[USA] Questions and Answers about Visa Application

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Immigration expert Paul Zulkie tackles some tough issues about getting an increasingly difficult approval in time to start B-school.

If you've got questions about student visas -- look no further. Paul Zulkie, president-elect of the American Immigration Lawyers Assn. and author of the book, Immigration Compliance in Employment and Business, processes hundreds of immigration applications annually through his law firm, Zulkie Partners. At a Dec. 17 live event on BusinessWeek Online, Zulkie fielded questions from an audience of international students on how to get visas to study in the U.S.

Here's an edited transcript of that event, which was co-hosted by BusinessWeek Online's management-education reporter Mica Schneider, and BW Online consulting editor Jack Dierdorff:

Q: Paul, schools are very forthcoming with their non-U.S. applicants. They say, "We might admit you to our school, but we can't ensure that you'll be granted a visa to study here." It seems to be getting harder and harder for foreigners to snag U.S. student visas. What trends are you noticing from your vantage point?
A: First, the "Culture of No" has become an epidemic with both the Homeland Security Dept. and U.S. consulates abroad. Every decision to approve a visa is viewed through the prism of national security. In the old days, all a student had to establish was the ability to pay for an education, as well as document an intention to return home after getting the degree. That has all changed.

Q: Is the hurdle higher for visa applicants from Mideast and Arab countries?
A: Absolutely yes. While all visa applicants are now subject to multiple levels of security checks, as well as in-person interviews at all U.S. consulates, individuals from Mideast and Arab countries receive extra scrutiny, and many are subject to the special registration program administered at U.S. airports and local immigration offices.

Q: Here's a good question from the audience: "I'm an international student and am looking to join B-school next year. One of the requirements for getting a visa is proving that you will go back to your home country after completing the MBA. Can you give me examples of such proof?"
A: Generally speaking, the government looks to long periods of residence and family ties in your home country. It's very difficult to prove a negative -- that you won't go home. One thing that will be a real problem is if you have applied for a green card in the U.S. or some family member has filed a petition to get you a green card. That is uniformly considered proof of intent to remain in the U.S.

Q: How difficult is it these days to get work permits in the U.S. after completing an MBA?
A: Generally, for MBAs it's normally not that difficult. With rare exceptions, when MBAs complete a degree they're eligible for a one-year work permit referred to as Student Practical Training. Graduates apply for this on their own with the assistance of a school's international-student adviser. It isn't tied to any specific employer, so the graduate can go job hunting.

Q: Do summer internships count toward the Student Practical Training period?
A: I recommend that your specific situation and internship be discussed with the international student adviser at your school. These people are a tremendous resource and experts on this subject. If the summer internship is a required component of the degree program, it often doesn't count against the post-graduate one-year limit. On the other hand, if it's simply another summer job unrelated to the degree program, it does count against the one-year post-graduate limit.

Q: Can the one-year work permit that comes with a student visa for an MBA later be extended to an H-1B visa work permit?
A: That's a very common and acceptable path for MBA graduates. It's important that the applications be filed well in advance of expiration of the Student Practical Training to guarantee that the graduate maintains legal status in the U.S. (see BW Online, 03/03/03, "A Mainframe-Size Visa Loophole").

Q: If you've had two previous student visas (one for a bachelor's degree another for a master's degree) and have used your Student Practical Training once, are you still eligible for Student Practical Training as an MBA graduate?
A: Again, practical training issues are always best addressed with the international student adviser where you're getting your MBA. I believe the answer to this question is no, because there's a requirement of residence abroad before undertaking a second practical-training experience.

Q: How long does it take, and how much does it cost, for a foreign student to obtain a work visa in the U.S.?
A: The documentation for Student Practical Training takes the form of a photo ID card issued by the former Immigration & Naturalization Service (INS), which is now part of Homeland Security. This card is called an Employment Authorization Document, better known as an EAD. Processing time is typically three to four months, and the government charges a processing fee of approximately $130.

Q: How late should a student apply for a student visa?
A: Generally speaking, student visa applicants should submit their applications two or three months before their anticipated departure date [to the U.S.]. This allows sufficient time for their application to be processed, and it allows students time to complete their interview at a U.S. consulate. Doing it any later than that could mean that they miss the start of their semester. If a current student is applying for a work visa, I would apply as soon as the international-student adviser [at the B-school] says you can, which is largely a function of how certain it is that you will graduate on time. Always assume that government processing times are unpredictable and can increase for no apparent reason.
Q: Are there any advantages for candidates who have been to the U.S. before on business and work visas?
A: Yes. Having previously visited the U.S. for employment, or even just business trips, and thereafter returning home and never overstaying a visa in the U.S., establishes both a pattern of compliance with the law and strong ties with your home country.

Q: I was denied two years ago for an F-1 visa with my valid I-20. How will this affect my application for next year?
A: Technically, it shouldn't doom your application next year. However, the consulates will review your file from the prior application to see what the reason was for the denial. You should be prepared to address that issue directly and bring whatever documentation you can to convince the interviewer at the consulate that whatever that problem was, it's no longer an issue.

Q: I'm going to apply F-1 in March. Coincidentally, my parents and sister are in New Jersey, with a B-1 and an L-1, which will be valid until the end of June. Will this situation affect my visa application?
A: This will definitely not be a positive factor in connection with your F-1 application. The presence of immediate family members in the U.S. on different types of visas is generally considered by U.S. consulates as evidence that you may not be interested in returning to your home country.

Q: I'm from China. I've heard that it's difficult for Chinese to get visas to study. Why is this so?
A: Traditionally, the U.S. consulates in China have taken a much more restrictive view than other U.S. consulates on the issue of whether Chinese students really desire to return to China after completing a degree program. The standard of proof has always been much higher, despite the fact that there's really no support in the law for treating Chinese students differently than students of any other nationality.

