New Delhi: To draw the maximum number of Indian tourists, the US has introduced a new visa programme for certain categories, which will allow an applicant to get a visa without being interviewed in person, the US envoy said Friday.
"US Department of State has implemented a programme that will allow certain applicants to apply for visas without being interviewed in person at a US consular office," US Ambassador to India Nancy J. Powell said here.
Under the Interview Waiver Programme, it will become easier for Indian citizens to visit US for business meetings and tourist activities, she hoped.
Those applying for same category visa as granted earlier or applying at the same place (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata) where the previous visa was issued will be eligible for this new visa scheme.
Besides, those who have no prior refusal for the same visa category and whose previous visa is still valid or has expired within last four years can apply under this programme.
Speaking at a tourism promotion event here, Powell expressed happiness over the fact that over 6.5 lakh Indians visited US in 2011.
"Travel and tourism to the US is an important way for us to expand our cultural and commercial ties and increase trade growth between our countries. Total spending by Indians travelling to the US was $4.6 billion last year, up 15 percent from the year before," she added.
She said that India is expected to cross one million visitor mark by 2015 and leap into the league of top 10 countries of tourists to the US.
Powell also said the Barack Obama administration will continue to find more ways to make travel from India to the US as simple as possible.
What do you think of Garden Gnomes? And other odd interview questions
Interviews are nerve-wracking as it is, but throw in a few odd questions and you could be left a gibbering mess! Those odd questions aren’t always designed to trick you, sometimes they have a hidden meaning behind them and answering them appropriately can make the difference between a job offer and going back to the drawing board.
Every year the recruitment insider, Glassdoor, publishes a list of the oddest questions asked in interviews as sent in by their readers – we are then given a chance to have our say as to what these odd questions really mean. Some of the craziest questions asked in 2011 include:
What do you think of Garden Gnomes?
If Germans were the tallest people in the world, how would you prove it?
If you could be #1 employee but have all your co-workers dislike you or you could be #15 employee and have all your coworkers like you, which would you choose?
Does life fascinate you?
Would Mahatma Gandhi have made a good software engineer?
At first glance, these questions look like utter nonsense, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find that even though the interviewer is saying one thing he means something entirely different. Still don’t know how to answer? Check out our tips below.
Tailor your answers
However weird the question is, tailor it to fit the job you are applying for. For example, if someone asks you what type of animal you would be pick an animal that boasts characteristics that would be useful in the job role.
Think on your feet
If an interviewer asks you a random question, don’t get flustered! Take your time and answer the question calmly – show that no matter how odd or unexpected the question is, you can handle it – this skill will translate to your working style.
Think outside the box
If the interviewer asks you a weird question you can guarantee that they’ve asked 50 other candidates the same question – do you think they want to hear the same answer 50 times? NO! Think outside the box, don’t choose and obvious answer – this will set you apart from the rest of the candidates.
Be creative
This follows on from the previous point, don’t answer a fun question with a dull answer – be creative. For example, if someone asks you why manhole covers are round, don’t reply with ‘I don’t know’ – get creative and make something up.
Remember, the interviewer isn’t trying to catch you out – most odd questions are also designed to put you at ease. If the question is funny, laugh!
The Cause Endures, Senator Ted Kennedy's Legacy in the Life Sciences
"The Cause Endures" is a tribute to Ted Kennedy's contribution to biotechnology and the life sciences. It was shown at the BIO Convention in Boston, MA on June 20, 2012.
Employers add 5 000 jobs in first quarter
Employment in the formal non-agricultural sector rose marginally from the end of December last year to the end of March this year, according to Statistics SA.
Stats SA’s Quarterly Employment Statistics survey released yesterday shows the number of people employed in the formal non-agricultural sector grew by about 5 000 people, or 0.1 percent in this time. There were an estimated 8 379 000 employees at year-end and about 8 384 000 employees at the end of March.
Stats SA said the gross earnings paid to employees during the quarter to March amounted to R347.7 billion. This reflected a quarterly decrease of R17.6bn, or minus 4.8 percent, compared with the quarter to December.
The agency said: “The March 2012 Quarterly Employment Statistics survey shows that an estimated 8 384 000 people were employed in the formal non-agricultural of the South African economy.
Stats SA’s Quarterly Employment Statistics survey released yesterday shows the number of people employed in the formal non-agricultural sector grew by about 5 000 people, or 0.1 percent in this time. There were an estimated 8 379 000 employees at year-end and about 8 384 000 employees at the end of March.
Stats SA said the gross earnings paid to employees during the quarter to March amounted to R347.7 billion. This reflected a quarterly decrease of R17.6bn, or minus 4.8 percent, compared with the quarter to December.
The agency said: “The March 2012 Quarterly Employment Statistics survey shows that an estimated 8 384 000 people were employed in the formal non-agricultural of the South African economy.
