Adv Jaspal singh

Dubai, a Futuristic & Beautiful city as Study Destination

Jaspal Singh - 16 June 2023

Updated on July 7th, 2023

Dubai is a beautiful and futuristic city that is home to over 60 world-renowned university campuses and colleges and that offers plenty of higher education opportunities to meet your aspirations. Pursue a world-class undergraduate or postgraduate degree from this destination and advance your career globally. it is growing as a popular destination day by day among international students. Indian students are also choosing it for their higher studies. Studying in Dubai is getting more popular day by day.

Dubai has maintained world-class standards across all sectors, so you can enjoy a quality lifestyle while studying in Dubai. As Dubai is developing and its economy is growing, it gives international students an opportunity to work and support their budget and have working exposure which helps them to make better careers.

Campuses of International Universities in Dubai

I visited a few campuses of different colleges and Universities in January 2023. The campus atmosphere motivates students to learn and explore as students worldwide come here for higher education to interact with the multinational student community. Many campuses in Dubai offer education to International Students, providing them with courses like Science, Engineering and Technology, Architecture, Aviation, Management, Business, Economics, Media and Mass, Computers and IT, Law, Natural Sciences, etc. These programs further give more work opportunities.

Dubai’s Knowledge Park

No doubt Dubai’s economy is mainly based upon tourism, real estate, banking, and finance but in recent years, they have also shifted their focus to education. Dubai has established Dubai Knowledge Park, where space is given to different international Universities and other educational institutes. Students feel part of a big learning environment where they can interact with other students studying on other campuses. Although Dubai’s institutes are also part of this knowledge park, over 85% of Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park’s student body comprises students from abroad.

The universities in Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park are continually evolving their curriculum and courses to meet the current and future job market. Several top-ranking universities from the US, the UK, Europe, Australia, and other parts of the world, including the University of Birmingham, the University of Wollongong, and the Institute of Management Technology, have satellite campuses in Dubai.

Why to Study in Dubai — *Why Study in Dubai*

Admission Requirements to Study in Dubai

First, students need to check the eligibility criteria to apply to universities and colleges in Dubai. Before issuing a Student Visa, the students must complete all the formalities of the University. Documents required to apply for Dubai Student Visa are as under.

A valid passport.

Admission Offer Letter received from UAE university or college.

Students’ Bank statements showing the required funds.

Copy of tuition fee receipt for the current year of the study program.

Copy of visa fee receipt for the current year of the study program

Post-graduate students need to show proof of their undergraduate degree.

Once the student reaches Dubai, he needs to undergo a medical test from an authorized medical center. The test includes a medical and chest X-ray for HIV, Hepatitis C, Hepatitis B, Leprosy, Syphilis, and Tuberculosis.

If any of these test results are positive, then the student will be deported except for Syphilis because it can be treated.

Working as International Student in Dubai

Working as an international student in Dubai can be a rewarding experience. Dubai offers various employment opportunities and a vibrant multicultural environment. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the local regulations and consult with your university or the relevant authorities to ensure you comply with the necessary requirements. Additionally, exploring part-time job opportunities on campus or internships in your field of study can provide valuable experience while balancing your studies.

International students in Dubai have full working rights while the study. International students can take up part-time jobs and internships in Dubai if they fulfill the legal criteria and their university’s requirements. With home to some of the topmost companies globally, UAE offers excellent work opportunities for students to gain work experience while pursuing their higher studies in Dubai.

What courses to study in Dubai

With all campuses, there are several programs that students can choose from. The most popular are Business, Hospitality Management, Cookery, Health care management, Engineering, Construction Management, Accounting, Finance, and many more.

Dubai has many different types of courses and educational programs in different areas of study. The courses you can choose to study in Dubai depend on what you are interested in, what career you want to pursue, and the level of education you want to achieve. Here are some examples of popular fields of study in Dubai:

Business and Management: Dubai is a major business hub, making business and management courses highly sought after. You can explore programs in areas such as finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, international business, operations management, supply chain management, human resource management, organizational behavior and leadership, strategic management, and business analytics. The diverse range of courses available in this field can help you develop a well-rounded skillset for success in the competitive business environment of Dubai.
Engineering and Technology: Dubai’s rapid growth has created a significant demand for engineering and technology professionals. Courses in fields like civil engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, aerospace engineering, architecture engineering, telecommunications engineering, and information technology are popular choices. These courses will equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to Dubai’s infrastructure development and technological advancements.
Hospitality and Tourism: Dubai is renowned for its thriving hospitality and tourism industry. By studying courses related to hotel management, tourism management, event management, culinary arts, hospitality marketing, travel and tourism, and guest services, you can open up exciting opportunities in this sector. These courses focus on developing your customer service skills, event planning abilities, and knowledge of the hospitality industry to make you a valuable asset in Dubai’s vibrant tourism scene.
Medicine and Healthcare: Dubai has a well-developed healthcare sector, offering numerous opportunities for those interested in pursuing courses in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, medical imaging, dentistry, healthcare administration, and biomedical sciences. These courses will provide you with the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to excel in various healthcare settings and contribute to delivering quality healthcare services in Dubai.
Architecture and Design: With its iconic skyline and innovative architecture, Dubai offers numerous opportunities for those interested in architecture, interior design, urban planning, landscape architecture, industrial design, sustainable design, architectural engineering, and construction management. These courses will enable you to explore and contribute to Dubai’s unique urban landscape and contribute to the development of future architectural marvels.
Media and Communication: Dubai’s vibrant media landscape makes it an excellent location to study courses in journalism, public relations, advertising, media production, film studies, digital communication, mass communication, and visual communication. These courses will equip you with the necessary skills to navigate the ever-evolving media industry and take advantage of Dubai’s role as a regional media hub. Whether you aspire to be a journalist, advertiser,

Why it’s a better option for Indian Students

Indian students, especially from north India, students prefer Canada, Australia, UK as their preferred study destinations. There may be many reasons they choose these destinations but Dubai has its own logic. I feel Dubai offers education from ranking Universities in budgeted tuition fees and affordable living costs. Dubai is very near to India, students can travel easily to be in touch with their families. Even families can travel easily to meet their kids. Overall Dubai has many reasons for Indian students choosing to study in this beautiful city.

