On June 16th, 2024, Dilip Oak’s Academy, in association with HDFC Credila, hosted its annual Pre-Departure Orientation for students joining US universities for master’s degrees in August 2024 (Fall semester). This long-standing tradition, held since 1998, took place at Siddhi Banquet Hall, Pune and attracted around 1100 students and parents, making it one of the largest events of its kind in India.
Distinguished Guests and Key Insights
The event was graced by esteemed guests Dr. David Alexander, Dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science, Ms. Tasha Alexander, Director of International Student Services, both from California State University, Chico, and Ms. Sarika Oak, Senior Director, Udemy Inc., San Francisco. Their presence added significant value to the orientation, providing students firsthand insights into American campus life.
Mr. Dilip Oak explained that there are currently many job openings in the fields of engineering, architecture, and finance. It is a fact that, at present, job opportunities in computer science are very limited. But hopefully, the situation will change after January 2025. There will be more opportunities for the latest technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, cybersecurity etc. He also provided crucial information on pre-travel preparations, including medical checks, insurance, immunization, and foreign exchange regulations.
Practical Advice and Encouragement
Sarika Oak shed light on campus life, accommodation, and job opportunities after graduation. She added that students should be proactive and make the most of every opportunity as that would make them well-rounded and work-ready. She emphasized the importance of building relationships beyond the Indian community to land internships and jobs. Her advice about on-campus employment and paid internships during Curriculum Practical Training (CPT) was a game-changer for those worried about repaying student loans.
Dr. David Alexander said there will be job opportunities starting in January 2025. However, jobs will be available to those students who excel academically and can crack 5-6 rounds of interviews. He also recommended that students stay informed of the changing trends and learn newer technologies.
Celebrating Our Achievers
A special highlight of the Pre-Departure Orientation 2024 was the felicitation of our students who achieved exceptional GRE scores and secured admits to prestigious universities. These accomplished students will join top-tier institutions such as Carnegie Mellon University, Columbia University, Georgia Institute of Technology, University of California, Berkley and Purdue University. Their fields of study are as diverse as their talents, ranging from Computer Science, Data Science, Cyber Security Management Information Systems and various engineering fields. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and confident that they will continue to excel in their chosen paths, contributing to the global community with their expertise and dedication.
Read this blog to know more about getting an internship during your MS program.
Real Stories, Real Impact
The program left a lasting impression on both students and parents.
Pradeep Kulkarni said this session resolved his doubts and concerns as a parent, thus reassuring him about the investment in his child’s education, thanks to the positive job prospects in America. He also praised the comprehensive guidance, which covered everything from settling into university life to finding housing and securing jobs.
Khushi Shah, an academy student, shared her seamless experience with the Academy’s support in university selection, Statement of Purpose drafting, and visa interview preparation. Her efforts, guided by Mr. Oak, led to her securing admission to all the universities she applied to.
Shivendra Bhonsle, our online GRE coaching and counseling student, expressed gratitude for the support and guidance he received that helped him achieve his dream. Moreover, the pre-departure event addressed all his doubts and eased his parent’s concerns about safety, job opportunities, and accommodations.
Akanksha Bharambe said that the Academy’s efforts were crucial in securing her admission to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The application process was seamless for her, especially the mock visa interview conducted by Mr. Oak, which boosted her confidence.
Wrapping Up
The Pre-Departure Orientation 2024 was a great success, equipping students and parents with essential knowledge and boosting their confidence as they prepare for their academic journey in the US. With over 26 years of experience, Dilip Oak’s Academy continues to guide students through their higher education journey in America.
As India’s leading Study Abroad Consultant, Dilip Oak’s Academy offers a comprehensive suite of admission counseling services that can guide you through the entire process from Shortlisting Universities to Visa Counseling. With our expertise, we have successfully sent 32,000 students to various prestigious American universities like MIT, Stanford, Cornell, and Carnegie Mellon. We also offer classroom and online coaching for GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS, as well as GRE Self Prep. To explore our services, book a free consultation or call us at 91-20-67444222.
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Are you dreaming of pursuing a master’s degree in the United States? The journey from aspiration to achievement begins with the right guidance and information. Whether you’re aiming to study in the land of opportunity or just curious about what it takes, our upcoming FREE seminar will cover everything you need to know about pursuing a master’s degree in America.
Job Opportunities
The USA offers countless job opportunities across various industries. From tech and finance to healthcare and engineering, there’s a booming market for skilled professionals. Our seminar will explore current economic trends and highlight the hottest job sectors. Knowing where the opportunities lie can give you a head start in your career planning.
Work Permit and Green Card Formalities
One of the critical aspects of studying and working in the U.S. is understanding the visa and immigration process. Our seminar will provide a detailed overview of the work permit (OPT and CPT) and Green Card. Understanding these formalities is crucial, and we’ll make it as straightforward as possible.