Finding Summer Jobs is Proving Difficult for Vancouver Island Youth
NANAIMO - Summer is finally here, but thousand of student on Vancouver Island have more on their minds than back yard barbecues. They are looking to line their pockets for the coming year, but finding work is proving more difficult than most had anticipated. "Were we are at is having 45 to 60 young people coming in a day to find work." says Nanaimo Youth Employment Centre CEO Steve Arnett, "that tells me something." What Steve is being told by a slow start to summer employment in the mid island is what Statistics Canada data is telling employment experts.
In May Canada's jobless rate sat at 7.4 per cent for all age groups, in the 15-24 year old group unemployment dropped to 14. 7 per cent. These statistics shed light on a 27 thousand person discrepancy in the number of youth working last year to this May. Finding hot season work in Nanaimo is no easy task in its own. Around ten per cent of youth were unemployed in the month of may, a time when experts say jobs are being sought after at the highest rate of the summer.
In May Canada's jobless rate sat at 7.4 per cent for all age groups, in the 15-24 year old group unemployment dropped to 14. 7 per cent. These statistics shed light on a 27 thousand person discrepancy in the number of youth working last year to this May. Finding hot season work in Nanaimo is no easy task in its own. Around ten per cent of youth were unemployed in the month of may, a time when experts say jobs are being sought after at the highest rate of the summer.
Mitt Romney promised to reform the much needed immigration system in US
Mitt Romney, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee has promised to reform the much needed immigration system by a series of reforms including providing automatic green card to those who get advanced degree from the US and those who serve in the Army.
“I would staple a green card to the diploma of someone who gets an advanced degree in America. We want the best and brightest to enrich the nation so the jobs and technologies they're going to create,” Romney said in his remarks at the NALEO Annual Conference in Florida yesterday.
The US President Barack Obama is scheduled to address the same conference today.
“As President, I will stand for a path to legal status for anyone who is willing to stand up and defend this great nation through military service. Those who've risked their lives in defence of America have earned the right to make their life in the country,” Romney said in his remarks.
Noting that immigration reform is not just a moral imperative, he said that it is also an economic necessity.
“Immigrants with advanced degrees start companies create jobs, and they drive innovation at a very high rate. Immigrants founded or co-founded nearly half of our top 50 venture- backed companies in this country, nearly half,” he said, adding that nearly 30 per cent more likely to start a business.
“That kind of risk-taking is something we need more than ever because new business startups in America are at a 30-year low,” he said.
Romney said he would work with states and employers to update the temporary worker visa programme so that it meets their economic needs.
Observing that improving access to legal immigration is only one part of the equation, Romney said that the US must also make legal immigration more attractive than illegal immigration so that people are rewarded for waiting patiently in line.
“That's why my administration will establish a strong employment verification system so that every business can know with confidence that the people it hires are legally eligible for employment. We could find common ground here, and we've got to. We owe it to ourselves as Americans to ensure that our country remains the land of opportunity both for those who were born here and for those who share our values, respect our laws and want to come to our shores,” he said.
Romney said he will prioritise efforts that strengthen legal immigration and make it more transparent and easier.
“I'm going to address the problem of illegal immigration in a civil and resolute manner. We may not always agree, but when I make a promise to you, I will keep it,” he said.
“It is critical that we redouble our efforts to secure the borders. That means both preventing illegal border crossings and making it harder to illegally overstay a visa. We should field enough border patrol agents, complete a high-tech fence and implement an improved exit verification system,” Romney said.
He said that United States's immigration system should help promote strong families as well, not keep them apart.
“As president, I would reallocate green cards to those seeking to keep their families under one roof. And we'll exempt from caps the spouses and minor children of legal permanent residents. We will eliminate other forms of bureaucratic red tape that keep families from coming together,” Romney said.
“I would staple a green card to the diploma of someone who gets an advanced degree in America. We want the best and brightest to enrich the nation so the jobs and technologies they're going to create,” Romney said in his remarks at the NALEO Annual Conference in Florida yesterday.
The US President Barack Obama is scheduled to address the same conference today.
“As President, I will stand for a path to legal status for anyone who is willing to stand up and defend this great nation through military service. Those who've risked their lives in defence of America have earned the right to make their life in the country,” Romney said in his remarks.
Noting that immigration reform is not just a moral imperative, he said that it is also an economic necessity.
“Immigrants with advanced degrees start companies create jobs, and they drive innovation at a very high rate. Immigrants founded or co-founded nearly half of our top 50 venture- backed companies in this country, nearly half,” he said, adding that nearly 30 per cent more likely to start a business.
“That kind of risk-taking is something we need more than ever because new business startups in America are at a 30-year low,” he said.
Romney said he would work with states and employers to update the temporary worker visa programme so that it meets their economic needs.
Observing that improving access to legal immigration is only one part of the equation, Romney said that the US must also make legal immigration more attractive than illegal immigration so that people are rewarded for waiting patiently in line.