Q: I'm an Indian citizen and planning to apply to an MBA program in the U.S. The costs for these MBA programs are quite high, and almost any international student I know takes a loan to fund their MBA. But one of the things we're told is that in order to secure a visa from the American embassies in our country, we need to show proof that we have the funds to pay for the education. Furthermore, I'm told we can't tell the embassy that we're taking a loan. So how does this work?
A: The level of review of a student and his or her family's financial resources varies considerably depending on what country you're in. The most common documentation requested by U.S. consulates includes bank statements for visa applicants and their parents, as well as confirmation of your parents' employment and their salaries. This data is compared against the cost projection contained in the 1-20 form issued by the school. It's a very subjective analysis on the part of the U.S. consulate with a goal of proving that you won't have to work in the U.S. in order to finance your education.

Q: I'm planning to finance my MBA education through a Fulbright scholarship. Does one have to get the visa first?
A: I must admit that I'm not familiar with the application process under the Fulbright program. Generally speaking, you should not submit your F-1 visa application to the U.S. consulate until you have all of your funding settled.

Q: Is it easier to get a work visa if I am a British citizen?
A: To be honest, no. There are no distinctions made between different nationalities in terms of eligibility for work permits in the U.S., with the sole exceptions being certain citizens of Canada and Mexico under the NAFTA treaty.

Q: As a Canadian citizen born and raised in Canada, should I expect any difficulties at all in obtaining a visa for B-school in the U.S.?
A: All applicants for student visas are theoretically subject to the same standards of establishing financial stability, as well as an intent to return home. However, in practice, the level of review is lower for students from developed Western countries.

Q: Is the U.S. visa situation different for Latin American students?
A: No, it's the same.

Q: I'm the director for an international MBA program in Florida and have seen some cases of visas denied to Latin American students. Is this a recurring trend?
A: I've heard anecdotal evidence that U.S. consulates in Latin America have become increasingly strict in connection with both student and tourist visas. The general assumption is that this trend is related to the shaky economies of many Latin American countries that have suffered as much, or worse, than the U.S. economy. It certainly is not related to the post-September 11 security concerns faced by other nationalities.

Q: I have a wife who will need a dependant visa. How difficult will it be to get her a visa, and what do I need to do to get it?
A: Spouses and children under the age of 21 who accompany a foreign student are eligible for an F-2 dependant visa. This is normally not a problem unless either the spouse or children have previously been denied some type of other visa, such as a tourist visa for some other reason.

Q: Does it make a difference if a student-visa applicant has been accepted at a well-known, brand name school such as Kellogg, Wharton, or Harvard?
A: Surprisingly, no. It really doesn't make that much of a difference. For better or for worse, employees of U.S. consulates don't seem to be impressed when a student is going to a well-known, brand-name school.

Q: We've had many questions about the 65,000 limit on H-1B visas -- and here's another: What's the current status on the number of H-1B visas issued to-date for 2004?
A: I was on a teleconference just last Friday with Homeland Security in Washington where this very issue was addressed. At the present time, visas remain available under the new lower cap of 65,000 based upon usage since Oct. 1. While predictions can be risky, based upon what I heard, I don't think the cap will be exhausted any earlier than February and could last a little bit longer. My personal opinion, based on pure speculation, is that the visas will be gone by May at the latest.

Q: Do you get the sense that the U.S. will raise the number of H-1Bs anytime soon? Or will foreigners have to wait until there's more evidence of job creation in the U.S.?
A: Only Congress has the power to increase the number of H-1B visas. At the moment, it appears that members of Congress are unwilling to introduce legislation to increase the cap because of the current level of U.S. unemployment, combined with the fact that 2004 is an election year.

Q: A few audience members have requested that we back up for a moment, asking, "What is an H-1B visa?"
A: H-1B visa can best be described as a work permit that may be issued to professionals who meet certain standards established by U.S. law. In a nutshell, this standard is that the individual is going to work in a profession that requires a particular type of degree as a normal entry-level requirement and shows that they also posses the relevant degree.

Q: Is there anything a visa applicant can do to improve their chances of approval? And is it better to use a lawyer to apply for an F-1 visa?
A: It's extremely unusual to use a lawyer when applying for an F-1 visa. Candidly, most U.S. consulates would view that as a signal that there's something strange about the case.

Q: If you shouldn't use a lawyer in a visa application, what else can you do to help your case?
A: Generally, it's always a good practice to have all of the requested paperwork and backup documentation the first time the visa application is submitted. Always assume that U.S. consulates will look at everything but that they will review the documents [only cursorily]. If the package isn't both complete and logically presented, the odds of a rejection increase dramatically.

Q: I am an international applicant who is working in the U.S. and am waiting on the final AOS I-485 for permanent residency (I applied in August, 2002). Can I apply to B-school for the fall of 2004 as a permanent resident?
A: Yes. Many schools may ask for evidence of your immigration status before making the final decision to accept you.

Q: We're getting lots of questions about the types of proof that applicants have to submit to show their intent to return home after earning the MBA. Can you remind the audience of a couple of documents they can submit to prove that they're not moving to the U.S. for good?
A: Ironically, there's no checklist of either documents or answers that applicants need to submit. It's important to explain where immediate family members such as parents live and work, or whether the family or the student owns a house or apartment in their home country. Lastly, depending on the degree program that the student will pursue -- and today we're talking about business school -- there could be questions directed to the visa applicants about how they intend to use that degree for employment when they return home. Again, many business-school applicants have had some work experience after completing their undergraduate education. This is a good example of how the business-school degree can be used to advance their career in their chosen field.

Q: Do student-visa applicants need to show financial proof for just the first year of an MBA program or for both years?
A: You need to establish the ability to pay for the entire program, not just the first year.

