Study and Travel in Spain

Studying in other country can be a very exciting and unforgettable experience. You meet new friends, explore unknown territories, and learn new ideas. But it could also be the opposite. That is why it is important to prepare yourself and plan ahead. SpainExchange features simple tools that can help every students make the most of their experience while studying abroad. Students can search for programs and various courses, the best international schools, participating exchange students, and different student housing accommodations. And best part of it, it is easy to use, and it is free!

· Study Abroad

SpainExchange eases every student’s nightmare in browsing which courses and studies are offered by which schools and universities. Courses, degrees, and various programs are grouped accordingly by country. All you have to do is select your preferred country and a list of offered graduate, professional, and vocational programs – grouped by category, are displayed. Do not waste your time searching from hundreds or worse thousands of subjects or studies you don’t actually need. Specify the country, select from a group of studies, and choose your specific course. It is as easy as 1, 2, and 3.

· Featured Schools

Looking for cream of the crop international school? SpainExchange features schools that are globally recognized and meet international standards. With “FeaturedShools”, students are assured that they are taking only the best among the best with a good career path after their studies.

· Student Exchange

It is always fun to meet new people and experience new cultures. And that is the reason why SpainExchange makes it more exciting for exchange students through their simple and effective search engine. One can search by destination or country of origin. Students can easily access if the country they intent to go has exchange students. Also, student can search for host families. Match your personality and other preferences with the hosting families’ details. It is a smart thing to know your hosting family, they can be really warm and nice, or the opposite.

· Student Housing

For students who want more control over their space, then no worry no more for SpainExchange can help you find the “perfect” house when you study abroad. Select from a wide variety of property/housing types that includes flat, shared flats, duplex, house, studio, family shared, garage space, individual room, student residence, and many more. Just indicate your desired country and specify the state or province.

There is no place like home. But there is such a thing as SpainExhcange that offers you the chance to find the next best thing. Your study abroad does not have to be boring. You can spies it up. Choose the field you are really interested in, find the best school, and select your lodging type. But first, you must register in http://www.spainexchange.com/index-en.htm… Good luck on you study!

Are there times when you’ve wondered if there’s more to life than lolling around on a hammock through the long months of vacation? Are you curious about other countries and cultures? Are you keen on ‘making a difference’ in some way? Then, volunteer work abroad may be the perfect option for you. Volunteering to work in a social development project abroad expands your mind, boosts your career prospects and lets you spend your time in a way that is fulfilling.

Volunteering abroad gives you invaluable knowledge and exposure not only about the intricacies of a particular area of social development but also about a wholly different culture and people. It makes you stronger, more open-minded and adds to perspective in many ways. Apart from learning how a professional organization functions, you will spend your time constructively by learning new skills and strengthening your resume. More and more, organizations are looking at volunteer work experience as evidence of a well-rounded personality, capable of hard work (and sometimes, hardship) who will be able to work well in a team and roll with the punches if necessary.

Volunteer work also gives you a chance to to share your skills and teach others what you are best at. There is enough need in the world to accommodate different types of skills and no matter what you’re good at—writing, sketching, organizing, teaching—there is some project out there that is looking for exactly those skills. Working for a social cause also invariably leads to increased self-confidence and personal satisfaction because you are helping others and contributing to society in a meaningful way.

Volunteering abroad is also a good way to explore different career options. You can venture into an area without the fear of making a long-term commitment. It will give you a chance to explore your capabilities, experiment with what you are good at or pursue what interests you the most.

There are many areas of social development: poverty, education, child welfare, women’s rights, rural development, environmental conservation are a few of the common ones. It is important to choose the area you want to work in after careful consideration of factors such as your particular skills and interests, what you feel passionate about, where you would like to work, and how it will tie in with your goals in the future. For example, if you want to specialize in environmental studies later on, it makes sense to do volunteer work in the same area. On the other hand, if you are planning to do a Phd on watershed management at some point, you may want to look at rural development projects.

There are many websites that offer detailed and comprehensive information on such projects and help you make the correct choice in terms of a volunteer abroad program. There may also be consultants near where you live who will be able to help you in this regard. It’s also a good idea to sound off a teacher or mentor on your plans and take their advice in the matter. After all, if you are travelling halfway across the world to work for a cause, you should make sure that you choose wisely!