Don’t miss this invaluable opportunity to get a head start on your dream. Register Now for the FREE seminar.
Funding Your Education
Financing your education is often one of the most daunting aspects of studying abroad. However, plenty of scholarships, grants, and assistantships are available to international students. Our seminar will provide insights into various funding options and offer tips on managing your finances while studying. Understanding your funding options can ease your financial burden and allow you to focus on your studies.
Prerequisite Examinations
Most U.S. universities require international students to take standardized tests as part of their application process. These may include the GRE, TOEFL, or IELTS. We will break down the importance of these exams, what scores you should aim for, and how to prepare effectively.
Application Timeline
Timing is everything when it comes to applying for a master’s degree in America. Our seminar will provide a detailed application timeline, starting from selecting universities to submitting your application and beyond. We will discuss the importance of building a strong application profile, including letters of recommendation, personal statements, and resumes.
Why Attend Our Seminar?
This seminar is designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to succeed in your pursuit of a master’s degree in the United States. You will be able to interact with experts, ask questions, and gain insights that are not readily available online.
Register now for our FREE seminar and take the first step towards a brighter future. Seats are limited, so make sure to secure your spot today!
Date: 16th June, 2024
Time:
11:00 am (English & Marathi)
6:30 pm (English)
Venue: Siddhi Banquet Hall
D.P. Road, Near Mhatre Bridge, Erandwane, Pune 411004
Fields: The seminar is open to students from all engineering fields, computer science and related fields, architecture, and finance.
We look forward to helping you turn your dreams into reality. See you there!
As India’s leading Study Abroad Consultant, Dilip Oak’s Academy offers a comprehensive suite of admission counseling services that can guide you through the entire process from Shortlisting Universities to Visa Counseling. With our expertise, we have successfully sent 32,000 students to various prestigious American universities like MIT, Stanford, Cornell, and Carnegie Mellon. We also offer classroom and online coaching for GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS, as well as GRE Self Prep. To explore our services, book a free consultation or call us at 91-20-67444222.
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The Quantitative Reasoning section of the GRE tests your ability to interpret and analyze quantitative information and solve problems using mathematical models. Before you start preparing for the test, it is very important to understand the format of the test. This blog will introduce you to different question types, which will significantly boost your confidence and performance. The Dilip Oak’s Online test screenshots will also give you a good idea of what these formats look like when you take the GRE computer-based test.
Here’s a breakdown of the various question types you’ll encounter and tips on tackling them.
Multiple-Choice Questions (Single Answer)
- These are the traditional multiple-choice questions where you select one correct answer from five options.
- The options are in the form of radio buttons, as they only allow a single selection.
Tip: Think about the maximum and minimum values the quantities can take to see if the relationship holds in all cases.
Multiple-Choice Questions (Multiple Answers)
- These questions are accompanied by checkboxes and require you to select one or more answers.
- You must choose all correct answers to get credit; there is no partial credit.
Tip: Review all options to ensure you have marked all the correct responses.
Numeric Entry Questions
- Numeric Entry questions require you to enter your answer in a box rather than selecting from multiple choices.
- The answer can be in any format: whole numbers, decimals, or fractions.
Tip: Pay careful attention to the format in which you are expected to enter the answer.
Quantitative Comparison Questions
- Quantitative Comparison questions ask you to compare two quantities — Quantity A and Quantity B — and determine the relationship between them.
- You’ll choose one of the following options:
- Quantity A is greater
- Quantity B is greater
- The two quantities are equal
- The relationship cannot be determined from the information given
Tip: Think about the maximum and minimum values the quantities can take to see if the relationship holds in all cases.
General Strategies while preparing for the Quantitative Reasoning section of the GRE:
- Understand the Basics: Review fundamental math concepts, including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
- Strengthen your concepts: Focus on understanding concepts rather than just memorizing formulas.
- Practice Mental Math: Quick calculations can save time, so practice mental math to increase your speed.
- Practice Regularly: Use practice tests to familiarize yourself with the question formats and time constraints. Identify your weak areas and devote extra time to those topics.
- Manage Your Time: The Quant section is timed, so practice pacing yourself to complete all questions within time.
Tips for acing the Quantitative Reasoning Section of the GRE:
- Double-Check Work: If time permits, double-check your calculations to avoid careless mistakes.
- Use Scratch Paper: Work out the problem on scratch paper to avoid mistakes when transferring your answer.
- Estimate and Simplify: Look for ways to simplify the expressions or use estimation to compare the quantities quickly.
- Plug in Numbers: Substitute values for variables to test the relationship. This is particularly useful if the question involves variables without specific numbers.
