Question 1

How do I start the study abroad process?

Accepted Answer

Start with a free one-on-one counselling session with our advisors. We assess your academic background, career goals, budget, and target timeline — then recommend the best country, university, and course for you. The session is completely free with no obligation.

Question 2

What is GS Study Abroad's consultation fee?

Accepted Answer

Our initial counselling session is completely free. Any service charges, if applicable, are discussed transparently before we begin. We clearly explain what's included before you commit to anything.

Question 3

How long does the entire study abroad process take?

Accepted Answer

From initial counselling to departure, the process typically takes 6–12 months. Key timelines: university applications (2–4 months), offer letter (1–4 months), visa application (4–12 weeks). Starting early gives the best chance of admission and intake selection.

Question 4

Can you help me if I have a lower academic score?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work with students across all academic profiles. Many countries like Germany, France, New Zealand, Cyprus, and Malta have universities with flexible entry requirements. Some vocational programs prioritise motivation over grades. We always find the most suitable pathway for your profile.

Question 5

Is IELTS required to study abroad?

Accepted Answer

Most universities in the UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland, and New Zealand require IELTS Academic with a minimum 6.0–6.5. Germany has many English-taught programs and accepts TOEFL or Duolingo too. France accepts TOEFL for English programs. We guide you on exactly which test each university requires.

Question 6

What documents do I need to start the application?

Accepted Answer

Standard documents include: valid passport, Class 10 and 12 certificates, graduation certificates (if applicable), English language test scores, updated CV, bank statements, and a Statement of Purpose (SOP). Our team provides a precise checklist for your chosen country and university.

Question 7

Can I bring my family while studying abroad?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in most countries. Canada allows spouses to work if enrolled in a 16+ month program. Australia allows dependants with postgraduate students. UK allows dependants for postgraduate courses. Germany allows family reunification after arrival. Specific requirements vary — our advisors explain the exact rules for your situation.

Question 8

What is your visa success rate?

Accepted Answer

GS Study Abroad maintains a 98% visa success rate across all destination countries. Our visa team prepares every document meticulously, writes strong supporting statements, and has in-depth knowledge of each consulate's requirements and processing trends.

Question 9

What documents are needed for a student visa?

Accepted Answer

Standard documents include: acceptance letter, valid passport, financial proof, language scores, academic transcripts, health insurance, SOP or GTE statement, and biometrics. Germany additionally requires an APS certificate for Indian students. Our team prepares country-specific checklists for every applicant.

Question 10

How long does a student visa take to process?

Accepted Answer

Processing times vary: Canada (4–8 weeks), UK (3–4 weeks), Australia (3–5 weeks), Germany (6–10 weeks), Ireland (4–8 weeks), France (2–4 weeks), USA (3–8 weeks), New Zealand (3–6 weeks). We always recommend starting the visa process at least 3 months before your course starts.

Question 11

What happens if my visa is rejected?

Accepted Answer

Visa refusals are rare with proper preparation — our team anticipates objections and addresses them proactively. In the rare case of a refusal, we analyse the reason, prepare a stronger application with additional supporting documents, and reapply. Most refusals are resolved on the second application.

Question 12

Are scholarships available for Indian students?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and there are many. Germany offers DAAD. UK has Chevening and GREAT. Australia has Australia Awards. France has Eiffel Excellence and Charpak (specifically for Indians). Canada has Vanier and provincial scholarships. We identify all scholarships you are eligible for and help prepare your applications at no extra charge.

Question 13

When should I start applying for scholarships?

Accepted Answer

Most major scholarships (Chevening, DAAD, Eiffel) require applications 9–12 months before the course start date. Chevening closes in November for September intake; Charpak India closes in March–April. We build scholarship applications into your overall timeline so you never miss a deadline.

Question 14

Can I get full funding to study abroad?

Accepted Answer

Full funding is available through competitive scholarships (Chevening, Vanier, DAAD, Eiffel, Fulbright-Nehru). These are merit-based and competitive. For PhD programs in Germany, Canada, and USA, many students receive full tuition waivers plus monthly stipends. Our advisors help assess your chances and build the strongest application.

Question 15

What is Ausbildung in Germany?

Accepted Answer

Ausbildung is Germany's dual vocational training system. You split time between a vocational school (Berufsschule) and a company, earning a monthly stipend of €600–€1,200. It takes 2–3.5 years and leads to an IHK/HWK qualification. Indian students with B2 German can apply for IT, nursing, automotive, business, and hospitality programs.

Question 16

Is studying in Germany really free?

Accepted Answer

Yes — tuition is free at most German public universities, including for international students. You pay only a semester fee of €150–€500 for administration and a public transport pass. However, you must show financial proof (blocked account with €11,208) for your visa application.

