Latest news with #TOEFL
Business Standard
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Standard
Jamboree Education Turns 32: Celebrating Dreams and Global Careers
PNN New Delhi [India], July 28: Jamboree Education, a name synonymous with test prep and study-abroad success, celebrates a major milestone today: 32 years of helping students achieve their higher-education dreams. Since starting out in 1993, Jamboree has guided over 2,20,000 students on their journey to top universities around the world. From getting top scores on the GMAT, GRE, SAT, TOEFL, and IELTS, to receiving admits from the Ivy League and other elite institutions, the last three decades have been nothing short of extraordinary. "When we started Jamboree, it was with a simple goal: to give Indian students the best possible support in their study-abroad journey," said Vineet Gupta, co-founder of Jamboree Education. "32 years later, seeing the impact we've made across scores, careers, and lives, is both humbling and inspiring." A Legacy of Results, A Future of Possibilities Jamboree's track record speaks for itself: with 2,20,000+ successful students, 40+ Ivy League admits every year, highest number of GMAT 705+ scorers, highest number of SAT 1500+ scorers, highest number of GRE 320+ scorers, 300+ award-winning teachers, admissions experts with 30+ years of experience, and 30+ centres opened across India and Nepal over the years. Behind every statistic is a student who dared to dream big, and a team that supported them every step of the way. Staying Ahead of the Curve Over the years, Jamboree has evolved with the changing demands of the higher-education framework, maximising efforts to give students what they need to tackle newer challenges. The institute has integrated AI-powered test analytics, precise performance insights, online classes, and personalized study plans to support today's hybrid learners. Its admission counselling arm has helped place students in Ivy League and top-tier institutions including Harvard, Stanford, MIT, INSEAD, LBS, and more. For three decades, Jamboree has been a one-stop solution for dreamers. The institute's holistic approach mimics that of top universities worldwide, and that perhaps is why their students have been so successful over the years. Anniversary Offer: Flat ₹3200 Off Across All Products To mark this special occasion, Jamboree is offering a flat ₹3200 discount on all its courses and counselling services. Whether you're just starting your prep or planning your applications, now is the perfect time to get started. What's on Offer: -GMAT Prep: Flexible learning modes (online, offline, self-paced, or one-on-one) -GRE Prep: Personalized guidance to help you reach your target score -SAT Prep: Proven strategies to help you break the 1500 barrier -Admissions Counselling: Complete support from profile development to SOPs, interviews, visas, and even education loans At its core, Jamboree has always been more than just a coaching institute. It's a community built on trust, results, and an unshakable belief in the power of education. As it steps into its 33rd year, Jamboree continues to stand by its mission: helping students go farther than they ever imagined. Celebrate with Jamboree. Start your journey today. Visit to learn more and claim your anniversary offer.
Local Norway
5 days ago
- General
- Local Norway
How hard is the new Norwegian spoken exam actually?
At The Local, we've been covering the new test of spoken Norwegian for permanent residency for a few weeks now and it has made me ask a personal question: Is my Norwegian good enough for the new A2 test? If I took the exam today, would I pass? The test, part of Norway's move to increase the language requirement for permanent residency from A1 to A2 under the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, will be launched officially in September. In essence, the small shift in letter-number combinations means that those who pass now need to demonstrate a slightly better understanding and facility with the language. This should help them integrate better—whether at work, at a parent-teacher meeting, or even while keeping up with the conversation at a dinner party. Advertisement I took the 'older' language exam back in 2021 when I applied for Norwegian citizenship (I passed— uff meg , what a relief). The format then was very similar to a Cambridge or TOEFL test, with reading, writing, listening, and speaking sections. It took two days and several hours in front of a computer screen. The final part, the speaking exam, involved both an individual task and a paired conversation—with a partner you only met minutes before in the waiting room. When I first heard about the new A2 test, it sounded like it would be easier. After all, spelling mistakes wouldn't count, and there would be no more long reading comprehension texts. But the most recent change (announced in late June) was not just about simplifying the test, it was about making it mandatory and removing the option to validate study hours instead. So, the only way to find out for sure was to take it. We booked a mock test with Lingu , a language school which has been going for 17 years and is also the official provider of language education for several municipalities in Norway. Advertisement What does the new spoken exam look like? The