There has been a rising tide of Indian students going to the United States for higher-studies in recent years. The GRE is an entrance test that assesses proficiency in math, reading, and writing. It is required for admission to most postgraduate programs and doctoral programmes in the US and is also accepted by higher education institutions in the UK, Canada, Australia, and Ireland. The GRE provides universities with a common benchmark against which to compare applicants from around the world.
The increase in the number of Indian students taking the GRE is a significant development in the higher education landscape. Nearly 1,25,000 student visas were issued to Indians to study in the United States in 2022. This indicates a growing trend of Indian students opting for postgraduate education in the US and other countries.
Doubling of Indian Students Taking the GRE: A Significant Development
The number of Indian students taking the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) has doubled in the past decade to 1,14,000 which is just 10,000 examinees less than the number of test-takers in the United States.
The Educational Testing Services (ETS), a US-based organization, administers the GRE test. The organization has witnessed a 48% rise in the number of Indian test takers in the 2021-2022 academic year, with the number of examinees increasing from 68,869 to 1,02,024. This growth in GRE statistics in India has been attributed to the increasing number of Indian students opting for higher education in the US.
Hyderabad has topped the table in the number of students taking the GRE with a record 25,347 candidates. Mumbai had 5,759 candidates in 2021-22; Bangalore 5,564; Pune 3,689; Chennai 3,278; Delhi 2,845. Also, many second-tier cities are coming up. Guntur has witnessed rapid growth and the number of candidates for 2021-22 has increased to 8,983. Other Tier 2 cities like Visakhapatnam, Warangal and Nellore also performed well last year. The same can be said for many Tier 3 cities. For example, Khammam city entered the top ten following a 150% rise in the number of examinees, from 888 in 2015-16 to 2,221 in 2021-22.
Reasons for Indian Students Choosing US Universities
There are several reasons that attract Indian students to education in USA. Firstly, the US is home to some of the world’s best universities, offering high-quality education and research opportunities. Many Indian students see this as an excellent opportunity to gain a world-class education that will increase their job prospects and help them stand out in a competitive job market.
The US offers a diverse range of academic programs, giving Indian students a wide range of options to choose from. This includes courses in fields like engineering, business, technology, and the arts, among others. Also, the US offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for international students. Many universities in the US have dedicated international student support services to help students adjust to life in a new country and provide guidance on academic and personal matters.
Many universities in the US offer financial aid and scholarships to international students. This support can help alleviate the financial burden of studying abroad and make it more affordable for Indian students to pursue higher education in the US. Lastly, the US offers opportunities for practical experience through internships and co-op programs, which can help Indian students gain valuable work experience and develop their professional skills.
The GRE: An Essential Component of the Application Process for Indian Students
India’s rapid growth in GRE statistics is in stark contrast to recent trends in the US. In the US, universities are increasingly challenging the importance of standardized assessments like the GRE. However, in India, the GRE has become a critical component of the application process for admission to postgraduate programs. This growth in GRE statistics in India also makes a stark contrast against China, which has only witnessed a 20% increase in the number of test takers in the last decade. In the 2021-2022 academic year, only 50,758 Chinese students took the GRE exam, which is less than half the 1,14,000 of Indian test-takers.
At Dilip Oak’s Academy, we offer GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS coaching, GRE Self Prep and guide students with university selection, application essays, and visa counseling under our Admission Counseling Services for USA, Germany and UK.
We also provide detailed guidance on these processes under our Admission Counseling Services, including a selection of universities, documentation process and visa counseling, and mock visa interviews. In addition, as India’s leading Study Abroad Consultants, we have helped more than 30,000 students to secure their dream admits for various universities in America including MIT, Stanford, Cornell, Carnegie Mellon and other top-ranked universities. To enroll, call us on 91-020-67444222, 91-8007878495.
Pursuing a Master of Architecture (M. Arch) degree in the USA is an excellent way to advance your knowledge and skills in the field of architecture. The USA has some of the best architecture schools in the world, offering high-quality education, cutting-edge research opportunities, and access to top-notch facilities and resources. If you are considering pursuing an M. Arch education in the USA, this blog will provide an overview of the M. Arch program in the United States, covering its structure, admissions requirements, and potential employment outcomes.