Q: I am an Indian citizen currently on a H-1 visa in the U.S. My employer has already applied for my green card. Do I need to worry about being denied an F-1 visa for B-school, based on an intent to immigrate?
A: The H-1B visa requires a U.S. employer to sponsor the individual, and the paperwork is filed with a bureau that is part of the Homeland Security Dept. It's a relatively technical process in terms of the paperwork, but you'll be happy to know that MBAs are generally good candidates for an H-1B approval.

Q: Earlier this year I came to the U.S. on an F-1 visa to study at the Harvard Summer School but was issued a five-year, multiple-entry visa. This year, I intend to come to the U.S. for my MBA. Will the same visa be valid, or will I have to go for a fresh visa?
A: You will need to apply for a new visa.

Q: Is it more difficult to get a work visa from a smaller, vs. a larger company after graduation?
A: Excellent question. While the law makes no distinction in practice, larger corporations always have an easier time getting H-1B petitions approved. Smaller companies are often seen as marginally profitable and suspected of creating the job solely for the purpose of employing the MBA graduate. While in my experience this is rarely the case, the mindset of some government employees on this issue is difficult to change.

Q: Will my dependant-visa status affect my ability to get job offers after the MBA?
A: I'm assuming that when you refer to dependant-visa status you mean that you're presently in the U.S. on an F-2 or an H-4 visa. Your ability to be sponsored for employment after getting the MBA wouldn't be different if you're seeking an H-1B visa. However, only students who graduate with an F-1 visa are eligible for the one-year work permit called Student Practical Training.

Q: Just in case, let's also take the question to be, "Will my dependant's visa status affect my ability to get job offers or obtain a visa?"
A: It hasn't been my experience that U.S. companies are particularly interested in the status of dependants before they make a job offer. In addition, this normally doesn't impact the ability to get a visa stamp abroad.

Q: If I'm denied an F-1 visa, is there an appeal process?
A: No. The U.S. law is very clear that there's no formal appeal from a decision by a U.S. consulate to deny a visa. The only recourse is to request an advisory opinion from the U.S. State Dept. In practice, Washington will almost never advise a U.S. consulate that its denial was in error when the reason for the denial was [a student's] inability to pay for the school program or their inability to prove an intent to return home after getting the degree.

Q: We've had quite a few questions regarding where people should apply for their visas: "As a Canadian, do I apply for an F-1 visa at a consulate or at the border?"
A: Canadians are visa-exempt, meaning they apply for their F-1 status at the border.

Q: If a student is in the U.S. on an F-2 visa, is it easier to get her F-1 status by applying while she is in the U.S., or is it easier to get the F-1 in her home country?
A: Whether the change of status from F-2 to F-1 is easier or not largely depends on where you're from. If you're from a country such as China, you're probably better off requesting a change of status inside the U.S., rather than taking a chance at a U.S. consulate back home.

Q: I've heard that it's much more difficult for women from developing countries to get visas than for men from developing countries. Is this true?
A: I must admit that this is one anecdote I haven't heard. It's possible that in some developing countries, upwardly mobile woman are assumed as more likely not to return because their career options in the U.S. culture are better than in their home culture. But again, this is just an assumption on my part, and I haven't heard of any distinct patterns reflecting decisions at U.S. consulates.

Q: Paul, would you wrap up today's conversation with a few general tips and words of wisdom? At this point in the admissions season -- assuming students will arrive in the U.S. in August, 2004 -- where should they be with their visa applications?
A: Visa applications should be submitted as soon as the student is accepted to an MBA program and they've obtained all of the necessary backup documentation. Backlogs at U.S. consulates for interviews are unpredictable and continue to get longer and longer in countries that send lots of foreign students to the U.S. The worst thing that can happen is missing the start of the semester. My last words of wisdom are: Prepare for a somewhat more restrictive security-oriented immigration environment in the U.S. This includes registration at the airport for students from Arab and Muslim countries, as well as reporting requirements for such minor life decisions as moving to a new apartment. Listen to your international-student advisers. They know a lot and can keep you out of trouble.

Postings Summary: 20 - 26 Feb 05

[UK] Scholarship for Master Degree in International Politics 2005/2006

OSI/FCO CHEVENING/UNIVERSITY OF GLASGOW

Completed applications should be returned by 15 March 2005The Open Society Institute, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the University of Glasgow invite applications for the above scholarships at the University of Glasgow . Applicants will normally be expected to be under 35 years old, be both nationals of and resident in Indonesia .

Read more at:
http://milisbeasiswa.blogspot.com/2005/02/uk-scholarship-for-master-degree-in.html


[Swiss] Swiss Scholarship Offer for Indonesian Citizens

The Swiss Government through the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS) and in collaboration with the Federal Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) is granting a limited number of scholarships to developing countries that includes Indonesia. These scholarships are offered to Indonesian POSTGRADUATE students wishing to study at a Swiss university.

Read more at:
http://milisbeasiswa.blogspot.com/2005/02/swiss-swiss-scholarship-offer-for.html


[Australia] International Undergraduate Scholarship at The University of Melbourne

International Undergraduate Scholarships aim to attract outstanding students from around the world. We have awarded over 245 scholarships to students from many countries and schools.

Read more at:
http://milisbeasiswa.blogspot.com/2005/02/australia-international-undergraduate.html


[US] Cunningham Southeast Asian Scholarship

In response to the growing population of Southeast Asians in Rhode Island, Providence College established this scholarship fund in 1985. The Cunningham Southeast Asian Scholarship is available to qualified Southeast Asian students.

Read more at:
http://milisbeasiswa.blogspot.com/2005/02/us-cunningham-southeast-asian.html


[US] HTIR International Internship Program

PAID INTERNSHIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL GRADUATE STUDENTSEARN YOUR TUITION AND LIVING EXPENSES WHILE YOU STUDY

Read more at:
http://milisbeasiswa.blogspot.com/2005/02/us-htir-international-internship.html


[Japan] The Association for Overseas Technical Scholarship

AOTS, a non-profit organization, was established in 1959 with the support of the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). Its main purpose is to promote technical cooperation for the industrialization and development of developing countries and enhance mutual understanding and friendly relationships between those countries and Japan.

