Countries Information
The Great American Dream!
If there was a country post world wars, where aspirations met opportunities in all forms, it has to be the United States of America popularly known as the USA. Founded by immigrants from Western Europe in the 15th century, the country has witnessed an avalanche of immigration of people, culture, values and most importantly ideas from all over the world in the last few centuries, and has made the country a boiling pot of innovation in science, technology, business and education. America has offered opportunity to everyone with a dream and willingness to struggle to achieve whatever they want: be it the case of India’s IndraNooyi becoming the CEO of Pepsi Co. or Obama, the son of a Kenyan immigrant becoming the president of the most powerful country in the world.
A federal republic constituting of 50 states, USA today stands tall in the world as a harbinger of democracy and a symbol of meritocracy in every sphere of life including nurturing of world class institutions providing learning opportunities to hundreds of thousands of international students. In terms of number, USA is the undisputed top destination for students interested in studying abroad.
Life and Culture in the USA
The US is not just an economically and technologically happening place; it is also one of the most vibrant societies of modern times. American culture is an amalgamation of cultures from across the globe. Though the initial influence in the evolution of American culture was overwhelmingly English, Scottish and Irish, today the wider American culture has taken a unique liberal form centered on egalitarianism, liberty and respect for individualism. One can find people from all the religions, ethnicity and speakers of different first languages in USA. Though English is the lingua franca in the entire country, Spanish language is fast emerging as the major second language, with official language status in commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the state of New Mexico. Indian immigrants, in general, blend well with the American society, given our prior knowledge of the English language and prior exposure to American culture through movies and television. Further, major American cities have a considerable number of Indian and South Asian population which enable Indian students to feel at home. It is not very difficult to find Indian groceries or restaurants in places such as New York, San Francisco, Washington DC, Chicago, Los Angeles, Boston, Philadelphia or Austin. However students studying at rural campuses, say in Iowa or Nebraska, might have to explore a bit.
Australia, officially named as Commonwealth of Australia, is one of the most happening places in the world for one to study and live. It is in terms of size the sixth largest country in the world. Australia holds a position of pride as one of the most developed nations of the world. It is also one of the wealthiest countries of the world. The population of Australia comprises of English, Australians, Irish, and Scottish etc. Indians constitute 2% of the total population of Australia.
Life and culture of Australia is quite cosmopolitan in nature. The people of varied nationalities have migrated to Australia and settled there. Although Australia has no official language, English, however, is the most commonly spoken language. Apart from English, other languages such as Mandarin, Italian, Arabic, and Greek are also widely spoken. Australia is a secular country and, therefore, there is no state religion. Nonetheless, the people adhering to Christian way of life and beliefs constitute majority in Australia. Other non- Christian religions such as Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism and Judaism also has its fair share of followers in the country.
Australia experiences temperate weather. Climatic conditions can vary from one part of the country to the other because of the sheer size of the country. The northern part of the country experiences warm weather most of the year while the southern part usually, witnesses cooler winters. Indian population is scattered across the country. Nevertheless, Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth are the places where majority of Indians reside and work in Australia. Also, these are the cities where Indian cuisine restaurants and movie theaters showcasing Indian movies are found the most. These cities have highly cosmopolitan culture and are very welcoming.
From the point of view of employment, tourism is one of the top industries in Australia. Consequently, finding a temporary or a part time job in a hotel or a bar is not difficult. Apart from this, agriculture; manufacturing and telecommunications are other flourishing areas of employment.
Canada is consistently ranked as one of the top countries in the world in terms of quality of life. Apart from high per capita income; Canada has impressive rankings in many parameters of social developments such as access to primary and higher education, healthcare, infrastructure and physical environment. In cultural terms too, it is a very vibrant country with wide scope for immigrants to assimilate in the society. Canada is known for wide availability of cultural activities such as live theatre, dance and music performance, art galleries, museums, etc. Indian population (referred to as East Indian in Canada) numbers at about 1.3 million in the country; and big cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and Mississauga have considerable percentage of India population. It is likely to meet software engineers and tax consultants of Indian origin in Canadian companies.
Canada is one of the greenest countries, not just in terms of the forest cover but also in terms of the awareness and attitude of the people towards the environmental cause. The average Canadian values protection of the natural environment fairly well. There are over 40 national parks and several UNESCO World Heritage sites spread over different provinces. The country offers a soothing environment full of forest covers, natural lakes, mountains and green pastures.
