YSEALI Learns is back with new courses! We are excited to announce the launch of the 2024 YSEALI Learns virtual and hybrid courses that you can take with other young leaders from Southeast Asia and learn the remarkable deep knowledge about developing youth leadership, community, and social enterprises!
Developing, Mentoring and Supporting Youth Leadership (Online) Community Organizing for Action (Hybrid, Jakarta) Creating and Maintaining Social Enterprise (Hybrid, Kuala Lumpur)
The 2024 YSEALI Learns semester comprises three different topics. Each session will be facilitated by an expert speaker followed by small breakout room discussions. The courses will focus on developing organization, community organizing and social enterprise, through three YSEALI Learns online and hybrid courses:
VIRTUAL – Developing, Mentoring, and Supporting Youth Leadership (3 sessions): You will learn to help create an effective and lasting effort to lead your youth community toward positive outcomes by curating strategies and programs, resources, how to overcome the challenges with conflict management, and best practices around youth development.
HYBRID – Community Organizing for Action (1 online & 1 in-person session in Jakarta): You will learn about how to inspire and engage volunteers to be proactive in their communities and organize grassroots campaigns as it is essential to the success of most non-governmental organizations involved in community development.
HYBRID – Creating and Maintaining Social Enterprise (1 online & 1 in-person session in Kuala Lumpur): You will learn about how to understand strategic planning, creating ways to carry out strategic planning, components of project management and evaluation to understand the benefits of partnership.
Interested applicants may either choose one course or more but must commit to attend all the sessions in order to receive an e-certificate of completion.
Course Dates
Virtual Course – The virtual course sessions will happen on Wednesday and Thursday evening for two hours through Zoom.
Hybrid Courses – The hybrid session will happen on a Friday evening (online) and Saturday morning (in-person). You have to reside in Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur to join the in-person workshop on Saturday.
Session links will be shared one week before the session.
Course 1 – Developing, Mentoring, and Supporting Youth Leadership: April 23, 24, and 30
Course 2 – Community Organizing for Action: June 14 & 15, 2024
Course 3 – Creating and Maintaining Social Enterprise: June 28 & 29, 2024
Eligibility Requirement
Applicants must be:
Aged between 18 – 35 (at the time of application and semester)
Citizen of one of the following YSEALI countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, or Vietnam
Passionate with self-discipline to commit to online learning and have a keen interest in building a network through collaboration and partnership with other Southeast Asian countries
Demonstrate experience and strong passion (professional / volunteer) in youth empowerment field
Must commit to the full duration of the online courses
Fluent in written and spoken English
Must commit to interacting during the courses’ small group breakout room sessions. Failure to do so will result in the inability to receive a certificate of completion
You will have to reside in Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur in order to join the in-person workshop for the hybrid courses.
How Can I Enroll?
Enroll before March 24, 2024.Please note that:
The sessions are fully virtual and you are expected to attend and interact in all the lessons to graduate the course.
These courses are fully funded by the U.S. Department of State through a grant from the U.S. Mission to ASEAN.
Selected participants will be notified by 2 weeks prior to the course date. Priority will be given to those who have not been on a YSEALI Learns Virtual Course before.
Please note that this course is limited to 100 participants per course.
For questions, please contact contact@ysealilearns.info
Curious about studying in Ireland and positioning yourself for career success? While general advice can be helpful, such as selecting a sought-after field or choosing a course with an internship, we’ve got insider tips from leading Irish institutions.
From ways international students can find support, to in-demand careers, this valuable guidance goes beyond the basics. Keep reading to uncover the keys to success for your Irish study abroad journey!
ApplyBoard is here to support your studies in Ireland. Try our free-to-use platform now!
Why Study in Ireland
Choosing Ireland as your study abroad destination offers a multitude of benefits. Here’s what representatives of Trinity College Dublin (TCD) and University College Dublin (UCD) have to say about choosing Ireland when studying abroad.
“Irish universities rank in the top 3% globally and graduates are sought after by employers around the world … Irish universities are in the top 1% of research institutions world-wide … [and Ireland] is home to over 1,200 leading global companies—many of which have their European headquarters here…”
– Nilanjana Shihn, Regional Manager – India and South Asia, supporting Trinity College Dublin at MBEC
“Ireland offers a unique blend of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and world-class education, making it a top destination for international students. UCD itself boasts a beautiful campus in Belfield, providing access to historical and cultural attractions alongside modern amenities.”
– Surabhi Joshi, Regional Director, South Asia at University College Dublin
On the Most In-Demand Careers
Choosing a marketable career is a key step to your future success. Below, education experts at Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin share with international students which careers and programmes are in top demand in Ireland.
“Engineering, financial services, medtech, pharma, bio-pharma, quantum information science, material science, [and] food and agriculture [are the most in-demand careers].”