“That's why my administration will establish a strong employment verification system so that every business can know with confidence that the people it hires are legally eligible for employment. We could find common ground here, and we've got to. We owe it to ourselves as Americans to ensure that our country remains the land of opportunity both for those who were born here and for those who share our values, respect our laws and want to come to our shores,” he said.
Romney said he will prioritise efforts that strengthen legal immigration and make it more transparent and easier.
“I'm going to address the problem of illegal immigration in a civil and resolute manner. We may not always agree, but when I make a promise to you, I will keep it,” he said.
“It is critical that we redouble our efforts to secure the borders. That means both preventing illegal border crossings and making it harder to illegally overstay a visa. We should field enough border patrol agents, complete a high-tech fence and implement an improved exit verification system,” Romney said.
He said that United States's immigration system should help promote strong families as well, not keep them apart.
“As president, I would reallocate green cards to those seeking to keep their families under one roof. And we'll exempt from caps the spouses and minor children of legal permanent residents. We will eliminate other forms of bureaucratic red tape that keep families from coming together,” Romney said.
Obama bends immigration policy
Washington: In an election-year policy change, the Obama administration said Friday it will stop deporting young illegal immigrants who entered the United States as children if they meet certain requirements.
The shift on the politically volatile issue of immigration policy prompted immediate praise from Latino leaders who have criticized Congress and the White House for inaction, while Republicans reacted with outrage, saying the move amounts to amnesty -- a negative buzz word among conservatives -- and usurps congressional authority.
Those who might benefit from the change expressed joy and relief, with celebratory demonstrations forming outside the White House and elsewhere.
The shift on the politically volatile issue of immigration policy prompted immediate praise from Latino leaders who have criticized Congress and the White House for inaction, while Republicans reacted with outrage, saying the move amounts to amnesty -- a negative buzz word among conservatives -- and usurps congressional authority.
Those who might benefit from the change expressed joy and relief, with celebratory demonstrations forming outside the White House and elsewhere.
France: The allowance for school revalued by 25% for September 2012
Additional resources are committed for the 2012 school year including the recruitment of 1,000 school teachers and upgrading of 25% of the allowance for school.
Means in additional staff will be introduced from autumn 2012, announced Vincent Peillon and Marisol Touraine at the Cabinet meeting on May 30 , with the recruitment of 1,000 school teachers in the first degree. Emphasis will be placed on students. To train new teachers, they will receive a management service. Other appointments will follow to assist students with disabilities and provide better security in the sensitive establishments.
Increase in allowance for school
In the 2012 school year, the new school year allowance will be revalued by 25%, the ministers also announced. With an average increase of over 70 euros, upgrading of the new school year allowance will allow families to receive:
This increase, with a cost of 372 million euros "will be funded under the bill funding social security," says the communication of the Council of Ministers announced the opening before the summer of a broad consensus around the rebuilding of the school.
Means in additional staff will be introduced from autumn 2012, announced Vincent Peillon and Marisol Touraine at the Cabinet meeting on May 30 , with the recruitment of 1,000 school teachers in the first degree. Emphasis will be placed on students. To train new teachers, they will receive a management service. Other appointments will follow to assist students with disabilities and provide better security in the sensitive establishments.
Increase in allowance for school
In the 2012 school year, the new school year allowance will be revalued by 25%, the ministers also announced. With an average increase of over 70 euros, upgrading of the new school year allowance will allow families to receive:
- 356.20 euros for a child 6 to 10 years (284.97 euros in 2011);
- 375.85 euros for a 11 to 14 years (300.06 euros in 2011);
- 388.87 euros for a child aged 15 to 18 (311.11 euros in 2011).
This increase, with a cost of 372 million euros "will be funded under the bill funding social security," says the communication of the Council of Ministers announced the opening before the summer of a broad consensus around the rebuilding of the school.
Sciencefund - Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), Malaysia
ScienceFund is a grant provided by Government to carry out R&D projects that can contribute to the discovery of new ideas and the advancement of knowledge in applied sciences, focusing on high impact and innovative research
Objectives
Types Of Research - Applied Sciences
Eligibility Criteria
This fund is open to all research scientists and engineers who are employed on a permanent or contractual basis from the following organisations:
Note :
These organisations can participate by collaborating with the eligible institutions.
Project proposals substantially similar to proposals submitted to any other government funding agencies.
Researchers can lead only one (1) project at any time. Researchers have to submit the End of Project Report (EPR), before submitting a new application.
Scope Of Funding
The funding can be utilised for the following categories:
Project Duration
The project duration is up to 30 months.
Quantum Of Funding
The quantum for each project is up to RM500,000.00.
Selection Criteria Of The Project
Scientific and technical merit: The project must be scientifically sound, technically feasible with achievable milestones, and has the potential for further development and commercialisation.
Research competence: The research team must have the knowledge and competency to carry out the research successfully to completion.
