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The Most Lucrative MBA Specialization Models: Job Profiles and Salary Structures (2025)

Posted on by shivam
Reading Time: 2 minutes

The MBA degree has proved its mettle in continuing to be the most potent catalyst for career advancement and opportunities in leadership and one that significantly contributes to earnings in 2025. However, not all MBA degrees are born equal when it comes to the payoff; in fact, a few of them stand out in terms of return on investment, driven by an approximate increase in demand and criticality of associated roles, which prepare graduates.

Here’s a look at all the high-paying MBA specialisations in 2025, with the top job roles and estimated salaries.

1. MBA in Finance

Average Salary: $130,000 – $200,000+

Finance is a perennial stronghold for ROI in MBA education. By 2025, MBAs in finance will be much sought after in banks as employees, in private equity, investment firms, fintech, and corporate finance departments.

Top Job Roles:

Investment Banker: $150,000-$300,000+

Financial Manager: $120,000-$160,000

Hedge Fund Analyst: $140,000+

Chief Financial Officer: Above $200,000

The blessings of cryptocurrency, ESG investing, and fintech breakthroughs add multiple layers of opportunity for the prospective finance MBA.

2. MBA in Strategy

Average Salary: $125,000-$190,000+

The critical and significant changes that Strategy MBAs will intend to make in major corporations are typically the first steps toward very elite consulting firms or executive leadership.

Top Job Profiles:

Management Consultant: $150,000-$250,000+

Strategy Director: $140,000-$180,000

Business Development Executive: $130,000+

McKinsey, BCG, Bain, and so on recognized the value of these MBAs with rigorously sought-after strategy at great importance, as they present excellent problem-solving and analysis abilities.

3. MBA in Technology Management/Information Systems

Average Salary: $120,000-$180,000+

The demand for MBA students specializing in tech management has mushroomed to accommodate their whole creative adjustment at the business and technology front.

 Top Job Roles:

IT director: over $130,000

Product Manager (Tech): $125,000-$170,000

Chief Technology Officer (CTO): $180,000+

All industries are now experiencing this revolution, which makes this MBA specialization most relevant in 2025.

4. MBA in Healthcare Management

Average Salary: $110,000-$160,000 Healthcare

continues to grow rapidly, especially with advancing biotechnologies, telemedicine, and health technologies. An MBA in Healthcare Management prepares one for leadership in the following areas-hospitals, health start-ups, and pharmaceutical companies.

Top Job Roles:

Hospital Administrator: $120,000+

Healthcare Consultant: $115,000-$150,000

Pharma Product Manager: $130,000+

It is one of the fastest-growing MBA paths in the world and in the developing regions, especially in older populations.

5. MBA in Marketing (Digitally Orientated).

Average Salary: $100,000-$150,000+.

The boom in digital marketing is set to continue unabated. Those MBAs specializing y marketing with a really good understanding of data analytics, brand management, and social media strategies are rewarding themselves for a much longer period.

The Most Common Mistakes While Applying to Study Abroad And How To Avoid Them

Posted on by shivam
Reading Time: 3 minutes

Students who choose to study abroad may experience homesickness and the weight of responsibilities, making the decision both intimidating and life-altering. A different culture along with success awaits overseas. However, the process of applying to their dream university and country  can sometimes be overwhelming. A number of students make various mistakes that can result in a delay in their admission or, worse, can also sometimes lead to rejections. Read this blog to learn more about the common mistakes an applicant makes and how they can avoid them.

Different Mistakes That Can Be Avoided

Here is a list of mistakes that can be avoided:

Lack Of University Research And Desired Courses

While selecting  a university, students make the mistake of choosing universities based  solely on their rankings or recommendations, which can definitely be a mistake. Different  universities have different strengths, course structures, and faculty expertise. An applicant should research very thoroughly in order to ensure that the university aligns with their academic and career goals. For instance, universities in the United Kingdom will have a different structure as compared to their counterparts in the United States.

Missing Application Deadlines

Another major reason why students can miss out on their dream study abroad university is when they fail to meet the various application deadlines. All universities, whether they are IVY leagues or other universities, are considered to  have strict application timelines and patterns; missing these deadlines can result in waiting for an entire academic year. It is thus an imperative habit to track these deadlines, set reminders on various calendars, and make sure to begin the process well in advance.

