first year of college

How to get a student visa in Italy | step by step procedures

Michael NzeribeLeave a comment

Thinking of studying abroad and want to apply to study in Italy? You should know that Italian universities are among the most prestigious in the world, and you will not only experience excellent teaching, but also enjoy famous cuisine, magnificent architecture, and many impressive attractions.

To add to this, an Italy student visa is one of the easiest student visas to obtain. The processing time is low and the fees to process the student visa in Italy are also very affordable. 

If you have decided to study abroad, get organized, and wonder what steps you should take, then this article is for you.

In this article, the types of student visas you need have been explained. In addition, you will also find the requirements and a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a student visa in Italy. Keep reading. 

Why choose a student visa in Italy?

If you are an international student, the reasons why you should obtain a student visa in Italy are:

  • Unlike other schools, the cost of education in Italy is quite affordable; so of course, the price of getting a student visa in Italy is also affordable. 
  • When you have a student visa in Italy, you can easily change schools or even change academic programs.
  • An Italy student visa gives you the freedom to work while you study. 
  • With a student visa in Italy, you would have access to various benefits such as grants, scholarships, and loans.
  • Having a student visa in Italy is also a way to fully explore the discounts and many benefits international students enjoy in Italy.

Types of Student Visa in Italy

In Italy, depending on the duration of the study program, there are two types of student visas:

  • Type C Visa: A short-stay visa or travel visa that is valid for one or more entries and a period of only 90 days.
  • Type D Visa: A visa that is valid for more than 90 days.

Procedures for applying for Italian student visas are subject to change, so it is always a good idea to check with the Italian Embassy for the most up-to-date information.

If you enter Italy with a type D visa, you must also report your arrival at the Questura station within 8 days of arrival. A residence permit card will be sent to you to prove your legal resident status in the country.

Please start the process well in advance of your expected date of entry to Italy, regardless of the type of visa you need, as the processing time can be long.

How student visas work in Italy

If you fall into one of the following categories, you will need a short-stay visa to enter Italy and any other Schengen member country:

  • You are a citizen of a third-world country that has not reached a visa-free agreement with the Schengen states.
  • You are a citizen of a third-world country that has signed a visa-free agreement with Schengen states, but you have previously been denied entry to Italy or any other Schengen country.

The Italian authorities want you to prove that you have the financial resources to support yourself during your stay in Italy. Depending on the length of your stay, you will be asked to show proof of the following amounts.

  • Up to 5 days: The total cost is €269.60 per person and €212.81 for groups of two or more.
  • 6-10 days: The daily rate is €44.93 per person and €26.33 for groups of two or more.
  • 11-20 days: The total cost is €51.64 per person and €25.82 for two or more people, plus a daily cost of €36.67 per person and €22.21 for two or more people.
  • More than 20 days: The total amount is €206.58 per person and €118.79 for two or more people, plus a daily amount of €27.89 per person and €17.04 for two or more people.

Requirements or eligibility criteria for student visas in Italy

There are necessary requirements for a student visa in Italy. The documents you would need are-

  • Form to apply for an entry visa
  • One recent passport size photo(s)
  • Authentic travel documentation (expiry date must be three months longer than that of the requested visa)
  • Evidence that you have arranged accommodation in Italy (for the entire period of your studies)
  • Prove that you have sufficient financial resources to support your studies (at least 900 EUR per month).
  • For the first year of studies, a health insurance policy of EUR 150.
  • A copy of a previous education diploma.
  • Acceptance letter from an Italian university
  • Payment of the visa application fee (50 EUR)

Related Article: UK Student Visa Requirements 2022 [DETAILED]

For residents outside the EU

If you are arriving from outside the EU, you must apply for a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) at any post office within 8 days of arrival. The following are the main documents that must be submitted:

  • Photocopy of passport
  • A copy of your health plan
  • Italy National Student Visa
  • A copy of the statement attesting to the studies to be carried out in Italy.
  • Four recent passport-size photographs.
  • Citizens of the European Union
  • Simply request a declaration of presence (dichiarazione di presenza) at the police headquarters (Questura) within 8 days of your arrival in Italy.
  • Now that you know how to get a student visa in Italy, you can apply for your desired bachelor’s or master’s degree. After being accepted by an Italian university and completing the visa application process in his home country, he can start packing his belongings and making travel plans.

How long is the Italy student visa valid?

90-day period. The visa is the Italian government’s approval for you to stay in Italy for the duration of your study abroad program. The Italy student visa is known as a National D Visa, and it is a long-term visa, which means that you intend to stay in Italy for more than 90 days.


Fees and cost of the student visa in Italy

When thinking about getting a student visa in Italy, of course you should know that there are some costs associated with it. For an adult, expect to spend at least $96. However, it is free for children under 6 years old. It is also free for holders of diplomatic, official, or service passports traveling for officials.

How to apply for a student visa in Italy?

Step 1: Accept a college offer

Pay the necessary fees to secure your place at the Italian university of your choice.

Step 2: Call or go to your nearest Consulate or Embassy

Determine the exact visa process for your home country, including required documents, and schedule an interview for your Italian visa application.

Step 3: Meet all the prerequisites

The following are the requirements to obtain a student visa in Italy:

  • A valid passport with at least two blank visa pages is required.
  • A copy of your flight itinerary is required.
  • You must not have a criminal record.
  • You must not have been previously denied entry to Italy.

Step 4 – Go to a visa interview

Submit the requested documents and pay the application fee.

Step 5 – Sit back and wait for the results

You will be notified in writing of the outcome of your visa application.