Read more at:
http://milisbeasiswa.blogspot.com/2005/02/japan-association-for-overseas.html

[Japan] The Association for Overseas Technical Scholarship

AOTS, a non-profit organization, was established in 1959 with the support of the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). Its main purpose is to promote technical cooperation for the industrialization and development of developing countries and enhance mutual understanding and friendly relationships between those countries and Japan. To date, AOTS has trained more than 100,000 persons in Japan from over 160 countries and regions. In addition, it has organized various training programs outside Japan involving over 130,000 participants from developing countries. The activities of AOTS are financed by Japanese government subsidy, company contributions, and other sources.

Training

1. Technical and managerial training services on a private basis in Japan:

• general orientation courses on general subjects -e.g., Japanese language, industries, technology, culture and society,
• specialized technical in-plant training by Japanese host companies, and
• management training programs on modern theory and practice of business management, production management, quality control, etc.

2. Overseas training programs outside Japan.
3. Training programs entrusted by the Japanese government.
4. Training programs in collaboration with other organizations.

Certification

When the training has been completed satisfactorily, a certificate will be awarded to the trainee.

Financial Aid to Host Companies

AOTS provides Japanese host companies with financial aid and relevant assistance to invite the trainees for training in Japan when the training programs are arranged according to AOTS standards.

Reference Materials

• Guidelines for Training Contract(PDF 28KB)
• Guide to The AOTS ALUMNI SOCIETIES(PDF 1.3MB)

Click here for source

[US] HTIR International Internship Program

PAID INTERNSHIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL GRADUATE STUDENTSEARN YOUR TUITION AND LIVING EXPENSES WHILE YOU STUDY

HTIR is a private organization that refers international students to United States colleges and universities that offer paid internship employment to qualified Master degree students. These opportunities (sometimes known as co-op programs or curricular practical training (CPT) programs) allow international students to work while they are also attending classes, even beginning in the first year of their Master's studies.
Either part time or full time (40 hours per week) employment is allowed, depending on the preference of the student. All of the internship positions are with off-campus American based companies in the vicinity of the university. Wages are paid at the same rate as for domestic workers in similar employment and vary from minimum wage for entry level CPT applicants and higher wages for those with more skills and work experience. Classes are offered during daytime, evening and week-ends to accommodate the students' employment schedules.

These co-op programs provide qualified international students an opportunity to obtain curriculum related practical experience working for companies in the United States, while working on their Master's degrees. These cooperative educational programs provide an education that combines both theory and practical experience. Students will exceed the education obtained by theory alone, making these Co-op programs an extremely valuable experience. By advocating for international cooperative educational programs HTIR, in conjunction with American colleges and universities, will assist qualified international students in obtaining an education that will equip them with skills necessary to compete in the world-wide market. Through this program, International students have the right to complete their required internship by working in part time or full time PAID employment with American based companies near the campuses. All wages paid can be kept by the students and used for their tuition and fees, living and personal expenses.

INS authorizes students to work full-time from the beginning of their first year of study when the employment is related student's graduate majors.

The degrees and concentrations currently available are:

MBA (marketing, accounting, project management, logistics, financing, etc.)
Management
Computer Science
Computer Engineering
Information Technology
Electrical Engineering
Accountancy

These Masters degrees provide a basis for relating the world of technology to today's growing spectrum of human knowledge needs. The programs combine traditional core skills with the innovative management strategies and techniques business leaders most need today to help manage an organization's information systems.

Graduates will be prepared to plan and manage information associated with the staff, financial, communication and operational needs of organizations. These Co-op programs are designed for students who value both classroom and practical experience.

To APPLY for a free search, please fill out and submit the Inquiry Form

Apply Now - Click Here!

We will notify you as soon as possible by e-mail of the results of our search.

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[US] Cunningham Southeast Asian Scholarship

In response to the growing population of Southeast Asians in Rhode Island, Providence College established this scholarship fund in 1985. The Cunningham Southeast Asian Scholarship is available to qualified Southeast Asian students. It is a full tuition award which is renewable annually for four years if satisfactory academic standing is maintained. The director serves as an advisor and meets with students regularly, monitoring their progress and arranging support services as necessary.

Click here for source

[Australia] International Undergraduate Scholarship at The University of Melbourne

International Undergraduate Scholarships aim to attract outstanding students from around the world. We have awarded over 245 scholarships to students from many countries and schools.

Students who are offered a place in a course at the University are automatically considered for a scholarship by the faculty. Faculties notify recipients individually when they make a course offer and then the Undergraduate Scholarships Office mails offer letters to the nominated students


Benefits

• A 25 per cent exemption from tuition fees for the duration of an undergraduate course
• Once enrolled students may be eligible for the Melbourne Abroad Program

Eligibility

To be eligible for an International Undergraduate Scholarship you must:

• be a citizen of a country other than Australia; and
• have received an unconditional offer of a place in an undergraduate course at the University of Melbourne; and
• not be in receipt of any other tuition scholarship.
• Australian permanent residents and New Zealand citizens are not eligible.

Selection

• Selection is made on the basis of academic merit.
• Offers are made by faculties when they offer a place in a course.
  

The following faculties offer International Undergraduate Scholarships:

• Architecture, Building and Planning
• Arts
• Economics and Commerce
• Engineering
• Land and Food Resources
• Music
• Science

Click here for source!

[Swiss] Swiss Scholarship Offer for Indonesian Citizens - Page 1 of 2

The Swiss Government through the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS) and in collaboration with the Federal Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) is granting a limited number of scholarships to developing countries that includes Indonesia.

