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If you’re planning to study abroad in countries like the UK, Australia, Canada, or the USA, proving your English proficiency is a key requirement. Two of the most popular English tests among international students are the PTE (Pearson Test of English) and the IELTS (International English Language Testing System). But which one should you choose?

In this blog, we’ll compare both tests in terms of format, scoring, difficulty, and more, so you can make the best decision based on your personal strengths and goals.

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🔍 PTE vs. IELTS: A Detailed Comparison

Feature	PTE (Pearson Test of English)	IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
Test Format	Completely computer-based	Paper-based or computer-based (Speaking is face-to-face)
Speaking Section	Recorded via microphone (talk to a computer)	Face-to-face with an examiner
Result Time	Fast – usually within 1 to 3 days	Slower – typically 5 to 7 days (up to 13 days for paper-based)
Scoring System	Automated scoring on a 0–90 scale	Human scoring on a 0–9 band scale
Test Duration	Around 2 hours	Around 2 hours 45 minutes
Accents Used	International English accents	British, Australian, American, and more
Difficulty Level	Tech-focused, fast-paced	More traditional and academic
Global Acceptance	Widely accepted in UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, USA	Universally accepted in all English-speaking countries
Availability	More test dates, flexible booking	Frequent dates, but can fill up fast
Test Environment	Computer lab with microphone and headphones	Classroom or computer lab; quiet room for speaking section

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✅ When to Choose PTE

You might prefer the PTE Academic if:

• You are comfortable with computers and typing.
• You are nervous about face-to-face speaking and prefer talking into a microphone.
• You need quick results to meet an application deadline.
• You prefer objective and automated scoring, with less human bias.

The PTE is ideal for students who are tech-savvy and want a quick, streamlined testing experience.

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✅ When to Choose IELTS

You should consider the IELTS if:

• You feel more comfortable talking to a person during the speaking section.
• You prefer traditional-style exams, especially on paper.
• You’re applying to universities or visa authorities that specifically ask for IELTS.
• You want a test that is accepted almost everywhere, with a long-standing reputation.

The IELTS is suitable for students who want a globally recognized test and feel more at ease with human interaction and conventional exam formats.

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📝 Final Thoughts: Which Is Better for You?

Both the PTE and IELTS are excellent choices, and both are recognized by top universities and immigration offices around the world. The best choice depends on your personal preferences, your comfort level with technology, and the specific requirements of the institutions you’re applying to.

✔️ Choose PTE if:

• You prefer a fast, fully computer-based test.
• You want faster results.
• You are more comfortable with automated evaluation.

✔️ Choose IELTS if:

• You prefer interacting with a human examiner.
• You want the option of a paper-based test.
• You need a test that is accepted everywhere.

Before booking your exam, check the requirements of your target university or immigration authority, as some may only accept one of these tests or have a preference.

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Still unsure? Feel free to reach out to a study abroad advisor or message us with your questions—we’re here to help you make the right decision for your future.

Studying in the UK is a dream for many students around the world. With world-class universities, a multicultural environment, and a globally recognized education system, the UK offers incredible academic and professional opportunities. But when it comes to choosing what level of study to pursue, many students find themselves confused—should you go for a Bachelor’s or a Master’s degree?

This blog helps answer that question clearly:
If you’re planning to study in the UK, go for a Master’s degree—especially if you have dependents. Avoid pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in the UK if possible.

Let’s dive into the reasons.

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❌ Why You Should NOT Study a Bachelor’s Degree in the UK

1. It’s More Expensive in the Long Run

Bachelor’s programs in the UK typically last three to four years. This means you’ll be paying tuition and living expenses for a much longer period compared to a one-year Master’s program. Multiply that by 3 or 4 years, and the total cost becomes overwhelming.

2. You Cannot Bring Dependents

The UK currently does not allow dependent visas for international students studying at the undergraduate (Bachelor’s) level. That means if you are married or have children, you’ll have to leave them behind—or they’ll need to apply for separate visas, which is costly and complicated.

3. Limited Work and PR Opportunities

While bachelor’s graduates are eligible for the Graduate Route (2 years of post-study work), many entry-level jobs in the UK prefer candidates with Master’s-level qualifications or experience. You may end up underqualified for well-paying jobs despite your long investment in education.

4. You Lose Earning Years

Instead of working or earning, you’ll be studying for 3 to 4 years. In contrast, a one-year Master’s allows you to quickly re-enter the job market with better qualifications.