Step 6: Obtain a Residence Permit

You must apply for your residence permit at the nearest Questura (a type of police station) within eight days of your arrival in Italy. This step must also be completed within 20 days of entering the country for EU students.

Step 7: Apply for an Italian student visa

Because your permit can take several months to create, you may be issued a temporary document during this time.

Italy Student Visa Processing Time

Your visa application processing time should be between one and three weeks, but you should try to schedule your visa interview at least six weeks in advance.

That means you should start the process at least two to three months before your departure date. If you wait too long, any delay in the process may result in you not receiving your visa on time.

Can I get a student visa in Italy without IELTS?

There are no specific language requirements to obtain a study visa in Italy. Since this is one of the mandatory requirements for admission to an Italian university, the consulates do not believe that applicants must also submit evidence of language proficiency.

However, the visa officers will be more impressed and appreciative if you speak at least conversational Italian. You can say “hello” and introduce yourself in Italian, for example.

You must pass one of the following English language tests to obtain an English teaching degree at an Italian university:

  • TOEFL
  • iBT
  • PTE Academic
  • IELTS Academy

Before scheduling a test date, determine the university that accepts which test(s).

Work while you study in Italy

If you are a citizen of the European Union, it allows you to work in Italy without a work permit. However, your work schedule must not exceed 20 hours per week during the semester. If you want to work full time, you can only do so during the semester breaks.

Foreign students from outside the EU must apply for a work permit in Italy at a local immigration office. However, you must first present a signed employment contract and a copy to the immigration office. You may not be able to pay your tuition with a part-time job.

Getting a student job is not that difficult, especially if you speak a little Italian. You can even find work at your university as a library assistant or office assistant for the academic year.

The best places to look for job openings are regional job portals, newspapers, and the International Headquarters Help Desk.

Frequent questions

How long does it take to process a student visa?

Processing time with USCIS can range from 6 to 8 months, plus shipping time, or longer depending on USCIS processing time. You are not allowed to leave the United States while your application is pending. Applicants in B-2 status will not be able to enroll in classes until they have changed to student status or another status that allows them to do so.

Is it easy to get an Italian student visa?

Obtaining a student visa in Italy is simple and fast, and those moving there on such a visa must also register with the police department of the city where they live within 8 days of arrival.

What documents are required to obtain a student visa in Italy?

Enrollment in a university course or pre-registration in a university course; Evidence that you have a place to stay in Italy; Proof of financial aid (minimum €467.65 per month for the academic year, for €6,079.45 per year)

How will I know if my Italy visa has been approved?

If your visa application for Italy is approved, you will be given a passport sticker.

Is an interview required for an Italy visa?

Many people applying for Schengen visas from Italy must attend an interview in person. Do not be alarmed if you receive an invitation to an interview at the Italian embassy as part of your visa requirements for Italy.

What is an Italian visa type D?

This visa allows you to travel in and out of Italy and the other Schengen countries during the first 90 days of your visit; after that, you will do it only with a stay permit.

Conclusion

The presentation of the required documentation does not guarantee the issuance of the visa. Even if you have a visa, the border authorities have the authority to check the documents required for visa issuance again when you enter Italy and the Schengen Area.

Obtaining a student visa in Italy is simple and fast, and those who move here on such a visa must also register with the police department of the city where they live within 8 days of arrival.

How to apply for a student visa in France – Interview, Requirements, Permit

Michael Nzeribe1 Comment

The need for a student visa for France depends on whether you are an EU citizen. You do not need a French student visa if you are a citizen of the EU or EEA, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein. Instead, all you’ll need to legally study in France is a valid passport or another form of travel identification.

If you are a foreigner from anywhere in the world, you will need to obtain a student visa for France in order to study.

This article will serve as a complete guide if you are interested in studying in France and wondering how to obtain a student visa in France. Keep reading.

Types of Student Visa in France

There are various types of French student visas, and the one you need will depend on how long you intend to study in France.

Short stay student visa in France

Short-stay Schengen student visa If your studies will last less than three months and you are sure that you will not stay long in the country, apply for the court séjour pour étude, also known as a short-stay student or Schengen visa. The Schengen student visa is free of charge and cannot be renewed.

Visa to take entrance exams

If you need to travel to France to take one or more university entrance exams, you can apply for a visa de court séjour étudiant Concours, which translates into a visa to take the entrance exams.

If you pass your exam, you will apply for a one-year renewable residence permit. For more information, contact the admissions office of the French institution where you wish to study.

Visa for Temporary Long-Term Stay

The visa is a six-month temporary student visa that allows you to study in France. You do not need to apply for a separate residence permit with this student visa for France.

long term visa

The long-stay visa, also known as visa de long séjour pour études or long-stay VLT-TS, is required if you plan to study in France for more than six months.

This visa serves as a residence permit and is valid for the duration of your program (usually three years for a bachelor’s degree, two years for a master’s program, and four years for a doctorate).

Algerian citizens do not need the VLS-TS, but are subject to different rules. For more information, contact your institution or the French consulate/embassy in your home country.

How does the student visa in France work?

A student visa in France is an entry permit to France granted to third-country nationals who wish to enter and stay in any of the member states for short periods of time to study.

This visa allows the holder to stay in France for a minimum of three months. If your course of study or training lasts longer than that, apply for a long-stay study visa at the embassy of the respective country.

Only citizens of third countries who have not signed a visa-free agreement with the member states of the Schengen Area require a Schengen student visa.