Masters in Architecture is offered as M. Arch, Masters of Science (M.S) or Masters of Arts (M.A) in US universities. As one can expect, an M.S in Architecture degree offers a more research and technology-oriented focus while M.A in Architecture degrees are more art-focused and generally specialize in design. The Master of Science (MS) in Architecture and Master of Arts (MA) in Architecture programs are typically research-oriented degrees that provide students with a theoretical understanding of architecture. On the other hand, the Master of Architecture (M. Arch) degree is a professional degree that prepares students to become licensed architects.
Fortunately, a master’s degree in architecture in the United States is considered a STEM degree (Science-Technology-Engineering-Mathematics). STEM degrees allows you to work on OPT (optional practical training) for 36 months after graduation. (compared to the 12-month OPT period allowed to other graduates)
M. Arch Program Overview
M. Arch programs in the USA are designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in architecture and related fields. These programs typically take two to three years to complete and offer a comprehensive curriculum that includes both theory and practical coursework. The curriculum covers a wide range of subjects, including architectural design, history, theory, building technology, sustainability, and professional practice. In addition to coursework, students are required to complete a design studio project, which allows them to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world design problems.
Master of Architecture (M. Arch) degree programs in the United States offer various specializations. Some of the most common specializations offered in M. Arch programs in the USA are:
- Sustainable Design and Green Building
- Urban Design and Planning
- Interior Design
- Landscape Architecture
- Digital Technologies in Architecture
- Building Information Modeling (BIM)
- Construction Management
- Real Estate Development and Design
These specializations enable students to focus on a specific area of interest within the field of architecture and develop their skills and knowledge in that area.
Requirements for Admission
Students will need the following:
- A bachelor’s degree in architecture or a related design field is required.
- Most universities require a GRE test scores.
- A resume or CV is required.
- Proof of English language proficiency in the form of IELTS or TOEFL test results.
- A SOP, or Statement of Purpose, is required for universities.
- LOR or Letter of Recommendation, depending on the institution.
- Portfolio: A portfolio of your design work is usually required. This should showcase your creative and technical abilities and may include drawings, sketches, models, photographs, and other relevant materials.
Career Prospects
To become a licensed architect in the USA, you typically need to earn a professional degree in architecture from a program that is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). The most common degree is the Master of Architecture (M. Arch), but some states may also accept a Bachelor of Architecture (B. Arch) degree.
M. Arch graduates in the USA have a variety of career options in the field of architecture. Many graduates choose to work as licensed architects in architectural firms, where they may be involved in designing and overseeing the construction of buildings and other structures. Others may work in related fields, such as urban planning or interior design. Additionally, some graduates may choose to pursue careers as Project managers, design architects, senior project architects, landscape architects, urban designers and urban planners. There are job opportunities in a variety of private industries, including design, construction, urban development, and infrastructure.
The annual income of M. Arch graduates in the USA can vary depending on experience, geographic location, and the specific industry or sector they work in. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for architects, including those with M. Arch degrees, was $82,320 as of May 2020. salaries ranging from $49,790 to $139,120.
Jobs for trained architects will continue to grow in the United States, with steady demand from corporations and planning organizations. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts an 8.4% increase in employment for architects between 2018 and 2028. The United States is a top choice for architecture students due to its globally acclaimed universities, engaging curriculum, emerging technologies and design trends, and readily available employment opportunities.
Conclusion
Overall, pursuing an M. Arch degree in the USA can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for those interested in the field of architecture. The programs provide students with a strong foundation in the theoretical and technical aspects of the discipline, as well as opportunities for hands-on design experience and exposure to real-world contexts. If you’re considering an M. Arch degree, be sure to research the various programs available and their specific admission requirements to find the best fit for your academic background and career goals.
Do you want to further your education in the field of finance? Do you dream of attending a U.S. university for your Master of Science in Finance? Read on to find out how you can study abroad to build a successful career in finance.