– Nilanjana Shihn, Regional Manager – India and South Asia, supporting Trinity College Dublin at MBEC
“…As a global tech hub, Ireland offers ample opportunities in software development, data analytics, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence … Ireland is [also] a major centre for the pharmaceutical and medical device industries, creating high-paying jobs for qualified professionals … Dublin is a leading financial centre with a strong demand for experts in banking, finance, and accounting … Ireland’s booming tourism industry [also] requires skilled individuals in areas like marketing, event management, and hotel operations … Ireland has a thriving creative scene, providing opportunities for careers in film, music, and design…”
– Surabhi Joshi, Regional Director, South Asia at University College Dublin
Take our interactive quiz to find out which career is right for you!
On International Student Trends
Understanding international student trends in Ireland can help you find connections, prepare for job opportunities, and adjust to life in a new country. Here’s what leaders at Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin have to say:
“We are a medium-sized university with about 20,000 students from 117 countries. 28% of our student body and 40% of our academic staff are international, which makes Trinity the 16th-most international university in the world according to the latest Times Higher Education World [University] Rankings…”
– Nilanjana Shihn, Regional Manager – India and South Asia, supporting Trinity College Dublin at MBEC
“UCD proudly has a diverse student community, with over 9,500 international students representing over 130 countries.”
– Surabhi Joshi, Regional Director, South Asia at University College Dublin
On Support for International Students
International students in Ireland are supported both at the government level, as well as by their academic institutions. Here’s what representatives of Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin say about ways Ireland supports international students:
“[The Irish] government offers a one-year graduate scheme or job search stay back visa for bachelor’s graduates and up to two years for master’s graduates. [Students have] eligibility to work part-time, [and] universities offer a range of supportto international students throughout their academic journey.”
– Nilanjana Shihn, Regional Manager – India and South Asia, supporting Trinity College Dublin at MBEC
“We understand the challenges of studying abroad and provide dedicated support for international students. This includes pre-arrival information, visa assistance, academic guidance, and social events … The Irish government [also] provides information and resources on visas, immigration, and living in Ireland. They also offer financial aid schemes for international students such as Government of Ireland scholarships…”
– Surabhi Joshi, Regional Director, South Asia at University College Dublin
Considering multiple destinations?Check out these insightful United Kingdom study abroad tips from local education experts.
Studying in Ireland offers international students a quality education, diverse career opportunities, and a welcoming environment. As the home of top universities like Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin, Ireland is an excellent choice for students who want to build a successful academic future.
With thousands of programs to choose from, ApplyBoard can help you find one that best fits your needs. Try it today!
Many aspects of Canada’s International Student Program, from access to the Post-Graduation Work Permit program to who is exempt from a study permit cap, have evolved significantly in early 2024. While some changes are still unfolding, we’ll share answers to some of your most pressing questions about these Canadian policy updates below.
In January 2024, the Canadian government announced a temporary two-year cap on Canadian study permits. This means the number of applications for new Canadian study permits in 2024 will be limited to around 606,250, resulting in 360,000 expected study permit approvals.
Study permit applications will be allocated based on each province or territory’s population.
Which students are exempt from the study permit cap?
Students in K-12, master’s degree, and doctoral degree programs are exempt from the study permit cap. So, this cap will mostly impact students at the undergraduate university and college level.
Students who are current study permit holders, or who are applying for study permit renewals (extensions) are also exempt.
How will these changes impact K-12 international students?
The study permit cap does not apply to K-12 international students. K-12 students also do not need to include a provincial attestation letter (PAL) with their study permit application.
Are post-graduate certificate students exempt from the study permit cap?
No. Short postgraduate programs, like postgraduate diplomas and certificates, are not included on IRCC’s list of exemptions. Only master’s degree, doctoral degree, and K-12 students are exempt from the study permit cap.
How will private colleges and universities be impacted?
Private colleges and universities will be subject to the same rules and restrictions as public colleges and universities are.
What are public-private partnerships (PPPs) and how are they affected?
A PPP, or public-private partnership, is an agreement between a public college and an affiliated private college. In some provinces, public colleges may license their curriculum to instructors at a private college (which may be in a different city). So, while students physically attend classes at a private college, they graduate with a diploma from a public institution.
Will the study permit cap impact make it more difficult for students to get Letters of Acceptance?
Since institutions will be allowed only a set number of admissions under the cap, certain programs will likely become more competitive. Institutions will want to be as sure as possible that they only grant acceptance letters to candidates who are likely to get study permit approval. This means that a strong application and GPA will be more important than ever for students, especially in popular provinces like Ontario and British Columbia.
The criteria for master’s degree, doctoral degree, and K-12 students are unlikely to change, since those programs are unaffected by the cap.
Provincial Attestation Letter Questions
What is a provincial attestation letter (PAL)?
A provincial attestation letter (PAL) is an electronic document that states that a student is entitled to submit their application for a study permit under a province’s cap.
How can my students get a provincial attestation letter (PAL)?
PAL processes will vary by province or territory, and are set by each provincial government. In some cases, like in British Columbia, PALs will be issued by academic institutions.
Quebec was the first province to have a fully implemented PAL process. British Columbia’s process has come into effect as of March 4. The province will issue PALs to institutions, and the institutions will then pass PALs on to student applicants at their discretion.
