In light of the raging Covid-19 pandemic and the brutal 2nd wave this year, the CBSE board was forced to cancel the board exams this year. The announcement of cancellation of exams created a lot of confusion, panic and became the reason of much worry among the students. Their apprehensions were well justified as there is a large section of students who believe in keeping their reserves of hard work for the days just before commencement of the term-end exam. Having said that, we do not condone the use of this strategy ever, as it can backfire—which was clearly the case this year—nonetheless, students who had remained consistent with their performance throughout the year looked at the situation more positively.

To avoid such situations and keeping the fact of a mutating virus, the authorities of the CBSE board have decided to come up with a new assessment plan for grades X and XII board exams to be held in 2022. Under the new assessment program, the academic session will be divided into two terms; to put it simply, the syllabus will be split into two terms for both the classes. The first term exams will be held in November-December, and the second/final term exams will be scheduled in March-April.

Interestingly, under this particular scheme, the assessment board will follow a systemic approach in understanding the students’ ability to assess and use the interconnectivity of concepts and topics studied. For this purpose, the syllabus will be bifurcated into two parts. For the First Term exams, the pattern would involve Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) including assertion-reasoning MCQs along with case-based MCQs. The duration for this type of exam is set for 90 minutes, since it will only cover 50 percent of the entire syllabus. Moreover, there are no fixed dates, the exams would be conducted in a flexible schedule.

The students are required to give their responses in OMR sheets which will be scanned and uploaded at the CBSE portal or the schools may upload the marks based on their evaluation.

The year-end exams or Term 2 will be in subjective format and the duration for this exam will be 2 hours. There will be different question types, hence the students could expect case-based, situation-based, open-ended short answers or long answers. Again, this term will cover 50 percent of the remaining syllabus and will be held in March-April 2022 at the examination centers fixed by the board.

In the event of a severe spread of the virus, like which we witnessed in April and May this year, a 90-minute MCQ-based exam will be conducted at the end of term 2 also.

As there is a lot of uncertainty around the pandemic, and we do not know how things will evolve over the next few months, it is advisable for students to keep up their performance levels right from the beginning of the session, so that their scores do not take nosedive.

This seems to be a practical system to evaluate students’ performance throughout the year. Another plus point of the scheme is that students are relieved of the burden to mug up loads and loads of information at the end of the term. The idea of dividing and spreading the exams in two terms will keep the morale of the student high and make his learning experience more fruitful and effective.

Students applying for student Visa (F1) need to show sufficient funds to the US Embassy to prove that they have enough finance to cover their tuition and living costs during their stay in the US. Even if the student has received an offer letter confirming his/her admission from a particular university, the student is still required to provide financial documents to obtain a student visa, failing which the student will not be granted the study visa.

Once the student’s admission is accepted, the student will receive an I-20 from the university/college, which will be needed to apply for a student visa (F1 Visa). The I-20 carries the student’s personal details, the university’s information, program of study and financial details of the course. This piece of document contains information like approximate cost of study, duration of the course and the student’s fund requirement along with any scholarship offered to the student. The financial information mentioned in the I-20 is used as a reference of how much minimum funds the student is required to show at the US embassy at the time of visa application. 

Almost all countries require financial documents to understand the financial ability of the student, and hence, here is a list of documents students must compile and carry at the US embassy to avoid any last-minute hassles.

1.     Bank Statement

Colleges require students to prove that their parents/guardians have sufficient funds to support their tuition cost and living expenses and thus must submit a bank statement of either their parents or guardians as a proof. Most institutions require international students to show their ability to pay fees and living costs for one year. However, some institutions may ask for proof for more than one year.

2.     Fixed Deposits or Provident Fund

Students can also show Fixed Deposits or Provident Funds with sufficient funds as financial proof.

3.     Loan Sanction Letter

Many students apply for education loans to study abroad. Students whose loans are approved will be issued a ‘Loan Sanction Letter.’ Such students must carry their Loan Sanction Letter issued by bank authorities as proof of financial support.