GBS Campus Tour

If you feel to apply to Study in Dubai, do WhatsApp me at +91-9888481965

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Dharamkot, A hippie village near McLeod Ganj

Jaspal Singh - 2 January 2023

Updated on November 25th, 2023

Israeli lifestyle and culture is a feeling that you will have in a hippy village, Dharamkot in Himachal Pradesh, 13 km from Dharamsala. This beautiful place has also been a popular destination among Israeli tourists. Initially, the village is inhabited by the Gaddi shepherd community. However, over the years, regular visits from Israeli tourists have changed the outlook of the village. It is now dotted with cafes, restaurants, yoga centers, and gift shops. Over time, now the locals can speak Hebrew fluently. Most of the Signage and boards in the village are written in Hebrew.

Dharamkot, a hippy village doesn’t have any roads, except for a single road that leads to it and pretty much ends at “Trek and Dine”–a famous café. After Trek n Dine, the road narrows down to a pathway, ideal for aimless walks through the village to various other viewpoints, rocks, waterfalls, and some tracks.

More backpackers than families

It’s mostly populated with locals, Non-Indian tourists, and a few Indian backpackers. McLeod Ganj and Dharamshala are more family-oriented destinations, whereas Dharamkot has a different outlook with nonfamilies visitors. The place is full of spiritual-seekers and peaceful travelers who are doing some soul-searching or just enjoying the lap of nature.

You may also read Mcloed Ganj: An Escape to Nature, Hills, History & Scenic Beauty

Stay and food options

I visited the place in December 2022. It was a brief trip, but we enjoyed it a lot. Dharamkot is divided into two parts: lower Dharamkot, and upper Dharamkot. We stayed in Dharamkot Inn in lower Dharamkot just opposite to cafe, “Trek and Dine”. It was a nice and comfortable stay. Perhaps this is one of the rare places where you can drive your car or taxi right up to the door. This place has many reasonable) places to stay and awesome food (mostly Israeli cuisine) to taste. Dharamkot village does not have big hotels or resorts but there are plenty of homestays, budget hotels, and a few backpackers hostels too.

*Moon Light Cafe, Dharamkot in Himachal Pradesh*

There are restaurants and cafes where you can have different cuisines. We had our dinner at Trek & Dine, a beautiful restaurant in the middle of lower Dharamkot. We had our breakfast at another good place, the Moonlight café. It was a blissful feeling of being in this beautiful place. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the warmth from sun rays coming from the window added soothing feelings, creating memories that would linger in hearts forever.

Eager to explore the local culture, we immersed ourselves in the vibrant markets of Dharamkot. The colourful shops showcased an array of handicrafts, Tibetan artifacts, and locally made products.

Wall Painting in Dharampur — *Wall Painting somewhere in the Dharamkot market*

The place is full of Bliss & Calmness

People love being a part of the journey to Dharamkot because the place is full of absolute bliss and calmness. The quietness of the place attracts a lot of tourists every year. I wish to visit it again and again. Time in Dharamkot was nothing short of a fairy tale. It was a chapter that had been etched with beauty, tranquility, and a deep sense of fulfillment. The place is absolute heaven for nomads, travelers, and people who love to go hiking and trekking. There is nothing like Dharamkot when you want to experience the true beauty of nature with no sort of extravagant luxury or privileges.

Somewhere near Dharampur — *Somewhere near Dharamkot in Himachal Pradesh*

Parking is an issue in Dharamkot

Parking can be a problem in Dharamkot. If you are going in your own car, you must know there can be parking problems as the roads are not very wide. I recommend you park vehicles in the parking at McLeod Ganj and choose to travel with a hired taxi. This way you will be easier and will enjoy walking and the surrounding.

Exploring the surroundings of Dharamkot

In Dharamkot you can escape to many beautiful points like Heena Cafe in upper Dharamkot and many others. Heena Cafe is one of the best places where you can spend time and have a few Tibetan cousins like Veg Thali, Veg Thenchuk, Arrabiata Pasta, and Tibetan Style Momos. You may check the menu & taste other things as well. There are more attractions near Dharamshala that you may explore

Triund Trek: Embark on a trek to Triund, a popular destination known for its scenic beauty and panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range. The trek starts from Dharamkot and takes around 4-6 hours to reach the top.

Bhagsu Waterfall: Visit the enchanting Bhagsu Waterfall, located near the Bhagsunath Temple. It’s a short trek from Dharamkot and offers a refreshing experience amidst nature.

Dal Lake: Explore Dal Lake, a small and serene lake surrounded by deodar trees. It’s located near Tota Rani village, about 2 kilometers from Dharamkot.

Naddi Viewpoint: Take a trip to Naddi, a picturesque village situated above McLeod Ganj. From the Naddi Viewpoint, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Kangra Valley and the Dhauladhar mountain range.

Walk tour of Dharamkot

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Finland, a beautiful study destination in northern Europe

Jaspal Singh - 13 November 2022

Updated on July 20th, 2023

In the last week of October 2022, while traveling to attend ICEF Berlin, my stay was in Helsinki, the capital of Finland. Finland is a beautiful country, geographically in the most northern part of Europe. It is also the most densely forested country in Europe. Because of its geographical scenario, Finland has a harsh climate in the northern part of the country.