Which students need a PAL for their study permit application?
As of January 22, 2024, most applicants must provide a provincial attestation letter to apply for their Canadian study permit. The only students exempt from needing a PAL are master’s degree, doctoral degree, and K-12 students.
When will each province’s PAL process be final?
As of March 2024, the following provinces and territories have processes in place or are actively issuing PALs:
Quebec
British Columbia
Alberta
The Certificat d’Acceptation du Québec/Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) may work as a PAL, as long as it includes the following sentence: “This attestation letter confirms that the applicant has a place in Quebec’s share of the distribution of study permit applications or is exempt from it.”
Every other Canadian province and territory must develop a process for issuing PALs by March 31, 2024. For updates, check the official IRCC website.
What happens if a student gets a letter of acceptance, but not a PAL?
In most cases, students with a letter of acceptance who pay their tuition deposit quickly will get a PAL. In the rare case that a student does not, they may request a tuition deposit refund. Students who aren’t exempt from needing a PAL may not study in that province or territory without one.
Should students wait to apply for a study permit until they have a PAL?
It depends. Study permit applications submitted before January 22, 2024, don’t require a PAL.
Certain students won’t need a PAL, including students applying for K-12, master’s degree, and doctoral degree programs. Exempt students may apply for a study permit as usual.
All non-exempt students should wait until they have a PAL. Study permit applications submitted on or after January 22, 2024, without a PAL will be refunded and returned to the student. The student must then resubmit their application with the attestation letter, once it’s available.
Should students pay for their tuition deposit before getting a PAL?
Yes. Consider paying as soon as possible. The sooner that students pay any relevant tuition deposits, the sooner they’ll be in line for an attestation letter, which they need to apply for a study permit. This will make them less likely to be affected by the study permit cap.
Can students who don’t receive a PAL get a tuition deposit refund?
In most cases, students will be eligible to request a full tuition deposit refund if they are refused a PAL or a study permit. However, this will vary by institution, so check with the student’s target college or university. Some tuition deposits may be refunded, where others are non-refundable.
If a student decides to withdraw their application for personal reasons, an institution’s standard refund policy will apply.
Should students proceed with a study permit right now?
Students who don’t require a PAL, or who get a PAL from any province or territory with a process now in place, may apply for their study permit. Otherwise, students who do need a PAL should wait until they receive a PAL from their target institution (or province or territory).
Should students accepted to April or May intakes without a study permit defer their start date to September 2024?
Remember, K-12, master’s degree, and doctoral degree students don’t need a PAL, and are exempt from the study permit cap. Processes for these students haven’t changed, so they shouldn’t need to defer.
Other students, like those in undergraduate programs or graduate certificates, should consider deferring April or early May start dates if they are concerned they will not receive their study permit in time.
Can post-graduate degree students go ahead with a study permit application right now?
Yes. As students in post-graduate degree programs (like master’s and PhDs) don’t require a PAL, and are exempt from the study permit cap, they may proceed with their application.
How will biometric tests and other aspects of the study permit application process be impacted?
Once a province announces its PAL processes, there will likely be a rush of students all submitting their study applications. This may cause a slowdown in biometrics appointments or processing time. So, factor in this potential delay.
Do students need to pay their tuition deposit before applying for a study permit?
Yes. Most institutions will require a student to pay their tuition deposit before issuing them a PAL, which will enable them to apply for their study permit. In addition, while not explicitly stated on the IRCC website, proof of a tuition deposit payment is part of a student’s proof of financial capacity when applying for a study permit.
Study Program Questions
How can students assess their eligibility for a master’s degree?
It depends. EduCanada notes every Canadian college and university has its own rules for assessing international students’ academic credentials.
Some institutions will check students’ credentials in-house. Other students may need to use an assessment service to see if their degree is enough, or if they need to take another program (like an one-year postgraduate certificate) first.
How can students help their application to a graduate program stand out?
Understand the process. How students apply is a little different at each university. Create a calendar with deadlines for each institution, and ensure the student meets each milestone.
Start early. If students rush, they’ll miss things, which can put their application at risk. Requesting transcripts, gathering documents, asking for references, and writing a personal statement can take longer than expected.
Tailor each application. Match the student’s work and education experience to the specific program. Highlight this in their resume, reference letters, and personal statement.
Bringing Family to Canada with a Study Permit
Can partners and spouses of students no longer get an open work permit? When does this take effect?
IRCC has noted open work permit eligibility will be updated soon.
Only spouses and common-law partners of students in master’s programs, doctorate programs, and professional degree-granting programs (such as law or medicine) will be eligible for a new open work permit.
Partners of students at other levels of study will no longer be eligible, unless they already hold an open work permit under this stream. Undergraduate students already in the system whose spouses have applied for open work permits should still be accepted. Those who want to extend their current work permit may still do so.
Can diploma or certificate students bring dependants to Canada?