A master’s degree in finance in the United States is considered a STEM degree (Science-Technology-Engineering-Mathematics). STEM degrees allow students to work on OPT (optional practical training) for a period of 36 months post-graduation. (as compared to the 12-month OPT period granted to non-STEM graduates on a student visa)
Finance is the bedrock of all commercial activity. In today’s dynamic global economy, a strong financial team is essential for every company. This has created a worldwide demand for highly skilled and educated financial specialists. Those with a Master’s Degree in Finance from the US are considered highly valuable employees for any financial institution, whether they work in banking, financial research, or investments. The latest Occupational Outlook Handbook from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 6% increase from 2021 to 2031 in jobs related to Finance. Despite the competitive employment market, especially for international students, the United States is a great place for finance majors to launch their careers.
Overview: MS in Finance
The Master of Science in Finance is also known as Masters of Finance degree in some universities. The course is offered from 10 to 24 months, depending on the university. This course is offered in around 50 universities across the United States. Study of the principles, processes, and practices of investment analysis, portfolio management, corporate finance, financial risk management, quantitative methods, financial data analytics, and valuation are some of the core subjects covered in a typical US Master’s of Finance program. Financial Engineering, Real Estate Finance, Hedge Funds, Mergers & Acquisitions, Fixed Income Securities, and many more electives are available to students. Graduates will be equipped to take on leadership roles in a wide range of finance-related fields, including but not limited to: corporate finance, financial institutions, investment banking, risk management, capital markets, financial modeling, behavioral finance, econometrics, investment management, and more.
Advantages of pursuing MS in Finance
- It’s a more practical and efficient way for students to become financial experts in a short amount of time.
- Unlike an MBA, a Master of Science in Finance focuses primarily on financial planning and risk management and does not typically require work experience for admissions.
- Following is a list of high paying jobs available to graduates with an advanced Finance degree :
- Investment banking
- Hedge fund management
- Financial Analysis
- Information technology auditor
- Financial software developer
- Private equity associate
- Chief compliance officer
- Chief financial officer
The average salary starts at more than $75000 per year and can range up to as high as $125000+ per year
Admission Requirements for MS in Finance
Prospective students with a bachelor’s degree in finance or a quantitative subject will have a better understanding of the subject. As a result, candidates with a good bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, engineering, mathematics, science, business economics, or a related quantitative field are ideal for the MS in Finance program. A typical MS in Finance program does not require work experience; however, applicants with some industry experience (ideally 12-15 months) are encouraged. Applicants possessing a CFA Degree (Chartered Financial Analyst) have an added advantage for getting admitted into high ranked US universities. Some universities also require applicants to submit their GRE scores. Candidates must also demonstrate strong academic potential, with a decent GPA.
To meet the English language requirements, international students are required to take the TOEFL or IELTS test. In addition to the aforementioned requirements, many programs require applicants to complete pre-requisite courses in calculus, statistics, business finance, accounting, investments, micro and macroeconomics, and other related subjects before enrolling. Those with undergraduate degrees in finance will have most likely completed these courses during their undergraduate degree term; however, those with time constraints should check with universities, as many offer pre-requisite programs that can be accessed and completed online.
At Dilip Oak’s Academy, we provide detailed guidance on these processes under our Admission Counseling Services, including a selection of universities, documentation process and visa counseling, and mock visa interviews. In addition, as India’s leading Study Abroad Consultants, we have helped more than 30,000 students to secure their dream admits for various universities in America including MIT, Stanford, Cornell, Carnegie Mellon and other top-ranked universities.
We also offer GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS coaching, GRE Self Prep and guide students with university selection, application essays, and visa counseling under our Admission Counseling Services for USA, Germany and UK. To enroll, call us on 91-020-67444222, 91-8007878495.
The United States administration offers a variety of non-immigrant visas for foreign nationals. For instance, the United States issues B-1/B-2 visa to visitors and businessmen, and H-1B visas to those who have been granted permission to work in the country. An M-1 visa is issued to students enrolling in short-term vocational programs like flight schools, language institutes, etc. However, students going to an accredited university for a full-time academic program, require an F-1 visa stamp.