Incomplete Application Can Lead To Weak Application

Do you know that a strong application is much beyond the academic transcripts? But several   students often make the mistake of providing incomplete applications to their desired universities—candidates generally submit poorly written statements of purpose (SOPs) and letters of recommendation (LORs). It is pivotal to know the whole application process and the documents required to submit the complete application. As your future at your desired university depends upon this, it is paramount to make sure that all these required documents are ready before the submission and highlight your strengths effectively.

English Language Requirements

It is very important to know if the university that the student has chosen to study abroad requires an English proficiency test like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. The candidate should ensure that they prepare well for every aspect of the test, as these tests are considered the cornerstones of the application process. Be informed about every part of these tests and get a good score. Several students assume that they can clear these exams without adequate preparation, which is a big mistake as this can only lead to low scores that can act as a barrier to limiting their options of choosing top-notch institutions significantly.

Delaying The Student Visa Process

Another major mistake that candidates make while applying abroad is procrastinating while submitting their student visa application, which can lead to  significant obstacles and barriers for their admission process. Obtaining a visa is typically a time-consuming procedure, and even minor mistakes or postponements may disrupt the candidate’s enrolment plans. It is very important to critically examine the visa criteria, assemble all the required documents, and submit the application well ahead of the designated deadline. This early planning and allocating ample time for processing can lead to a reduction in potential setbacks and also ensure a smoother transition into their academic program.

Conclusion

The decision of studying abroad can be life-changing for several students as it provides them with opportunities that they have never experienced and can also lead them to have a good and secured future with impeccable job opportunities. However, these mistakes can certainly make their process a bit tougher and avoiding them can lead to a smoother process.

Study Journalism From Top Colleges In The US And Report Stories That Change The World

Posted on by shivam
Reading Time: 2 minutes

Journalism is one such industry that can create narratives and change the social, human, and legal conditions of the world. As we move towards the new-age media, which has the ability to gain the attention of every age group worldwide, journalism and digital media studies are becoming one of the most acclaimed courses. The United States of America is emerging as the epicentre for international students who want to make a prospective career in the media industry with well-renowned colleges and top-notch facilities. Even though journalism has gained a huge amount of popularity in numerous countries of the world, the U.S. stands out due to its prestigious education system that provides unmatched practical knowledge. Read this blog to learn more about how U.S. universities are winning the race of journalism courses and shaping the world’s narrative.

Why Is Journalism Considered As The Course For Creative Minds?

The field of journalism and media is considered to be very vibrant and one of  the most creative industries. It is believed that in the field of digital media and multimedia, creativity nurtures serendipity, which obviously attracts students from different backgrounds to test their mettle, try new trends and report stories that matter with their own edge of creativity. Top organisations like CNN, BBC, New York Times, etc. are on a hunt for candidates with journalism skills, making the demand of the course reach it’s peak—creating more career prospects and opportunities in the journalism industry.

Reasons to Consider U.S.A To Study A Journalism Program

There are various reasons why students can consider studying a journalism program in the U.S., some of which are listed below:

  • Out of the 1400 colleges and universities in the USA that offer journalism and mass communication, more than 100 of these programs are readily available for international students, which means they are open to cultural diversity.
  • The number of these universities and the programs they offer are from renowned journalistic institutions, making the U.S. the top destination.
  • Not only journalism, but the USA is becoming the epicentre for a number of other courses as well.

Top Universities In USA For Journalism

The table below shows the list of top universities in the USA for journalism.

UniversityLocationJournalism Degree Programs
Arizona State UniversityPhoenix, ArizonaUndergraduate, Graduate, Doctoral
Colorado State UniversityFort Collins, ColoradoGraduate
Columbia UniversityNew York, New YorkGraduate, Doctoral
Northeastern UniversityBoston, MassachusettsGraduate
Kent State UniversityOhio, KentUndergraduate, Graduate
NYU School of Professional StudiesNew York, New YorkUndergraduate, Graduate, Doctoral
SUNY Stony Brook UniversityStony Brook, New YorkUndergraduate, Graduate
University of HoustonHouston, TexasUndergraduate, Graduate

Different Things A Student Can Study In Journalism

The field of journalism and mass communication is not only about visiting different places with a camera and a microphone; it is also about bringing the true stories onboard and reporting them in the most unique way possible. A journalism course can provide a number of opportunities, and there are a number of interests that can come under journalism, some of which are as follows:

  • Print & Media studies
  • Advertising
  • Media Laws
  • Communication Studies
  • Editing
  • English studies
  • Environment studies
  • Creative writing
  • Reporting and Writing
  • Photojournalism
  • Research & Ethics

Conclusion

With the U.S. emerging as the top country for international students, it is also gaining huge popularity among the journalism aspirants. The U.S.A. has an ample amount of potential that students can benefit from and polish their skills in the field of multimedia and build a successful career.