And all this resulted in a concentration of population in the southern part and mainly around the main city of Helsinki. Still, most people live in small towns and cities. They are always close to nature, especially forests. Here in this article, we will discuss the options for studying in Finland for International, especially Indian students.

Best Environment for Students in Finland

For quality education, Finland is a country that comes very first in mind. Finland is a good choice for students from around the world. One of the most environmentally conscious countries, Finland has a high level of infrastructure and technology where international students get the best for their learning. Finland is also called a ‘Country of Lakes’, and so scenic beauty of Finland makes a student feel an ideal place to live and explore.

Helsinki Market Square — *Helsinki’s Market Square, the heart of the city where events are happening all the day*

Beauty of Finland — *Another view of Market Square in Helsinki*

There are over 400 programs that are offered purely in the English language. While not a necessity, higher education institutions also offer language courses in Finnish or Swedish for students that wish to learn the national languages. Being a student in Finland has many advantages. From high-tech labs to well-stocked libraries, they equip university campuses with all the facilities that knowledge-hungry students need.

Beautiful Finland — *Helsinki Cathedral is one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks*

Bachelor, Master, and Ph.D. programs in Finland

There are several programs offered at various levels in Finland, whereas programs at Bachelor and Master levels are mostly in demand for international students, especially for Indian students.

Bachelor’s degree has a duration of 3 years (180 ECTS credits) whereas a Master’s degree has 1-2 years duration (60 or 120 ECTS credits). A doctoral degree in Finland usually lasts about 4 years.

English Language requirement

Most of the university courses are in English, particularly in the Master’s programs. As an applicant, you need IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL. The least language requirement for a Master’s program is 6.5, and some universities require a special score or a skill score. Similarly, for undergraduate courses requirement is 6 bands in IELTS.

Subjects to study in Finland

As an international student, you can easily find a subject you want to study. Some of the most popular subjects to study in Finland are Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Business, Law, Nursing, Education and training, Natural Sciences, and many more. Ask for more details at Adv.Jaspal@gmail.com

Tuition Fee & Scholarship in Finland

Tuition Fees are mandatory for students from non-EU/EEA countries and will vary between universities. Finnish higher education institutions also offer scholarship opportunities to students who pay fees, so contact your chosen institution to find out more about their funding options. Each university sets its own fees, which can differ from program to program, but they set somewhere annual tuition fees between €8,000 and €18,000, not including general living expenses.

Students can work while they study in Finland

Student jobs are a valuable part and experience of a student’s life before entering the labor market. To support themselves and to gain some experience, students opt to work in the meantime. All the students studying in the university, national or international, can work while pursuing their graduate and post-graduate degrees. Students can work for 25 hours per week. During the holidays, there is no such time limit. As soon as the student works, he has to pay taxes based on his average salary.

Major admission intakes in Finland

Major intakes in Finland are in Autumn & Spring. Autumn is September whereas Spring is January. September is the Primary Intake. All universities offer all the courses to international students. Spring intake is a Secondary Intake. Plenty of courses are available for students who missed the Autumn intake.

Can you bring your dependents on a Finland student visa?

As a student with a residence permit, you can bring your spouse and children to Finland during the course duration. They will have to apply separately for the permit to join you in the country. You can submit your application together to save time and get processed as a family. Please note that you have to prove to have enough funds to cover your family expenses in Finland.

Stay back and working options after study

International students with a residence permit in Finland can work as many hours as they wish if the job is related to the program they are studying. As an international student, you can work up to 25 hours a week during term time, and full-time during holidays. However, since the beginning of 2022, the government of Finland has increased the number of hours international students can work during their study stay to 30 per week. Finland offers excellent opportunities for international students, including the possibility of getting a quality position while studying abroad.

When they completed their studies, they still stay back and work in Finland. You may apply for a work permit in Finland after studying to look for work or start a business. You’ll have the option for this two-year post-study permit for five years after graduation, and you can also take the permit in parts if you like. Another beautiful study destination NETHERLANDS: A LAND OF FLOWERS, BEERS & BEST STUDY OPTIONS

If you feel this article is useful and you are also planning to study in Finland, drop your query at Adv. Jaspal@gmail.com or WhatsApp +91-9888481965

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Netherlands: a land of flowers, beers & best study options

Jaspal Singh - 13 May 2022

Updated on June 4th, 2023

A small and one of the most densely populated countries in Europe, we know the Netherlands for a flat landscape of canals, tulip fields, windmills, and cycling routes. Most of the population speaks and understands English, so it is very comfortable to live and travel in the country if you understand English. Whether you’re planning to live in the Netherlands or just visiting or going there for higher studies, English skills are certainly going to help you. As per the EF English Proficiency Index, the Dutch are top of the class in English, narrowly beating Denmark and Sweden. Between 90 and 93% of the population can speak English as a second language.

The Netherlands versus Holland:

People mostly get confused about whether to call it Netherland or ‘Holland’. The Dutch government officially dropped the nickname Holland in January 2020. Making it clearer; the Netherlands comprises 12 provinces, whereas Holland is the area made of two provinces, North Holland and South Holland. These two provinces contributed the most to the economy of the country. People took Holland as the name of the country, which is finally dropped in 2020.

Flowers in Netherlands — Colourful flower beds and windmills in the Netherlands

World’s leading exporter of flowers and beers

The Netherlands is famous for its colourful tulip fields. It is the world’s leading exporter of flowers, most of which are tulips. Around two billion tulips leave the country each year and travel to different destinations around the globe. Another thing after flowers is beer. The country is also famous for many Dutch brews, which include many well-known brands such as Heineken, Amstel, and Grolsch. The Netherlands is the second biggest beer exporter in the world, after Mexico.