Currently, student visas are being processed faster than other types. Those who already hold a B1/B2 visa can obtain a visa by appearing for VFS appointment and by submitting their application via drop box. In other words, they get an interview exemption.
Students are allowed to apply for the F-1 visa 365 days before the start date of the program mentioned on their I-20 form. The I-20 form is an official document issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The following important details are mentioned in the document:
- the name as printed on the passport of the student
- the name of the university which the student is joining
- the program to which the student has been admitted
- the date of commencement of the program
- the date by which the program has to be completed
- the total cost of education for one year.
The fall 2023 semester generally begins in the third week of August. So, if you plan to attend an American university this fall, you can begin applying for your visa now.
How to Apply for an F1 Visa?
- Get your I-20 from the SEVP institution
- Apply online by filling the DS-160 form
- Pay the general visa application fee ($160)
- Pay the SEVIS fee ($350)
- Schedule your OFC appointment followed by F1 visa interview date
- Attend the F1 visa interview on the scheduled date
Keep in mind that you should have adequate liquid funds to cover the total cost of one year of education – this is mentioned in the I-20 form. Many students are under the wrong impression that their sponsor needs to deposit this entire amount in the bank and that otherwise their visa can be rejected. Contrary to popular belief, this is not the case. Bank deposits (savings, fixed deposits) and other liquid assets like shares, mutual funds, Public provident fund and employee provident fund etc. education loans are all acceptable forms to prove financial capability. The following are additional points are also taken into consideration by the consulate officer:
- Accreditation and reputation of the university to which you have been admitted (this shouldn’t be an issue if you go through Dilip Oak’s academy; we only recommend accredited universities)
- your academic background is good along with a satisfactory GRE score
- Annual income and financial stability of your sponsor
- Your communication skills along with your ability to give convincing and honest answers to the consulate officer’s questions
If your Visa Application gets rejected in the first attempt, you can apply again. You have to go through the same process again, except the SEVIS fee.
Start preparing your financial documents now and apply for an F-1 visa as soon as you get your I-20 form from the university you desire to attend.
At Dilip Oak’s Academy, we provide detailed guidance on these processes under our Admission Counseling Services that include, selection of universities, documentation process and visa counselling along with mock visa interviews. As India’s leading Study Abroad Consultants, we have helped more than 30,000 students to secure their dream-admits for various universities in America including MIT, Stanford, Cornell, Carnegie Mellon and other top-ranked universities.
We also offer GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS coaching, GRE Self Prep and guide students with university selection, application essays, and visa counseling under our Admission Counseling Services for USA, Germany and UK. To enroll, call us on 91-020-67444222, 91-8007878495.
The International English Language Testing System is an English language proficiency test one has to take if one wants to study, work or immigrate to English-speaking countries. For a long time, IELTS was a paper-based test. However, recently, IELTS has offered students a choice of taking the test in computer-based mode [CBT] or paper-based mode [PBT]. Choosing the suitable mode of examination is no mean feat here!
The test format is the same, you get the same sections, the same question types, the same difficulty level, and the same time per section with the same evaluation and marking scheme. The Speaking section, conducted face-to-face, often on different dates, is the SAME for both PBT and CBT. The main differences between CBT and PBT can be seen in the Listening, Reading, and Writing modules, which are discussed in detail below:
Other differences between the two test formats:
While choosing the most appropriate mode of the exam, we recommend that you keep in mind your application deadlines. In addition, find out your comfort level by checking the sample of the CD-IELTS on the IDP website to know the Page Look and feel of the CBT exam. Similarly, you can try out a paper-based test to eventually decide which mode to choose.
At Dilip Oak’s Academy, we provide detailed guidance on these processes under our Admission Counseling Services that include, selection of universities, documentation process and visa counselling along with mock visa interviews. As India’s leading Study Abroad Consultants, we have helped more than 30,000 students to secure their dream-admits for various universities in America including MIT, Stanford, Cornell, Carnegie Mellon and other top-ranked universities.
We also offer GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS coaching, GRE Self Prep and guide students with university selection, application essays, and visa counseling under our Admission Counseling Services for USA, Germany and UK. To enroll, call us on 91-020-67444222, 91-8007878495.