Diploma and certificate students (undergraduate or graduate) may bring dependants. However, these dependants are no longer eligible for a work permit. This means that these dependants may apply for a visitor visa or their own study permit, but may not work full-time.
Can students still bring their children to Canada?
Yes, students may still bring their dependent children to Canada. The child or children must apply for their own visitor or study permit (or work permit, if eligible). Here are the government’s guidelines to see if your child is dependent.
Who can accompany a K-12 student coming to Canada?
Minor children (17 years old or younger) must either come with their parent(s) or legal guardian(s) to Canada, or have an appointed custodian.
If their parent or guardian has a work or study permit, the K-12 student still needs their own study permit. See the Government of Canada’s website for more details.
Is a parent or guardian accompanying a K-12 student eligible for a Canadian work permit?
Having a child in a K-12 study program in Canada does not immediately qualify a parent or guardian for a Canadian work permit. Parent(s) or guardian(s) must apply for their own work or study permit.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Questions
Which students may apply for a PGWP after graduation?
Students who graduated from an eligible full-time program lasting at least eight months from a designated learning institution in Canada may apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP).
As of September 1, 2024, the PGWP program will no longer be open to new students at public-private partnership (PPP) institutions. However, students who are already enrolled in a study program at a PPP before September 1, 2024, may still apply for a PGWP.
How is the PGWP program changing?
Starting February 15, 2024, graduates from master’s programs of less than two years, but lasting at least eight months, may be eligible for a three-year PGWP.
Also, as of September 1, 2024, the PGWP program will no longer be open to new students at public-private partnership institutions (PPPs). However, students who are already enrolled in a study program at a PPP before September 1, 2024, may still apply for a PGWP.
Can students who have completed multiple programs combine their study duration to receive a longer PGWP?
How do you predict these changes will impact Canada’s reputation as a study destination?
The severity and suddenness of these policy changes will affect Canada’s reputation in the short term, meaning some students will look elsewhere for study opportunities. In the long term, once the new processes are set, Canada will still be perceived as a strong option, especially for master’s students and those who qualify for the still-excellent post-graduation work permit. Within Canada, geographic interest may shift, with provinces like Alberta expected to become more popular.
Are similar policy updates happening in ApplyBoard’s other study markets?
In 2023, Australia increased its minimum cost of living amount for students, and further changes to student visas are expected in 2024. In the United Kingdom, changes to students’ dependent policy are predicted to impact student trajectories. For more information, refer to ApplyBoard’s blog and ApplyInsights.
Where can we find cost of living information for different parts of Canada?
The University of Adelaide 2024 Global Academic Excellence 50% Scholarships (International) is a highly competitive award that rewards commencing undergraduate and postgraduate coursework international students who have demonstrated academic excellence in their previous studies.
Scholarship recipients will receive a 50% reduction toward international tuition fees when commencing at the University of Adelaide in 2024.
This scholarship is based on academic merit and eligibility is determined by the merit achieved in the qualification which constitutes the basis of admission.
This scholarship is available to:
International Students commencing with the University of Adelaide in their coursework award program in 2024;
Direct entry undergraduate and postgraduate award program applicants, including those who are required to undertake a Pre-Enrolment English Program (PEP) prior to their degree commencement;
Applicants that meet the minimum score
Open to citizens of Vietnam, Taiwan, Colombia, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh that are enrolling as International Students and students who have completed their most recent qualifications in Australia;
Available for study in any discipline (some exceptions apply).
Value
The scholarship offers a reduction of 50% of the tuition fee for the duration of the chosen undergraduate or postgraduate award program.
How to Apply
Eligibility for the scholarship is determined during a selection process at the time of application to the award program with the University of Adelaide.
This scholarship is based on academic merit and a selection process. The academic merit is determined by the merit achieved in the qualification which constitutes the basis of admission to the University. The academic component for admission to the University of Adelaide and all other conditions must be complete or met to be eligible to be considered for the scholarship (Unconditional).
Applicants identified as meeting the minimum merit requirement for the scholarship will have their application reviewed by the Scholarship Selection Committee if their application for the coursework program has been received prior to the closing dates outlined below.
Eligibility
Applicants will be eligible to be considered for 50% scholarship where they have demonstrated they have achieved the minimum score outlined as follows:
Applicants with a minimum ATAR of 99.9 (or comparable score) for entry to an undergraduate (UG) program.
Applicants with a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of6.9 on a 7.0 scale or comparable score for entry to an undergraduate (UG) or postgraduate (PG) program.
Applicants with a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 6.8 on a 7.0 scale for studies completed at the University of Adelaide (or with a comparable score for studies at an Australian University where studies are completed in Australia) for entry to an undergraduate (UG) or postgraduate (PG) level award program.
Applicants will then be assessed by a Scholarships Committee for suitability for offer of the scholarship.
Closing dates Each intake for the University has an application Closing date as follows:
FULLY FUNDED Young Professional Fellowship Bali 2024 is a salient inauguration by the Mentor Amiable Professional Society (MAPS), aimed at polishing the leadership skills of youth under 40 years of age. The Program emphasizes on incorporating cultural diversity, the inclusion of numerous ethnicities, and interfaith harmony for generating citizens with an elevated sense of responsibility and high caliber.