- Move on: Don’t spend too much time on any one question; move on and come back if time permits.
- Use the On-Screen Calculator: The GRE provides an on-screen calculator for the Quant section. Use it for complex calculations, but don’t rely on it for simple arithmetic: mental math will save you more time.
- Stay Calm and Focused: Keep calm and maintain your focus throughout the test. Anxiety can lead to simple mistakes.
Mastering the Quantitative Reasoning section of the GRE requires practice, strategic thinking, and a solid understanding of basic math concepts. By familiarizing yourself with the different question types and employing effective strategies, you can improve your performance and achieve your desired GRE score. Happy studying!
As India’s leading Study Abroad Consultant, Dilip Oak’s Academy offers a comprehensive suite of admission counseling services that can guide you through the entire process from Shortlisting Universities to Visa Counseling. With our expertise, we have successfully sent 32,000 students to various prestigious American universities like MIT, Stanford, Cornell, and Carnegie Mellon. We also offer classroom and online coaching for GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS, as well as GRE Self Prep. To explore our services, book a free consultation or call us at 91-20-67444222.
As you prepare to show off your reading, math, and writing skills on the GRE, it is important to know that this decision depends on a few things, like your school background, what you want to do in your career, and how ready you feel for the test. This blog will guide you through everything you need about the GRE preparation timeline.
Understanding the GRE:
The GRE General Test checks your skills in three main areas: verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. These skills indicate your ability to do well in college and at work. Let’s break down what each of these skills means:
Verbal Reasoning:
This part of the GRE looks at how well you know high-level English vocabulary, analyze written information and understand relationships among ideas. For example, you might be asked to read a passage and answer questions about its main idea or the author’s point of view.
Quantitative Reasoning:
This part of the test checks how good you are at math. It looks at elementary concepts of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. It also looks at your ability to interpret quantitative information and solve complex problems using mathematical models. For instance, you might have to solve equations or analyze graphs to answer questions in the GRE Quantitative Reasoning Section.
Why GRE Preparation is Important:
The GRE test can still be tough even if you are good at English, math, and writing because there is limited time to solve each question, and the level of language and vocabulary is high. That’s why studying and preparing for the test is important.
How long should you study for the GRE?
When it comes to the GRE, preparation is key to achieving success on the exam. So, it is best to give yourself about four months to prepare for the GRE. Let’s break this down further:
Practice Makes Perfect:
While individual study habits and schedules may vary from person to person, you will become more familiar with the test format and improve your performance by dedicating time to study and practice.
Identify Weaknesses:
Practice tests can help you identify areas where you need improvement, allowing you to focus your studying where it is needed most.
Boost Confidence:
The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel on test day, which can positively impact your performance.
Avoid Cramming:
Don’t try to cram all your studying into just two weeks, as that can lead to burnout, and you might not remember everything well. Instead, spread your study sessions over a longer time to help you remember things better.
Also read our blog on Financing your master’s program in the USA.
When should you take the GRE?
Choosing your GRE preparation timeline depends on your goals and deadlines. If you plan to go to grad school right after graduation in India, taking the GRE in the pre-final year of your graduation is a good idea. This gives you time to prepare without worrying about your final-year projects or internships. Plus, your GRE score is good for five years, so you can use it even if you wait a bit before applying to school.
However, that may not always be possible. So, let’s break down some scenarios:
Pre-Final Year Student:
If you are currently a pre-final year student thinking about studying in the USA in August (Fall) 2025, it is best to take your GRE test before the end of September 2024. This gives you about 8-10 weeks to write a Statement of Purpose, get recommendation letters, and take the TOEFL or IELTS exam. This will also give you time to retake the GRE if you want to improve your GRE score. Please note that you can take the GRE only once every 21 days and up to five times a year. Your official GRE score will come about 8 to 10 days after the test.
Final-Year Student:
For final-year students graduating around June 2024 and planning to start their master’s program in the USA in August (Fall) 2025, you should start preparing for the GRE in May/June 2024. Depending on when you feel ready, you can take the test anytime between September and November 2024. This will help you to still meet the deadlines by December 31, 2024.
Working Professionals:
If you are a working professional or want to work for a few years after graduation before studying abroad, it is best to start preparing 8 to 10 months before the deadline. This gives you enough time to balance work and study commitments. Joining a weekend class at Dilip Oak’s Academy one of the best GRE preparation classes in Pune and practicing during the week would be a good way to get GRE-ready.
Ultimately, deciding when to take the GRE depends on your circumstances and goals. By breaking down the preparation process and using examples, this guide aims to make it easier for you to plan and prepare effectively for the exam. Good luck!