These scholarships are offered to Indonesian POSTGRADUATE students wishing to study at a Swiss university. The aim of the scholarship is to enable grantees either to further their education or to undertake research work in the fields in which the universities are particularly active. The intended study should be useful for the development in Indonesia. In principle, the scholarship holders can study at any national Swiss university or Federal Institute of Technology. The candidates should take into account the possibilities offered by Swiss universities. Fine arts and music, undergraduate studies, hotelmanagement studies, student exchange programs, etc. are NOT included in this offer.

The duration of grant is for the nine-month academic year. Under certain conditions the scholarship may be renewed.

Conditions

• University degree ( min. Sarjana Strata-1 or equivalent).
• Age limit is 35 years when applying.
• Sufficient knowledge of one of the official tuition languages in Switzerland (i.e. German, French or Italian), depending on the location of chosen university, and English for some courses. Each candidate will have to undergo a language test at the Swiss Embassy in Jakarta in order to determine the oral and written language ability.

Note: It is a general requirement that applicants must have proficient knowledge of one of the official languages spoken in Switzerland. In principle this requirement still applies to applicants with good English abilities and also if the intended study program will be held in English. The applicant should fully benefit from the offered scholarship. Without knowledge of one of the national languages it will be difficult to handle daily situations (foreign police, post office, bank, university life, etc). A qualified applicant whose language proficiency is considered inadequate may still be granted a scholarship. This, however, will be subject to the applicant’s attendance of a special three months’ intensive language course at the University of Fribourg. The FCS will also cover the expenses for these courses, which usually start in mid-July.

• Acceptance letter from the chosen university. Before applying the candidates need to contact the professor or direction of the postgraduate program at the chosen educational institution in order to get a written confirmation of acceptance which must be submitted when filing the application. The request must be completed with a detailed and precise plan of the intended postgraduate study program, curriculum vitae and certified copies of the university diplomas (including transcripts). A certified translation is required if the originals are not issued in English, German, French or Italian.
• Detailed study/research plan describing clearly and precisely the aim of study. The possibilities offered by the Swiss universities should be taken into account, also the possibilities of professional reintegration when returning to Indonesia.

Obligations of a Scholarship Holder

Scholarship holders must live in Switzerland at the study place and must comply with the laws concerning the residence of foreigners in Switzerland and the university regulations. The scholarship holders cannot take family members to Switzerland in the first year of study but they may visit Switzerland on their own costs as a tourist.

When accepting the scholarship, candidates may have to give their written agreement to return to Indonesia after completion of the scholarship in Switzerland.

Scholarships of the FCS cannot be cumulated with other scholarships. If the scholarship holders have another scholarship or another financial support (salary), they are not entitled to be granted a Swiss scholarship.

Find application procedure on page 2

[Swiss] Swiss Scholarship Offer for Indonesian Citizens - Page 2 of 2

Note: This is the second of two pages. Please find the first page here.

Application Procedure

Application forms may be obtained from the

Embassy of Switzerland
Cultural Section
Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said, Kav. X 3/2
Kuningan
Jakarta Selatan 12950
Email: vertretung@jak.rep.admin.ch

and are usually available in April of the application year. Please note that only applicants who fulfil the complete requirements should inquire an application form from the Embassy.

Following documents must be submitted in following order:

• Application form
• Copies of secondary school certificates
• Copies of certificates, diplomas and university degrees with marks
• Letters of recommendation from 2 professors in Indonesia
• Precise and detailed plan outlining the program of the intended study or research in Switzerland
• Curiculum vitae
• Acceptance letter of an institut or professor of the chosen institution stating that the intended study project is feasible at that institution; Admission letter for postgraduate course or master
• Medical certificate (on form supplied by the Embassy)
• Other documents (language certificates, etc.)

The application form as well as all supporting documents (including translations, etc.) have to be submitted in quadruplicate (4 sets of copies). Photocopies of any documents such as general certificates of secondary education, university diplomas and transcripts, language certificats, etc. have to be certified as true copies. Certified translations into either English, German, French or Italian have to be attached to those documents which are not originally issued in one of these languages.

The complete candidature files with the required documents should be submitted to the Swiss Embassy Jakarta not later than October 31 of the application year.

Please note that only complete and orderly prepared application files will be taken into consideration. Provided the file is complete, the applicant then will be invited to the Embassy to take a written and oral language test, as well as a short personal interview. In May the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS) will announce the accepted candidatures.

Monthly Allowance of the Scholarship

CHF 1.820,- for post-graduate students
CHF 4.500,- for the language course in Fribourg (3 months)

Please note that the scholarship recipients are exempt from the general semester fees but NOT for certain postgraduate courses as for example MBA-programs (which can reach thousands of CHF). The grant covers only living expenses in Switzerland.

Travel Expenses and Insurance

Recipients from Indonesia pay their own travel expenses to Switzerland, but the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS) pays the return ticket (except for familiy members). The return travel will not be offered if grantees extend their stay in Switzerland beyond six months after completion of their studies, or if they take up employment or move to a third country.

Health insurance (except for dental care) and accident insurance are provided.

Click here for source

[UK] Scholarship for Master Degree in International Politics 2005/2006

OSI/FCO CHEVENING/UNIVERSITY OF GLASGOW

Completed applications should be returned by 15 March 2005

The Open Society Institute, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the University of Glasgow invite applications for the above scholarships at the University of Glasgow . Applicants will normally be expected to be under 35 years old, be both nationals of and resident in Indonesia .

Applicants should have outstanding academic qualifications, good English, and, normally, relevant practical experience. Each scholarship provides one year's tuition fees at the University of Glasgow , a stipend to cover living costs (for one person only), and return air travel from the scholar's home country. On completion of the scholarship scholars are expected to return to their home country to resume their studies or work there.

Download the documents from the links below:
guidance notes for applicants,
referee form, and
application form

Completed applications should be returned there by 15 March 2005

The British Council
Jakarta Stock Exchange, Tower II,

16th floor. Jl Jenderal Sudirman

Kav. 52-53. Jakarta 12190,

Indonesia.

