Our #CareerCounselors are ready to answer your questions about your plans to study and work abroad. But before attending any of our free consultations, please see the answers to some frequently asked questions below.
Note these answers are general in nature and may not address your specific concerns.
For more specific advice from our #CareerCounselors, attend one of our free online consultations. Fill up our inquiry form to find out if you are qualified for a free consultation.
FAQs (Frequently asked questions)
What are the requirements to study and work abroad?
Each student has to fulfill a certain set of requirements to study and work abroad. The requirements will vary depending on your existing qualifications and circumstances, and of course, the specifications of the course and school you will choose.
Generally, applicants will be required to submit documentation and proof regarding:
- Educational background (including diplomas and transcripts)
- Enrolment in a designated learning institution
- English proficiency
- Financial capacity to sustain travel and living expenses abroad
- Purpose of study
- Medical examination
Note these requirements may differ based on the country, school, or course, and may change depending on the circumstances.
Our #CareerCounselors are happy to guide you as you fulfill your requirements as they have assisted many students like you. These requirements are generally available in the official websites of your chosen country, such as:
- Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada
- Australian Government Department of Home Affairs, Immigration and Citizenship
- New Zealand Immigration
Do not hesitate to reach out to a #CareerCounselor in case you have questions about these requirements.
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How much does it cost to study and work abroad?
Costs will vary. For example, the tuition and other fees charged by schools and universities will depend on the program/course you choose, the duration of your stay, the location of your country, and your living arrangements. At the very least, you must have a budget of Php300,000 for your tuition fee, living arrangements, and personal expenses. Again, this cost is just an estimate and will most likely change.
Further, before you are granted a visa to study abroad, you may be required to show proof of income to support your living expenses while you study.
Show money is required depending on the country. In Australia, there is no show money and no IELTS if you will enroll in a Level 1 and Level 2 college. In Canada, it is a mandatory requirement under the regular process. However, under the Study Direct Stream process (SDS), show money is not required on the condition that you will pay in full your tuition fees for the first year and you passed the IELTS with an average band score of no lower than 6.0 plus a deposit of CAN $10,000 with Scotia Bank under your name.
It is best to consult with a #CareerCounselor to provide you more specific advice based on your own financial background.
CIS provides for free consultations for those interested to study and work abroad. There are minimal fees (including documentation, courier, and administrative fees) should you choose CIS to be your education agent to help you embark on your work and study journey.
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Are there scholarships or discounts available?
Many of our partner schools abroad offer a significant discount on your program fees. Some also offer scholarships based on academic merit or achievements. It is best to reach out to a #CareerCounselor for details.
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Is IELTS a major requirement in applying for a study and work visa?
The need for an IELTS exam result varies. It may or may not be required depending on the school you choose for your studies.
Some schools may not require an IELTS exam result, but may require, in the alternative, proof from a student’s previous school that English is a medium of instruction, or any other proof of proficiency in English. Please consult your #CareerCounselor for more details.
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Where is the best place to study and work abroad?
This depends on your own preferences. Our #CareerCounselors may guide you on which program is a best fit for you based on your background, experiences, and capabilities. If you haven’t yet, be sure to review our primers on the following countries:
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What are the courses available?
The best course / program for you is the one you choose based on your long term goals, academic background, and experience. Our trusted partner schools and universities offer courses in hospitality and tourism management, culinary and commercial cookery, business management, information technology, engineering, and nursing, among many others, in USA, Australia, Germany, Canada, and New Zealand. There are hundreds of courses to choose from, and each can be tailor-fit to respond to your educational and career goals.
To view the list of courses, click here. If your course is not on the list, send our #CareerCounselors a message below.
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In which schools may I enrol?
Our partners from Canada, U.S., Australia, Germany, and New Zealand ensure that your experience abroad is one worth having. Aside from providing world-class education, our partner institutions guarantee culturally diverse environments, cutting-edge technology, and up-to-date academic and practical knowledge that will help with your career.
Click here for more information on our partner educational institutions.
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Does studying abroad help me become a resident?
Some countries, like Canada, offer a pathway for residency when you study and work abroad for a certain period of time. For example, completion of a one-year diploma program/course in a public college would allow the student/graduate for an extension of one year stay in Canada, and entitlement for the issuance of a one-year work permit. A two-year diploma program, however, would allow the graduate to a maximum of three (3) year work permit.
There may be opportunities to become a resident in your chosen country after graduation. It is best to ask more details from our #CareerCounselors.
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How can I work and study at the same time?