The grandeur of Spain is one of the world’s sought after travel experiences. Its majestic history, magnificent castles and monuments, romantic cities, and very warm people make it a favorite destination in the world. SpainExchange travel guide makes it easy for visitors to know more about Spain without reading articles with hundreds of lines. Topics are categorized to suit the kind of information you need. From arts, culture, gastronomy, history, places to visit, government and politics, religion, to economy. Name it SpainExchange has it. No more browsing of seemingly endless web pages without getting the information you want.

SpainExchange features a unique Spain Tour – personalized educational tours for high schools and colleges. The tours consists of exciting and remarkable sights and experiences such as discovery of Spain, history, the Al-Andalus legacy, landscapes and civilizations and so much more… Here are 5 reasons why choose SpainExchange Educational Spain Tours:

• You get the tour you want
• Your tour is yours alone
• You get more for what you pay
• You enjoy extra treats
• Your students will have an educational experience they will never forget.

Who says learning and traveling don’t go together? SpainExchange Educational Spain Tours makes it all possible. Mo more worries on itineraries, lodging reservations, transpirations, travel guides and other services, they got it all covered. For more information visit http://www.spainexchange.com/spain_tours/index.php.

Spain has also remarkable list of schools and universities celebrated not only locally but also received international citations. Finding schools in Spain is very simple using SpainExchange search engine. The lists are grouped based on the following:

• Universities in Spain
• Graduate and Professional Programs
• Spanish Language and Culture Programs
• Career Colleges and Vocational Programs
• International Primary and Secondary Schools
• Spanish Language Schools in Spain
• US Study Abroad Programs in Spain
• Online and Distance Learning Courses

Students can also narrow their search by specifying the type or area of study, province where to study, and type of school – public, private, language school, etc. Studying in Spain has never been this easy. With SpainExchange, its hassle free and you get more than what you deserve. Just follow this link http://spainexchange.com/users/register.php?user_lang=en and fill up all the necessary information and you are ready to go…

Whenever I hear the word ‘London’ the first thing that comes into my mind is the famous ‘London Bridge’. But the city is absolutely more than that, more than kings and queens and their palaces, and more than being a financial and fashion hub. London is in fact a common point where great minds, ambitious dreams, and dynamic imaginations of students from every face of the planet meet and start their journey. Top calibrated and globally recognized universities and colleges are just a few of the reasons why international students choose London to be their second home. Check for yourself and you will see why…

Preparation and Financial Assistance

Students anywhere in the globe can contact the UKCISA and British Council for the latest information and procedures in applying for student visa. The British Council also features an online catalog where students can search for various scholarship grants and awards from UK universities, non-profit organizations, and private institutions.

Institutions, Programs, and Courses

Universities in London can be categorized into two classifications. The first is the federal University of London which is one of the largest universities in Europe. It has 19 colleges and 12 institutes all of which control its own admissions and degree courses and are in fact universities in their own right. Some of the leading and distinguished colleges of the University of London include University College London (UCL), King’s College London, Queen Mary, London School of Economics and Political Science, Birkbeck, Institute of Education, Goldsmiths, and the Royal Holloway. The second are universities that are not part of the University of London such as the Imperial College London, City University, Brunel University, London South Bank University, Middlesex University, and the University of East London.

These universities and colleges are at par with various institutions in the US such as MIT, Berkeley, and the University of California. Undergraduate, postgraduate, and advance studies and programs are available under different fields – Art, Design, Architecture, Business, Management, Finance, Media, Humanities, Law, Healthcare, Medicine, Veterinary Science, IT, Science, and Engineering.

Transportation

London has certainly one of the most modern and organized transportation systems in the modern world. Students can avail of the Oyster Card with a discount of 30% on a selection of travel cards. From coaches, double-decker buses, black cabs to high-speed trains your chosen university or college is just a step away from your home. If you are the traditional type you can also hit the road with bicycles which are gaining popularity nowadays or simply walk around the city and savor its history, architecture, and style.