As India’s leading Study Abroad Consultant, Dilip Oak’s Academy offers a comprehensive suite of admission counseling services that can guide you through the entire process from Shortlisting Universities to Visa Counseling. With our expertise, we have successfully sent 32,000 students to various prestigious American universities like MIT, Stanford, Cornell, and Carnegie Mellon. We also offer classroom and online coaching for GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS, as well as GRE Self Prep. To explore our services, book a free consultation or call us at 91-20-67444222.
Are you ready to master the TOEFL in 2 months and unlock opportunities for studying abroad? With dedication and strategic planning, achieving success in the TOEFL exam in 2 months is entirely possible. Whether aiming for TOEFL classes in Pune or seeking TOEFL online classes, this guide will provide valuable insights and actionable tips to maximize your preparation and ace the test.
Take a Diagnostic Test
Before diving into your TOEFL preparation, consider taking a diagnostic mock test to assess your current level. This will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and customize your study plan. By simulating test conditions and timing, you’ll get a realistic preview of the TOEFL exam experience and pinpoint areas that require more focus. Additionally, taking a mock test early on can serve as a motivational tool, providing you with a benchmark to track your progress throughout your preparation journey. Whether you opt for TOEFL classes in Pune or self-study, starting with a mock test can set you up for success by providing valuable insights and a clear starting point for your preparation.
Set Clear Goals
The next step is to take some time to define your goals. Determine your target score and the specific areas to focus on to achieve it. For example, if your dream university requires a TOEFL score of 100, make that your target and break it down into smaller, manageable goals for each test section.
Develop a Study Plan
Now that you know your starting point and your target, the next step is to develop a study plan. Remember that it’s essential to create a structured study plan that covers all sections of the TOEFL test: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. The diagnostic mock test will reveal your strengths and weaknesses, enabling you to allocate daily study and practice time accordingly. For example, if you struggle with the speaking section, schedule more practice sessions and speaking exercises in your study plan.
Did you know that you can report your test score free of cost to four universities? Click here to know more.
Utilize Quality Resources
Invest in high-quality TOEFL study materials and resources that align with the format and content of the exam. Look for reputable TOEFL online classes or coaching centers in your city that offer comprehensive study materials, practice tests, and expert guidance from experienced instructors. For example, enroll in a TOEFL coaching program that provides access to practice tests, study guides, and interactive lessons tailored to your learning style.
Practice Regularly
Consistent practice is key to mastering the TOEFL in 2 months. Set aside time each day to engage in active learning activities such as reading academic articles, listening to podcasts or lectures, practicing speaking exercises, and writing essays. Aim to simulate test conditions as closely as possible during your practice sessions. For example, use a timer to mimic the time constraints of the actual exam and practice under similar conditions to build your test-taking stamina.
Focus on Test Strategies
Familiarize yourself with effective test-taking strategies for each section of the TOEFL exam. Learn how to manage your time efficiently, skim and scan passages for key information, take effective notes during listening exercises, and structure your responses during the speaking and writing sections. For example, practice skimming and scanning techniques while reading passages to quickly identify main ideas and key details, which can help you answer questions more efficiently in the reading section.
Seek Feedback and Guidance
Take advantage of TOEFL online classes to receive personalized feedback and guidance from experienced instructors across India. Participate in mock tests and practice sessions to identify areas for improvement and refine your test-taking skills. For example, join a study group or attend TOEFL workshops to receive feedback from peers and instructors on your speaking and writing tasks. This will allow you to identify strengths and weaknesses and make targeted improvements.
Stay Motivated and Consistent
Maintaining motivation and consistency throughout your TOEFL preparation journey is crucial for success. Celebrate small victories along the way, stay positive, and remind yourself of your ultimate goal of studying abroad. Surround yourself with a supportive study group or community to stay motivated and accountable. For example, set up weekly study sessions with friends or classmates to review material, share tips, and keep each other motivated and on track.
In conclusion, cracking the TOEFL in 2 months requires dedication, strategic planning, and effective study techniques. By setting clear goals, developing a structured study plan, utilizing quality resources, practicing regularly, focusing on test strategies, seeking feedback and guidance, and staying motivated and consistent, you can maximize your chances of achieving your desired score and fulfilling your academic dreams of studying in the US. With TOEFL Classroom Coaching, you will have the support and resources you need to succeed. Start your TOEFL preparation journey today and take the first step towards a bright future abroad!
As India’s leading Study Abroad Consultant, Dilip Oak’s Academy offers a comprehensive suite of services, including GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS coaching, as well as GRE Self Prep. Furthermore, our admission counseling services can guide you through the entire process from Shortlisting Universities to Visa Counseling. With our expertise, we have successfully sent 32,000 students to various prestigious American universities like MIT, Stanford, Cornell, and Carnegie Mellon. To enroll in our comprehensive overseas education consultancy services, book a free consultation or call us at 91-20-67444222.