home. If you have been dreaming of that grand European city all your life, then I suggest begin your journey with SpainExchange. You can also filter by the type of property you intended to live in such as flat, shared flat, attic, duplex, studio type, house, individual room or one that is shared with a family. It also a smart thing to do to filter places based on your budget. You can specify that lowest and highest monthly rent you can afford.

Do remember that the place you will be staying can have a great effect on your study so be sure to get a one that you personally choose. The happier you are with your house the better you can concentrate with your study. Also, if you are sharing a flat or house with other people that you just recently met, try to safeguard your personal properties.

For people who have places to rent to international students you can join SpainExchange’s and advertise it. This is a very good opportunity to earn some cash and at the same time meet new people and experience different cultures. To make your advertisement more effective be sure to provide the following information:

· Location of the place for rent (country, city, property address)

· Type of property – flat, attic, duplex, house, garage space, individual room, etc.

· Total dimension in square meters

· Usable dimension in square meters

· Floor level of the area

· Number of bedrooms, bathrooms, garage.

· Availability of the following: air-conditioning, TV, Internet,   furniture, elevator, etc.

· Permission of the following: pets, smoking, etc.

· Required gender of the person renting the place

· Photo of the place (this is optional)

· And of course the monthly rent

SpainExchange offers the various places abroad that will surely meet your specific preferences. They say there is no place like home. To some extent, this may be true. This is the reason why SpainExchange establishes effective and efficient resources readily available for international students with a click of a mouse. The more you use SpainExchange, the better you realize that your own home is really not that far. SpainExchange cuts down the longing experienced by students in foreign places by providing preferences-specific, vast, affordable, and comfortable homes.

SpainExchange offers a one-of-a-kind experience for every aspiring student who wishes to meet new culture, see new faces and learn foreign way of life. But the best thing about Exchange Student program is the fact that it is not only the students who experience learning and different traditions. The whole family can also have some fun and remarkable experience by being a host to an exchange student. Sounds interesting? Well it is! Just follow these 3 easy steps:

Decide if you are an Exchange Student or a Hosting Family.

Provide necessary information.

Tell something interesting about you and your country. Doing so can result to more people contacting you!

Exchange Students program is a very exciting and extraordinary experience any student can have. Meet and talk to fellow students from all over the world. You can make new friends just by searching students who are also interested in Exchange Programs. You can begin by browsing through almost 90 countries where Exchange Student program is offered. From France, Belgium, the United States, Chile, Guatemala, Japan, Philippines, Israel, to India, it’s all on the tip of your hand. Your choice of destination is seemingly endless. You can also search by specifying criteria. One can indicate the age, gender, or country of origin of other students you wish to participate with the Exchange Program as well as the duration of the program and program date. There would be no reason for you not to find your match. SpainExchange’s searching criteria will definitely give you more than you ask for.

If you want to participate in an Exchange Program and at the same time do not want to miss the bonding and closeness of your family while you are abroad then try searching for a hosting family. SpainExchange understands that there is no place like home and that is the reason they are bringing your home next to you wherever you are while attending your Exchange Program. A hosting family will provide almost of your basic needs – shelter, food, and of course a family-like environment. The Hosting Family program is also wonderful for families who are more adventurous and open in living a whole new world right at their own backyards. You can search for a hosting family by specifying details such as their location, the age of students they wish to host, gender, country of origin and also the duration and date of arrival.

Who says learning and fun moments are only for students? SpainExchange provides a unique and exciting experience that anybody can benefit from. Whether you are a student or hosting an exchange student, you are assured of an exceptional adventure and education. SpainExchange’s Exchange Students Program provides different kinds of opportunities experience while studying.

SpainExchange is not your typical student resource site. It offers a number of specially formulated approaches in aiding international students. Its Study Abroad program provides students who are seeking international studies with effective, easy-to-follow, and efficient strategies.

Search by countries

With more than 150 countries to choose from, it is a sure thing that you will never run out of place to study. From Europe, Americas, Oceania, Middle East to Africa the world will be at your command.

Search by studies

SpainExchange currently offers the following study abroad programs –International Study Abroad; English as a Second Language Courses; Language Schools and Language Immersion Courses; University Courses; Graduate and Professional Programs; Career Colleges and Vocational Schools; Online and Distance Learning; and Primary/Secondary Schools.

Search specific subjects

If you can’t find the course or study you want to pursue in your country then I guess this is the best time to visit SpainExchange. With more 1000 subjects to choose from, SpainExchange offers one of the most diverse studies you can find online. From Engineering, World History, Management Courses, IT subjects, Education, to International subjects the list is endless. Name it, SpainExchange has it!

Search by school

SpainExchange includes top calibrated schools and universities from every corner of the world. You can even filter you search by specifying the type of studies you prefer such as a university program, vocational training or distance/online learning. You can also indicate the areas of study in the school you selected or sort out schools based on its types – public, private, language school, career college, etc.

To make your life easier, SpainExchange can even make schools and universities personally contact you. If you are tired sending emails and other personal messages to people you are not even sure if they exist then SpainExchange is the answer. Stop looking for schools. Let them search for you. All you have to do is follow these 5 simple steps:

Step 1: Provide personal information

Step 2: Decide which subject you find interesting

Step 3: Select which country to study

Step 4: Tell something about yourself – interests, hobbies, etc.

Step 5: Last but not the least, authorize SpainExchange to include your information in their international student database.

Your personal information may be removed from SpainExhcange’s database anytime you wish to. Truly, SpainExchange can make studying abroad more exciting and very much anticipated. You can enjoy your vacation without worrying too much on how to search for schools and universities abroad. No more hassles and troubles in contacting and talking to school officials regarding their various programs and courses offered. SpainExchange provides international students their own personal assistants with absolutely no charge and will follow commands as they wish!