The world today has been witnessing major shifts in its economic, educational, and social domains where new trends have been taking over to change the course of lives. In this race of advancement, young residents of the world have been playing a dual role of generating new shifts and adapting to them simultaneously. From Environmental issues to its policy making, youth has a part to play in every field. For this reason, youth of today needs active mentoring and training to equip them with practical skills and leadership abilities so they will be the flag bearers of World Peace in the future and confident enough to share their efforts in analyzing and plausibly solving the emerging world issues. Along with that, the values of tolerance and respect towards other identities need to be engraved in their young minds so they will be a generation to believe in embracing diversity rather than widening differences.
“Young Professional Fellowship Program” is an active initiative by MAPS to help resolve global issues by inviting audiences from around the world and providing them with a professionally organized platform for that. After its successful recent conduction in Canada, MAPS is extending YPF westwards, by launching “Young Professional Fellowship Bali 2024”, which will be an event of long lasting positive impact, socialization and resolution of World issues.
On International Women’s Day (Friday, March 8, 2024), let’s continue to build a world where women and girls can reach their full potential. To support this year’s IWD theme, Inspire Inclusion, the team at ApplyBoard created the Women in STEM Awards. Read on to learn more about the awards, and how you can #InspireInclusion yourself!
We’re proud to celebrate the tenacity of international students, both the ones starting their journeys and ones who have already graduated. Check out our post on three international student grads who are making their communities more inclusive places!
What are the Women in STEM Awards?
The Women in STEM Awards help to #InspireInclusion by granting a total of C$15,000 in scholarships. The scholarships will be awarded to six female-identifying international students starting a post-secondary study program this fall in Canada, the United Kingdom, or the United States.
Award winners will be selected by education advisors who work with ApplyBoard to connect students with study programs across the world. Scholarship winners will be contacted later this year, and we’re excited to see where they’ll go!
By pursuing studies in the sciences, technology, engineering, or mathematics (also known as STEM fields), these women will gain the skills and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on our world.
Why Do the Women in STEM Awards Matter?
Studying internationally is an investment—and one, given the ongoing gender pay gap, that many women will work longer to pay off. In 2024, the World Bank observed that women still only earn $0.77 for every $1 a man does. These awards are a small way to ease some of the financial pressure these international students may feel. It’s also a symbolic gesture that says: you are welcome in these fields, and we wish you every success.
Valuing diversity in our classrooms, workplaces, and broader communities means the questions we ask—and have to answer—change, because different people are comfortable speaking up. This connects us to a wider range of perspectives and approaches.
And sometimes, having different people in STEM workplaces means life-changing inventions emerge! For example, Stephanie Kwolek’s dual interest in chemistry and fashion led to the invention of the bulletproof fabric Kevlar. Or, across the world, Asima Chatterjee’s study of medicinal plants contributed to her invention of antimalarial and anti-epileptic medications. These are just two of the inventions women in STEM fields have come up with. We can’t wait to be inspired by (and benefit from) what the next generation of learners will create.
Curious about studying STEM in Canada? These featured programs in architecture, computer science, and more all include hands-on work experience.
#InspireInclusion Every Day
When we inspire inclusion, we help to create a better world. But how do we get started? How do we keep going past International Women’s Day? You don’t need to throw a big event, though that’s always fun! Sometimes, it’s small actions which can add up to make an even larger difference.
Here are some ways you can inspire inclusion:
Celebrate your team’s or friends’ accomplishments!
Learn what microaggressions are, and avoid using them (for example, asking only women to do admin work, like taking minutes).
Names matter—learn how to spell them, learn how to say them, and work to get them right. The same is true of someone’s pronouns.
Become a mentor or coach. Your experience is valuable!
Use apps like Gender Decoder to make job descriptions more gender-neutral.
In a workplace, encourage managers to have 1-to-1 meetings with their direct reports, to build trust across functions.
When testing something new, ask for opinions from a wide range of people; consider factors like age, gender, race, and ability.
Support (or advocate for) flexible work policies, like flexible work scheduling, or remote/hybrid positions.
This International Women’s Day, and beyond, help us build a brighter future by acting inclusively. Even small steps move us all forward!
Ready to start your international study journey? Contact the team at ApplyBoard—we’re here to help.
From tuition fees to accommodation, transportation, and everyday expenses, there are so many factors to consider when budgeting for your international education. That’s why we’ve created the ultimate guide to some of the most affordable student cities in five study destinations: Australia, Canada, Ireland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Get ready to discover some of these countries’ most affordable cities. We’ll share what makes them great places to study, to help you make the best choices for you. Plus, we’ve included a bonus section highlighting thetop budget-friendly cities!
Note: The figures provided in this blog are approximate estimates only and have been sourced from Expatistan and Numbeo for general reference.
Where applicable, numbers have been rounded to the nearest dollar.
American dollar values are provided so you can easily compare prices between global cities using one currency.