Canada is known for its peaceful social environment and safety of the citizens. University authorities take utmost care to ensure safety of international students on campus, and International Student Offices offer valuable advice regarding personal and property safety issues and social code of conduct.
Another major attraction for Indian students to study in Canada is the fact that Canada today is taking great leaps forward in the realm of technology, a field where the expertise of Indians is well recognized. Scientists, engineers and innovators in both academia and industry perform cutting edge technology to make Canada a knowledge based society. Indians have contributed to evolution both in terms of research, innovation and entrepreneurship. Professionals with Canadian qualifications get distinctive advantage while seeking skill based immigration. Thus, moving to Canada for higher education is a wise decision for your career and life!
Education
Just as the country is diverse in terms of culture, race and religion, the education system also thrives on diversity of opportunities for studying. While maintaining high quality both in knowledge creation and dissemination, Canadian education system offers study opportunities ranging from short term courses of a few months to doctoral level education. Though individual states have jurisdictions over education in their own territories, the country as a whole has national commitment towards quality of education, and institutions get generous federal funding. Canada today is home to several world class universities with the University of Alberta, University of British Columbia, McGill and McMaster ranked in the top 150 universities in the world.
Largely, the educational institutions offering post senior secondary courses can be divided into four categories:
- Technical and Career Colleges
- Community Colleges
- University Colleges
- Research Universities
Students can pick from any of these types of institutions to pursue the programs of their choices, which range from post senior secondary certificates to diploma and from Bachelor’s degree to doctorate. Students also have the choice to opt from urban and semi urban campuses depending on personal preference. The universities and local students generally are very welcoming towards international students as it is the international student community that contributes to the vibrancy of the society and evolution of an innovative system in the country. International students integrate into the local culture through participation in different clubs and societies and at times through part time work.
Germany, the Tech Savvy Country
Germany is seen as a forerunner of cutting edge technology and great innovation driven companies. Brands such as BMW, Siemens, SAP, Bosch, etc. are testimonies to the superior technological advancement Germany has achieved in modern times. But that’s not what Germany is all about. It is one of the most advanced economies in the world with great system of education, healthcare, social security and an interesting history.
Today, Germany is the one of the largest economies of the world and the largest economy of European Union (EU).Numbered at about 82 millions, Germany has the largest population amongst the member states of EU. Germany is a federation with 16 federal units each with its own constitution, parliament and government.
Life and Culture
Situated in Western and central Europe, Germany has geographical diversity ranging from the high Alps in the south to Baltic Sea in the north. Germany is temperate in climate with mild winters and cool summers. However, the eastern part of the country can be extremely cold in winters.
Germany is also sometimes referred to as the land of poet and thinkers. The country has seen great religious and secular philosophers throughout its modern history. It had a flourishing culture of literature; poetry and music post middle ages. If the country gave the world of literature, Goethe and Schiller, it gave birth to some of the greatest philosophers such as Kant; Hegel; Marx and Engels.
Influenced by the greats of the past, German population has held the cultural and intellectual zeal of the nation high. Even in the age of social media, Germany boasts of 240 subsidized theatres, hundreds of orchestra for symphony, thousands of museums and public libraries spread across the country. The land of Beethoven, Germany has embedded symphony and orchestra in the nervous system of its culture. The society in general has an egalitarian outlook with equal rights for both genders and high concern for disability rights. The country has also acknowledged the benefits that immigration brings to modern society, and has changed attitude towards immigration since the 1990s.
Education in Germany
Millions of students around the world go abroad to attend a university. Many of those students choose to come to Germany. It is one of the emerging destinations for Indian students as well. Many Indians travelled to Germany in recent years for higher education. German universities, which combine research and teaching, offers some of the most robust programs in engineering, physical sciences, biomedical sciences and management.
German higher education is known globally for its research, innovation and affordability. However, most public universities offer undergraduate courses primarily in German language; so prior training in German is required. Some private universities offer professional courses solely in English. At masters and doctoral levels, students have many opportunities to undertake study and research in English.
Although education is state funded in Germany, but few courses (especially those in business management) might charge higher fees for non EU/EEA students. Competitive scholarships/grants are available from universities, DAAD and European Commission for some programs. While pursuing the course, students can work for 20 hours per week. Upon graduation, they are entitled to extend residence permit to seek jobs.