Question 17

What is the APS certificate for Indian students in Germany?

Accepted Answer

The APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) verifies Indian academic documents for German university applications. ALL Indian students applying to German public universities must obtain this certificate. The process involves an in-person interview in Delhi, Mumbai, or Chennai and takes 4–6 weeks. GS Study Abroad guides you through the entire APS process.

Question 18

What is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

Accepted Answer

The PGWP is an open work permit allowing Canadian graduates to work full-time for any employer for 1–3 years after graduation. Programs of 2+ years give the maximum 3-year PGWP. It's the primary route to Canadian work experience for Express Entry and permanent residency.

Question 19

What is the difference between a Canadian university and a college?

Accepted Answer

Universities offer bachelor's, master's, and PhD degrees. Colleges (like Seneca, Humber, George Brown) offer 1–2 year diplomas and post-graduate certificates. Both are PGWP-eligible DLIs. Colleges are faster, often more affordable, and have strong industry ties — popular for students seeking quick Canadian work experience and PR.

Question 20

How much money do I need for a Canadian study permit?

Accepted Answer

You must show your first year's tuition PLUS CAD 10,000 for living expenses. For a course costing CAD 20,000/year, you'd need at least CAD 30,000. Funds must be in a savings or fixed deposit account and clearly traceable. Our visa team reviews your financial documents before submission.

Question 21

What is the UK Graduate Route visa?

Accepted Answer

The Graduate Route is a 2-year (3 years for PhD graduates) post-study work visa. You can live and work in the UK in any job at any salary without needing a job offer. Apply within 6 months of completing your degree. It's a common stepping stone to a Skilled Worker visa with employer sponsorship.

Question 22

What is a CAS number and why is it needed?

Accepted Answer

A CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) is a unique reference number your UK university issues after you accept their offer. You cannot apply for a UK Student Visa without it. It's issued via UKVI and is valid for 6 months. GS Study Abroad tracks your CAS issuance and uses it correctly in your visa application.

Question 23

What is the GTE requirement for Australia?

Accepted Answer

GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) is a key criterion for the Australian Student Visa. You must demonstrate your intention is genuinely to study temporarily — not to use the student visa as a backdoor to PR. A well-written GTE statement tailored to your profile is critical for visa success. GS Study Abroad writes strong GTEs for every applicant.

Question 24

Is OSHC mandatory for studying in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is a mandatory visa condition for all Subclass 500 holders. It must be purchased from an approved provider (Medibank, Allianz, Bupa) before applying and must cover the entire course duration. Cost is approximately AUD 50–80/month. We help you select and purchase the right OSHC policy.

Question 25

What is a Statement of Purpose (SOP)?

Accepted Answer

An SOP is a 500–1,000 word essay explaining who you are, why you've chosen the specific course and university, your career goals, and how the program will help you achieve them. GS Study Abroad's team writes and reviews SOPs tailored to each university's specific requirements. A strong SOP can significantly improve admission chances at competitive institutions.

Question 26

What is a Letter of Recommendation (LOR)?

Accepted Answer

An LOR is written by a professor, employer, or mentor endorsing your academic and professional qualities. Most universities require 2–3 LORs. GS Study Abroad provides LOR templates, guidance on choosing the right recommenders, and reviews of final letters to ensure they are strong and tailored to each program.

Question 27

What is the best intake for studying abroad?

Accepted Answer

Most countries have two main intakes: September/October (main, most programs available) and January/February (secondary, fewer programs). Australia also has a July intake. The September intake has the most program options and scholarship availability. GS Study Abroad helps you choose based on your readiness, program availability, and visa timeline.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start the study abroad process?general

What is GS Study Abroad's consultation fee?general

How long does the entire study abroad process take?general

Can you help me if I have a lower academic score?general

Is IELTS required to study abroad?general

What documents do I need to start the application?general

Can I bring my family while studying abroad?general

What is your visa success rate?visa

What documents are needed for a student visa?visa

How long does a student visa take to process?visa

What happens if my visa is rejected?visa

Are scholarships available for Indian students?scholarships

When should I start applying for scholarships?scholarships

Can I get full funding to study abroad?scholarships

What is Ausbildung in Germany?germany

Is studying in Germany really free?germany

What is the APS certificate for Indian students in Germany?germany

What is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?canada

What is the difference between a Canadian university and a college?canada

How much money do I need for a Canadian study permit?canada

What is the UK Graduate Route visa?uk

What is a CAS number and why is it needed?uk

What is the GTE requirement for Australia?australia

Is OSHC mandatory for studying in Australia?australia

What is a Statement of Purpose (SOP)?process

What is a Letter of Recommendation (LOR)?process

What is the best intake for studying abroad?process

Can't find your answer?

Still Have Questions? Talk to a Specialist.