Answers
The questions students ask us most, answered in plain language — with the numbers, deadlines and rules that actually apply, not marketing talk.
Tests & scores
IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, SAT and what scores you actually need.
- What IELTS score do I need for a masters abroad?Most masters programmes ask for IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0. Competitive universities in the UK and USA often want 7.0, while many programmes in Canada, Australia and Germany accept 6.0–6.5.
- Should I take IELTS or TOEFL?Both are accepted almost everywhere, so pick the format that suits you: IELTS has a face-to-face speaking test and handwriting option, while TOEFL is fully computer-based with a headset-recorded speaking section.
- Is the GRE still required for masters admissions?Many US and European programmes are now GRE-optional, but a strong score (315+) still helps for funding, top-20 computer science and engineering programmes, and for applicants with a lower GPA.
Money & funding
Fees, living costs, loans, scholarships and proof of funds.
- How much does it cost to study abroad from India?Budget roughly ₹25–45 lakh in total for a one-year masters in the UK, Ireland or Australia, ₹35–60 lakh for a two-year US masters, and ₹12–20 lakh for Germany, where public universities charge little or no tuition.
- Can I study abroad without collateral for an education loan?Yes. Unsecured education loans of ₹20–40 lakh are widely available for admits to ranked universities, based on your co-applicant's income and your admission letter rather than property.
Applications
Deadlines, documents, SOPs, recommendations and intakes.
- When should I start my study abroad application?Start 12–15 months before your intake. Tests come first (months 12–10), applications go out 8–10 months ahead, and visa work begins as soon as you accept an offer.
- How many universities should I apply to?Six to eight is the sweet spot: two reach, three or four match and two safe universities. Fewer risks a blank season, more usually means weaker, recycled applications.
- What makes a good statement of purpose?A good SOP answers four questions in about 1,000 words: why this field, why you are ready, why this specific programme, and what you plan to do afterwards — all backed by concrete evidence.
Visas
Student visa rules, interviews and work rights.
- How much money do I need to show for a student visa?Most countries want one year of tuition plus one year of living costs, held for a set period before you apply — 28 days for the UK, a blocked account for Germany, and a GIC plus tuition for Canada's fast-track route.
- What do they ask in a student visa interview?Expect questions on why this course, why this university, who is paying, and what you will do after graduating. Officers are testing whether you are a genuine student with a plan, not testing your English.
Life abroad
Accommodation, part-time work and settling in.
- Can I work while studying abroad?Yes, in most destinations — usually 20 hours a week during term and full time in vacations. The UK, Canada, Australia, Germany and Ireland all allow it, with post-study work visas of 1–3 years afterwards.
- How do I find accommodation before I fly?Apply for university halls the moment you accept an offer — they are the safest first-year option. If halls are full, use verified purpose-built student accommodation and never pay a deposit without a signed contract.