Accommodation

Regardless if you are taking a short or lengthy course, finding your next home sweet home will never be a problem in London. You can choose from studio flats, apartments, to flashy penthouses throughout the city and its suburbs, name it London has it. Nearly all universities and colleges offer accommodation for foreign students. International students are recommended to read the UKCISA Guidance Note – ‘Accommodation for international students’ for various do’s and don’ts in choosing their place to stay.

Lifestyle, Health & Safety

And what is school without experiencing some fun? Foreign students will be awed on what London can offer. Cafes, discos, shopping havens, fine restaurants, art centers, exotic markets, museums, whatever can make you relaxed and unwind London is definitely the city where you live life in its fullest. Students staying for 6 months or more can access hospital treatment for free from the National Health Service (NHS).

In 2007, 3 German universities were included in the top 100 and 11 in the top 200 of the THES – QS World University Rankings. Germany schools and universities provide first rate education for foreign students, wide range of programs and studies, and exceptional research and teaching by balancing theory and application. And to top it of, German cities boast of its striking landscapes, lively customs and traditions, modern transportation system, and mouth-watering cuisines. But before you get all excited it is very important to plan ahead and list down all you need to complete before packing your books and clothes. Like any other countries, admission to German colleges and institutions can be a cumbersome experience if you do not plan well…

Who do I need to contact?

The first thing to do after making a shortlist of German universities and courses you are interested in is to contact the university. They can help you prepare important documents and other necessary prerequisites. There are basically general requirements for foreign students but some universities may demand additional tests and documents depending on the course or program. It is also recommended to check out The Application Services for International Students (uni-assist). It is joint venture of German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), more than 85 German higher institutions, and the Conference of University Rectors (HRK). They have centralized information database regarding German universities and institutions, admission requirements, and other helpful details.

What are the preparations I have to make?

For immigration purposes, you need to prepare the following documents: student visa; valid passport; original certificates together with original copies of the certified German translations; vaccination certificate; doctor transcription for important medications; passport-size photographs.

For the application for admission foreign students must prepare the following documents: authenticated true copy of the certificate of admission (diploma, certificates, proof of higher studies); proof that you have passed a university entrance from home country (for undergraduates); test certificate for proficiency in German language (for international programs English proficiency instead); and passport photographs.

If your school certificates do not qualify for admission studies in Germany then you can take the Feststellungsprüfung (Assessment Test). It is held twice a year and consists of not less than 3 subjects including a German language test. Alternatively, you can also prepare for the Feststellungsprüfung at a Studienkolleg by submitting a written application to the university/institution you intend to attend.

How does the admission process take place?

Now that you have all the necessary documents and passed various tests it is time for the real thing. Submit an application for admission to the college with all the required papers and fees, again requirements and charges may vary so check it first with the university. For most schools, application should be submitted on or before January 15 or July 15 for the summer and winter semesters respectively. The admission office checks and validates all the requirements and conditions for your requested program/study. You will then receive a letter rejection or letter of admission.

What is Volunteer abroad program?

Volunteer abroad program can be defined as a program which is an integral part of study abroad program. It offers a great opportunity to many kind-hearted and compassionate participants to help others while studying abroad. Needless to say, volunteer abroad program helps students gain a wealth of experience of working in a different environment which in turn helps them upgrade their skill later in their career.

Why volunteer abroad?

Broadly speaking, when you join a volunteer abroad program, you achieve much more than just experience. There is nothing like working for less privileged community and achieving a great deal of self-satisfaction. When you work abroad for unprivileged communities, you exposed yourself to brand-new world. It’s truly an enriching experience in itself. Besides, volunteer abroad programs help you see life in different places up close by working abroad.

Volunteer abroad program – prime requisites:

Patience and flexibility play a vital part in making a success of the volunteer abroad program. One needs to be compassionate, humble and deeply understanding in order to be an effective volunteer. These traits are extremely essential as one has to work in a culture which is inimical to their own. A voluntary abroad program can throw in situations and conditions that the participants may not be familiar to in their domestic country. Hence, it takes a great deal of girt to be an effective volunteer. Finally, a volunteer abroad program instills problem-solving, planning, management and organizational skills in a natural way. In a nutshell, it is critical to the development of a well-round personality.