Depending on the country, school, or course you choose, and the limitations of your visa, the work and study programs may allow each student to work part time for at least twenty (20) hours per week and full time during holidays and sem breaks. After the completion of studies, the graduate may be given the privilege of working full time up to a maximum of three (3) years, giving students the chance to become eligible as a permanent resident.
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Do you provide visa assistance?
We are with you every step of your application — and that includes securing the relevant visa required by your chosen work and study program. Our career mentors are well-trained in this process and are just an email away.
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How do I apply for a student visa?
Applying for a student visa is a step-by-step process which may vary depending on your school, course, preferences, and long-term goals.
Generally, applicants will be required to submit documentation and proof regarding:
- Educational background (including diplomas and transcripts)
- Enrolment in a designated learning institution
- English proficiency
- Financial capacity to sustain travel and living expenses abroad
- Purpose of study
- Medical examination
Our #CareerCounselors are happy to guide you as you fulfill your requirements as they have assisted many students like you. These requirements are generally available in the official websites of your chosen country, such as:
- Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada
- Australian Government Department of Home Affairs, Immigration and Citizenship
- New Zealand Immigration
Note these requirements may differ based on the country, school, or course, and may change depending on the circumstances.
Do not hesitate to reach out to a #CareerCounselor in case you have questions about these requirements.
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When should I apply for a student visa? How long does approval take?
Generally, this process begins once you get accepted by the school you applied for, and, if applicable, upon payment of the fees required by the school.
Once you have fulfilled all the requirements and forms for your visa application, it may take as short as thirty (30) days or as long as two (2) to three (3) months for your visa to be approved. This varies depending on the country and your qualifications. Consult your #CareerCounselor for more details.
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Is there a way to have quick visa approval?
The best way to have quick visa approval is to ensure you have all requirements ready and state your purpose for studying abroad as accurately as possible.
In Canada, Filipinos can get student visas approved faster. All you have to do is avail of the Student Direct Stream (SDS). Essentially, the SDS is a system to fast-track and lessen documentary requirements for study permit applications. In the Philippines, students can get their study permits as early as 30 days. Moreover, they can submit less documents on financial capacity. Learn more about SDS here.
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What happens after visa approval?
Aside from helping your secure visas, we also make sure that you arrive at your destination through our trusted partner travel agency, and that you are safely settled when you get there.
Our #CareerCounselors also provide pre-departure travel orientations so your arrival is smooth and easy. We provide practical advice on adapting to your host country and answer all questions you might have before leaving. We’ll teach you how to make the most out of your experience.
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What is a student's experience studying and working abroad like?
Studying abroad, in a nutshell, is an investment worth making, but not without its challenges.
One of the students we counseled answers some of your burning questions about life once you start your study abroad journey. Click here to read about her experience.
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Is accommodation and apartment hunting part of your services?
Our #CareerCounselors are trained to help you find the school fit for your qualifications and are also ready to assist you to secure your study permit. However, accommodations and living arrangements are the responsibility of the student. In any case, our #CareerCounselors may provide reminders or refer you to our partner schools for more specific advice on living arrangements abroad.
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Who are CIS?
Counselors for Immigration and International Studies (CIS) is a trusted group of educational consultants in the Philippines, providing world class services for young Filipinos who seek to work and study abroad. Established in 2014, CIS helps students choose the right education to propel them towards exceptional careers, in partnership with schools and educational sponsors in USA, Canada, Australia, Germany, and New Zealand.
With CIS, students are assured of amazing opportunities while they work and study. We work in strategic alliance with accredited host schools and sponsors to match each student with the ideal educational institution, ensuring the high quality of their experience and the full career realization of our valued students.
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Is the CIS office open if I want to drop in for a free consultation?
In light of existing quarantine protocols, we urge you to consult with us from home, via email (info@studyabroad.net.ph) or by booking a free online appointment via our website.
We only have one office. Our physical office in 1901 Jollibee Plaza Condominium, F. Ortigas Jr. Rd., Pasig City has limited operations.
Can I still contact CIS if I encounter problems after departure?
Our primary responsibility is to guide you as you choose a school and secure your visa or study permit. However, if you encounter an issue that cannot be resolved by your school or your host, feel free to send us a message at info@studyabroad.net.ph.
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How does COVID-19 affect my application?
The effect of the global pandemic is unprecedented. To manage the outbreak of COVID-19, countries have closed their borders temporarily. Some countries (like Canada) however, has resumed processing of applications for students who wish to study abroad.
Existing restrictions may also affect timelines to process applications. Arrival arrangements may also include compliance with quarantine and testing protocols.
To know more about updates on how COVID-19 may affect your plans to work and study abroad, schedule a free online consultation.
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