Tel : +62 (0)21 5155561

Fax : +62 (0)21 5155562

Contact Person: Rowena Rompas

Click here for source.

[Australia] The Peace Scholarship Program for Indonesian Students

Don’t forget, the APPLICATION deadline is March 1st, 2005.

IDP Education Australia and AusAID Indonesia are offering you the opportunity to study abroad in Australia for one semester commencing July 2005. The scholarships are worth up to AU$20,000 and applications close on March 1st, 2005.

About the Scholarship

In Indonesia, the Peace Scholarship Program is managed by the IDP Indonesia office and supported by the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID). Queensland Education and Training International and the Standard Chartered Bank.

What will I win?

In 2005 there will be five Peace Scholarships available for eligible students in Indonesia to study abroad in Australia for one semester commencing February 2005. Students who meet all the eligibility criteria outlined below are invited to apply for the Peace Scholarship.

Each scholarship is worth up to AU$20,000 and covers:

• Tuition fees for study abroad at the institutions listed below
• Funds to cover travel expenses, living costs, accommodation and other costs while in Australia
• Two day orientation welcome program in Sydney
• Other services and products offered by supporters of the Peace Scholarship Program including IDP Education Australia
• The opportunity to win an additional cash prize through the Peace Scholarship Recipient of the Year Award
• Lifetime networking opportunities with Peace Scholarship recipients from countries all over the world

Where will I study?

Australian institutions offering scholarships to students from Indonesia in 2005 are:

• Edith Cowan University, WA
• Flinders University, SA
• Central Queensland University, QLD

Candidates are strongly encouraged to indicate their own preferences for institution of study on the application form. Details on the level of English required for acceptance into study abroad programs at participating universities are listed here.

Although every endeavour will be made to place you in the university of your choice, the Peace Scholarship Program reserves the right to offer recipients scholarships at an institution other than those named by candidates, depending upon the availability of places.

IDP Education Australia staff at an office near you would also be more than willing to discuss your options with you and which of the available Universities would be most suitable to your needs. You can find details of where IDP offices are located here.

How do I apply?

STEP 1

Ensure you fulfil each of the selection criteria as detailed below:

• At the time of application you have completed at least three semesters and no more than six semesters of your first full-time undergraduate degree of an accredited course at a university in Indonesia
• You have achieved at least a 65-70% average mark in your degree to date
• You can fulfil the requirements for study abroad at the chosen host institution
• You can preferably gain credit transfer for your study abroad program in Australia for your degree at your home institution
• You have a level of English language proficiency that satisfies both Student Visa requirements for entry to Australia as well as host institution requirements
• You do not hold citizenship or permanent residency in Australia and have not previously studied overseas, either in Australia or elsewhere (unless on a scholarship or to study English)
• You are able to demonstrate a commitment to ‘global peace and understanding’ through community, academic or professional achievements
• You are able to indicate how the Peace Scholarship experience will enhance your professional development and help contribute to global peace and understanding
• You are able to demonstrate a financial need and that without this scholarship you would not have the chance to study overseas

STEP 2:

The following materials must be received by IDP Indonesia by March 1st, 2005:

1. Completed, printed and signed application form
2. Completed, printed and signed Agreement of Award Terms and Conditions
3. Certified true copy of English translated official academic transcript, including current year grades - certified either by an IDP office in the first instance; then Australian diplomatic mission, then university President / Rector / vice-chancellor or faculty dean.
4. Proof of English language ability including IELTS, TOEFL (paper-based or computer-based) or another recognised English language test (note: short-listed students who have not supplied IELTS or TOEFL scores will be required to sit an IELTS exam before their receipt of the scholarship is confirmed)
5. Two References/Testimonials in English
- One reference/testimonial from home institution (Dean or higher). This reference/testimonial must follow the format outlined on the Home Institution Reference Form and address the criteria requested
- One reference/testimonial from someone you have worked with on a particular community service project that you talk about in your application (preferably your supervisor), or from someone who can honestly discuss your involvement in community based activities and projects and who has known you for more than 2 years. This reference/testimonial must follow the format outlined on the Community Leader Reference Form and address the criteria requested.

Note: References cannot be submitted from a person to whom you are related.

What are the selection procedures?

All applications must be received by the Peace Scholarship Representative in Indonesia (details below) by March 1st, 2005.

In Indonesia, there will be 2 steps in the selection process:

1. Home Country Selection Round

All applications submitted to the Peace Scholarship Program will be reviewed by home country selection panels including IDP in-country staff, Australian diplomatic mission staff and industry representatives. This Panel will select students
- according to set standards and procedures implemented worldwide
- according to the quota set by the Peace Scholarship Program; and
- subject to final approval by the Peace Scholarship Program in Australia

2. Australian selection round

Short-listed applications successful in the Home Country Selection Round will be sent to the Peace Scholarship Program for final selection and placement at the participating universities.


Students will be notified of the results of their application and placement in an Australian University by May 1st, 2005.

Final award of the Peace Scholarship is subject to acceptance into the study abroad program at the selected institution as well as receipt of the appropriate visa to study in Australia.

Who can I contact for more information?

For more information regarding the 2005 Peace Scholarship Program please contact the Peace Scholarship Program representative in Indonesia:

Ms Rachmi Sjafei
Senior Project Officer
IDP South Jakarta
Jl. Terusan Gedung Hijau 1
Kav. 9, 01-E
Pondok Indah
Jakarta Selatan
INDONESIA
Ph. 750 3552; 750.2660
Email: rachmi.sjafei@idp.com

Alternatively email your questions and comments to globalpeace@idp.com or call +61-2-82512701.

Don’t forget, the APPLICATION deadline is March 1st, 2005.