You must send your Schengen student visa application to the Embassy / Consulate / VAC of the main Schengen destination in your country.

France has many accredited institutions. To be part of them, you should consider:  Study in France: how to apply for a visa to study in France

Requirements or eligibility criteria for the student visa in France

The following documents are required to apply for a Schengen student visa:

  • Two visa application forms. Completed in its entirety, with correct and honest answers. Print it out and sign it at the end.
  • Two identical photos. According to the requirements of the Schengen visa photo, taken in the last three months.
  • A valid passport, issued within the last ten years, with a validity period of at least three months after the end of the intended trip
  • A copy of the biometric data of the passport.
  • Previous passports. With an elastic band, to keep them together. Don’t staple them!
  • Evidence of residence. Some type of document issued by the country you are applying from to show that you are a citizen or resident of that country.
  • A round-trip reservation or itinerary specifying the dates and flight numbers to enter and leave the Schengen area. Find out more about how to book a flight reservation for an EU visa application here.
  • Travel medical insurance. A document issued by your European health insurer confirming that you have insurance for the entire Schengen territory for the duration of your stay, with coverage of €30,000 for emergency medical situations.
  • Evidence of lodging. Proof of where you will stay during your visit to the Schengen area. One of the following could be the case:
  • Bedroom rental. Signed by you and a representative of a dorm in the country where you will be staying.
  • Rental agreement A contract with the owner of a property in this Schengen state that specifies the address and other details of the premises and the landlord.
  • A letter of invitation. A letter written by a resident of the country you are applying to enter, confirming their willingness to host you in their home for the duration of your stay.
  • Letter of acceptance from an EU university/college/school. A recent, official, signed letter stating your name/type of study/duration of studies/participation in a European programme, if applicable/number of hours per week.
  • Academic credentials must be shown. Diploma, academic record, certificate of equivalence request or resolution/issuance of equivalence
  • Evidence of financial means. Documents proving the ability to live and be subsidized while in the Schengen area. This could be one of the following options:
  • Scholarship. Original certificate of a minimum monthly scholarship of €631.
  • A bank statement showing your bank balance for the previous three months.
  • Sponsorship.
  • Proof of payment of the visa fee.

Minors must provide additional documentation.

  • Copy of the minor’s birth certificate
  • Copy of the parents’ signature on an identity document (one document for each parent).
  • Declaration signed by both parents that the minor can travel.
  • If applicable, a court order stating which of the parents has custody of the minor.
  • If applicable, declaration of conformity from the minor’s school.

proof of employment

  • If hired: proof of employment contract
  • Get permission from your employer to take a leave of absence.
  • Income tax return

If you are self-employed:

  • Copy of your company license,
  • Bank statement for the last six months of the company
  • Personal Income Tax Return (ITR)

If you are a student:

  • proof of enrollment
  • Letter of No Objection from the University

How long is the France student visa valid?

You will be issued a short-stay visa, known as an “étudiant/étudiant-concours” visa, which allows you to stay for a maximum of 90 days in a 180-day period.

Rates and cost of the student visa in France

The French visa application fee must be paid at the time of application. After completing the payment, you will receive a receipt showing that the payment was made, which must be included in the rest of the documents in the application file.

In France, a student visa costs 50 euros, 55.60 dollars or approximately 3,829 rupees.

How to apply for a student visa in France

Citizens of a variety of countries will apply for a French student visa through Campus France, the country’s official national agency for higher education and international students.

Those students would also have been required to use Campus France to apply to their preferred French institutions using the CEF procedure.

If your country of origin is one of them, you will be in charge of both your university application and your student visa application. You will apply for a student visa to France only after you have been accepted to a program at a French institution.

To apply for your visa, contact the French consulate in your home country and provide them with the following information when requested:

  • An official acceptance letter from the accredited program of a French institution. This must be on official letterhead and include your full name, details of your program of study and the start and end dates of your studies.
  • Evidence of sufficient funds to live in the country. The current monthly requirement is €615 (US$820), which can be demonstrated with a bank statement, a letter from the guarantor or a funding notice for a loan, scholarship or grant.
  • Proof of a flight back home. This is usually a ticket or reservation with the date of departure, but it can also be a handwritten declaration of intent with the expected dates of departure.
  • Proof of medical insurance (minimum coverage €30,000, US$40,150)
  • Evidence of accommodation This can be shown as a confirmation of student accommodation, a board and accommodation certificate, or an ‘attestation d’accueil’ (if you live with friends or relatives).
  • Proof of French proficiency, if you are enrolled in a French course.

France Student Visa Processing Time

Although there is no set processing time for a French student visa, most students will receive a decision within two weeks of submitting their application.

A student visa can be obtained at a French consulate in your country or at Campus France (an institution promoting higher education in France, which has a local office in almost every country in the world). To obtain a student visa in some countries, you must first register with Campus France.

Can I get a student visa in France without IELTS?

The question now is whether IELTS is required for a student visa to France. If you have an acceptance letter from a French university that does not require IELTS, you can apply for a student visa in France.

Once you have your Certificate of No Objection, you can apply for a student visa to France at VFS France. It will again require documentation, and after scheduling an appointment, you must submit your file. You will need to fill in your biometrics as well as a scanned photograph and fingerprints.

Once you have completed both the submission of the file and the biometric data, please allow 10-15 business days to obtain the visa. It is best to start the visa application process three weeks before your flight to France.

You can study in France without an IELTS certificate, but the requirement will vary by university. Because the exam is not state-mandated, institutions develop their own policies and regulations regarding the exam.

