JOIN USDear Sir,
I am currently pursuing my engineering course in computer science (5th semester) at Dr Ambedkar Institute of Technology. I would like to know the ideal time to take up GRE and IELTS exams. I also have a few queries in this regard:
What is a good GRE score for German universities?
What are the subjects to take up at the Master’s level? Is GRE necessary for German universities? Would GRE coaching help me score well? Do GRE and IELTS have equal significance?
Spurthi G
Dear Spurthi,
I appreciate your focus and planning. With computer science engineering as your subject, you can choose to do a Master’s in the same field or in a related field. Having studied the subject for five semesters, you should have a fair idea of what aspect of computer science you want to specialise in. If you have not, give it some serious thought and narrow down your options. Seek the help of a career counsellor. Universities in Germany do not require GRE score. Nevertheless, a GRE score will be an added advantage, though not asked for. A score of 1,300 and above increases your chance of qualifying for many universities, particularly in the US.
Whether to take up coaching or not depends on your abilities. Do the initial survey of the test and its pattern and make the decision. You also have the option of taking mock tests and the opportunity to appear for repeat tests if your score is low in the first attempt. IELTS is to test your English language proficiency and this is a pre-requisite for universities in Europe.
Dear Sir,
I am currently studying 1st PUC in Mangalore. I want to study aerospace engineering in the University of Texas, USA, for which I have to write entrance exams like SAT-1, TOEFL, IELTS. I want information regarding the application and preparation procedure for the same.
Anurag Shetty
Dear Anurag,
Yes, you need to write SAT-1 for admissions to a university in the US. Most universities ask for TOEFL scores for language proficiency. First, check out the method, content and pattern of these tests through published guides by Princeton Review or Kaplan. This will help you decide on whether you need coaching or not. You can also log on to www.sat.org and www.toefl.org for more information. Mangalore has several coaching centres for IELTS, SAT, etc. Remember, you are your best judge. You can do self-study and also take mock tests online.
Dear Sir,
I am a student of Class 12 (science), interested in pursuing a career in the field of pure sciences — physics, astronomy, nuclear physics. I am preparing for IIT-JEE and BITS exam and will be taking them in 2011. Please suggest some good colleges/ universities abroad that offer these courses.
Gauri
Dear Gauri,
I appreciate your interest in pure sciences. Most countries offer a basic degree after Class 12. However, the preferred ones are USA and UK. To study in the US, in addition to academic excellence, you also need high SAT-1 scores along with TOEFL score. Since your focus is on pure sciences, you may be required to give SAT-2 as well. Universities and colleges in the UK look for high academic excellence only. They do not require SAT scores but having them is an added advantage. The choice of universities depends on your performance. Narrow down your choice after you get your scores. I suggest you focus on performing well in school and preparing for additional exams.
Dear Sir,
I have graduated with a major in mechanical engineering with an aggregate of 70%. I am planning to give GRE by the end of the year. Am I eligible for a scholarship if I want to study in the US or Germany? Which of the two countries is a better choice?
Nikhil
Dear Nikhil,
Both USA and Germany have some of the best colleges for mechanical engineering, but only high academic achievers are likely to get financial aid of any sort — be it an assistantship, full scholarship or fee waiver. The situation is a lot harder now, given the state of the global economy. In Germany, the cost of education will cover living expenses as most German institutes are governed by the state and tuition fees is very less compared to that of universities in other countries. Your academic record may not match the cut-off for a scholarship. However, you can apply for one. You can get more details from www.dadd.de/idp. Be on the lookout for advertisements in newspapers when a foreign university or government and other charitable institutions offer scholarships. Browse these websites for more information — www.finaid.org, www.nafsa.org, www.fulbright-india.org, www.fulbrightonline.org, www.IEFA.org, www.uiowa.edu, www.fordfound.org
The author is the Director of Banjara Academy and co-ordinator of Helping Hand. Send your queries to: Studying Abroad, DH Education, Deccan Herald, # 75,
MG Road, Bangalore-560001, or email us at: dheducation@
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