4.     Scholarship or any other Financial Aid

Students who have received any scholarship or financial aid to manage their tuition fees can demonstrate the same as proof as it supports their education expenses. However, students must submit the official letter of receipt of the scholarship showing the amount of scholarship received along with the name of the funding organization.

It is to be noted that all institutes only accept liquid assets for financial proof i.e., the assets that can be easily converted to cash.

Minimum fund requirement while applying for student Visa (F1) depends on the total financial expenses mentioned in I-20. The financial information mentioned in the I-20 would include the tuition fee and average living expenses, and all international students must prove the maximum funding amount which is more than the one mentioned in I-20. Ideally, you must show 1.5 times more than the expenses stated in the I-20. Nonetheless, if you cannot show the extra, you must have the minimum funding amount as mentioned in the I-20. Also, a very important point to be noted is that the shown funds must remain in the bank account for at least two months after the visa approval.

There is no doubt about the fact that colleges in the US are expensive, thus, it is essential to have an open and clear discussion with your parents, to get a fair idea about how much funds they can allocate to your education. Even if you feel that you belong to the upper-class, we still advise you to have this pertinent discussion to know where you stand, what are your chances and how you should approach your college application process.

Having said that, I strongly urge you to not pursue scholarships, if your parents are in a position to afford the entire cost of the education. The reason for this is quite simple – like all businesses, colleges, too, need revenue to operate and keep them running. Beyond their role of disseminating knowledge, colleges have to be well-equipped with research labs, on-campus hostels and hospitals, conference rooms, auditoriums, grounds for sports, equipment and technology for different kinds of activities, etc., and all that infrastructure costs money. If they don’t get the funds from students, how will they run and provide students up-to-date training? Please understand that a college is similar to any business house looking to profit and generate revenue.

For a broader perspective, let me explain how admission officers segregate applications. All received applications will be categorized into two piles – one as ‘Paid’ (where the student is willing to pay) and the other as ‘Free’ (where the student will be seeking scholarship). Now, we also have to take into account that the university is not only getting applications from Indian students but from students across the globe. And if a student with a similar profile as yours is willing to pay, as a businessman, you would also give preference to his/her application than the one seeking financial aid. Therefore, in order to avoid this situation, a student must refrain from seeking financial assistance if he/she can afford the education and living cost.

The thing about scholarships is that, this provision is instituted for those who deserve and truly need help. Moreover, due to the recent pandemic—Covid-19, colleges have been hit hard as many students with offers in hand chose to stay back in their country or requested for deferrals. This has put the colleges in a precarious scenario wherein, they cannot hand out many scholarships and have pulled the strings on financial aid to curb losses. 

However, if you are intellectually gifted but not from an upper-class background, accessing higher education from reputed colleges may seem improbable. In this scenario, I’d suggest not to let your financial limitations cripple you from achieving your far-fetched dream. I would rather assure you that, ‘Scholarships’ are meant especially for students such as yourself, and your household income should neither determine your ambition nor limit your educational pursuits. One of the most important benefits of scholarship for society is that it gives us scientists, doctors, engineers, lawyers and many more professionals from backgrounds of limited means. Apart from filling positions that would have otherwise remained empty, having more people in these professions helps in building a better society. 

A little extra work for attaining scholarships will go a long way as winning a scholarship will put you in close proximity to mentors who will help you get the maximum benefit of the program. Moreover, you’ll be able to network with people who have been awarded a similar scholarship in the same academic field. 

And, of course, if you are one of those who need a scholarship, you must pick one carefully. For this, first, ensure that you meet the benchmark required. Never should you assume that because you are at a disadvantage, you won’t get the scholarship and simply don’t apply for it. It does you little harm to apply for a scholarship that you don’t receive than not applying for it altogether. Take your chance and apply, but only if need be.

The closure of Visa application centers in India due to the raging pandemic could prevent Indian students from reaching their respective universities in time i.e., by September. These centers are places used to collect information, documents, and conduct one-on-one interviews with the applicants – all essential steps before the issuance of a visa. But with the centers being closed, there is a high possibility that students won’t be able to make it in time. 