Beer in Netherlands — Famous Dutch beer brands today include Heineken, Amstel, Grolsch, Bavaria, Brand, and Hertog Jan.

The Netherlands also has one of the most active social scenes and nightlife, making it a student-centric, enjoyable city. The county is ranked 6th as the happiest place in the world. So people love to visit and stay in this beautiful country. Almost everyone in the Netherlands owns a bike, not only as a leisure activity but also as a means of transportation to work. The Netherlands has an excellent public transport infrastructure. The country is small, and the transportation is quick, allowing you to live in one city and work in another.

A great destination for international students

Now coming to our major topic, we can easily say that the Netherlands is a great destination for international students. The Netherlands continues to attract more foreign students. In the Netherlands, where there are over 2,000 education programs in English offered by 77 different higher education institutions. You can choose between plenty of Bachelors’s and Master’s Degrees in different institutions. Studying in the Netherlands is the best decision for your career.

Study in Netherlands — Approximately 93% of locals speak English. This factor makes living, studying, and working in the Netherlands very convenient, and pleasant for international students.

Students may work during the study

International students can work while studying in the Netherlands. However, there are restrictions: you may work a maximum of 16 hours a week. International students may do seasonal work full-time (but only in June, July, and August). Students can avail of only one option.

Stay back option after study

The Netherlands, as a study-abroad destination, offers unique opportunities to international students. The post-study work also called the Search/ Orientation Year is one of the important reasons. If you have completed a bachelor’s or master’s or Post Graduate course of a minimum 12 months or you are a Ph.D. graduate, you are eligible for one-year post-study work. This cannot be extended. If, however, you pursue another course (as per the requirements mentioned above) then the validity of this residence permit is renewed. For example, if you undertake a research program, then even if you have had one orientation year, you can apply for another on completion of the research program.

If you require more details, reach me at Adv.Jaspal@gmail.com

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Denmark, a beautiful country to study and explore career options

Jaspal Singh - 29 April 2022

Updated on September 7th, 2024

Denmark is a small and beautiful place to explore career options and go for higher studies. The smallest of the Scandinavian nations, Denmark, serves as a bridge between Western and Northern Europe. With its beautiful cities, highly developed institutions, and exceptionally high-quality study programs, it is no wonder that Denmark is one of the top destinations for international students. Denmark is also home to one of the most developed and unique educational systems in the world, ranking in the top 5 in student satisfaction. High academic standards and innovative learning make education quality and globally accepted. International students can also find a range of opportunities, as Danish universities and higher education institutions offer many programs in English. There are plenty of courses available in English, which is obviously a big factor for students who wish to study in a foreign country.

Beautiful Country with a relaxed lifestyle

It is a beautiful country surrounded by beaches, GARDENS, and lakes. Denmark’s location makes it a gateway to other Scandinavian countries and the rest of Europe. Berlin is just an hour’s flight away. We can reach London and Paris in less than two hours. And Barcelona, Rome, Vienna, and Prague are all just a few hours’ flight away.

Happy People in Denmark — *Group of happy people enjoying the day in Copenhagen Denmark*

As a student or traveler, when you arrive in Denmark you will probably see the relaxed atmosphere everywhere, many people on bikes, a few playing music, hanging out by the seaside or the harbor, lounging, and barbecuing. In summer, people like to engage in sunbathing, swimming, and picnics, whereas, in winter, they like hot chocolates and indoor social gatherings.

Beer in Denmark — *Beer in the visitor’s hand in the street food market of Copenhagen, Denmark.*

Study Options in Denmark

Denmark is attracting thousands of foreign students each year. Universities in Denmark offer over 500 programs that are taught in English having international recognition. Most people choose to study in Denmark to enjoy its high standard of living, diverse cultural environment, and low crime rates.

Denmark has several internationally recognized universities offering a wide range of programs taught in English. Examples include the University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University, and the Technical University of Denmark. International students can pursue undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in various fields such as engineering, business, social sciences, and humanities. Denmark also offers competitive doctoral programs for those interested in research and academia.

What are the best programs in Denmark?

As an international student in Denmark, you can study for a Ph.D., master’s, bachelor’s, or academy profession degree. Bachelor’s degrees in Denmark last either three or four years and you can study for one in a vast range of subjects.

If you want to study a master’s degree program, it will last for two years. A doctorate or Ph.D. will take three years to complete. There’s a variety of universities and institutions international students can apply to in Denmark, including specialist business schools, medical universities, and engineering universities.

Indian students also choose Denmark for higher studies

Indian students also choose this Scandinavian country for their higher studies. There are a good number of Universities and institutes which offer so many programs at the Bachelor’s, Masters’s, and Ph.D. levels. Indian students will be required to pay tuition fees at Danish universities, as India belongs outside the EU/EEA. Denmark has several scholarships for Indian students.

Cost of studying in Denmark

If you’re from the EU/EEA or Switzerland, you can study at a University in Denmark for free. If you’re an international student from outside the EU, tuition fees range between $8,000 and $21,000, although this will depend on the program and university you apply for. Check actual costs from University websites or consult any Education Consultant in your city. Similarly, you must check the cost of living in Denmark, which is slightly high.

Denmark study visa for Indian students

If you are an Indian student and have planned further education in Denmark, you need to apply for a study visa. This visa is straightforward and can be obtained with proof of ID and an acceptance letter from a Danish university. A student visa will last the length of the academic year. While applying for a study visa, you must keep points in mind to avoid any complications. Here I am discussing a few important points.

