IELTS / TOEFL
Show your English-language level. Many universities ask for one of them from international students.
Study guide
Your study abroad guide
A plain-language overview of the timeline, documents, tests and funding behind a study abroad plan. Requirements change by country and university, so treat this as a map, then talk to us for your exact route.
Timeline
When to do what
- 12-18 months before
Explore and shortlist
Think about subjects, countries and budget. Meet a consultant, compare universities and programmes.
- 9-12 months before
Tests and language
Book and prepare for English-language and admission tests (IELTS, TOEFL, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT where required).
- 6-9 months before
Applications
Write your personal statement, request references, gather transcripts and submit before each deadline.
- 3-6 months before
Offers and funding
Compare offers, accept one, and apply for scholarships and financial aid.
- 2-4 months before
Visa
Prepare financial and academic documents, submit the visa application and prepare for any interview.
- 1-2 months before
Pre-departure
Arrange accommodation and travel, and attend an orientation on life, culture and rules abroad.
- After you land
Settle in
Register at your university, meet student support services and keep in touch with us.
A typical timeline. Deadlines differ by university and programme, so start early.
Documents
The paperwork most applications ask for
Start collecting these early; some take weeks to obtain.
- Valid passport
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- English-language test result (if the programme requires it)
- Personal statement / statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- CV or resume (usually for postgraduate and doctoral applications)
- Proof of funds / financial documents (for the visa stage)
- Passport-size photographs
- Portfolio or research proposal (only for certain programmes)
Exact requirements differ by country, university and programme. We give you a personal checklist.
Tests
Which test is for what
SAT / ACT
Standardised tests used by some universities for undergraduate admission, mainly in the United States. Some universities do not require them.
GRE / GMAT
Used by many graduate and business programmes. GMAT is mainly for business schools.
We offer preparation for IELTS, TOEFL, SAT, ACT, GRE and GMAT. Whether you need a test depends on the university and programme.
Funding
Types of scholarships and financial aid
Eligibility and amounts vary. We help you find and apply for the ones that fit.
- Merit-basedAwarded for academic results or other achievements.
- Need-basedAwarded based on your financial situation.
- University scholarshipsOffered directly by the university you apply to.
- Government and externalOffered by governments, foundations and private organisations.
- Research fundingCommon for doctoral study, such as research or teaching assistantships.
Intakes
When programmes usually start
United StatesFall (Aug-Sep) and Spring (Jan) intakes are common.
United KingdomThe main intake is September; some programmes start in January.
CanadaFall (Sep) and Winter (Jan) are common; some programmes start in spring or summer.
AustraliaSemester 1 (Feb-Mar) and Semester 2 (Jul-Aug).
EuropeAutumn / winter semester (Sep-Oct) is common; some programmes start in spring.
MalaysiaSeveral intakes a year are common; dates differ by university and programme.
AsiaOther Asian destinations: intakes vary by country and university.
Typical intake periods. Always confirm exact dates with the university.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
When should I start planning?
As early as you can. Starting 12 to 18 months before your intended intake gives time for tests, applications, funding and the visa. Deadlines differ by university, so we confirm them for your case.
Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?
Many universities ask international students for an English-language test, but requirements differ by university, programme and country. During your consultation we check what applies to you and help you prepare.
How do I choose the right university and programme?
We look at your academic background, interests, career goals, budget and preferred country, then help you compare options so your shortlist fits you, not just rankings.
How much will studying abroad cost?
Tuition and living costs vary widely by country, city, university and programme. We help you compare options and build a realistic budget, including scholarships and financial aid you may be eligible for.
Can you guarantee admission or a visa?
No honest consultancy can. Admission decisions are made by universities, and visa decisions by immigration authorities. What we can do is make your application complete, accurate and as strong as possible, and guide you at every step.
Do you help after I arrive?
Yes. Our support continues after you land: accommodation, transportation, connecting with your university's student support services, regular check-ins and emergency support.
Do you help with scholarships?
Yes. We help identify scholarships, grants and other financial aid offered by universities and private organisations, and support you with the applications.
How do I get started?
Contact us by phone, email or the form on our Contact page, or visit our Yangon office. Tell us what you would like to study and where, and we will arrange your first consultation.
Not sure where to start?
Book a consultation and we will build your personal checklist.