The German Advantage
Though Germany has not been a traditionally popular study abroad destination for Indian students, it offers myriad advantage for students who want to study and work overseas. The two major advantages for Indians in pursuing higher education in Germany are the affordability and the employment opportunities after the course. German universities also offer options to pursue either an eighteen months or a two years Master’s degree depending on the student’s career plan. Being a technology hub of the world, some of the world’s largest Fortune 500 companies are based or are operative in German cities. Students are allowed and encouraged to pursue internships with these companies during their studies making way for employment post completion of the course. The key industrial sectors are car manufacturing, mechanical, electrical & precision engineering, chemicals, environmental engineering, optics, medical technology, biotech & genetic engineering, nanotechnology, aerospace and logistics. Since opportunities in both manufacturing and service sectors abound, Germany offers tremendous job opportunities for Indian students pursuing higher studies especially in the fields of engineering, science and management.
POPULAR STUDY STREAMS IN GERMANY
When students move to Germany for higher studies, they are more inclined towards some courses than others. Given below is a description of these courses.
Engineering and Technology
Germany is also known as the technology hub of Europe. It is home to some of the very famous technically oriented enterprises. Within the umbrella of Engineering, one can find many sub disciplines such as chemical, electrical, electronics and automobile. The course gives students a nuanced understanding about the area they choose to study. The course has high popularity level amongst international students who move to Germany for higher studies, preferably higher studies.
Business
Business is another popular field of study when it comes to Germany. The most popular course in this field is Master of Business Administration. The course acquaints its students with the intricacies of the field and hones their entrepreneurial and managerial skills. This field and particularly the course of MBA is quite popular amongst international students.
Healthcare Management
Healthcare Management is a broader area of study which includes courses on Nursing, midwifery, microbiology, and biotechnology. The field is both job and research oriented. Healthcare specialists are the experts in the field whose services are becoming more and more sought after, with every agency hiring them in different capacities. The levels of study range from short term diplomas to degree courses.
Ireland is an island located to the northwest of continental Europe. It is the third largest island in Europe. The population of Ireland is approximately 6.4 million. The country has a vibrant culture and has had significant influence in many areas- particularly in the field of literature and also in science and education. It is a beautiful country with a perfect combination of skyscrapers and pristine countryside, cityscapes steeped in history and rich natural habitats. Renowned for friendliness, the English speaking country offers a warm welcome to students from all over the world.
Climate
The climate of Ireland is similar to that of mainland Britain. One can expect rainfall for the whole year round and none of the seasons are extreme. The culture of Ireland is quite cosmopolitan. One will find people from various nationalities in the country and a fair number of Indians too. Culturally, the country is very rich. Dublin, the capital of Ireland, houses some historic country cottages which have been turned into eateries and cafes while continuing to exhibit an old world charm. The city of Limerick is particularly famous for world renowned art galleries and theaters and is a pure delight for the artistically inclined. Owing to a 3500 km long coastline, water sports are another popular activity in Ireland. Apart from exotic flora and fauna and picturesque landscapes, the country has many more things to offer to make your student life vibrant and dynamic.
The Kiwi Land
Located to the southeast of Australia, the Kiwi land looks as if it is truly towards the end of the earth, but an end that looks like paradise! It is separated from the Australian continent by a 2,000-mile stretch of the Tasman Sea. The country geographically comprises of two main landmasses, that of the North and South Islands as well as numerous smaller islands. Originally inhabited by the Maoris, New Zealand is one of the last lands to be inhabited by humans owing to its remote location. Nevertheless, today this thriving nation attracts tourists, students, immigrants and business from all over the planet. It has a population of about 4.5 million consisting of people of European, Maori, Asian and Pacific Islander heritage. The country’s capital is Wellington while Auckland, being the commercial capital is the largest city with an estimated population of 1.3 million which is almost one third of the country. The country is famous for its beautiful harbor, excellent cafes and nightlife, and many professional opportunities.
Climate and Culture
New Zealand is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary form of democracy in the line of most commonwealth states. The queen of England is the monarch and head of the state for New Zealand even though the law making and executive power is based in the parliament.
New Zealand has one of the most pleasant climates to live in; it has a mild and temperate maritime climate. The level of rainfall however varies from region to region making the geographical landscape diverse. The country’s isolation for millions of years has enabled presence of many exotic species making the country very rich in flora and fauna. This attracts both travelers and biology researcher from across the globe.