First, select the right course and University according to your eligibility.
You will need a valid passport and a passport photo.
Prove your English language proficiency to stay in Denmark. There can be different criteria for checking English language proficiency. Normally Universities accept IELTS as a test.
You will need to prove that you can support yourself financially during your study in Denmark.
You may have to give your biometrics during the process of visa application.
There will be a visa interview during the application process.

If you want to continue your stay in Denmark even after the completion of your study program, you will be required to apply for a new visa or a visa renewal with the help of the immigration office.

Stay back & working options after graduation

Here is what you need to know if you will stay back and work after your graduation in Denmark. It offers a variety of opportunities for working after the completion of studies. Different rules apply to different nationalities. If you are NON-EU/EEA, as we Indians are, we have to apply for a residence permit to work in Denmark. After graduation in Denmark, your residence permit remains valid for an additional six months. During this 6 months period, you also may work only 20 hours per week. If you have received a residence permit under the establishment card scheme, you can legally stay and work in Denmark. Another option to study in Europe is Finland: a beautiful study destination in Northern Europe.

If you feel this article as useful information, and you are also planning to study in DENMARK, drop query at Adv.Jaspal@gmail.com or WhatsApp +91-9888481965

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Study and Working Options in Germany

Jaspal Singh - 6 January 2022

Updated on May 13th, 2023

Germany is one of the preferred study destinations for higher studies. I am into consultancy for overseas education for the last 22 years and I face the very basic question, meeting every new student. Choosing a country and relevant college or university is an important task that every student faces. Whether it is cars or education, people recognize ‘Made in Germany’ as an icon of quality. Employers around the world highly respect a German university degree. After completing a degree in Germany, you can stay back in the country for up to 18 months to look for a job related to your qualification and look for further career options. Here in this article, we will discuss steps while applying to study in Germany.

Explore Europe while studying in Germany

Germany is located almost in the Centre of Schengen Europe. While studying in Germany, you will get opportunities to travel to different destinations in Europe with no restrictions. Schengen is a zone of 26 countries closely connected. Anyone can travel by road, train or plane and reach other beautiful countries in a couple of hours and enjoy their weekends. Weekend trips are easy to plan and really affordable.

Studies in Germany — *Students enjoying life in Germany*

Steps to follow when you plan your studies

Now coming to the topic, here we will discuss important steps that one has to take care of. The very first and basic thing is to decide what you want to study in Germany. There are several options available in terms of institutes and courses. While deciding, you must do proper research to make the right decision for your further studies. You may also choose an experienced consultant to choose the right course that would better fit your academic goal.

Checking the admission requirements

Once you have decided what programs you are planning to pursue in Germany, the next important step is to check the admission requirements for that program. University or college websites can be helpful in this, otherwise, again you can check some consultants who can guide you in a better way. If still, you are not clear about the requirements, never hesitate to reach University by email. There can be some basic requirements like academic percentage, English requirements, or some other text like Skype interview. There may be different entry requirements for different universities, depending on the chosen program.

Admission to Bachelor / Master Programs

While applying for admission in degree programs, whether at Bachelor or Master level, they may ask you to submit your academics, Proof of Language Proficiency, ID or Valid Passport Copies, Letter of Motivation (Optional), Important References, Work Experiences (Optional). When you have collected all the required documents, submit a completed application to the admission department along with the application fee, if there are any.

When you get a University Admission/ Offer letter

After applying for admission, wait for a few weeks to get your offer letter; it may take some longer time, and Germany Universities get many international applications. Meanwhile, University may ask you for some additional documents to process your application, so you must keep patience.

Indian students in Germany are the third largest group of international students. According to official statistics, in 2017/18 there were 17,570 Indian students studying in Germany.

Applying student visa to the embassy

To study in Germany, you need a valid student visa. When you get your offer letter and also complete other requirements like paying the University fee as required by University, submit a visa application in the embassy. There can be so many documents required while submitting your visa application. A very important for Indian students is the German Block Account in a designated bank which transfers one year’s living cost into the account. We can check the checklist of other documents from the VFS site and from any other sources.

Working in Germany during & After Graduation

When someone chooses any destination for higher studies, working opportunity during and after studies is an important factor. Students need to work to support their studies or at least live in that country. Germany has opportunities to work during and after studies. Students can work part time during their studies. After completion of their studies, they can stay in the country and find employment. Graduates who come from non-EU/EEA countries of origin can work in Germany after they finish their studies by extending their residence permit for up to 18 months after graduation. During these 18 months, you can do whatever job you get to support yourself until you get a proper job.

Stay back and working options in Germany

Stay back after completion of studies plays a very important role while deciding country for higher studies. Every student wants to explore career options after getting a degree from the university. This adds the opportunity to have practical experience in the job market. Germany offers 18 months of job search after completion of studies. During this period, students may work at another job while they are searching for a permanent position. After graduation, prepare yourself to enter the world of work. Have all of your certificates available, as well as any other paperwork you may need, such as your residence permit. When you secure a job with a minimum of a one-year contract, you can apply for a settlement permit and EU Blue Card, which allows you to live and work in Germany.

In order to be eligible for the Blue Card, the applicant must meet certain prerequisites, such as having a university degree and an employment contract with a company in Germany that pays at least €56,800 per year. In other occupations, where there is a shortage of skilled workers, the salary threshold is lower, approximately €44,304 per year. After 33 months of residence in Germany, those who have an EU Blue Card can apply for a settlement permit, which allows them to permanently settle in Germany. After spending 8 years in Germany on a settlement permit, you can require naturalization (meaning you can become a German citizen).