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✅ Why You Should Study a Master’s Degree in the UK

1. Short Duration, Faster Return on Investment

Most UK Master’s programs are completed in just 12 months, making them time-efficient and cost-effective. You save on living costs, reduce tuition expenses, and enter the job market faster.

2. You Can Bring Your Dependents

If you’re enrolled in a postgraduate program at a university that offers research-based degrees (which most do), you are allowed to bring your spouse and children to the UK.

• Your spouse can work full-time, helping support the family.
• Your children can attend public schools for free.

This is a major advantage that makes studying a Master’s far more practical for families.

3. Eligible for Post-Study Work Visa

After finishing your Master’s, you can stay in the UK for 2 additional years under the Graduate Route. This is an excellent time to gain UK work experience and potentially transition to a Skilled Worker Visa.

4. Better Career Prospects

UK Master’s degrees are highly respected worldwide. Completing one can lead to higher-paying jobs, especially in areas like:

• Information Technology
• Engineering
• Business & Management
• Healthcare & Nursing
• Data Science and Analytics

Employers often prefer candidates with postgraduate qualifications due to the advanced knowledge and specialization.

5. Scholarships Available

Several scholarships are available for international postgraduate students, including:

• Chevening Scholarships
• Commonwealth Scholarships
• GREAT Scholarships
• University-specific awards

This makes Master’s education not only attainable but affordable for deserving candidates.

6. Clearer Path to Permanent Residency (PR)

The combination of a Master’s degree, post-study work visa, and a skilled job increases your chances of qualifying for long-term residency in the UK.

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🤔 Common Questions

Q: Why not do a Bachelor’s and then a Master’s in the UK?

A: That would be extremely expensive and time-consuming. You’d spend 4-5 years just on studying, without guaranteed permission to bring your family. It’s smarter to do just the Master’s and start working sooner.

Q: Can my spouse really work full-time during my Master’s study?

A: Yes, if your course qualifies (which most postgraduate programs at recognized institutions do), your spouse can legally work full-time in the UK.

Q: Can children go to school in the UK for free?

A: Yes, if your child comes as your dependent, they can attend UK public schools without paying tuition fees.

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📌 Final Thoughts

If you’re planning to study in the UK and want the best value for your time, money, and family’s future—choose a Master’s degree.

• It’s quicker.
• It’s more affordable.
• It allows you to bring your loved ones.
• It opens doors to a better career and potential residency.

On the other hand, a Bachelor’s degree in the UK is expensive, lengthy, and restrictive, especially for those with families.

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🎯 So, what’s the smart move?
Study a Master’s in the UK with your dependents—and step into a brighter, faster future.

For international students studying in the UK, the prospect of staying and working after graduation is a significant consideration. While the Graduate Route (formerly known as the Tier 4 Doctorate Extension Scheme) provides a pathway for post-study work, another option worth exploring is the Tier 2 visa.

The Tier 2 visa is designed for skilled workers from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland who have a job offer in the UK. Here’s what you need to know about this visa option and its relevance to international students:

Eligibility Criteria:

To be eligible for a Tier 2 visa, you typically need:

1. A valid job offer from a UK employer who holds a Tier 2 Sponsor Licence.
2. A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer.
3. The required level of English language proficiency.
4. The minimum salary threshold for the specific job role.
5. Sufficient funds to support yourself without recourse to public funds.

Relevance to International Students: For international students graduating from UK universities, securing a Tier 2 visa can be a viable option for continuing their stay and building a career in the UK. Here’s how it can benefit you:

1. Employment Opportunities: The Tier 2 visa allows you to work for a UK employer in a skilled job role, providing valuable work experience and career progression opportunities.
2. Pathway to Settlement: With a Tier 2 visa, you can potentially qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK after completing a specified period of continuous residence and meeting other eligibility criteria.
3. Extension of Stay: If you’re unable to secure a job offer immediately after graduation, you can return to your home country and apply for a Tier 2 visa once you have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer.

Challenges and Considerations: While the Tier 2 visa offers opportunities for international students, there are some challenges and considerations to keep in mind:

1. Job Market Competition: Securing a job offer from a UK employer can be competitive, particularly in certain industries and regions. It’s essential to actively network, gain relevant work experience, and enhance your skills to improve your chances of success.
2. Salary Requirements: The Tier 2 visa has specific salary thresholds that vary depending on the job role and location. Ensure that your job offer meets the minimum salary requirement to qualify for the visa.
3. Visa Application Process: The Tier 2 visa application process involves several steps, including obtaining a CoS from your employer, meeting the English language requirements, and providing evidence of your qualifications and financial status.
4. Changes in Immigration Policies: Keep abreast of any changes in UK immigration policies and visa requirements that may impact your eligibility for the Tier 2 visa.