Whether you’re into big cities or prefer cozy towns, ApplyBoard is here to support your studies there. Try our free-to-use platform today!
Affordable Places to Study in Australia
Australia is known for its gorgeous weather, sunny beaches, and laid-back vibe. If the Land Down Under is on your radar, but not the hefty price tag which can come with living there, keep on reading! We’ll be comparing the following cities below to Australia’s most popular city, Sydney.
Gold Coast, Queensland
Gold Coast (in the state of Queensland) is home to Surfers Paradise, an entertainment hub with city skylines, sandy beaches, and an up-and-coming culinary scene. It’s also 25% cheaper than Sydney, Australia! For students considering Gold Coast as their study destination, here’s a breakdown of the expected expenses:
One-Bedroom Apartment: A$2,067–A$2,208 per month (US$1,356–US$1,449)
Utilities: A$255 per month (US$167)
One-Way Ticket for Public Transportation: A$5 (US$3)
Cappuccino: A$6 (US$4)
Perth, Australian Capital Territory
If you appreciate a laid-back lifestyle with stunning natural landscapes, then Perth, located in Western Australia, might be your best bet! Want more great news? Living there is 17% cheaper than Sydney! For students considering Perth as their study location, here are the average expected costs:
One-Way Ticket for Public Transportation: A$5 (US$3)
Cappuccino: A$6 (US$4)
Check out Australian study courses in these affordable locations on the ApplyBoard platform!
Affordable Places to Study in Canada
Want to study in the True North? Canada is the home of hockey, maple syrup, as well as tons of natural beauty from Niagara Falls to the Rocky Mountains. If you’re looking to get the Canadian experience without breaking the bank, consider these affordable student cities! We’ll be comparing the cities below to Toronto, Ontario.
Moncton, New Brunswick
With rivers, lush forests, and beaches, natural beauty is at a surplus in Moncton, New Brunswick. Best of all, the cost of living is much more affordable than Toronto—it’s a whopping 38% more affordable! Below are some of the approximate expenses in Moncton:
One-Bedroom Apartment: C$1,107–C$1,345 per month (US$819–US$995)
Utilities: C$164 per month (US$121)
One-Way Ticket for Public Transportation: C$3 (US$2)
Cappuccino: C$4 (US$3)
Regina, Saskatchewan
Get the best of both worlds in Regina, Saskatchewan, with an abundance of rich history and parks, as well as a cost of living that’s 29% cheaper than Toronto. If you can handle their cold winters, it might be worth your while to consider Regina! Students can expect to spend, on average:
One-Bedroom Apartment: C$950–C$1,323 per month (US$703–US$979)
Utilities: C$304 per month (US$225)
One-Way Ticket for Public Transportation: C$3 (US$2)
Cappuccino: C$5 (US$3)
Check out 7 great Saskatchewan colleges and universities for international students on our blog.
Affordable Places to Study in Ireland
Considering the Emerald Isle? Ireland (the Republic of Ireland) is the full package, from its breathtaking landscapes and excellent education system to the world-renowned technology hub in Dublin. To get in on what Ireland has to offer while keeping affordability a priority, consider the following cities compared to Dublin.
Limerick, Munster
If you appreciate fine arts and rich culture, then Limerick, Munster is calling your name! Appreciate Limerick’s beautiful scenery, friendly locals, and vibrant arts scene, while being in a place that’s 22% more affordable than Dublin. For students considering Limerick as their study destination, here’s a breakdown of the expected costs:
One-Bedroom Apartment: €1,375–€1,450 per month (US$1,499–US$1,580)
Utilities: €186 per month (US$202)
One-Way Ticket for Public Transportation: €2 (US$2)
Cappuccino: €3 (US$4)
Galway, Connacht
Studying in the festival capital of Ireland means an abundance of live music, exceptional food, and being near the seaside. And even better, living there is 17% cheaper than Dublin! If you want in on the fun studying in Galway, Connacht, below is a breakdown of some of the costs.
One-Bedroom Apartment: €1,338–€1,545 per month (US$1,458–US$1,684)
Utilities: €211 per month (US$230)
One-Way Ticket for Public Transportation: €2 (US$2)
Cappuccino: €4 (US$4)
Check out the many excellent Irish courses available on ApplyBoard.
Affordable Places to Study in the United Kingdom
With historic and world-renowned academic institutions, and a high quality of life, the United Kingdom (UK) is a top destination for international students. We don’t blame them! While the cost of living in the UK’s capital city, London, can get pricey, these other cities are about half as expensive! Check them out below.