Innovativeness of the research.
High impact research: Clear and measureable expected output, outcome and impact in line with National Key Economic Areas / National Key Result Areas (NKEA/NKRA).
Application Process
Application for ScienceFund must be made online through the website
http://ernd.mosti.gov.my/eScience/frmLogin.aspx
For Further Information, Please Contact:
ScienceFund Secretariat
Fund Management Section, Planning Division
Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI)
Level 3, Block C5, Parcel C
Federal Government Administrative Centre
62662 Putrajaya.
Tel: 603 – 8885 8842 / 8852 / 8145 / 8758 / 8778
Fax: 603 – 8889 2994
Email: sciencefund[at]mosti.gov.my
Objectives
- To support research that can lead to the innovation of products or processes for further development and commercialisation
- To generate new scientific knowledge and strengthen national research capacity and capability
Types Of Research - Applied Sciences
Eligibility Criteria
This fund is open to all research scientists and engineers who are employed on a permanent or contractual basis from the following organisations:
- Government Research Institutions (GRIs)
- Social Sciences and Humanities
- Public and Private Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL) with accredited research programmes
- Note :
- Expatriates working under contract with any of the above institutions are eligible to apply. However, the project must have a permanent Malaysian co-researcher from the same institution, well-versed with the project, to ensure its completion in the event the expatriate’s contract is terminated.
- The service of a contract researcher must be valid during the period of research proposed and contractual documents must be furnished as proof of employment for the period.
- The following organisations are not eligible for ScienceFund:
- Private Research Institutions (PRIs) in the private sector;
- Other department/agencies that carry out research under their purview; and
- Research Institutions (RIs) with internal research funding such as Cess Fund.
Note :
These organisations can participate by collaborating with the eligible institutions.
Project proposals substantially similar to proposals submitted to any other government funding agencies.
Researchers can lead only one (1) project at any time. Researchers have to submit the End of Project Report (EPR), before submitting a new application.
Scope Of Funding
The funding can be utilised for the following categories:
- Wages and Allowances for Temporary and Contract Personnel
- Travel and Transportation
- Rentals
- Research Materials and Supplies
- Minor Modifications and Repairs
- Special Services
- R&D Equipment and Accessories
Project Duration
The project duration is up to 30 months.
Quantum Of Funding
The quantum for each project is up to RM500,000.00.
Selection Criteria Of The Project
Scientific and technical merit: The project must be scientifically sound, technically feasible with achievable milestones, and has the potential for further development and commercialisation.
Research competence: The research team must have the knowledge and competency to carry out the research successfully to completion.
Innovativeness of the research.
High impact research: Clear and measureable expected output, outcome and impact in line with National Key Economic Areas / National Key Result Areas (NKEA/NKRA).
Application Process
Application for ScienceFund must be made online through the website
http://ernd.mosti.gov.my/eScience/frmLogin.aspx
For Further Information, Please Contact:
ScienceFund Secretariat
Fund Management Section, Planning Division
Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI)
Level 3, Block C5, Parcel C
Federal Government Administrative Centre
62662 Putrajaya.
Tel: 603 – 8885 8842 / 8852 / 8145 / 8758 / 8778
Fax: 603 – 8889 2994
Email: sciencefund[at]mosti.gov.my
Malaysia to promote more French-M’sian partnerships in Biotech
PARIS (June 14, 2012): Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Maximus Ongkili is on a three-day official visit to Paris accompanied by MOSTI Deputy Secretary-General (Science) Prof Datin Paduka Dr Khatijah Yusoff and National Biotechnology Division Under-Secretary Prof Dr. Rofina Yasmin Othman, BiotechCorp CEO Dato’ Dr.Mohd Nazlee Kamal and other officials.
The visit’s objectives are to acquire strategic information on leading-edge technologies and technological advances, to establish bilateral collaboration and strategic partnerships in platform technology, commercialisation and R&D, to collaborate for knowledge and technological transfer as well as to facilitate information exchange between France and Malaysia.
The Minister and his delegation will make visits to Sanofi, a French Multi National Pharmaceutical company headquartered in Paris, Sofiproteol – Novance Oilseed Biorefinery in Compiegne and the ARD Bazancourt-Pomacle Biorefinery Complex in Reims.
Sanofi is the fourth largest pharma company and the world’s no. 1 vaccine producer. It is currently conducting Phase 2 global clinical trials for Dengue vaccine in Malaysia in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, with Phase 3 expected to be completed in July 2014.
Sofiproteol is a subsidiary of a major French agro-food group specialising in oilseed processing, from rapeseed to end-user industrial products, while ARD Bazancourt-Pomacle is an integrated biorefinery which started as a sugar beet refinery and is currently producing ethanol and succinic acid using first and second generation carbohydrate sources.
The Minister and his delegation will then proceed to Boston in the United States for the Bio International Convention 2012 until June 21.