Work while you study in France

As an international student with a valid residence permit (VLS-TS), you can work 964 hours a year for a salary (this equates to about 60 percent of full-time employment).

This number of hours is reserved for working between September 1 and August 31. Between September and June, eligible working hours are (up to) 670, while July and August are (up to) 300.

Frequent questions

Is it easy to get a student visa in France?

Yes. A student visa can be obtained at a French consulate in your country or at Campus France (an institution that promotes higher education in France, which has a local office in almost every country in the world). To obtain a student visa in some countries, you must first register with Campus France.

How long does it take to process a student visa?

There is no set processing time for an Indian student visa, but most students will receive a response within two weeks of submitting their application.

How much bank balance is required for a student visa to France?

The current monthly requirement is €615 (US$820), which can be demonstrated with a bank statement, guarantor letter, or funding notice for a loan, scholarship, or grant.

Is it possible for me to stay in France after my student visa expires?

Yes. The VLS-TS student visa allows you to study in France for four months to one year. When you arrive in France, you must validate it. If you want to continue studying after your visa expires, you can apply for a multi-year residence permit (carte de séjour pluriannuelle).

How to Find Free Full Coverage Scholarships From All Over the World?

K Fisher2 Comments

For 2022 it may seem more difficult that usual to find full-ride scholarships, the actual term for “full coverage scholarships.” The typical search for such high end scholarships may seem daunting let alone nearly impossible, until the right actions can be taken. This means being fully prepared and knowing where to start the research process for free full scholarship coverage. The best place to start officially, would be looking at only 5 universities that are on the student’s list. This means 5 respected and accredited universities/colleges or vocational institutions that are held in high regard around the world.

Why, highly regarded universities?

Because the better social response and reputation of a university means that they will have the higher and more credible full-ride scholarships. This ultimately means that the school has received and continues to receive considerable funding from private sponsors, donations from previous alumni, and general funding interest from important companies. This type of private sponsor funding from companies or corporations, also always for a study working relationship. The work-study programs tend to happen when a college and a funding company work together. This is to create a more stable workforce and better career opportunities to students that have recently graduated.

Look for Colleges That Have Multiple Funding Parties

When an institution has multiple funding parties (we will provide a few examples to showcase what this will look like) it makes the full-ride scholarship research that much easier.

Private sponsors for Yale Law University consists of:

  • Democracy Fund, Inc.
  • Floyd Abrams
  • John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
  • Miami Foundation – Legal Clinics Fund
  • Newmark Philanthropies
  • Nolen Bradley
  • Oscar M. Ruebhausen Fund at Yale Law School
  • The Payson R. Wolff Lectureship
  • Stanton Foundation
  • Wikimedia Foundation
  • The William C. Bullitt Foundation, Inc.
  • Avvo, Inc.
  • Ballard Spahr LLP
  • Charles Koch Institute
  • Cooley, LLP
  • Davis Wright Tremaine, LLP
  • Fox Rothschild, LLP
  • Frankfurt Kurnit Klein & Selz PC
  • Greenberg Traurig, LLP
  • Levine Sullivan Koch & Schulz, LLP
  • Patterson Belknap Webb & Tyler, LLP
  • Google
  • Richard A. Bartlett Fellowship Fund
  • Thomson Reuters
  • Littler
  • Microsoft
  • Omidyar
  • Rock Center Stanford University

When an institution starts to pull in the “big brand names” like Google or Microsoft, this means that there has been a partnership for a work-study program with that company. And atlas, there has been multiple full-ride scholarships for interns that wish to work at Google who had previously attended Yale.

Look for “Research at” Accountable Scholarship Opportunities

Let’s take Brown University for a great example:

When it comes to “research at” this is a term that is referenced to institutions that have a study research program available but only with that funding partner at that current time. This changes from year to year, so academic students need to be on the look out for these particular comments.

Research at Brown University cites this as “Sponsored projects” which includes:

  • Strategic Funding: Aging, Cancer, Illness, DEI, Biomedical Engineering, A.I. Technology, Public Health, Humanities, Population studies, and various neurological diseases. Specific private sponsors can be reached out to, asking for funding on a project that fits into one of these categories.
  • International funding (from the university itself): Research Seed Awards, Humanities Research Awards, Research Achievement Awards, The Peter G. Peterson Foundation Research Fund, Salomon Faculty Research Awards, and etc.
  • Research Development and Grant Writing News
  • Foundation Funding Opportunities
  • SPIN Funding Database
  • Grant Resubmission Awards
  • Center for Vision Research Awards
  • Native American and Indigenous Studies Initiative Research Funding
  •  SURDNA Fellowship
  • Carney Institute for Brain Science Research
  • Cogut Institute for the Humanities
  • Center for the Study of Race and Ethnicity in America
  • Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies (CLACS)
  • Brown Arts Initiative (BAI) 
  • Advance-CTR
  • Cancer Center Research

And much more that is not currently present in this list.

Another university to look at when it comes to private funding sponsors is Cambridge University. This university has been known throughout time as the one and only sure writing college that has produced the greatest authors the world has come to know.