The closures have caused a big concern amongst the universities and students across the world, not just in India. Though many universities are pleading with government agencies to introduce flexibility around application and requesting opening of these centers, how soon that will be processed cannot be affirmed as of now. 

Even if the centers were to be opened, in all likelihood, September intake would be affected, at least for sometime. This is so because Visa Application centers will have a huge backlog of applications to process, which may lead to further delays. Universities are well aware of the problem but, at the same time, incapable of giving a definitive answer. However, they will put in place a few relaxations, but again, they will have their limitations. And the longer the lockdown, the more difficult it will be. Therefore, it only makes sense to have a backup plan. 

In this case, we have a few recommendations for you:

1. Apply from a Different Location – If you are a student residing in Delhi and Visa Application centers in Delhi are closed, we advise you to check out other metropolitan cities where the offices could be open. Cities like Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Chandigarh, Kolkata, Mumbai etc. have visa application centers. You may choose to apply for a visa from the most convenient city for you. 

2. Start Online Classes with Your College – Universities are preparing themselves for eventualities wherein students are not able to reach campuses on time. Plans to introduce online classes are under consideration so that students may start their respective programs online before reaching the campus for a face-to-face learning experience, when the restrictions are more eased. Many colleges have declared that the coming semester would be largely taken online; however, students are advised to check with their respective universities whether such a provision is available or joining is necessary. You may choose to enroll for online classes now and reach the campus later when things open up.

3. Ask for Deferral – In the light of the pandemic, colleges have been hugely impacted by admissions of international students. There seems to be a big confusion whether students should enroll or put off college for a year by deferring. To have a clear picture, check with your university if they can delay your enrollment by a semester or maybe a year. Based on their flexibility, you can make your decision.

4. Drop the offer and try again next year – If none of the above alternatives work for you then the last option at best, is to drop the offer altogether and apply for admission the following year. But this would mean that the student would have to go through the entire application process all over again. And, in case you plan to take a gap year, you must spend it judiciously – by taking online courses, remote internships and volunteering work, etc. which could add value to your learning and help build your profile. FYI - Universities will refer to all the initiatives, courses and projects you have taken in the gap year before making their decision. 

We understand that students want a transformative experience when it comes to studying abroad – you want to be challenged academically, stimulated to think constructively, stretch emotionally, experience life from a new perspective, and above all, build meaningful, life-long relationships hence, it’s pertinent that you take a decision that is most rewarding to you.

The moment you decide to study in the US, you start living the American dream. And why shouldn’t you when the US offers the most prestigious and competitive universities of the world. It is not only reasonable for any highly aspiring student to nurture his/her desire of attending an American college, but the most logical decision in this era of cut-throat competition. However, it can be an expensive dream since the tuition fee shoots through the roof, especially for international students. Having said that, it does not mean quality education is accessible only to people with deep pockets. Trust that a student belonging to a middle-class family, too, can avail the benefits of the dynamic education, and that also for free, yes you read that right, for free. Here are a few things you need to keep in mind and the steps you must take to study in the US universities for free.

1.   Academic Competency - The first and foremost criterion that the admission officers would take into account would be your academic competency. This means that your previous academic record (for IX, X, XI Grade) has to be exemplary to make it stand out among the thousands of applications. Therefore, studying hard and establishing a robust academic profile should be on top of your list among other things. Your GPA, SAT/GRE Test score, TOEFL/IELTS (English language proficiency test), along with Extracurriculars shall collectively help you get that admission and also provide you the opportunity to study in the USA for free.

In addition to the above requisites of an outstanding academic profile, you must prepare all your documents and application requirements way before the deadline. Try to submit your application as early as possible as, this will give your application a better chance at getting noticed by the admission team. Thus under all circumstances, avoid submitting your application just before the deadline to avoid any last-minute hassles.