The visit’s objectives are to acquire strategic information on leading-edge technologies and technological advances, to establish bilateral collaboration and strategic partnerships in platform technology, commercialisation and R&D, to collaborate for knowledge and technological transfer as well as to facilitate information exchange between France and Malaysia.
The Minister and his delegation will make visits to Sanofi, a French Multi National Pharmaceutical company headquartered in Paris, Sofiproteol – Novance Oilseed Biorefinery in Compiegne and the ARD Bazancourt-Pomacle Biorefinery Complex in Reims.
Sanofi is the fourth largest pharma company and the world’s no. 1 vaccine producer. It is currently conducting Phase 2 global clinical trials for Dengue vaccine in Malaysia in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, with Phase 3 expected to be completed in July 2014.
Sofiproteol is a subsidiary of a major French agro-food group specialising in oilseed processing, from rapeseed to end-user industrial products, while ARD Bazancourt-Pomacle is an integrated biorefinery which started as a sugar beet refinery and is currently producing ethanol and succinic acid using first and second generation carbohydrate sources.
The Minister and his delegation will then proceed to Boston in the United States for the Bio International Convention 2012 until June 21.
India, US hold higher education dialogue
Washington: India and US Tuesday began their annual higher education dialogue here focused on advanced research and innovation and the role of community colleges in workforce development.
Indian Minister for Human Resource Development Kapil Sibal and US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton are co-chairing the dialogue aimed at promoting and encouraging the vibrancy and depth of the cooperation between the education sectors of the two countries.
The dialogue will identify key areas of educational cooperation, shared goals, and best practices, and will help frame the two countries' higher education priorities for the year ahead. Several outside experts have joined the government delegations to offer their perspectives.
The education dialogue is one of several dialogues being held on the margins of the third edition of the India-US strategic dialogue here Wednesday.
External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna arrived here Monday night to co-chair the strategic dialogue. The strategic dialogue was announced by the two in Delhi in July 2009.
Clinton hosted the first strategic dialogue in June 2010 in Washington. The second edition was held in July 2011 in Delhi.
Indian Minister for Human Resource Development Kapil Sibal and US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton are co-chairing the dialogue aimed at promoting and encouraging the vibrancy and depth of the cooperation between the education sectors of the two countries.
The dialogue will identify key areas of educational cooperation, shared goals, and best practices, and will help frame the two countries' higher education priorities for the year ahead. Several outside experts have joined the government delegations to offer their perspectives.
The education dialogue is one of several dialogues being held on the margins of the third edition of the India-US strategic dialogue here Wednesday.
External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna arrived here Monday night to co-chair the strategic dialogue. The strategic dialogue was announced by the two in Delhi in July 2009.
Clinton hosted the first strategic dialogue in June 2010 in Washington. The second edition was held in July 2011 in Delhi.
Saudi women barred from entering France with veils
London: Three Saudi women who refused to remove their face veils at Paris' Charles de Gaulle airport have been barred entry to France, a media report here said.
In France, a 2011 law bans people from wearing Islamic face-covering veils anywhere in public.
"An official with the SGP-FO police union said that border police asked the women to remove their veils after they arrived Monday on a flight from Doha, Qatar," The Daily Mail reported.
The official said the women refused and hence the border police refused them entry into France, and hence returned to Doha the same night.
The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak publicly for the police, the report said.
Supporters of the ban say the veil contradicts France's principles of secularism and women's rights. Some Muslim groups say it stigmatises moderate Muslims, it said.
In France, a 2011 law bans people from wearing Islamic face-covering veils anywhere in public.
"An official with the SGP-FO police union said that border police asked the women to remove their veils after they arrived Monday on a flight from Doha, Qatar," The Daily Mail reported.
The official said the women refused and hence the border police refused them entry into France, and hence returned to Doha the same night.
The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak publicly for the police, the report said.
Supporters of the ban say the veil contradicts France's principles of secularism and women's rights. Some Muslim groups say it stigmatises moderate Muslims, it said.
Student visas are ’back door’ to UK, says think-tank
London: MigrationWatch UK, an influential think-tank considered right-wing in its approach, has called for more restrictions on granting visas to students from India and other non-EU countries, contending that such visas provide a "back door" entry to the UK.
The group, whose research and figures are often quoted in news discourse, warned against attempts by Universities in UK and others to lobby the David Cameron government to remove student visa from official statistics since their stay in the country is mostly temporary.
Removing student visas from official migration statistics would destroy public confidence in the government's immigration policy, MigrationWatch UK said in its latest report on the controversial subject.
Sir Andrew Green, the group's chairman, called for interviews to establish whether overseas students are genuine and that they intend to return home at the end of their course to be brought back.
He said: "Foreign students are valuable but the present system is far too easily abused. Sadly, the student route has become the back door to Britain and it is wide open.