Students researching for more funding opportunities at Cambridge University would need to look at:

  • Government financial support
  • Cambridge financial support
  • Widening Participation Scholarships
  • Ph.D. Program for Health Professionals
  • Gates Cambridge Scholarships
  • Wellcome Sanger Institute 4-year Ph.D. Students
  • Malati Kanbur Fund Scholarship
  • EMBL International Ph.D. Scholarships
  • Ivan D Jankovic Scholarships
  • Peterhouse Postgraduate Studentship Competition
  • Kanders Churchill Scholarship
  • Fitzwilliam College – Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship
  • Trinity Internal Graduate Scholarship
  • Daiwa Anglo – Japanese Cambridge Scholarship
  • Inlaks Cambridge Scholarship
  • DeepMind Cambridge Scholarship
  • Rowan Williams Cambridge Studentship
  • Roberta Sykes Cambridge Scholarships
  • Dunlevie King’s Hall Scholarship
  • Doris Zimmern HKU Hughes Hall Scholarship
  • Woolf Fisher Scholarship at Cambridge

With over 444 scholarships available from the Cambridge University website alone, it goes to show just how many full-ride scholarships are a viable option for students. Students that are looking to either attend Cambridge or not, will find both types of scholarships available. Even if students are not attending Cambridge, will find private sponsors who have scholarships readily available that have full coverage tuition to any university of that student’s choice. Not all scholarships are destined to be used at a single university. There are multiple scholarships that are available to students who choose to study only 2-years at Cambridge and then decide to transfer to another graduate school/institution.

Preparing in Advance by Understanding the Scholarship Guidelines

Now, not all scholarships require a student in-person or online interview but some of the higher end full coverage scholarships to require this. This is a essential step for admissions or the panel of judges of that particular scholarship to study and see if they student they are interviewing does in fact, fit the eligible requirements that are needed for the scholarship that is being handed out. A lot of full-ride scholarships are competitive because they are worth more than 60,000 euros or $85,000 USD. The reason these full-ride scholarships are worth so much is to fully cover all tuition yearly fees plus the additional course fees that comes along with textbooks and equipment.

Now, since we are talking about textbook and equipment fees, students need to understand that these fees can add up to a huge amount quite easily. A lot of student believe that tuition fees is one of the only major fees they need to worry about. When in reality, it’s tuition, textbook and equipment course fees that add up.

While a first year student’s textbook fees can average to over $1,200.00 USD, just from gathered statistics since 2021. That number does go up each academic year. Equipment fees can easily add to around $1,000.00 USD since this includes owning a laptop and any technology that will aid in classes. This does not cover the accommodation fees that are also present. Accommodation fees will be covered entirely with a full-ride scholarship which is perfect for students who wish to cut down “out-of-pocket” costs as much as possible.

By researching in advance, a student would need to look into these facts and figures when before applying for a full-ride scholarship:

  • How much will a first-year and full-time accommodation cost at the university?
  • How much will 3 meals a day cost?
  • How much is the total cost of textbooks?
  • What about the equipment fees that are needed for certain courses?
  • Then calculate tuition annually

Afterwards, a student will be able to tally a round number to look for a full-ride scholarship that covers all of the total cost plus extra. This doesn’t even include transportation costs. Transportation costs if a student uses the local metro or bus system can cost around $200.00 USD per month.

These are huge essential costs a student needs to estimate before they happen. If a student can at least have this all figured out a year before their initial start date at the university of their choice, this will be the best outcome.

Apply to Many Full-Ride Scholarships

Students will find out that their is no limitations when it comes to applying for scholarships. Technically (students should read the rules attached to the scholarships first) students can apply for as many scholarships as they would like. There have been moments where a single college student has applied to 200 scholarships and has won 100+ in scholarship funding.

So students should not shy away from applying to many full-ride scholarships, also this method always the student to have enough funding to cover as much of the college cost experience as possible.

Leadership Skills Will Help Any Student Stand-Out From the Rest

When a college application or a scholarship application ask about skills, the real advantage they are looking for out of a pool of applicants is leadership skills. This may be one of the best known open secrets to applying for a scholarship. What skills a student lists will easily be skills that the panel of judges will literally judge them upon.

If a student can share their leadership skills with research projects or volunteer projects, this always for physical evidence to be seen by the judges of any scholarship funding award. This means students should always be able to find physical evidence of some sort from a project they have led, to give as inspiration on their application form.

As a matter of fact, students should seek out guidance or information from their mentors or professors who will write them a ‘letter of recommendation.’ Why? Typically, this mentor or professor has written a ‘letter of recommendation’ before, along with having to fill out their own scholarship applications when they themselves where just students. Having insight given from a personal perspective can help another to gauge and narrow down what there skills should be. And especially what skills should be talked about.

Mentors or guidance professors can easily help a student to be realistic about the college situation. This is needed for a student who has no prior understanding of what it means to apply to college. Or let alone apply for scholarship application.

The Biggest Mistakes Happen When The Rules Are Not Followed When Applying

The amount of times a university or foundation will show that simple spelling and grammar mistakes happened on scholarship applications, actually led to an exceptional student to not be chosen is surreal. There are so many stories of students who accidentally spelled a word wrong multiple times and did not consider that spell check could save them a lot of heartache… in fact just left those misspelled words to be read by admissions.

These mistakes can be fixed before sending in the application form. This is something all students should double check, use quality control to understand that an application must be 100% correct. With correct and accurate information. This is another thing admissions and judge panels run into, incorrect information about the student. How this happens so much is beyond any knowledge at this point, but if a student’s legal name is David, for example. And instead the student puts down their nickname, this is considered incorrect information. That means the student’s application will be tossed, ignored, or dismissed based on the student providing false information.

These small incorrect inconsistencies can be fixed. And should be fixed before submitting any application.