Volunteer abroad program – some considerable factors:

While you get ready for a volunteer abroad program, it is worth pondering over some factors that go into making a successful volunteer abroad program. Typically, there are two aspects you should be looking at, i.e, what issue or cause you would like to volunteer your services for and where part of the world you would like to work in. ideally, you should be choosing an issue that you are extremely passionate about. This will help you stick around when the going gets tough in a volunteer programme. Also, think about what you can bring to the volunteer abroad program. Besides, before joining a volunteer abroad program, make sure you choose a place which would be suitable for you fairly long period of time.

For further information on volunteer abroad program,log on to www.spainexchange.com.

Student housing is one of the most vital part of any study abroad programmes. Arranging your own accommodation could be extremely difficult until and unless you are aware of the student housing facilities available in a particular region. As a matter of fact, quite a few study abroad programmes take care of their participants’ international travel housing arrangements. However, not all study abroad programmes offer student housing and accommodation facilities to their participants. Moreover, those who want to do additional traveling at the end of their programme should plan their own transportation and housing as well. At Spainexchange, we have exhaustive resource of information on student housing on study abroad which helps students to locate the best place their accommodation.

Take a look at the following student housing options available to you if you are planning to study abroad:

Student Housing:

If your study abroad programme does not offer student housing facilities then you should allow yourself ample time to arrange accommodation for yourself. Usually, in most countries student housing comes at a premium; hence, you should consult a representative from your programme for student housing recommendations. In case, you are enrolling directly in a foreign university, make it a point to contact the student housing office of that university to see if they can help you find proper accommodation.

Youth Hostels:

Youth hostels are meant for those who want to stay for a short span of time, i.e, traveling on weekends, during school breaks, or at the end of ones study abroad experience. Youth Hostels are a great and economical option of student housing and usually, much cheaper than hotels. Youth hostels can vary from dormitory-style rooms to private rooms. However, most youth hostels may have restrictions such as imposing curfews, own bedding, or limiting your stay to a certain number of nights. Moreover, staying in youth hostels require you to have International Youth Hostel Pass.

Student Hostels:

There are a few countries that offer student hostels facilities to their study abroad participants as a means of student housing. However, they are most restricted to university students only. Needless to mention, these student hostels offer greater conveniences than youth hostels in terms of quality food service and the opportunity to interact with international students. The student hostels facilities can be obtained by producing a valid international student identity card to prove your student status.

Other student housing facilities:

If you don’t want to opt for any of the above student housing facilities available for your study abroad programme, then make sure that you ask your travel advisor about the budget accommodations available at your travel destinations. There are a few student housing options available for you in terms of bed-and-breakfasts, pensions, budget hotels and so on. A browse in the internet should help you get ample information on these forms of student housing facilities for your study abroad prgamme.

At spainexchange, we provide you with a great resource for finding the best student housing facilities for your study abroad programmes. Log on to www.spainexchange.com for the latest update on the student housing opportunities abroad.

Why volunteer abroad when you can fetch handsome remunerations in your home country?

A very simple answer to this is- not everything on this earth can be measured on monetary yardsticks. Volunteer abroad programs expand the individual’s mental horizons by enabling him/her to live and learn in a different environment altogether.  By volunteering abroad people get to see the flipside of life. They meet new people and seek solace by helping the disadvantaged communities existing at remote locations.

What’s more, volunteer abroad programs also undertake elaborate training and synchronize all formalities of assigning the place and work of your interest, besides fulfilling visa-related obligations.  So think no more, and volunteer abroad to open your eyes to the humanity.  Volunteer abroad programs put you in front of a challenging expedition that is enriching and rewarding for the volunteer.

If you volunteer to work abroad, possibilities are that you teach rural children, help out deprived communities at far-off locations or other such causes. Volunteering abroad need lot of introspection, ask yourself what causes or problems you want to serve? which country you wish to work in etc. After a brainstorming session of weighing all pros and cons, follow your muse. Ponder your purpose in life; evaluate your embedded skills and how you can bring them to volunteer work.