Cardiff, Wales
Enjoy Cardiff’s castles, parks, excellent educational institutions, and job opportunities while studying abroad. You’ll also enjoy a cost of living that’s 53% cheaper than London! Students in Cardiff will have the following average expenses:
One-Bedroom Apartment: £785–£1,010 per month (US$999–US$1,286)
Utilities: £290 per month (US$369)
One-Way Ticket for Public Transportation: £2 (US$3)
Cappuccino: £3 (US$4)
Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast, the capital of North Ireland, is an up-and-coming city. It offers a wide range of amenities, as well as historical and famous landmarks, like the birthplace of the RMS Titanic. You can expect to save 48% on monthly expenses compared to London, England. Here are some average amounts:
One-Bedroom Apartment: £663–£913 per month (US$844 – US$1,162)
Utilities: £127 per month (US$162)
One-Way Ticket for Public Transportation: £3 (US$3)
Cappuccino: £3 (US$4)
Planning to study in the UK? Find out how to prepare for the UK credibility interview on our blog.
Affordable Places to Study in the United States
Have your sights set on the US? Its world-famous universities with cutting-edge technology make it a popular study destination for many international students! While big cities like New York or San Francisco are expensive, these affordable student cities are much more affordable in comparison. Check some of them out below!
Find and apply to affordable American study programs on ApplyBoard!
Bonus: Top Budget-Friendly Cities
Regina, Saskatchewan (Canada)
Moncton, New Brunswick (Canada)
Springfield, Missouri (US)
Youngstown, Ohio (US)
Belfast, Northern Ireland (UK)
From Gold Coast, Australia to Regina, Canada, we hope this guide helped you discover about some affordable student cities. Best of luck on your study abroad journey!
Whether you’re into big cities or prefer a small-town vibe, ApplyBoard is here to support you every step of the way. Try it out for yourself!
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International students and recruitment partners all around the globe use ApplyBoard’s intuitive, AI-powered search engine to easily find study programs, research, compare, and apply. This helps them find the right program fit to best match their unique study abroad dreams.
Today, we’re pleased to introduce a new and important feature that supports students in finding the most suitable programs. And maximizes student potential by matching them to fields experiencing labour shortages.
We’re proud to share our latest search feature: Program Tags, now live on ApplyBoard. Keep reading to learn more about this exciting new update.
Program Tags Revolutionize the Search Experience
With new Program Tags, we’re empowering students to get it right from the start.
These visually distinct tags appear on each program card in ApplyBoard search results, making it easy for users to find the right information and programs in seconds. All it takes is a glance.
Now, students can kickstart their application journey by choosing from tailored program suggestions right away, without hours of time-consuming research.
No more choosing programs without understanding job demand—the new High Job Demand tag helps students quickly find fields of study with higher-than-average job availability in Canada. No other platform makes this information easily accessible to students, meaning this feature alone is one of massive importance.
No more risk of missing out or applying blindly—our new Program Tags help students find and choose the study program that aligns best with their study and post-graduation goals.
No more unpleasant last-minute surprises—our tags help minimize risk by providing clarity upfront, ensuring a smoother application process.
For example: the No Visa Cap tag only appears on programs which aren’t affected by Canada’s recently announced study permit cap.
The Top tag shows off programs from highly-ranked institutions, based on both ApplyBoard data and external data points.
And, for the first time ever, ApplyBoard users can quickly find fields of study with higher-than-average job availability in Canada, thanks to the High Job Demand tag (based on data sourced from the Canadian Occupational Projection System).
This is important data that students want and need to know. ApplyBoard’s goal is to make information as clear and accessible as possible to students so they can make the most informed decisions possible for themselves and their families.
Have you used our search engine yet? Learn more about the ApplyBoard platform’s AI-powered Student Search.
Use These Program Tags to Guide Your Search
As of March 6, 2024, these Program Tags have been integrated into the ApplyBoard search engine. Look out for more updates in the near future, including additional tags coming to our platform soon.
High Job Demand: programs related to industries which may have higher-than-average job availability in Canada, based on data sourced from the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS).
Popular: popular programs, based on the most recent three years of application history. For the best chance of success, users can check the success prediction score before applying.
Top: programs from a high-quality or highly-ranked institution, based on both ApplyBoard data and external data points.
Prime: programs that are exclusively available to ApplyBoard partners, or which may be partially exclusive.
Loans: programs which may be eligible for a student loan through ApplyBoard loan partners.
Incentivized: programs which may provide application discounts or special offers.
No Visa Cap: programs which are unaffected by Canada’s study permit cap or provincial attestation letter requirement.
By paying attention to these tags, students and recruitment partners can gain immediate insight into a program, helping them select the right program from the start.
Users can even use Advanced Filters to select multiple tag options, customizing their search results to show only the programs matching their desired criteria.
These features empower both our recruitment partners and students throughout their application journey. By equipping them with the necessary tools, we enable informed decision-making backed by real, up-to-date data.
We believe students shouldn’t have to settle when it comes to their dreams. This exciting update, part of our commitment to constant product improvement, helps ensure we can most effectively match students with the programs that will best prepare them for future success.
Ready to get started with ApplyBoard? Register for your free student account, or explore our search right here (no profile needed).
One of the many advantages of studying in Canada is its Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. An international student may be able to apply for this program if they’ve completed an eligible study program at one of Canada’s designated learning institutions (DLI). Want to learn more? We’ll dive into what a PGWP is, who can apply, and PGWP length below.