Don’t Forget To Write a Cover Letter

Some individuals may believe that cover letters only belong to employers who applying for a job. But that is not the case, colleges and funding foundations will ask for cover letters. This is an essential step to see if the student can simply follow directions correctly. Why? Because over 45% of applicants who are applying for scholarships do not send in a cover letter. This is a staggering amount that was reported in 2020 and it showed that the 45% reported had been dismissed even if they did fit all of the eligible positions for a specific scholarship application. Simply because that student did not follow directions.

All students who are sending in scholarship application forms should thoroughly read and re-read the directions when it comes to applying. Because half the time, there is valuable information missing along with simply directions not being followed.

This is a strategic test that most college’s will put out a step-by-step guideline for students to follow, just for admissions to witness which students do not follow direction. This will weed out 15% of the first-year population of students that send in college admission applications.

Free-Ride Scholarships Are Everywhere, Not Just Specific Countries

However, for example if a student is looking to only study in the United States on a free tuition education, they should consider looking at eligible requirements that point towards free attendance universities. There are no limitations when it comes to a higher education even though some will say otherwise. It’s all about being able to research and being able to navigate university database’s online. For example, did you know Cambridge University has over 200 extended webpages that’s part of their online college course education server? Exactly, but then again students will not sit there and count out how many webpages are available through a university campus server.

Another example, when it comes to looking at specific countries and if they have free full-ride scholarships available, how does a student narrow that research? A great example is from our own database where we narrow that search down for students. If students are interested in attending abroad in Norway, they should look at the top glances of a free education in Norway.

We have covered several countries that offer free full-ride scholarships for international students who wish to travel abroad. But, that means traveling away from family with very little funding of their own. That’s why it’s a great advantage to look up which countries have full-ride scholarships available for certain priority students.

What Does Priority Student Mean?

A priority student refers to students that come from certain countries. And these certain countries will have students who for example wish to study abroad in the United States. Some scholarships only cater to students who come from South Africa, Uganda, or Australia. These priority scholarships are designed to reach students who may otherwise find themselves unable to attain a full-ride scholarship.

Students will be able to find this priority scholarships by looking at what countries are listed out as “priority countries” for that specific scholarship. Certainly students can call the admissions of any college and ask for their nations priority scholarships, which will be given in list form to the student. This is another easy way to find the exact scholarships a student would be deemed “perfect” for.

Research Means Gathering Essential Data

All in all, to wrap up this conclusion of free full-ride scholarship research, students need to understand that research is the only route to use here. If a student does not do their research, then how will they know what scholarship is in fact a free full-ride scholarship? Simple, the would not know unless they attempted to conduct the research.

Students should first contact the universities they intend to apply to or have a general idea of which college they wish to attend. Contact admissions, and ask about the available scholarships that are given out by the college before the first-year students need to attend to classes on campus. This will be a great start for students who are unsure about where to start in their scholarship journey.

A Look At Egypt’s Universities for All International Students

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Let’s dig into the universities that Egypt has bestowed upon the world, which happened to be ranked within the top 200 universities to attend.

The type of institutions available is essentially split into three different types of higher education schools. These colleges can be vocational or taught with a work-ready on-site approach, the second focuses on all things scientific, while the third is the prime academic sector.

Now, domestic students do not have to pay any kind of tuition or fees, because as an Egyptian citizen, all higher education is free. If a student wishes to not live on campus, there are hostels that work with a number of colleges that provide free accommodation for university students.

Egypt’s Universities

What can be expected from Egyptian international universities, or the fact that most of Egypt’s schools were initially international institutions, to begin with? International students pay incredibly modest tuition and additional fees that are part of the college process.

Cairo University

Cairo University is ranked amongst the top international universities in the world. As a matter of fact, this ranking has been established since the 1980s. Since the early 2000’s multiple new programs and field studies were introduced to the university. These new programs are construction engineering, computer engineering, telecommunications engineering, mechanical design engineering, architecture, engineering, construction, technology, petrochemical engineering, water, and environmental engineering.

The American University in Cairo

This international institution has a record 4.2 out of 5-star rating with over thousands upon thousands of reviews. Also, the school ranks at about 18 on the national and worldwide higher education scale. The tuition is based and paid “by credit hour” which is very different from the annual tuition that most students would face anywhere else. However, this is an effective strategy for students to take their school time seriously.

Undergraduate programs available for any international student to apply for:

  • Actuarial Science
  • Architectural Engineering
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Computer Science
  • Computer Engineering
  • Construction Enigneering
  • Data Science
  • Electronics and Communications Engineering
  • Mathematics
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Petroleum Engineering
  • Physics

Ain Shams University

This university provides higher education levels for everyone applying for an undergraduate to post-graduate status. The higher education school has available facilities that act as separate teaching areas within the campus grounds. This was created to help students to focus primarily on the degree or major they wanted to attain.

The faculties available:

  • Faculty of Agriculture (4 years)
  • Faculty of Arts
  • Faculty of Commerce (4 years)
  • Faculty of Computer and Information Science (4 years)
  • Faculty of Education (4 years)
  • Faculty of Dentistry (6 years)
  • Faculty of linguistics (Al Alsun) (4 years)
  • Faculty of Law
  • Faculty of Medicine (7 years)
  • Faculty of Nursing
  • Faculty of Pharmacy (5 years)
  • Faculty of Engineering (5 years)
  • Faculty of Science (4 years)
  • Faculty of Specific Education
  • Faculty of Women for Arts, Science and Education
  • Faculty of Archaeology (4 years)
  • Institute of Environmental Studies and Research
  • Institute of Postgraduate Childhood
  • The Higher Institute of Cooperative & Managerial Studies

British University in Egypt

The British University of Egypt has successfully poised itself as a top model for international students. This means that the institution upheld some of the best quality efforts that international schools around the world now have adapted as their own mission and motto.