Click here for source

[Holland] STUNED Scholarship Programme - Page 1 of 2

A chance to increase your contribution to the development of Indonesia

What is StuNed?

StuNed, Studeren in Nederland, is a scholarship programme that aims to contribute to the development of Indonesia through strengthening the human resources of Indonesian organisations. Each year some 200 full scholarships are offered for professionals to follow master programmes, short courses or tailor made training, all conducted in the English language. Graduates commit themselves to return to Indonesia immediately after graduation and to be actively involved in the development of their organisation and the country in general.

The StuNed programme is subject to the Dutch policy for development co-operation which aims to achieve the UN Millennium Development goals in 2015. For Indonesia the bilateral programmes focus on generating capacity in development relevant sectors and theme's such as: education, water management, sanitation and the environment, community based development, institutional development, good governance & human rights, gender, HIV/AIDS, reproductive health and culture (strengthen cultural identity).

In line with the Indonesian Policy, as laid down in the Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers (PRSP), strengthening the decentralisation process is another objective. Therefore attention is given to candidates working at local government level and those working outside Java. StuNed also aims at a balanced gender representation (minimum 50% women).

Candidates' profiles

The StuNed programme aims at providing scholarships to government officials (central and regional), NGO officials, lecturers-educators and journalists. Employees of private companies working in development related sectors may also apply.

English proficiency requirements

All courses are conducted in the English language. Therefore a high level of English language proficiency is required and candidates are recommended to prepare themselves well in advance by taking English language courses and by participating in TOEFL or IELTS prediction tests. Information on English Proficiency Test dates and samples of required TOEFL or IELTS documents are available on the NEC website.

Eligible courses

StuNed offers scholarships to follow master courses, short courses or tailor made programmes. One can choose from a wide range of courses. A list of "development related short courses and master programmes" is available on the NEC website. Other study programmes may also be chosen if the relevance to the development of Indonesia can convincingly be motivated by the applicant. For tailor made programmes a special application procedure is applicable (see below).
In general courses are at a high academic level, but also focus on professional skills. The pace is fast and the study programmes place heavy demands on the participants.
Candidates are advised to choose study programmes very carefully. The choice of the most suitable programme is an important factor in the assessment of the application. Programmes must have a minimum duration of six weeks and a maximum duration of 24 months.
PhD studies are not eligible under the StuNed programme. For these studies see the information on the Netherlands Fellowship Programme (NFP) (another scholarship programme from the Dutch Government) on our website.

The ideal StuNed candidate:
a. is strongly committed to the development of Indonesia
b. possesses proven leadership qualities;
c. can justify how the scholarship contributes to the development of his/her organisation,
d. can justify the relevance of the sector he/she is working in for the development of Indonesia.
e. is strongly committed to the eradication of corruption and other bad governance practices.

Main requirements to apply:

1. be an Indonesian national; to be proven by: copy of KTP or Kartu Dinas Pegawai Negeri, paspor ( valid until one year after the start of the programme). To be submitted at the time of application. Copy of paspor can be submitted after award of the scholarship;

2. have earned a S1 or Bachelor's degree or its equivalent at a recognized university in Indonesia; be able to provide evidence of the academic achievements (minimum G.P.A. score 2.75);to be proven by: original transcript, dated year of graduation, legalized by university;

3. relevant work experience for at least two years; to be proven by: official statement from the employer on seal stating that the applicant is allowed to study abroad and that her/his position will be reserved until the applicant has returned to Indonesia; this letter may be submitted after receiving the award of the scholarship, but before departure to the Netherlands; for government employees and lecturers a copy of the employment contract (SK) is required, NGO officials are requested to include the latest annual report of the NGO.

4. have an academic or professional background that is related to the subject of the course; to be explained by applicant in motivation statement

5. be full time available for the entire period of the study programme or course and be able to participate in and complete all courses;

6. have a high level of English proficiency (TOEFL Computer based 213, or ITP 550, IELTS 6); Only International TOEFL or Recognized Institutional TOEFL (ITP) 550 scores are accepted. TOEFL/IELTS scores are only valid for two years. For postgraduate courses offered in the Dutch language a good command of the language is required; to be proven by: original score form, no copies allowed. In exceptional cases a TOEFL score lower than 550 is allowed if the receiving university guarantees to bring the English proficiency of the student to the required level.

7. be in good health; to be confirmed by: a medical examination after award of the scholarship;
not have studied abroad in the past two years; to be proven by: curriculum vitae, data in application form on seal, photocopy passport

8. be admitted to one of the courses or programmes offered by Institutes of Higher Education in the Netherlands for the academic year 2005; to be proven by: admission letter from the university in which the start and end date of the programme, the total tuition fee and the name of the course are mentioned clearly;

9. as of 1 September 2005, the application be not older than 40 years for male; for female 45 years; to be proven by: copy of KTP or passport.

For certain categories, special conditions apply. Up-to-date detailed requirements are available at www.nec.or.id

More information and application form can be found here.

[Holland] STUNED Scholarship Programme - Page 2 of 2

First part can be found here.

Two ways to apply for StuNed, and `How to do it'

There are two ways to apply for a StuNed scholarship:

1. Individual application (for master and short courses programmes)

The StuNed regular Scholarship programme provides full scholarships for professionals to take part in master courses or short courses. Applicants should take the following steps:

a. register for admission to a study programme in the Netherlands (see guidelines for registration at the NEC website). The university or institute offering the course will have its own admission requirements. Applicants are therefore strongly advised to contact the institution well in advance for further information about the details of the course and the admission procedure;

b. download the StuNed application form from the NEC website;

c. submit the form, with all required attachments to NEC before the deadline. Incomplete applications will not be processed.