You may ask for any further details at Adv.Jaspal@gmail.com

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CANADA is still a popular destination among Indian

Jaspal Singh - 14 December 2021

Updated on July 9th, 2023

Canada is a dream country, especially for Punjabi students and other immigrants. I have seen this craze among every second person, whether he is studying in school or graduating, or even working in any sector on good profiles. Whenever I go to any sector in my routine work like banking, colleges, insurance, or in my friend circles, I always find people anxious about migrating abroad, especially Canada. There are other destinations as well, but Canada is always a popular destination. Studying in Canada, working there, and finally settling in a dream destination have so many steps that one has to follow. Over 200,000 people have moved to Canada in 2020-2021.

In north India, especially in Punjab, this trend is growing day by day for the last few years. In the coming few years, it will affect the socioeconomic fabric of society. It is being reported that a good number of students are moving abroad, especially to Canada, to study and then to find employment. Strength in Colleges has dropped, making them worried. No doubt this aspect is of serious concern for the Government. A better system with more opportunities here can only stop moving people. Some factors such as personal connections, educational goals, career aspirations, and familiarity with specific provinces or cities within Canada may also influence the decision-making process.

Canada a popular destination — CANADA: a DREAM Destination

There are so many reasons behind this trend. If we see at the Canadian system, Canada takes care of its people and has a robust economy, providing free health care and education until grade 12. People move to Canada from all over the world, making it multicultural. International students also focus on work opportunities after the completion of their studies. Present education and immigration law allows them to work for 2-3 years after their studies. In short, we can say, Canada is an immigration-friendly nation, and the government primarily supports aspiring immigrants by offering over 80 economic immigration programs.

Different Pathways to Move Canada

There are many pathways through which you can migrate to Canada from India. To name a few, there is Express Entry Program, PNP, Study & Work permit, family sponsorship, and more.

Express Entry System

They introduced an express entry system in 2015 to enable skilled individuals and their families to move to Canada as residents in as little as six months. So many immigrants migrate every year and the number is increasing every year. It is a point-based system and the highest-ranking candidates are issued invitations to apply for permanent residency in Canada.

Provincial Nominee Program

The provincial Nominee Program is the second most popular Canadian immigration pathway after Express Entry. All the top Canadian provinces like Ontario, Alberta, Manitoba, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, and more have their immigration program for immigrants. Each PNP has different eligibility criteria and invites and nominates candidates as per local labor market needs.

Study Permit for students

This is the most popular program among overseas students. A good number of Indian students chose Canada every year. Upon graduating from a Canadian institution (DLI), you can work temporarily by obtaining a work permit. This way, you can gain relevant work experience, which would eventually prove helpful for you to qualify for a PR visa through Express Entry Program. If we see the data of students applying for study in Canada, we can easily say that Canada is a popular destination among Indian students.

Working in Canada

In Canada, you can also work in any Canadian organization. There are two types of work permits. One is an employer-specific work permit, and the other is an open work permit. After fulfilling specific conditions, you may also qualify for permanent residency. Read more details on working in Canada.

There are so many other options to move to Canada, which you may check from the Official site of the immigration

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Indian Puffing Billy: Kalka-Shimla Train

Jaspal Singh - 21 November 2021

Updated on June 5th, 2023

Running through 103 tunnels and 969 bridges, and 919 stunning curves, the Kalka Shimla train track is one of the world’s unique and most scenic railway tracks. Having a total distance of 96 Km from Kalka to Shimla, this track has 18 railway stations and 5 level crossings. The rail track rises from Kalka at 640 m to the cool climes of Shimla at 2.060 m. Compared with the Australian oldest railway of puffing Billy, I named this article, Kalka- Shimla railway, as Indian Puffing Billy.

Both railway tracks were built almost simultaneously in the early twentieth century. Though the Kalka Shimla train route was completed on November 2, 1903, they opened it to the public only on January 1, 1906. It is said that this railway line was first drawn in November 1847, almost 50 years before they actually constructed it. Lord Curzon, the then British Viceroy to India, inaugurated this magnificent train in November 1903. The Kalka-Shimla Railway was built to connect Shimla, the summer capital of India during British rule, with the Indian rail system. The five-hour journey is one of the best train journeys for tourists operated by the Indian railway.

Train track passes through scenic landscapes

Natural beauty and pleasant weather greet you whole the way. A cool breeze sweeps across faces as the train crosses one station after another, like Taksal, Gumman, Dharampur, before reaching Barog, which is the almost mid-point of Journey. This journey encompasses a vast display of awe-inspiring landscapes. Barog is a colonial showpiece with bougainvillaea clusters tumbling down the walls. This station is one of the most beautiful and well-maintained on this track. From here, you can see the towering mountains. At Barog, we pass through the biggest tunnel.

A tragic tale of Engineer Barog

A tragic story is associated with the construction of this railway track. The longest tunnel at Barog is named after engineer Barog, who sacrificed his life when he attempted to construct the tunnel but failed resulting in the wastage of government funds. Barog committed the mistake of digging the tunnel from both ends of the hill. The ends of the tunnels could not meet because of a mistake in alignment.

It is said that the British authorities lay a fine of Rs 1 on him for wasting government money in the tunnel. The British engineer could not digest this humiliation and shot himself in sheer desperation while walking with his pet dog. He killed himself near what now is the state government-run Barog Pine Wood Hotel. After his death, tunnel work done by Barog has left aside, and a new tunnel was constructed a little farther from the old one. After Barog comes other beautiful destinations like Solan, Shogai, and Koti, all these have wonderful scenery with towering mountains with green and deep forests. You feel like being amid nature throughout the entire journey.