SAT VS ACT: What Are The Major Differences?

Posted on by shivam
Reading Time: 3 minutes

For a long time, the SAT and ACT have been the two most widely accepted standardised tests for college admissions in the United States. Although both are designed to measure a student’s preparedness for college, the two differ widely in terms of format, substance, scoring, and subject matter. Choosing one or the other is often a matter of a student’s strengths and preferences and college goals. Here’s a blog that will give you an in-depth analysis comparison to help you decide.

Structure and Format

There are major differences in the structure and formatting of the SAT and ACT.

The two sections of SAT are Reading & Writing (combined) and Math (calculator and no-calculator). The total number of questions in the test is 98, and it’s duration is approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes. In 2024, the SAT moved entirely to digital testing with adaptive modules that adjusted the difficulty of questions based on student answers. The test features shorter passages, usually 150 words or less, with a single question for each passage. The SAT, unlike the ACT, does not include a standalone science section; rather, reasoning with history and social studies, as well as natural sciences, is incorporated into reading and math questions.

On the contrary, ACT has a total of four primary sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science, plus an optional essay segment. The exam consists of 215 questions and a duration of around 2 hours and 55 minutes, or 3 hours and 35 minutes if the essay is included. In the U.S., the ACT is most commonly offered as a paper-and-pencil test but is also offered in limited contexts in an online format. The reading passages are longer, often 800 words or more, and have multiple questions per passage. The ACT has a separate 40-question science section that emphasises data analysis and experimental design.

Timing and Pacing

The timing and pace of the two tests are also different. On one hand, the SAT provides more time per question—approximately 1 minute and 22 seconds apiece—so it can be a good fit for students who work a little slower or require additional time to process complicated problems. In comparison, the ACT moves at a quicker pace, with approximately 49 seconds per question. This makes the ACT a better fit for students who can work quickly under time constraints.

Scoring Pattern

Both the SAT and ACT have distinct scoring systems. The SAT is scored between 400 and 1600 points. Each section (Reading & Writing and Math) is worth a maximum of 800 points and a minimum of 200 points. “Superscoring,” in the SAT, is considered as applying the best scores of a student from different test attempts. This is more helpful for students who perform well in some sections better than other sections on various attempts. The ACT ranges from 1 to 36 points, with the composite score being the average of the four scores: English, Math, Reading, and Science. The essay is scored separately and is not included in the composite score.

Some Other Factors To Consider

A few important things to know before preparing for either of these two exams are personal academic strengths, preferred types of testing, and requirements of their targeted colleges. Students who prefer shorter passages, more time per question, excel in mathematics, or prefer a test without a dedicated science section may lean towards the SAT. Additionally, students who want a variety of free prep materials would also find the SAT interesting. However, in contrast, students who prefer the ACT are comfortable working fast with strict time limits, tend to excel in analysing scientific data, or would like the opportunity to showcase their writing abilities in the optional essay.

SAT Exam Benefits and Importance: Why It Matters for College Admissions?

Posted on by Sakshi Shukla
Reading Time: 3 minutes

The Scholastic Assessment Test is the full form of SAT, which is a standardised  examination  for undergraduate programs, especially in the USA. Over the years, it has developed as a composite tool for academic readiness and as a gateway for various opportunities, such as scholarships emphasising a student’s academic achievement and increased chances of attending a dream school.

Understanding the SAT exam

The SAT is a standardised test conducted by the College Board and uses multiple-choice questions. This test is basically for students who intend to study undergraduate courses in countries like the United States, Canada, the UK, and so on. The areas this exam includes are as follows:

1. Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: A few passages have been given to understand the student’s critical reading and comprehension of grammar.