In conclusion, while the Tier 2 visa presents opportunities for international students to work and build a career in the UK, it’s essential to approach it with careful consideration and thorough preparation. By understanding the eligibility criteria, navigating the job market effectively, and meeting the necessary requirements, you can pursue post-study work opportunities and embark on a rewarding professional journey in the UK.

Studying in the USA as an international student can be a life-changing experience. The United States is home to some of the world’s top-ranked universities, and studying here can provide opportunities for personal and professional growth that can benefit you for a lifetime. However, the process of applying to study in the USA can be daunting, especially when considering factors like tuition fees, living expenses, and admission requirements. In this blog, we’ll explore everything international students need to know about studying in the USA.

  

Admission Requirements
The admission requirements for studying in the USA can vary depending on the institution and program of study. However, some general requirements include proof of English language proficiency, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Some programs may also require standardized test scores, such as the SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT. It’s essential to research admission requirements carefully and start the application process early to ensure a smooth application process.

  

Tuition Fees
The cost of tuition varies depending on the institution and program of study, but international students can expect to pay between $20,000 and $50,000 per year. Some programs, such as medicine and law, may cost significantly more. It’s essential to research the tuition fees of your intended program carefully, as some universities offer financial aid packages or scholarships that can reduce the cost of tuition.

  

Scholarships
International students can apply for scholarships to help cover the cost of tuition fees. These scholarships are often merit-based and are awarded to students with outstanding academic achievements or exceptional talents. Some universities also offer need-based scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need. It’s essential to research scholarship opportunities and eligibility requirements as soon as possible, as the application process can be competitive and time-consuming.

  

Living Expenses
In addition to tuition fees, international students need to consider living expenses such as housing, transportation, food, and healthcare. The cost of living in the USA can vary significantly depending on the location and lifestyle. On average, international students can expect to spend between $10,000 and $20,000 per year on living expenses. It’s important to budget carefully and consider options like on-campus housing or shared accommodation to reduce living costs.

  
Incomes
International students are allowed to work on-campus part樂威壯
-time while studying, and some may be eligible to work off-campus as well. On-campus jobs may include working at the university library, campus bookstore, or student center. Off-campus jobs may include working in local businesses or in industries related to your field of study. It’s essential to research work eligibility requirements and restrictions before applying for jobs.

  
Opportunities after Studies
The USA is home to many high-demand industries, and graduates of US universities have opportunities for career growth and advancement. International students may be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows them to work in the USA for up to 12 months after completing their studies. Some industries, such as technology and healthcare, offer more job opportunities for international students than others.

  
Studying in the USA can be a life-changing experience for international students, providing opportunities for personal and professional growth that can benefit them for a lifetime. By researching tuition fees, scholarship opportunities, living expenses, work eligibility, and admission requirements, international students can make informed decisions and prepare for a successful academic journey in the USA.

When it comes to pursuing higher education overseas, many Nepalese students prefer to study abroad to have  good career, satisfying jobs, work permit and many eventually aim for PR (Permanent Residency).  Therefore it is essential to know, before applying for studies, that which country will suit them most according to students’ academic qualification & future expectations.

 

Though there are many popular countries among Nepalese and other subcontinent students, this analysis is made for students looking for study abroad in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and UK. The below comparison will help aspiring students to acquire knowledge to make best judgment about their career and studies. The analysis covers 4 most common concerns – availability of part time jobs while studying, full time jobs/ works after finishing studies, PR( permanent residency) options available for foreign students and english requirement to qualify for studying abroad.