format is very similar to that of the exam I took back in 2021. You're paired with another candidate and go through three different tasks. You've never met your partner before, but if you're not the first pair called in, you might get a chance to chat briefly in the lobby and build a small connection before entering the exam room. Once you're called, you're given an overview by the so called censor (there's also an examiner present). The first two tasks are done individually; the third is a conversation between the two of you. Task 1: Short self-introduction Task 2: Two open-ended questions for each candidate Task 3: Conversation with your partner on a familiar topic Timing matters The entire exam lasts 20–25 minutes, with the individual section taking around 10 minutes and the dialogue 10–15 minutes. It's recommended to follow a simple format—introduction, explanation, and conclusion—to show a range of sentence structures, sprinkle in varied vocabulary, and focus on clear pronunciation. Advertisement What kind of questions come up? Start with a confident introduction—it's the one part you know is coming. For the open-ended questions at A2 level, you're expected to give descriptions or examples (what and how). At B1 level, you'd be expected to add arguments and reasoning (why). In my mock test, the questions included: Which trip have you taken that you enjoyed, and why? Do you believe education is necessary for everyone? What do you do to take care of your health? What are you planning to spend money on lately? My flow definitely got better around the second question as at first it is natural to forget a specific word or freeze. The examiner will quickly see that and will try to rephrase the question or make you feel comfortable and help get you back on track. On the other hand, if your performance clearly exceeds your registered level, the examiner may ask one extra question (they call it a 'stretch' question) from the next level up to see if you truly master it. The dialogue turns out to be easier if you keep a collaborative approach (a bit like ping-pong) instead of trying to show off and steal all the time for yourself. Remember to react to what the other examinee with short agreeing/disagreeing sentences and arguments. You could say nettopp or akkurat ("exactly"). Also, make sure to react to what they say with appropriate facial expressions and gestures. It may feel awkward, but it will help to show you are following the conversation. Advertisement How is it scored? The censor, together with the examinator, will use a detailed rubric to assign your final level scoring and feedback. Within the rubric you will see separate marks for each criterion (fluency, pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar). After the exam, you may request to see your completed rubric. It will remain on file for one year—just contact the test center if you wish to review it. Final verdict In the end, I scored enough to apply for permanent residency. Was it harder than the previous format? Not necessarily, but it was no piece of cake. You do need to study. Was it a smarter change? I'd say so. To feel confident at A2, you probably need to aim for B1. That means studying real-life conversation, not just theory. If you've already completed 200 hours of Norwegian lessons and are now frustrated that these hours no longer count officially, don't worry. If you truly learned, those hours weren't wasted. In fact, they've probably better prepared you for the new test. The Norwegian government's decision to focus solely on the spoken exam aligns with the country's broader push for digitalization. It's expected to speed up the application process, reduce paperwork, and eliminate delays. 'Before, you didn't know how long it would take to get the whole process done—your life was on hold. It could take months and months of extensions. Now, the new rule is supposed to be quicker, and that's a big advantage,' says Agnes Skjerve, Head of Marketing at Lingu. As many as 350 people joined a recent webinar — UDI's New Requirements for PR & Citizenship Explained in Plain English — hosted on July 16th. In the Q&A section, Lingu's Business Developer, Saira Khursheed, emphasized the company's goal of keep the audience positive and motivated about the A2 requirement, describing the reform as an improvement rather than a burden. 'With A1, your Norwegian won't get you very far. With A2, you can integrate better—at work, in family activities, and even start preparing for the next step, like applying for citizenship.' Advertisement Here is a checklist of what the censor is listening for: Relevance & clarity : Are you answering the question? Do your answers make sense? Fluency: Do you speak smoothly, or do you hesitate a lot? Pronunciation: Is your Norwegian clear and understandable? Vocabulary: Do you use enough appropriate words for this level? Grammar: Are your sentences well-formed, with correct tense, articles, and word order? Final tips Speak clearly and at a comfortable pace—don't rush. If you don't understand a question, ask for it to be repeated or rephrased. You could say: Kan du gjenta spørsmålet? Treat the dialogue task like a real conversation—respond naturally to your partner's ideas. Relax and remember: you're being assessed on spoken Norwegian, not expert knowledge. Good luck!