This is a private education school, along with being ranked as the best top 10 colleges rated by international students. The programs available:

  • Business Administration & Economics & Political Science
  • Dentistry
  • Engineering
  • Energy and Environmental Engineering
  • Information & Computer Science
  • Mass Communication
  • Nursing
  • Pharmacy
  • Arts and humanities
  • Law
  • Arts and Design

Alexandria University

As a student researching for which university to attend in Egypt, that may feel a bit impossible because, in reality, Egypt is equipped with low tuition costs and an avast array of field studies to choose from. Along with international students being able to secure free accommodation and traveling to the campus using the free transportation that is available.

Alexandria University may be just one of the most stunning archeological wonders to exist. The college opened in 1942 under a different name but was soon changed. Alexandria is one of the three largest universities to exist in the country. Mulitple famous alumni and prior students have studied and graduated from this wonderful college.

Here are the faculties that students can choose from:

  • Art
  • Law
  • Commerce
  • Communications
  • Enginnering
  • Science
  • Nursing
  • Medicine
  • Fine Arts
  • Physical Education for Girls
  • Physical Education for Boys
  • Agriculture
  • Education
  • Dentistry
  • Tourism and Hotels
  • Economic Studies & Political Science
  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Graduate Studies and Research
  • And mulitple faculties that will be opening within the next three years.

Mansoura University

The Mansoura University is strictly related to providing information and studies about the culture in Egypt. From preserving the language and history, this school is specifically for students who are interested in immersing themselves in the archeology of Egypt.

Zagazig University

The public university is nearing it’s 50 year anniversary of being open to students soon. And even a famous actress and geneticist have graduated from this institution. Students can expect to profoundly increase their knowledge of modern standard Arabic since this school does not provide any English classes. However, the best part is that international students are highly welcome to become proficient in modern standard Arabic.

Al Azhar University

A public university that is Egypt’s official oldest degree earning building. The insane number of networking and combined education efforts that Al Azhar works with many different colleges, has seen over 2 Million students pass through it’s doors. Al Azhar has the most affiliation when it comes to working with research institutions, graduate colleges, and vocational schools.

To gain admission to this stunning university, a student would need to complete and successfully pass the Arabic program. This means international students should apply for admission if they have a standard basic understanding of the language. This will be the biggest test that signifies if a student should be admitted or not.

Programs available include:

  • Life sciences
  • Agriculture & Forestry
  • Business & economics
  • Business & Management
  • Physical sciences
  • Chemistry
  • Clinical, pre-clinical & health
  • Medicine & Dentistry
  • Arts & humanities
  • Architecture
  • Social sciences
  • Geography
  • Computer science
  • Computer Science
  • Engineering & technology

Helwan University

Helwan is massively considered to be possibly the most unique model among Egyptian Universities. The university was able to envelop and evolve several classes such as arts, fine arts, applied arts, art education, music education, and physical education faculties. Located within the industrial area of the city, students have seen Helwan as a beckon or a symbol of hope when it comes to higher education.

Faculties at Helwan University are:

  • College of Fine Arts
  • Faculty of Engineering (Helwan)
  • Faculty of Engineering (Al-Materia)
  • College of Commerce and Business Administration
  • Faculty of Computer and Information
  • Faculty of Tourism and Hotels
  • Faculty of Applied Arts
  • Industrial Education (Engineering Science)
  • College of Home Economics
  • Faculty of Art Education
  • College of Music Education
  • Faculty of Physical Education (Boys) at Al-Haram
  • Faculty of Physical Education (Girls) in the island
  • Faculty of Law
  • College of Literature
  • Faculty of Education
  • Faculty of Pharmacy
  • Faculty of Social Work
  • Faculty of Science
  • College of Nursing
  • Faculty of Medicine
  • National Intellectual Property Institute
  • Faculty of BIS – Business Information systems
  • Faculty of FMI – Financial Markets & institutions

Assiut University

Now Assiut University is solely a pure government institution. Where foreign policy and international trade agreements are studied to an infinite degree. With over 16 facilities and a massive teacher-to-student ratio, about 4 to 5 students per teacher, Assiut has made an impact on the government in Egypt.

The university was founded back in the 1950s, where students have the option to choose which language they would prefer their major field study to be taught in, which include English, Arabic, French, or German.

Assuit may be best known for its affiliations with several hospitals since many doctors end up graduating from this higher education school.

Beni-Suef University

As a prior branch of the university from Cairo University in the last 1970’s, this university found its footing in the 2000’s and became an independent institution. This university has a mighty unique way of teaching its students the way of economic leadership.

Facilities available for newcomers:

  • Commerce
  • Law
  • Arts
  • Education
  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Medicine
  • Nursing
  • Physical Education
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Industrial Education
  • Pharmacy
  • Science
  • Information Technology
  • Computer Science

Suez Canal University

The most known thing this university has been known for since the 1970s is it’s use for non-traditional degrees. There are many centers and events that take place, which have so far have been split into varying areas. For example, The Center Of Open Education looks to provide an open opportunity to continue education for a student who has held a high school degree or a technical diploma. Yet, this student desires to raise and improve their educational and cultural level. This refers to obtaining a bachelor’s degree granted by the faculties which participate within the accurate and chosen program.

The Suez Canal University Hospital is known for its top-grade health care services and for its intensive nursing training programs.