New Zealand’s major cultural identity is shaped primarily by Maori and the European heritage. Even though the cities enjoy cosmopolitan culture and way of life, the tribal circles would show distinctive differences between the Maori and NZ European societies. However, with globalization, influence of immigrants of other origin such as Asia, North America and the Pacific is increasingly becoming visible making New Zealand multicultural. In general, New Zealand has a friendly, polite and outgoing population though may be somewhat reserved initially towards outsiders. The country is known for the ubiquitous environmental consciousness and sense of social equality. The country doesn’t have a formal class structure and people take pride in individual achievements and contributions rather than social status. With a low population density, all New Zealanders and visitors have great access to a wide range of sporting facilities, such as golf courses and other cultural and recreation centers. Adventurous spirit is contagious in Kiwi culture and people love outdoor activities including picnics and beach based leisure activities.T
Only a few countries in the world offer a more alluring mix of world class education, cutting edge technology and a vibrant cosmopolitan culture and Singapore is one of them. Underneath the massive skyscrapers that dot the city, you will bear witness to an interesting amalgamation of varied Asian cultures. When combined with its status as the leading business, finance and educational hub of Asia, one feels compelled to acknowledge that there’s truly no other country that can offer young students and ambitious professionals with the kind of exposure that Singapore does.
Life and culture
Singapore is a melting pot of diverse cultures Indian, Malay, European and Chinese. It celebrates ethnic diversity. Moreover, because English is widely spoken you will never feel out of place. In fact the multi-linguistic culture will actually encourage you to pick up and study an Asian language.
For those who live and breathe sports, will love the climate of Singapore, which stays warm and sunny all year round. Activities like windsurfing, wakeboarding, dragon-boat racing and biking excursions happen throughout the year to give you a complete tropical island experience. For those who love nightlife, there are numerous live music bars, mega clubs, and beach bars. Cultural aficionados too can take their pick from local and international music and art offerings, galleries, theatres and museums that dot the city. So no matter what your leisure preferences are, you will find something interesting to indulge in this tropical paradise.
The variety of eatable delights available in this country is so vast that this alone can make you fall in love with Singapore. Singapore’s food scene will tickle your taste buds with an array of Asian and international flavors. There are eateries that dot every inch of the island and operate at all hours of the day and night. Eating if not a national obsession is certainly a national pastime in Singapore.
Singapore is also known as the city of gardens. The entire city is covered with lush belts of greenery ensuring that city’s lungs stay clean and unclogged. Singapore boasts of numerous homesteads, public and private apartments and hostels that are unrivalled in comfort and modernity.
The UK, formally known as the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, is one of the oldest monarchies in Europe. Great Britain comprises of England, Scotland, Wales, and St George’s Channel, and the Irish Sea between UK and Ireland. Though a tiny island nation, Britain has been a world power for hundreds of years in recent history. It is from her shore, people set out for journeys establishing the modern-day United States, New Zealand, Australia, etc. Further, she conquered a major chunk of the globe especially in Asia and Africa. Even though the colonial rule ended post World War II, the British Queen is still the head of many Commonwealth countries.
Great Britain is a constitutional monarchy i.e. the sovereign is the head of the state while the actual power is vested in the elected parliament. Parliament consists of two houses namely the House of Lords and the House of Commons. Britain is one of the world’s leading industrial nations leading both in innovation and the service sector. Northern Ireland, situated in the north east of Ireland comprises the other part of the UK. It has its capital in Belfast and is a European leader in agricultural produce.
Life and Culture in the UK
With a fascinating history and a fervent cultural milieu, UK offers one of the most interesting environments for international students. It is a country bursting with cultural energy and wonderful heritage of centuries. Its colonial relation in almost every corner of the world has made UK’s culture very pluralistic in nature, giving international students opportunities to explore the whole world culturally while studying in a relatively tiny island! Birthplace of Newton, Darwin, Shakespeare, Bertrand Russell, J K Rowling, Charles Babbage and the Beatles, the UK has something for everyone to explore, culturally and intellectually. As a country that is home to one of the world’s largest financial capitals, the world’s richest soccer club-Manchester United, hundreds of musical bands and theatres, the UK offers an incredible array of experiences to live and share. The UK has beautiful landscapes and scenic countryside as well as bustling cities offering a mix of both urban and rural experiences. The British people tend to be sporty and adventurous and the multicultural environment in the cities makes immigrants and international students feel at home. Students can enjoy diverse cuisines from all over the world, attend concerts, participate in popular sport, attend different festivals and explore different folklores throughout their student life.