Ready to start your international student journey? ApplyBoard’s experienced team is here to help!
What is a PGWP?
A post-graduation work permit (PGWP) is an open work permit that international students can apply for after graduating. An “open” work permit means that students aren’t tied to a specific job or employer. Plus, for students interested in staying in Canada, work experience enabled by a PGWP can count towards qualifying for permanent residence.
To apply, students need to have graduated from an eligible study program at a designated learning institution (DLI). You’ll also need to prove that you completed your program by providing your degree, diploma, transcript, or an official letter from your academic institution. Some PGWP applicants may also need to supply other supporting documents, or take a medical exam.
Note: Not all DLIs, or programs at DLIs, are PGWP-eligible. To see if your program is, check the Government of Canada’s DLI list.
Starting on September 1, 2024, students who enrol at public-private partnership institutions are no longer eligible to apply for PGWPs. However, students who are already enrolled in a study program at a public-private partnership before September 1, 2024, may still be eligible for a PGWP.
What’s That Term?
Public-private partnerships are an agreement between a public college and an affiliate private college. Public colleges licence their curriculum to the private college, so while students attend classes at a private college, they graduate with a diploma or certificate from a public institution.
You may apply for a PGWP from inside Canada or from another country. You must apply within 180 days after graduating from your Canadian study program. In most cases, you must apply online for a PGWP.
You must either have a valid study permit, a visitor record to bridge the gap between your studies and the start of your PGWP, or have renewed your student status to apply. We’ll look closer at each of those options in the question below.
What If My Study Permit Expires Before I Get My Marks, Degree, or Diploma?
Before your study permit expires, you can:
Once your study permit expires, you have up to 90 days after that to apply for a PGWP—but you’ll also have to restore your status as a student, which costs an additional C$379 as of March 2024. If you don’t apply to renew your student status within 90 days of its expiry, you must leave Canada.
How Long Does a PGWP Last?
A PGWP may be issued for as short as eight months or as long as three years. It is not renewable.
The length of the applicant’s program of study in Canada will be considered—using supporting documents for confirmation—to determine how long their PGWP will last. Regularly scheduled breaks in the study program, such as winter and summer holidays, will also be factored into the PGWP’s duration.
Extending a PGWP
To streamline the application process, make sure your passport is valid until after your PGWP ends. If your passport expires earlier, the government can only issue you a PGWP that is valid until your passport expires. While it’s possible to extend a PGWP that ended prematurely due to an expired passport, students can typically only apply for an extension when they’re told to do so by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and must apply on paper.
How Long is a PGWP?
Except for master’s degree graduates, permit length depends on the length of the study program. Program length must be confirmed in writing, like an official letter or transcript, from the eligible DLI.
Remember, a PGWP cannot extend past your passport’s expiry date. So, ensure that your passport is valid for the full possible PGWP duration before applying.
How Long is the Study Program?
Eight Months to Two Years
PGWP Duration: Up to or matching the study program’s length
For example, if the program was 10 months, you can get a PGWP of up to 10 months.
Master’s Degree Exception: Starting on Feb. 15, 2024, “students who graduate from master’s degree programs of less than 2 years (8 months minimum) may be eligible for a 3 year PGWP.” The study program must meet all other PGWP requirements.
Accelerated Study: If you complete an eligible program on an accelerated schedule (like finishing a 12-month program in 10 months), you’ll be eligible for a PGWP the length of the original program. In this case, your PGWP could be up to 12 months long.
Two Years or More
PGWP Duration: Up to three years
More than One Program within Two Years
PGWP Duration: Combine the length of each program
Each program of study must adhere to all PGWP program eligibility requirements, and be at least eight months in length.
If the combined length of the programs is two years or longer, the work permit may be valid for up to three years.
Remember, you can only ever receive one PGWP. So, if you graduate from a postgraduate certificate program that’s one year long, apply for and receive a one-year PGWP, work for that year, then enrol in a one-year master’s degree program, you are not eligible to apply for a PGWP after finishing your master’s.
50% or more of their program must be completed in Canada, either in person or online
Time spent studying online from outside of Canada before August 31, 2024, counts towards PGWP length, as long as it makes up less than 50% of the study program duration.
For students who start their study program OR whose study permit receipt is dated after September 1, 2024 (whichever happens first):
Time spent studying outside of Canada after December 31, 2023 does not count towards your PGWP.
Only time spent studying after applying for a study permit counts towards a PGWP.
Spouses and common-law partners may accompany international students, and may be eligible for their own study permit or a visitor visa. However, in most cases, they won’t be able to work full-time in Canada. Partners and spouses of students in graduate (master’s and doctorate) and professional degree-granting programs are eligible for an open work permit.
As an international student, your future is open to many opportunities, and a PGWP can be a great way to get Canadian work experience. We hope that this information has cleared up some of your questions about the program, but if you’d like to learn more, check our blog archive for related posts.
Have more questions about the PGWP, or something else related to studying abroad? Contact us—ApplyBoard’s experienced team is here to help!