 

 

WORK PERMIT DURING STUDIES

AUSTRALIA 40 hrs per fortnight (for Diploma, Bachelors, Masters)

CANADA 20 hrs per week (for Diploma, Bachelors, Masters- 1st 6 months work within campus)

NEW ZEALAND 20 hrs per week (for Diploma, Bachelors, Masters)

UK 20 hrs per week – for University students

10 hrs per week – for Govt. College students

0 hrs per week – for Private College students

 

WORK PERMIT DURING VACATION

AUSTRALIA 40 hrs per week (full time)

CANADA 40 hrs per week (full time)

NEW ZEALAND 40 hrs per week (full time)

UK 40 hrs per week (full time)

 

POST STUDY WORK PERMIT

AUSTRALIA Bachelor – 2 years

Masters by course work(duration 2 years) – 2 years

Masters by research (duration 2 years) – 3 years

PHD – 4 years

CANADA If course duration is less than 2yrs work permit will be equal to the course duration and if duration is 2yrs or more then work permit will be of 3 years

NEW ZEALAND 2 years UG Diploma courses or one year Level 7 and above  – 1 year

UK : 2 Years PSW

Possible for students who got 20,000 pounds job offer

PhD students – 1 years

 

PR (PERMANENT RESIDENCY) OPTIONS

AUSTRALIA Point based system. Require 60 points

CANADA Point based system. Require 67 points. PR also possible under PNP schemes.

NEW ZEALAND Point based system. Require 100 points

UK Point based system depending on your category

 

CAREER FIELDS with 樂威壯
JOB OPPORTUNITIES

AUSTRALIA Accounting, Finance, IT, Engineering, Hospitality, Social, Health, Teaching, HR, Construction, Management

CANADA Accounting, Finance, Insurance, Hospitality, Engineering, IT, Networking, Animation, Pharmacy, Hotel Management

NEW ZEALAND Accounting, Finance, Hospitality, Engineering, IT, Health, Social, Construction, Education

UK Production, Mining, Energy, Biological, Biochemists, Physical, Engineering, IT, Business, Architects, Environment, Medical, Social, Musicians, Arts

 

IELTS REQUIREMENT

AUSTRALIA Not compulsory for SVP. Universities decision admission requirement. Most important for GTE. Compulsory for Student/PR  visa .

CANADA Compulsory. UG -6 Band and PG – 6.5 with no band less 5.5

NEW ZEALAND Not compulsory but highly recommended

UK Not compulsory but highly recommended

Mathematics: “Core Courses” for Business Studies.

 

What is a core course?

 

Every student must take the basic course before moving to the next level in their education. These are usually a series of courses such as English, reading or language arts, mathematics, science, foreign languages, civics and government, economics, arts, history, and geography. These core courses of study ensure that all the students take and complete courses considered academically and culturally essential. In addition, these courses teach students the basic foundational knowledge and skills they will need in college or careers or their adult life in general.

 

The classes’ requirements depend on the university; however, there are typically two semesters of math classes included as a core course: College algebra and calculus, similarly to two semesters of accounting and economics classes.

 

 “Why these core courses in business?”

 

Algebra

Most of our students seem not to prefer mathematics and would rather skip it at first sight. We are here to be the devil’s advocate. We know everyone wants to make money, hence the business studies. But, give it a thought, money is the game of numbers. However, business management majors don’t have to take serious college mathematics courses. We do not expect you to take advanced calculus or Math 55, nor do we expect you to solve some of Einstein’s problems. But these math classes for the business course want you to have some mathematical thinking that will be useful later in the day.

Business studies comprise of ability to look at information and process it accordingly. College algebra classes are one of those core required courses for business students so that students can focus on data analysis or mathematics for business application classes. Furthermore, depending on students’ scores or the previous scores from the entrance exams or high school, they might have to take additional algebra classes before moving on to electives.

 

Calculus

The knowledge of probabilities and statistics is vital for any business study where one focuses on business finance. There are many applications of solid math skills in the business world, and it is critical for finance careers and the marketing field where figures are prominent. The calculus in the business degree is usually an introductory class. It will either be Calculus I or business calculus, where detailed studies are not required; however, these classes are enough to give you the basic knowledge. But these days’ business studies are more into mathematically inclined courses. So, again, depending on the university you select, there might be a requirement for additional calculus classes.

 

Economics

These core courses vary on the Major you have selected to master. For example, if your business studies are focused on economics, then the electives you will choose will move forward after the core course to a higher and more challenging level of studies. But for general business studies, you are typically needed to take two economic classes: micro-economics and macro-economics. These economics classes will also include some statistical analyses, where students will study the possible effects of the individual or companies on a larger scale.

 

Accounting 

The other most dreaded course for a few seems to have math difficulties. Business management majors will be required to take a couple of accounting classes. Again, the core course will move towards the electives, depending on your major. For anyone wanting to study the complexity of accounting, the core course from Accounting I and Accounting II will move toward financial and managerial Accounting, slowly increasing the complexity of the study. However, general business studies will only take the basics where you get enough knowledge to sustain.