The Information and Communication Technology Center looks to have all of its educational centers and systems working at its optimal rate, and the university has created new programs that focus on cyber security and chief finance security based on the ever-changing technological world.

Tanta University

Originally this independent branch was covered by the University of Alexandria as the official medical training center and unit. However, in 1973 the institute would go on to become separate from the University of Alexandria to pursue a different set of desired courses.

Many of the programs available are primarily medicine or health services related. Although they have added Arts, Law, Education in Tanta, and, Agriculture. The Tanta University has opened up a whole new Master’s major that works with biotechnology and genetic technology.

Future University in Egypt

Future University in Egypt is one of the best private universities in Egypt, offering high-quality academic education, undergraduate and postgraduate.

The type of faculties available:

  • Faculty of Oral and Dental Medicine
  • Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmaceutical Industries
  • Faculty of Engineering and Technology
  • Faculty of Economics and Political Science
  • Faculty of Commerce and Business Administration
  • Faculty of Computers and Information Technology

Menoufia University

Maybe the most famous university in the country, where the university originally had started with four colleges (converged as one). They were the College of Agriculture, the College of Engineering, the College of Education, and the College of Electronic Engineering.

The main faculties included:

Faculty of Engineering
Faculty of Science
Faculty of Agriculture
Faculty of Arts
Faculty of Medicine
Faculty of Commerce
Faculty Of Education

Minia University

Minia is known for its encouraging studies and enthusiasm for literature. However, the available faculties will be listed below, they have an average of 17 branches based field studies that go off into various sub-genres.

Facilities available here:

  • Faculty of Agriculture[9]
  • Faculty of Education
  • Faculty of Science
  • Faculty of Arts (off campus)
  • Faculty of Fine Arts
  • Faculty of Engineering (off campus)
  • Faculty of Medicine
  • Faculty of Physical Education
  • Faculty of Dentistry (off campus)
  • Faculty of Dar Al-Uloom (Islamic teachings)
  • Faculty of Nursing
  • Faculty of Tourism and Hotels
  • Faculty of Al-Alsun (languages)
  • Faculty of Pharmacy
  • Faculty of Computer Science
  • Faculty of Specific Education
  • Faculty of Kindergarten

A major event the university is known for is their week-long disabilities sporting event which was the first-ever in the country’s entire history.

Misr University For Science And Technology

This is a private institution that will take a bit more of the required guidelines to receive a letter of acceptance when it comes to international students. This university is best known for producing some of Egypt’s top scientists in the field of science and technology. A lot of connected research labs that are out of Dubai, work with Misr University.

This may even be described as a prime research scientific university but it depends on the category or field subject a student has decided to pursue.

Fayoum University

Fayoum University is known as a great public university located in the Egyptian city of Faiyum in northern Egypt. During the collective years of 1976 to 2005, Fayoum University was granted public institution status within and in partnership with the University of Cairo. In 2005, it was established as an independent campus with 2,000 faculty members and a general enrollment of 25,000 students.

Tourism is one of the biggest major’s available at Fayoum. The reason comes down to the location of the university itself, where tourism is booming constantly year-round. This ended up becoming a great graduate degree where business arrangements and marketing can receive first-hand and real-world experience.

The Faculties available include:

  • Faculty of Ed
  • ucation
  • Faculty of Agriculture
  • Faculty of Engineering
  • Faculty of Social Work
  • Faculty of Dar Al-Uloom
  • Faculty of Science
  • Faculty of Tourism and Hotels
  • Faculty of Specific Education
  • Faculty of Archaeology
  • Faculty of Medicine
  • Faculty of Arts
  • Faculty of Computer science and Information
  • Faculty of Early Childhood Education
  • Faculty of Nursing

MSA University

University for Modern Sciences and Arts is located in Cairo, Egypt was founded in the latter part of the 1990s. The actual doctor who discovered and created the university was known as the “pioneer of the Egyptian private education.” The university is accredited and in great standing partnership with the United Kingdom by both ties to the Egyptian and British ministry of education. It is here that graduate students from the United Kingdom (who can study in Egypt) or students from Egypt can study in Britain without any equivalence.

Students can earn dual Bachelor’s degrees at MSA if they indeed study hard, and choose work-study programs to earn valuable experience and education networking.

Pharos University in Alexandria

This is one of the only non-governmental and profit-making universities in Alexandria, Egypt. Pharos University is still fairly new since its inception in the mid-2000’s.

Facilities involved and available include:

  • Pharmacy
  • Engineering
  • Dentistry
  • Translation
  • Languages
  • Administrative Sciences
  • Tourism
  • Hotel Management
  • Business
  • Physical Therapy
  • Art
  • Mass Communication
  • Design

Nile University

Nile University is the first non-profit, research university in Egypt. Founded in 2006 with the support of the Egyptian Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. Because of the combined effort of staff at the Egyptian Ministry and students alike who were looking for a non-profit institution that could be considered a pure research center.

This is a competitive university that sees an annual waitlist. Students would need to apply early as possible and before the academic new year begins.

Round Up

The clever scope Egypt has entrusted its academic and highly progressive universities, colleges, and institutions with is nothing short of astonishing. Students that transfer or spend a year or two studying at an Egyptian college have shown that not only have their academic grades improved but they far better understand international policy.

Attending a university in Egypt would be essential to a potential student’s career if they were to enter politics, science engineering, nursing (Egypt has one of the top hospital centers and nursing schools on record) as well as data scientist. Most students may not even have Egypt on their radar as a possible abroad option, but they should.