UNESCO listed it as a World Heritage in 2008

It is a heritage train, a journey with breathtaking views and stunning scenery throughout the entire journey. Track passing through beautiful surrounding takes you near to nature and is a wonderful experience. Its speed slows down as the train ascends through steep mountains and curves. This journey runs on a narrow gauge, taking passengers with breathtaking views of rugged mountains. On the way, there are lush pine forests and waterfalls. And picture-perfect hill stations along the way that will definitely tempt you to disembark and bask in their beauty. The entire journey takes about five and a half hours.

Earlier the train used to run by a steam engine, but now a diesel engine is used. It runs at the speed of 40 to 45 km per hour as against the earlier speed of 22 km per hour. To preserve the heritage roots of the railway, it is suggested that steam engines be preferred, like the Puffing Billy train of Australia.

In July 2008, UNESCO’s world heritage committee added the Kalka Shimla train track to the world heritage list. On 9th Nov 2008, UNESCO officially declared this railway line a world heritage site. Also, the Guinness Book on Rail Facts included this track as the greatest narrow gauge engineering achievement in India.

Special Trains on specific days

They equipped this train service with standard car seats and have nine halts. Passengers can get off at the stations along the way and nourish their eyes and soul with beautiful scenery. There are also two heritage carriages operating on this route: Shivalik Queen and Shivalik Palace Tourist Coach. Both are luxury services, with ultra-modern facilities, including an onboard kitchen, refrigerator, dining table, and folding cushion beds. These trains usually operate once a week, from March until September. During the high season (May-July, September-October, and December-January), several special holiday trains also run on this route because of a heavy tourist influx.

Another such heritage train in Melbourne Puffing Billy train, a blend of history, heritage, and winery lunch

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Puffing Billy train, a blend of history, heritage, and winery lunch

Jaspal Singh - 1 November 2021

Updated on June 5th, 2023

Culture and heritage always attract human minds, and their roots give blood to our growth. No doubt life moves every moment in the future, but still past plays its role to shape our present and future. Many things of the past can be the reason for making our life more beautiful and worth living.

Puffing Billy’s steam train is one of those things of the past that are worth being preserved forever. I visited this dreamland during my visit to Melbourne in June 2010. As I feel on every travel, you see beautiful things; it was really a wonderful and memorable experience to see the rail preserved in its original look.

It is a railway track of 24 km running through dense and beautiful forest. Volunteers of Puffing Billy Preservation Society are putting their efforts to ensure the continued preservation and operation of the historic narrow-gauge steam railway between Belgrave and Gembrook.

Puffing Billy Engine View — *Engine Front View*

Built in 1900, Puffing Billy is Australia’s oldest steam railway. On the 18th of December 1900, this narrow-gauge railway was opened to serve the farmers in the area to transport their goods to the markets in Melbourne.

…reaching there

Belgrave, the gateway to Dandenong Ranges, is situated 35 km east of Melbourne. You can plan your way to get there. If you are not going in your own car, there is a second option to use public transport. Metro train service is available from Melbourne City to Belgrave via Ringwood. Belgrave is the primary starting point of this railway. It would take approx. One hour to get there. When I visited this place the first time, I used public transport, which is quite easy and cost-effective. After reaching Belgrave Station, take a short walk to puffing billy station.

Open-sided carriages add more fascination to the travel experience as you feel closer to the forest and nature. The whole track passes through many curves, where you can easily get the train’s view captured in your cameras. You can’t ever forget the thrilling sensation when you pass over an iconic wooden bridge. On the train, there are also several enclosed carriages, both saloon and compartment cars.

Belgrave Station: Puffing Billy Train — *Belgrave Station*

Menzies Creek, Clematis, Emerald, Nobelius, Lakeside, Wright, Cockatoo, and Fielder are the main railway stations between Belgrave and Gembrook. Neal Menzies Creek station, there is a narrow-gauge railway museum.

*During my first visit to Puffing Billy*

Emerald is a good place to stop off and eat and Lakeside to have a walk. Emerald is also the destination as well departure point of many trains of Puffing Billy.

..stop to relax at Lakeside

At Lakeside, there are many café refreshing points, lawns, supervised swimming pools, playgrounds, barbecues, and other picnic facilities, so passengers can alight here for a few pleasant hours and enjoy bushwalking, swimming, or just relaxing in peaceful surroundings. This station is 13.2 Km from Belgrave.

The operations and administration center, main refreshment room (also selling souvenirs), and ticket purchasing are located at Belgrave station.

Most trains start from Belgrave and travel to Lakeside and return. Except for Christmas Day, the railway operates every day of the year. One service each day has the option of first-class carriages and lunch.

..once decided to close, but preserved

This railway track was blocked in 1953 after a heavy landslide but again reopened in 1962 to Menzies Creek and in 1988 at Gembrook Station. A plan was made to close the line and a farewell day was organized. However, when people gathered to say goodbye, a dedicated group of train enthusiasts came together to save the Puffing Billy.

Kids on Puffing Billy Train — *Children hanging their legs out of the steam train’s windows*. The court banned this practice in 2019 after an accident.

Before you plan your trip, there are a few important things that you need to take care of. You must know the timetable of daily trains that starts from Belgrave. There were four trains daily when I last visited. You must check it while planning to go there. Trains have tickets that you also need to book well in time to avoid any issues later.

Traveling on the Puffing Billy train is like recapturing the romance and charm of the bygone days of the steam engine era. Puffing Billy steam train takes you through the dense and beautiful forest of the Dandenong hill ranges, and you feel like moving in some dreamland. It’s really worth visiting again and again.

Special events train for couples & families

If you are thinking that the puffing train is all about kids, families, picnics, and fast food, you are not very right. Sometimes on some occasions, special carriages are set out for parties with special cuisines, delicious foods, drinks, chocolates, soups, baked chicken, and different desserts. If you are looking for a unique and lifelong experience, you must plan to join special event trains. Puffing Billy is great for families and children, but it is also fantastic for couples, singles, and groups.