Application deadline:
- for master programmes: 1 April 2005
- for short courses
with a start date between 1 July - 31 December 2005: 1 March 2005
with a start date between 1 January - 31 June 2006 : 1 October 2005

Pre-Registration for candidates from Outside Java

Candidates from outside Java may benefit from pre-registration through which a provisional award can be obtained. A provisional award is valid for one year enabling candidates to achieve the required level of English proficiency. The deadline for pre-registration for courses starting in the academic year 2006-2007 is 1 October 2005. See details on the website www.nec.or.id

2. Group Application (for master, short courses and tailor made programmes)

Institutions, partnerships, consortia and functional networks (hereafter called institutions/networks) may submit a collective application for staff upgrading. The requesting institution/network must show a high commitment tot the development of Indonesia. Commitment to the programme can be expressed in various ways i.e. by providing pre-departure English language training. Applications linked up with existing cooperation between Indonesian and Dutch institutions are encouraged.

Training needs can consist of existing master courses (including the Dutch part of a double degree programmes) and short courses or tailor made programmes. Tailor made programmes are defined as existing short courses of which the starting date, location and/or time frame is adjusted to the institutions requirements. Tailor made programmes may also consist of a selection of existing modules to comply with the specific needs of the requesting institution. The programme may take place entirely or partly in Indonesia.

Detailed information on procedures, deadlines and guidelines for proposals and forms are available at NEC or the NEC website.

How to apply?

The first and most important step on the way to a scholarship is finding the right study programme. More than 1,000 international study programmes to choose from.

The next step is to register for admission to the chosen study programme; registration can be done via e-mail. Application for most courses starting in the 2005 academic year is open from January to March 2005.

Applications must include:

1. Two copies of the application form and its supplements;

2. Legalized transcripts of degrees, diplomas and academic records, dated at year of graduation;

3. A `TOEFL computer based Test Examinee's Score Record', `Institutional Test Score Record (ITP score record)' or `International English Language Testing System Test Report Form (IELTS Report Form)';

4. Curriculum vitae; to see the standard Curriculum Vitae please click here

5. Motivation statement in which the applicant explains his choice of study and the relevance for the development of Indonesia (see application form).

6. A personal and original letter of recommendation on the institutions stationary;

7. A letter from the university or employer stating that the applicant is allowed to study abroad and that her / his position will be hold until after the applicant is back in Indonesia; this letter may be submitted after receiving the results of the selection, but before departure to The Netherlands;

8. A copy of the passport (valid until one year after the start of the programme) To be submitted at the time of application or within one week after receiving the award;

9. A certified translation of birth certificate;

10. 2 recent photographs (3X4);

11. Admission letter or provisional admission letter by host institution in the Netherlands, in which start date and end date of the course are mentioned as well as the tuition fee.

The selection process

All individual applications for master courses or short courses that fulfil the requirements are recorded, ranked and categorised according to various criteria like GPA score, TOEFL score, present occupation, domicile, assessment of the motivation, study category, gender and others.

The selection committee awards the scholarships based on all information supplied by the candidate, the importance of the sector for development of Indonesia and the role of the institution for development of Indonesia. A statement by the employer describing the effect that the study will have, on the organisation is an important factor in this evaluation.

All applicants will be informed about the results of their application not later than June 2005

It is important that candidates have daily access to the e-mail account stated in the application. Failure to react to NEC's communication within 48 hours may lead to disqualification of the application.


StuNed Scholarship Covers:

1. Tuition fee;

2. Monthly living allowance;

3. Insurance premiums (travel, health, third party liability);

4. International travel expenses;

5. Travel expenses in the Netherlands directly related to the study programme;

6. Contribution to study related expenses, such as books and study materials and shipping charges (total allowance depends on the length of the study);

7. Reimbursement of expenses for the residence permit.

All above data are valid at the date of publication, and are subject to change without prior notification. For up to date and complete information always check the NEC website.

www.nec.or.id

Netherlands Education Centre
Citra Graha 7th floor, suite 705
Jl. Jend. Gatot Subroto kav. 35-36
Jakarta 12950
Ph: (62 21) 5200453
Fax: (62 21) 5200457
E-mail: beasiswa1@nec.or.id

[TIPS] Top Ten Tips for Winning Scholarship Applications

By Kay Peterson, Ph.D.

Before you submit your scholarship application, check out these tips, provided by scholarship sponsors nationwide.

TIP #1: Apply only if you are eligible.
Read all the scholarship requirements and directions carefully and make sure you're eligible before you send in your application.

TIP #2: Complete the application in full.
If a question doesn't apply, note that on the application. Don't just leave a blank. Be sure to supply all additional supporting material, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation and essays.

TIP #3: Follow directions.
Provide everything that's required. But don't supply things that aren't requested—you could be disqualified.

TIP #4: Neatness counts.
Always type your application, or if you must print, do so neatly and legibly. Make a couple of photocopies of all the forms before you fill them out. Use the copies as working drafts as you develop your application packet.

TIP #5: Write an essay that makes a strong impression.
The key to writing a strong essay is to be personal and specific. Include concrete details to make your experience come alive: the 'who,' 'what,''where,' and 'when' of your topic. The simplest experience can be monumentalif you present honestly how you were affected.

TIP #6: Watch all deadlines.
To help keep yourself on track, impose your own deadline that is at least two weeks prior to the official deadline. Use the buffer time to make sure everything is ready on time. Don't rely on extensions—very few scholarship providers allow them at all.

TIP #7: Make sure your application gets where it needs to go.
Put your name (and Social Security number, if applicable) on all pages of the application. Pieces of your application may get lost unless they are clearly identified.

TIP #8: Keep a back-up file in case anything goes wrong.
Before sending the application, make a copy of the entire packet. If your application goes astray, you'll be able to reproduce it quickly.

TIP #9: Give it a final 'once-over.'
Proofread the entire application carefully. Be on the lookout for misspelled words or grammatical errors. Ask a friend, teacher or parent to proofread itas well.

Tip #10: Ask for help if you need it.
If you have problems with the application, don't hesitate to call the funding organization.