Time of India
17-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
How student-athletes score scholarships at top global universities
How student athletes can secure sports scholarships in universities abroad. In today's global education landscape, student-athletes stand out, not just for their sporting excellence, but for their unique ability to unlock doors at top-tier universities. Successfully combining academics and athletics creates a powerful profile, especially when applying to institutions in the United States, Canada, the UK, and Australia. If you're an aspiring student-athlete dreaming of studying abroad, this comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know—from building a strong profile to securing scholarships and navigating the admissions process. How Indian Students Can Secure College Sports Admissions in the U.S. & Beyond Who is a student-athlete? A student-athlete is a full-time university student who also competes in varsity-level sports for their college. This structured pathway is especially prominent in North America, where organizations like the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association), NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics), and other college leagues ensure that sports and education go hand in hand. Why choose the student-athlete route abroad? Scholarship Opportunities: Top universities often offer partial or full sports scholarships, significantly reducing tuition and living expenses. World-Class Training and Coaching: State-of-the-art facilities and professional coaching help athletes reach peak performance. Holistic Growth: The system is built to support both academic and athletic goals, without forcing a choice between the two. Global Exposure and Networking: Student-athletes enter diverse networks of peers, mentors, and alumni across the globe, creating long-term career and life opportunities. How to study abroad through sports Student-athletes planning to study abroad can plan their journey by following the steps outlined below: 1. Start Early: Begin planning by Grade 9–11; research countries, sports, and universities. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Ultra-Luxury 3–5 BHKs Overlooking the Arabian Sea L&T The Gateway Enquire Now Undo 2. Build Your Sports Profile: Create a resume, record highlight videos, and track rankings/stats. 3. Maintain Academic Excellence: Keep strong grades and prepare for SAT, ACT, TOEFL, or IELTS. 4. Contact Coaches: Email shortlisted coaches with your sports profile and personalised message. 5. Get Evaluated: Use rankings or attend camps to benchmark your level. 6. Understand Recruitment & Scholarships: Communicate regularly with coaches and apply formally when ready. 7. Prepare Key Documents: Include transcripts, test scores, recommendation letters, resume, and personal statement. 8. Stay Organised: Track deadlines, check eligibility (e.g., NCAA/NAIA), and prepare for visa processes. Which sports offer the best opportunities? Sports like tennis, golf, swimming, and track & field offer the best opportunities for international student-athletes, as they rely on measurable stats and rankings—making it easier for coaches to assess talent remotely. Soccer, basketball, and fencing offer moderate opportunities but often require showcase participation or video-based evaluations. Emerging sports like hockey, squash, shooting, and equestrian have fewer programs but can still lead to scholarships for standout athletes. Quantitative sports generally provide smoother recruitment pathways due to their data-driven nature. The student-athlete journey goes far beyond scholarships. It builds life skills that last a lifetime—discipline, time management, leadership, and resilience. Whether you pursue a pro career or pivot to other fields, these experiences shape you into a global citizen with a competitive edge. TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here . Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Time of India
16-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
First global varsity campus under new UGC rules opens doors in Gurgaon
Gurgaon/New Delhi: University of Southampton on Wednesday unveiled its offshore campus in the city, becoming the first foreign university to set up base in India under the University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations 2023 that opened the country's doors to top overseas institutions. Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan and chief minister Nayab Singh Saini jointly inaugurated the campus, which is in a section of the International Tech Park in Sector 59, and called it a "landmark step" in India's higher education journey. Officials said the university will start with four undergraduate courses (BSc in business management, accounting and finance, computer science, and economics) and two postgraduate (MSc in finance international management) courses this August. More programmes will be added over time. The degrees, including in timeline and format, will be similar to that of the UK campus, and the programmes will adhere to the same academic standards and quality, the officials said. You Can Also Check: Gurgaon AQI | Weather in Gurgaon | Bank Holidays in Gurgaon | Public Holidays in Gurgaon "Classes for the first cohort of around 170 students will start in August. Students will have the option of spending up to a year at Southampton's campuses in the UK or Malaysia too," an official said. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Called Southampton Delhi, the Gurgaon campus has already attracted students from across the country as well as from countries like the UAE and Nepal for its inaugural cohort. The university will hire over 75 full-time faculty members, many of whom have worked in institutions across the UK, US, Germany, Japan, Singapore and Australia. Though the fee structure was not declared on Wednesday, it is likely to be lower than fees for the same course at the UK campus. In Southampton, tuition fees can range between £18,000 and £33,000 — approximately Rs 21 lakh-Rs 38.5 lakh in current conversion rates. The application process is mainly online, and candidates have to submit a personal statement, letter of recommendation and passing certificates from Class 12 or college, depending on the course. Final selections will be made after an interview. Officials said it is not mandatory for candidates to submit results of English language proficiency tests like TOEFL and IELTS, which cost upwards of Rs 10,000 and are often mandatory when applying to colleges abroad. With a global alumni base of 2.9 lakh graduates, including 1,700 Indians, Southampton plans to involve its alumni as mentors and industry ambassadors for its Gurgaon operations. Its proposal to set up a full-fledged campus in India was the first by a foreign varsity to be approved by UGC last year. The norms, notified by UGC in 2023, permitted foreign universities ranked among the world's top 500 to set up branch campuses in India, decide their admission process, fee structure, and repatriate funds to their host campuses. The move aligned with the National Education Policy, 2020, which introduced the idea of bringing global universities to India. "This is a historic milestone towards making India a global knowledge destination. It strengthens the education pillar of India-UK ties under the 2030 roadmap," Pradhan said. Lauding the university for setting up the campus within a year of receiving UGC's letter of intent, he urged its leadership to introduce STEM programmes and position the Gurgaon campus as a hub for global solutions. "Education is at the core of India's development story. By hosting leading global institutions here, we are reviving our intellectual heritage from Nalanda and Takshashila to Pushpagiri and now Gurgaon," Pradhan added. He invited other international universities to explore similar collaborations to "co-create ecosystems of innovation, research, and education". Students enrolled in the Gurgaon campus will have the option of spending up to a year at Southampton's campuses in the UK or Malaysia. Courses starting in 2025 include BSc programmes in computer science, economics, accounting & finance, and business management, as well as MSc degrees in finance and international management. Pradhan said the central govt has allowed 17 foreign universities to establish their campuses in India. Higher education secretary Vineet Joshi said UGC's new regulatory framework has streamlined and simplified the process for foreign universities to set up bases in India. "Southampton's presence here will deliver world-class education and help nurture talent in critical areas like digital innovation and global leadership," he said. UK's high commissioner to India Lindy Cameron said the launch of Southampton's campus in the city was proof of advancing ties between the two countries in the education sector. "This will make international-standard education more accessible and reduce the need for students to go abroad," she said. CM Saini said the campus will help take India's higher education standards to new heights. "This campus will prove to be a milestone in making Haryana a global hub of education. The state is becoming the first choice for foreign investors due to excellent infrastructure… It's a golden chapter in India's education landscape," the CM said.
Time Business News
16-07-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
Questions to Ask Overseas Education Consultants in Hyderabad
Are you thinking about going abroad for your studies? With many overseas education consultants in Hyderabad, it could be difficult to make the right choice and ensure you ask relevant questions concerning your goals. Here are 10 questions you can ask before proceeding with any overseas education consultant in Hyderabad. Make sure you choose a consultancy that specialises in your preferred country and university. For instance, Fateh Education is primarily focused on the UK and Ireland and is tied to over 120 universities in both countries. Always prefer consultancy with the highest approval rate; for instance, Fateh Education boasts a 99% success rate for Ireland. True feedback counts; not just generic testimonials, but genuine feedback from past students provides you with insights, sharing the full extent of their experiences. You should always ask whether they will help you with preparation for IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE is supported; here, Fateh Education offers customised preparation in all formats (live, recorded, booster courses), so it's a big bonus! Good consultants will match you with universities based on your academic strengths, career goals, budget, and personal preferences. Fateh Education claims it as 'meticulous matching.' More than just filling forms, consultants should be assisting you with drafting your SOP, mock interviews, and submission to VFS. Not everyone offers pre-departure and post-departure orientation. Fateh supports you from acceptance to accommodation, culture orientation, and taking small steps into the new country Always look for official links such as the British Council, ICEF, or recognition from Cambridge. Fateh Education mentions Cambridge ESOL certification and Irish university awards, which could be a bonus point for you as a student. The Timeframe of the matters. For example, the visa processing for Ireland takes about four weeks from the time of application. A competent consultant should provide you with deadlines and milestones to work toward. It is always beneficial to find out whether they can guide you with scholarships, financial support for a visa, or help you create your budget. Fateh Education gives a perceived hint to financial guidance in search of courses. Question Why it matters 1 Country/uni specialisation Ensures relevant expertise 2 Visa approval rate Shows trust in track record 3 Student Connect Access Validates reputation 4 Test prep details Reduces outside dependencies 5 University matching approach Focuses on personalised outcomes 6 Visa process support Helps avoid delays 7 Pre-/post-departure guidance Makes the transition seamless 8 Official partnerships Boosts credibility 9 Timeline clarity Keeps you on track 10 Scholarship help Lightens financial limitation An ideal overseas study consultant does all to make the journey of study abroad very simple. If one poses the right questions, it becomes easy to determine that genuine guidance, proper university ties, and full support, will be rendered throughout the process. You can move with assurance and make informed decisions concerning your future, being clear about the consultant's expertise, processes, and success rate. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