The century-old tradition of leg tangling outside train windows is banned

A minibus driver crashed the iconic pugging Billy train in March 2018. One passenger on the bus was injured, but no one was injured on the puffing Billy. The court ended the century-old tradition of children hanging their legs outside the train. Many people protested the court’s decision, but it ended what was a long tradition practice. Safety is more important than anything despite that, people love it as a kid, so they bring their kids, then they bring their grandchildren. Generations of families have done it for years. It would just be so sad to see that tradition disappear forever. Court’s decision is also taken as a complete overreaction by a group of masses.

Heritage Train in India: Indian Puffing Billy- Kalka Shimla Train

I will end my article by saying that traveling always helps us understand the meaning of life, become better people, keep traveling, and keep exploring and never forget to visit once in a lifetime, this beautiful adventure of puffing billy train in Melbourne. Read about more Beautiful Places around Melbourne

Puffing Billy-Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge

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Memories from a Trip to ancient city Tashkent

Jaspal Singh - 4 October 2021

Updated on May 14th, 2023

Memories are like pages of a diary that we all carry with us. Sometimes we feel some memories are gone in the deep past, but suddenly, we see them floating back like some moving screen. Good memories are always the source of inspiration, and we try to keep them refreshing from time to time. Today in this article, I will share a few moments from my trip to Tashkent, and I hope you will also enjoy the brief description of those wonderful moments. I strongly believe that sharing adventures means enjoying them to the fullest.

We planned a Tashkent trip in 2018

In September 2018, a few friends from the same profession planned a trip to the ancient city of central Asia, Tashkent, in Uzbekistan. In this article, I will share a few names; otherwise, the description will remain incomplete. I read somewhere, ‘A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles. This trip was initially planned by my wonderful friends, Amarjit & Gurpreet, although at a very initial stage, it was not an organised one but later we all enjoyed it a lot. Few of us were not quickly ready to join the trip, maybe having different reasons.

Tashkent, a tourist destination

Tashkent is still a very underrated destination, but it has many amazing things to make the tour trip worth memorable. Ancient mosques, dazzling minarets, and Medieval-style Islamic monuments gloriously exhibiting the country’s rich cultural and architectural heritage make your experience really awesome. On the second day of our trip, the very first place we went was Alisher Navoi National Park. It is a beautiful and largest park having beautiful buildings located deep within the park, and while one can’t enter, it creates a stunning view. These buildings, especially Romanov Palace, are examples of Russian influence in architecture. They named the park after Alisher Navoi, the great Turkic poet and thinker.

We spent a few hours in the park while clicking a few photographs. Park is so large, having a water stream passing through it. You can enjoy so many activities like boating, cycling, and roller skating. Having seen a lot of greenery, a big lake, canals and fountains, meadow and decorative flower beds, most probably, that you will forget about being in the centre of Tashkent.

*Alisher Navoi is a big garden with several monuments inside. There is a very large man-made pool. It is a good place to chill for some time.*

Independence Square, in the centre of the city

Another place we visited was Independence Square, in the centre of the city. This is again a big garden with a lot of water fountains, statutes, and few buildings. Spread over 12 hectares, this place has so many government buildings and administrative institutions located there. During Soviet rule, the square was named Lenin Square. A monument to Lenin was erected in its centre, dismantled upon the Declaration of Independence in 1991. There is a monument of a woman, normally known as a mourning mother, sadly looking down onto an eternal flame in memory of her children who fell in defending the country, making us silent for a few moments.

Trip to Tashkent — *..all friends, Mr Virk, Satbir Bhatia, Sachin & Mr Kamal*

*Group photo reminding, friends that travel together, stay together*

*A journey is best measured in friends than in miles*

As the late Prime Minister of India passed away in Tashkent, his memories have been treasured as a monument by the Uzbek Government as a mark of respect to the great man. Visitors, especially Indians, visit this monument while they visit Tashkent. We also planned to visit this place and spend a few memorable moments and also clicked a few photographs as memories.

Amir Timor Square

We went to Amir Timor square; his statue is fixed in a huge sized park, where visitors hang out. Amir Timur was the most famous Central Asian conqueror in history. At its largest, the empire stretched from the borders of Western China all the way to Turkey. He was the great-grandfather of the famous Mughal emperor Babur who ruled India.

It was a sunny day with pleasant weather as it was the month of September, so the weather was sunny but not hot. A beautiful garden surrounds the statue. In the background, the building of the Uzbekistan Hotel, a classic piece of Soviet design, makes the sight more beautiful. The park surrounding the statue and the Bolazhon Park is certainly worth exploring, especially around sunset as locals meet to chat and relax. We all friends clicked a few pictures with statues. There are so many restaurants, café in the square’s surroundings, where you can sit and enjoy your evening. In the evening, this area comes more alive with visitors roaming here and there. Tashkent’s nightlife is also amazing. Bars and clubs attract you. A few of us went there and shared our experiences second day. I still remember they were pleased.

Shopping in traditional market

There are so many other details that I am missing because of the size of this article. We went to a traditional market, a dry fruit market, and many food corners and enjoyed delicious dishes. Restaurants and cafes in Tashkent surprise you with perfect service and food quality. It will amaze you with the wide range of cuisines.

The traditional market, in the old city, is a major crowd-puller of tourists. Just perfect for souvenir shopping, you can pick gorgeous trinkets, handicrafts, apparel, home décor items, and spices. You must know bargaining art while shopping there. I still remember how we purchased a few things using this bargaining art; few of us have.

In the last, it was really a wonderful trip to Tashkent, we really enjoyed it a lot. I can easily recommend you choose Tashkent as your next destination for a vacation.

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