To volunteer is highly demanding. People who want to volunteer abroad should possess some peculiar characteristics.  The means and passions may differ with varying personalities, but the motive remains one. An ideal volunteer should have the adaptability to any situation along with endurance to bear odd circumstances. They should be humble, helpful, trustworthy and hospitable to every person and situation. They should have respect for the culture and traditions of the host nation and zeal to absorb it.

Consequently, by adapting and learning to stay in a new cultural environment you feel sanctified. Helping others is a blissful experience. It makes you analytical enough to answer all predicaments, plan and manage things that would come to aid afterwards.

Volunteer abroad programs enrich the prospects of brilliant career as it widens people’s mental horizons and augment their all-round development.

Spain has become the most talked about education hub of the millenium with hosting over 20 private and more than 50 public universities under its periphery. With so many universities playing over here, the number of students flocking to Spain has lost count, especially when it comes to post secondary studies nothing can beat the English universities in Spain. The various universities operating here offer enormous choice in courses to students who want to study abroad. The major English universities are located in Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia (Madrid topping the list with highest English universities in Spain).

Various American universities in Spain are offering promising graduation courses that ensure bright carreer for students. These universities lay stress on the all-round development of ward, while giving him/her a platform to grow both academically and professionally. The curriculum is based on the yardsticks laid by EHES. Thus, the degrees obtained here are higly acclaimed in all European countries.

English universities in Spain offer subjects to benefit students from all streams be it Medical stream, Science, Law and Social Studies, IT or Humanities, it has something for everyone.

The duration of each subject area depend upon the program. Each university opearte on 3 cycles and degrees come under the aegis of any one of these cycles.

All three cycles are dicussed in detail below:

Short-cycle programs by English universities in Spain- These programs are populary known as single-cycle programs that attracts majority students to study abroad. Students taking these programs acquire bachelor’s degree at the end of 3 years. It includes programs like nursing, lebraray studies etc.

Two-cycle programs plus intermediate diploma by English universities in Spain- these programs offer students an opportunity to take up the second cycle studies provided they have got their bachelor’s degree. Either in single cycle programs or engineering/architecture, both are acceptable. This second cycle studies are usually the 5-6 years long master degree programs. It includes programs like Law, Architecture and Engineering etc.

Two-cycle programs devoid of intermediate diploma by English universities in Spain- this program neccesitates the achievement of both cycles to get a master’s degree. It is gaing 4-5 years long and includes courses like veterinary etc.

Thus, offering such comprehensive choices of courses English universities in Spain have extended horizons of success for students willing to study abroad.

For more details Please visit: www.spainexchange.com

A foreign student exchange program beckons all students to explore new avenues of education and success. From adventure lovers to studious bookworms none is left uninfluenced by the appeal of foreign student exchange programs. Now when the geographical boundaries are fading and the whole world is espousing the concept of “global family”, foreign student exchange programs are beefing-up the universal brotherhood.

Foreign student exchange programs are enriching as well as an inspiring experience that inculcate respect for other’s cultures and beliefs. Students really live and feel the culture of an altogether new nation, and this voyage fills their heart with sense of delight.

Foreign student exchange programs are not merely a thrilling opportunity, but an asset that ensures a bright future. Foreign student exchanges, apart from giving an opportunity to live and learn in another nation offer a pool of specialized knowledge.

Foreign student exchange programs stress more on the practical front of life rather that making students mug-up the bookish concepts. Needless to say, this encourages the all-round development of the student and strengthens his/her global communication skills.

Besides offering educational opportunities foreign student exchanges develop the overall personality of the student. Each individual is benefited enormously according to his/her mental ability and perspectives. It makes students grow both intellectually and individually.

Individual growth is instrumental to fetch the approaching employment opportunities. A student grows personally, enhance confidence, gain leadership competencies and boost up their cross-cultural communication ability. Foreign student exchanges make students conversant and help them learn new things in a new environment. This helps them grow both on personal and intellectual front which guarantee a flourishing future ahead.

Studying abroad via foreign student exchange program is undoubtedly an enriching experience and enables him to view the world from a universal perspective.