"Unlike our main competitors, we do not interview students before they come to confirm that they are genuine and there are no checks on their departure".
Agreeing with MigrationWatch UK, Immigration Minister Damian Green said: "We are glad that Migration Watch agree with us that overseas students should remain part of the net migration figures and that action needs to be taken to prevent abuse of student visas".
"That is why we are introducing a raft of changes to the student visa route".
Meanwhile, Eric Thomas, president of Universities UK, said the perception was wrong that recent changes to the student visa regime had made it more difficult for genuine students who meet visa requirements to come and study in the UK.
He said: "There have been a number of changes recently to the UK's student visa system which have attracted a lot of media attention.
"Unfortunately, this has led to confusion for international students looking to study in the UK... There is no cap on student visa numbers in the UK".
Thomas added: "It has also been widely misreported that there will no longer be post-study work opportunities for international students in the UK.
"The old scheme did come to an end in April this year, but post-study work opportunities are available for applicants via the Tier 2 visa category.
"The opportunity for post-study work is a valuable incentive for prospective students to choose to study in the UK".
The group, whose research and figures are often quoted in news discourse, warned against attempts by Universities in UK and others to lobby the David Cameron government to remove student visa from official statistics since their stay in the country is mostly temporary.
Removing student visas from official migration statistics would destroy public confidence in the government's immigration policy, MigrationWatch UK said in its latest report on the controversial subject.
Sir Andrew Green, the group's chairman, called for interviews to establish whether overseas students are genuine and that they intend to return home at the end of their course to be brought back.
He said: "Foreign students are valuable but the present system is far too easily abused. Sadly, the student route has become the back door to Britain and it is wide open.
"Unlike our main competitors, we do not interview students before they come to confirm that they are genuine and there are no checks on their departure".
Agreeing with MigrationWatch UK, Immigration Minister Damian Green said: "We are glad that Migration Watch agree with us that overseas students should remain part of the net migration figures and that action needs to be taken to prevent abuse of student visas".
"That is why we are introducing a raft of changes to the student visa route".
Meanwhile, Eric Thomas, president of Universities UK, said the perception was wrong that recent changes to the student visa regime had made it more difficult for genuine students who meet visa requirements to come and study in the UK.
He said: "There have been a number of changes recently to the UK's student visa system which have attracted a lot of media attention.
"Unfortunately, this has led to confusion for international students looking to study in the UK... There is no cap on student visa numbers in the UK".
Thomas added: "It has also been widely misreported that there will no longer be post-study work opportunities for international students in the UK.
"The old scheme did come to an end in April this year, but post-study work opportunities are available for applicants via the Tier 2 visa category.
"The opportunity for post-study work is a valuable incentive for prospective students to choose to study in the UK".
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Contains four complete tests for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
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A comprehensive teacher resource pack from Cambridge ESOL to help teachers who are preparing students to take the IELTS Speaking test.
Step Up to IELTS
This course covers essential exam skills and language for IELTS in approximately sixty hours of teaching time, and familiarises students quickly with the exam. The course covers both the Academic and General Training modules.
Top Tips for IELTS
The most important things you need to know to help you prepare for the IELTS Academic or General Training module exams.
Prepare for the TOEFL iBT® Test
ETS offers a variety of practice materials to help you prepare for the TOEFL iBT® test, administered via the Internet, and build your English skills. These include free sample questions, practice tests, interactive skill-building programs, and detailed tips and information for understanding more about the TOEFL iBT test. Watch our new video, TOEFL® Resources: An Overview for Students (Flash) to learn about the tools from ETS that can help you prepare for the TOEFL test.
TOEFL® Value Packs
- Get substantial savings on essential TOEFL products, including test prep materials, additional score reports and the Engaging English™ service.Learn more about TOEFL Value Packs.
Priced Test Preparation
- TOEFL® Practice Online is the only official practice test that gives you the experience of taking the real TOEFL iBT Test. You will be able to review and answer authentic test questions and get instant scores and feedback on all four skills measured on the test — reading, listening, speaking and writing.You can take the practice test at home, at school or wherever there is an Internet connection — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Each volume has a different set of questions, so you can practice a few times to prepare for success on the TOEFL iBT test.
- This bestselling guide has two full-length tests plus hundreds of valuable tips. Available in eBook format, this is an authentic test preparation guide from ETS, developer of the TOEFL test.This guide provides a comprehensive all-in-one reference to the TOEFL test with skill-building tips to help you do your best.
Skill-building Tools
- The Engaging English™ Service from MetaMetrics® helps build your English reading skills with targeted online practice matched to your level and interests. The service uses MetaMetrics' Lexile® measures, the worldwide standard for matching readers and text, to make reading practice more effective and efficient. Easy-to-use graphs and reports help you monitor your progress toward your goals.
- Pronunciation in English powered by AmEnglish.com® is a web-based, interactive program that helps you with all elements of pronunciation, including stress, intonation and rhythm. This program now available in two levels — High Beginning+ and Intermediate+.