2. Scholarships - Bear in mind that colleges and universities in the US offer scholarships for international students. Studying abroad can be financially draining for many students but, don’t let that come in the way of achieving your dreams. Be assured that with the help of various scholarship opportunities from the universities, private institutions and government organizations, attaining your degree from the US for free is absolutely possible. However, scholarship providers are very selective, that's why you need to have and present an outstanding profile. You can apply for as many scholarships as you possibly can to increase your chances of acceptance. All you have to do is to ensure that you meet the parameters mentioned above. 

While the tuition cost can be taken care of through scholarships, you would have to bear the living and other miscellaneous expenses for the duration of your stay there. 

3. Aim for Affordable Colleges – US has plenty of affordable colleges/universities to choose from that offer high-quality curriculum for higher education. Choosing universities that have cheaper tuition fees can lift off the burden from your shoulders and help you manage other finances better. Since you won’t be paying the tuition cost, you could use the expendable finances to pursue things of your interest, for example, explore the city.

Besides you study for free in the US, you could also soak in the American culture by visiting its numerous tourist spots, national parks; taste its cuisine; experience music; and enjoy the festivals to have a more lively and vibrant stay.

Isn’t waiting the most tedious and boring job in the world?... Well, yes, and, I wouldn’t dare discount it! But if you use that time to do some interesting stuff, it will not only develop your skills but also help you utilize your time productively. The importance of extracurriculars, especially during the waiting period, could not have been stressed more, and thus, it would be a good idea to pursue activities that you are passionate about. In fact, while the role of extra-curricular activities is significant in developing an all-rounded personality, universities in the US and other countries also see how much involved you are outside of the class.

Well, getting involved in sports or other activities can help develop and shape your identity in ways that you could’ve never possibly imagined. For instance, taking up a sport that you admire or playing an instrument or volunteering for a social cause shall bring you pleasure and a feeling of contentment. 

The students’ involvement beyond the classroom setting keeps the campus lively and simultaneously shows a student’s commitment to excel. Students who spend years on a hobby emphasize their dedication and focus, a personality trait that can be made visible to the Admission Officers only through the resume.

So, which hobbies/activities should the applicants pursue?

An ideal strategy would be first to identify your passion and then take it from there. However, there are a few that I would recommend to give you an idea.

1) Learn a musical instrument or join a band or orchestra. You can also create one on your own with a group of friends/people with common interest.

2) Write articles for your school newsletter/newspaper on topics that intrigue you. It will not only highlight your writing skills but also shed light on diverse subject matters that force the readers to take note. Or write a blog on a subject that excites or troubles you. You could raise questions or proffer solutions. 

3) Join a sport; it could be Soccer, Tennis, Badminton, Swimming, Hockey, Basketball, et al. Or take up Gymnastics, Karate, Taekwondo, Athletics - The list is practically endless, but the idea is to stay connected with it for long. Now, since outdoor activities have almost come to a halt, you could take up indoor games or even Esports. Considering the pandemic and children’s inability to play outdoor sports, I wouldn’t mind recommending Esports. In fact, you could also participate in these gaming tournaments and earn some extra bucks as pocket money. 

4) Volunteer at nursing homes or animal shelters or teach the underprivileged children. If you think you are good in Mathematics or Science, then take responsibility for educating someone who might benefit from your knowledge. 

5) Get associated with an NGO. Help them raise funds for the causes you believe in, or provide any kind of assistance they might need. While it’ll keep you engaged with the community, it shall also provide a sense of contribution towards the needful. 

6) Start a book club where you can have endless discussions on diverse topics. 

7) Join Dramatics or become a part of theatre groups in summer holidays. 

8) Internships – Try to acquire some work experience, it could be as simple as joining a firm’s Account department to see how ledgers are prepared or bills of purchases are generated.

Such activities as stated above enable you to give back to the community and enhance your interpersonal skills and, at the same time, foster a sense of selflessness and a fellow feeling. Plus. your engagement in various activities shall infuse discipline and help you take command of whatever job you take in hand.   You’ll also see a marked improvement in your personality because you’ll have better time management and organizational skills. All this together, prepares you to plan your day in such a way that you have enough time to study, and productively utilize your free time in activities that you always longed to do.

So, go ahead and chase your dreams!