- Idioms in English powered by AmEnglish.com® Volume One and Volume Two are web-based, interactive programs that help you improve listening comprehension, vocabulary and speech.
- Writing in English powered by AmEnglish.com® is a web-based, interactive program that helps you write clear, concise and correct English. This program now available in two levels — High Beginning+ and Intermediate+.
Free Test Preparation
- FREE TOEFL iBT Test Sample Questions — ETS provides free TOEFL iBT test sample questions so that you can review the types of questions and content that are on the actual test and become more familiar with how the TOEFL iBT test is structured and formatted.
- The TOEFL iBT Test Sampler has sample questions that are free when you register for the TOEFL iBT test. You can access the free sample questions from the "view order" link on your online profile. The Sampler has interactive Reading and Listening questions, and sample responses to Writing and Speaking questions. You can take the Sampler only once.
- An easy-to-use, free service that matches your TOEFL® Reading Section score with a MetaMetrics' Lexile measure. A Lexile measure puts your reading ability and the text difficulty of reading materials on the same scale to help you find materials at your reading level. To get your Lexile measure or learn more, visit www.lexile.com/toefl.
- TOEFL iBT Test Tips (PDF) helps test takers understand the TOEFL iBT test and prepare for it. You will find information on the test format, types of questions, scores, frequently asked questions and more.If you study in an English-language program where official ETS test preparation materials are used, you will receive targeted skills practice and test preparation designed exclusively to help you prepare for the TOEFL iBT test.
Video: Lies, damn lies and graduate employment statistics
Andy Westwood, CEO of GuildHE ran an unconference track on labour market statistics and how they relate to graduate employability at the 2012 Graduate Employment Conference, held at Aspire, Leeds.
Demand for IELTS increases around the world
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) reinforces its position as the world’s most popular high stakes English proficiency test, hitting a new record of more than 1.7 million tests sat around the world in 2011.
In the face of changing economic and migration conditions, IELTS has enjoyed 12% growth in number of tests sat in 2011 as compared to 2010. The latest figures marked the seventeenth year of continual growth in test numbers, with the number of tests taken tripling since 2005.
USA was the fastest growing market worldwide in 2011 with more than 50 test centres now open to candidates, while Canada also observed a significant rise in the number of tests taken in the past twelve months.
The East Asia region of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka was the second most significant growth market for IELTS in 2011.
Demand in China, India and Australia remained strong with these countries again administering the highest number of tests. IELTS also noted a significant increase across United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
IELTS is now recognised by more than 7,000 organisations including educational institutions, employers, professional associations and governments, in 135 countries around the world.
Director of IELTS for IDP: IELTS Australia John Belleville said that reasons cited by test takers for taking the IELTS test were entry into an academic institution, followed by migration purposes.
“For many, IELTS is a requirement for migration to Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United Kingdom and the test can be taken in any one of 800 locations worldwide,” Mr Belleville said.
“Demand for IELTS in China remains very impressive, with students taking the test for entry to educational institutions in Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and USA amongst many other destinations,” explained John Gildea, Head of IELTS at British Council.
IELTS test content is developed by an international team of experts and undergoes extensive research to ensure the test remains fair and unbiased for any candidate regardless of nationality, background, gender, lifestyle or location.
In the face of changing economic and migration conditions, IELTS has enjoyed 12% growth in number of tests sat in 2011 as compared to 2010. The latest figures marked the seventeenth year of continual growth in test numbers, with the number of tests taken tripling since 2005.
USA was the fastest growing market worldwide in 2011 with more than 50 test centres now open to candidates, while Canada also observed a significant rise in the number of tests taken in the past twelve months.
The East Asia region of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka was the second most significant growth market for IELTS in 2011.
Demand in China, India and Australia remained strong with these countries again administering the highest number of tests. IELTS also noted a significant increase across United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
IELTS is now recognised by more than 7,000 organisations including educational institutions, employers, professional associations and governments, in 135 countries around the world.
Director of IELTS for IDP: IELTS Australia John Belleville said that reasons cited by test takers for taking the IELTS test were entry into an academic institution, followed by migration purposes.
“For many, IELTS is a requirement for migration to Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United Kingdom and the test can be taken in any one of 800 locations worldwide,” Mr Belleville said.
“Demand for IELTS in China remains very impressive, with students taking the test for entry to educational institutions in Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and USA amongst many other destinations,” explained John Gildea, Head of IELTS at British Council.
IELTS test content is developed by an international team of experts and undergoes extensive research to ensure the test remains fair and unbiased for any candidate regardless of nationality, background, gender, lifestyle or location.
English language proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL for PhD or Postdoc admissions
A student whose native language is not English would have chosen to take one of the tests like International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for admission to PhD or Postdoc programmes depending upon requirements of the institutions in which the student is planning to apply.
Over 7,000 organisations and more than 1.7 million tests are taken each year around the world trust. IELTS is recognised as a secure, valid and reliable indicator of true-to-life ability to communicate in English for education, immigration and professional accreditation.
IELTS is jointly owned by British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL) through more than 800 test centres and locations in over 130 countries.
Go to IELTS website now!
British Council
British Council connects people worldwide with the learning opportunities and creative ideas from the UK and builds lasting relationships between the UK and other countries. British Council is the UK's international organisation for educational opportunity and cultural relations and is represented in 107 countries worldwide.
Please contact ielts@britishcouncil.org for further information.
IDP: IELTS Australia
IDP: IELTS Australia is a subsidiary of IDP Education, one of the world's leading international education organisations offering student placement in Australia, the USA and the UK. IDP Education has 40 years' experience in international higher education. IELTS Australia Pty Ltd manages a network of more than 100 IELTS test centres in over 35 countries.
Please contact ielts@idp.com for further information.
University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL)
Cambridge ESOL is the world's leading provider of exams for learners of English. Cambridge exams are recognised by over 8,500 organisations worldwide and taken by over 3 million people each year in 135 countries.
Please contact ielts@ucles.org.uk for further information or visit http://www.cambridgeesol.org/
What Is the TOEFL iBT Test?
The TOEFL iBT test measures your ability to use and understand English at the university level. And it evaluates how well you combine your listening, reading, speaking and writing skills to perform academic tasks.
There are two formats for the TOEFL test. The format you take depends on the location of your test center. Most test takers take the TOEFL iBT test. Test centers that do not have Internet access offer the Paper-based Test (PBT).
Who Takes the TOEFL iBT Test?
More than 27 million people from all over the world have taken the TOEFL test to demonstrate their English-language proficiency. The average English skill level ranges between Intermediate and Advanced.
The TOEFL® Test Gives You an Advantage:
Most Widely Accepted, Most Popular and Most Convenient Choice
The TOEFL test is the most widely respected English-language test in the world, recognized by more than 8,500 colleges, universities and agencies in more than 130 countries. Wherever you want to study, the TOEFL test can help you get there.
Go to TOEFL website now!
IELTS is the International English Language Testing System
IELTS was one of the pioneers of four skills English language testing over 21 years ago, and continues to set the standard for English language testing today.Over 7,000 organisations and more than 1.7 million tests are taken each year around the world trust. IELTS is recognised as a secure, valid and reliable indicator of true-to-life ability to communicate in English for education, immigration and professional accreditation.
IELTS is jointly owned by British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL) through more than 800 test centres and locations in over 130 countries.
Go to IELTS website now!
British Council
British Council connects people worldwide with the learning opportunities and creative ideas from the UK and builds lasting relationships between the UK and other countries. British Council is the UK's international organisation for educational opportunity and cultural relations and is represented in 107 countries worldwide.
Please contact ielts@britishcouncil.org for further information.
IDP: IELTS Australia
IDP: IELTS Australia is a subsidiary of IDP Education, one of the world's leading international education organisations offering student placement in Australia, the USA and the UK. IDP Education has 40 years' experience in international higher education. IELTS Australia Pty Ltd manages a network of more than 100 IELTS test centres in over 35 countries.
Please contact ielts@idp.com for further information.
University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL)
Cambridge ESOL is the world's leading provider of exams for learners of English. Cambridge exams are recognised by over 8,500 organisations worldwide and taken by over 3 million people each year in 135 countries.
Please contact ielts@ucles.org.uk for further information or visit http://www.cambridgeesol.org/
TOEFL Test
The TOEFL iBT® test, administered via the Internet, is an important part of your journey to study in an English-speaking country. In addition to the test, the ETS TOEFL Program provides tools and guides to help you prepare for the test and improve your English-language skills.What Is the TOEFL iBT Test?
The TOEFL iBT test measures your ability to use and understand English at the university level. And it evaluates how well you combine your listening, reading, speaking and writing skills to perform academic tasks.
There are two formats for the TOEFL test. The format you take depends on the location of your test center. Most test takers take the TOEFL iBT test. Test centers that do not have Internet access offer the Paper-based Test (PBT).
Who Takes the TOEFL iBT Test?
More than 27 million people from all over the world have taken the TOEFL test to demonstrate their English-language proficiency. The average English skill level ranges between Intermediate and Advanced.
- Students planning to study at a higher education institution
- English-language learning program admissions and exit
- Scholarship and certification candidates
- English-language learners who want to track their progress
- Students and workers applying for visas
The TOEFL® Test Gives You an Advantage:
Most Widely Accepted, Most Popular and Most Convenient Choice
The TOEFL test is the most widely respected English-language test in the world, recognized by more than 8,500 colleges, universities and agencies in more than 130 countries. Wherever you want to study, the TOEFL test can help you get there.
Go to TOEFL website now!
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