2. Mathematics: Another major part of the test entails mathematics, which includes algebra, problem-solving abilities, data analysis, and advanced mathematics.

What Is Its Importance?

There are many significant benefits  of SAT exams that set a student apart from others and put them in the spotlight for potential admission. Here are some of the reasons:

1. Standardized Measure of Academic Readiness

The SAT provides colleges with a way to objectively compare students from different schools and regions. It sets an equal playing field by allowing an objective measure of the various candidates on the basis of their academic potential.

2. Gateway to Prestigious Universities

The SAT is a mandatory requirement for students who choose to study in the USA. A good SAT score will increase the chances to secure admission into selective, highly regarded universities significantly.

3. Scholarships and Financial Aid

A student with a high SAT score can attain study abroad scholarships. Numerous costs, such as tuition, living expenses, transportation costs, and more, can be covered with the help of such scholarships. According to a poll, 10% of students who take the SAT test are eligible for around $20,000 annually. Among the well-known scholarships are the Pacific Gas and Electric Company Asian ERG Scholarship (SAT Score 1500, Benefit $2,000) and the Deana’s Wish Memorial Scholarship (SAT Score 1100, Benefit $2,000).

4. Compensation for Low GPAs

Another benefit of the SAT exam is the reduced GPA gap. Students with lower GPAs can use strong SAT scores to demonstrate their academic capabilities.This assists some universities to even allow applicants to offset GPA deficiencies with impressive SAT results. For example, for admission to Harvard University, students with a low GPA (below 4.8 in high school) are considered. That is if they have high SAT scores.

5. Career Opportunities

A good SAT score not only facilitates admission to top universities but also sets the foundation for better career prospects. It demonstrates critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are highly valued in professional settings

FAQs

 Why is the SAT important for college admissions?

The SAT is a standardised test that provides colleges with a reliable measure of a student’s academic abilities. It helps universities compare applicants from diverse educational backgrounds on an equal footing. A strong SAT score can boost your chances of admission to prestigious institutions, qualify you for scholarships, and even compensate for a lower GPA, making it a vital component of the college application process.

 Can a high SAT score help secure scholarships?

Yes, a high SAT score can unlock numerous scholarship opportunities. Many universities and organisations use SAT scores as a criteria for awarding merit-based scholarships. For example, scholarships like the Pacific Gas and Electric Company Asian ERG Scholarship and Deana’s Wish Memorial Scholarship offer financial aid to students with strong SAT scores, helping cover tuition and other expenses.

 How does the SAT benefit students with low GPAs?

The SAT can act as a compensatory tool for students with lower GPAs. A high SAT score demonstrates academic potential and readiness for college-level work, which some universities consider when evaluating applications. For instance, institutions like Harvard University may admit students with lower GPAs if they have exceptional SAT scores, bridging the gap in their academic profile14.

List Of Top Law Schools In UK

Posted on by Sakshi Shukla
Reading Time: 3 minutes

Whether it was Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, or other renowned political figures, they demonstrate the impact a law degree can have on society. A law degree is considered the study of the law (legal rules) of a country and can serve as the gateway for a number of career paths. A law degree holder has the option of becoming a journalist, a lawyer, a politician, or can even explore some creative industries. Due to the history of the UK’s legal system and its influence on jurisdictions worldwide, the UK serves as the home to some of the most prestigious law schools in the world. In this blog, we provide you with the list of universities that you can apply to in the UK, which can help you gain recognition and the required skills.

Reasons To Study Law In The UK

Here are some reasons why it is a good idea to study law in the UK:

  • UK law is considered to be the foundation for several legal systems globally, which includes countries like the U.S., India, and Malaysia.
  • A law degree in the UK opens doors to some of the most prestigious and largest law firms in the world, as it is the home to law firms such as Clifford Chance and Linklaters.
  • The world-renowned law schools in the UK mainly focus on the practical learning of the subject, as it emphasises hands-on learning, mock trials, courtroom practices, pro bono work, and internships.

Top Law Schools In The UK

There are a number of law schools in the UK, but here is the list of the top schools in the UK:

University Of Oxford

The University of Oxford is one of the most prestigious top universities in the world, and the faculty of law in Oxford is considered one of the best in the world.  Here, students can benefit from a strong academic environment and learn from top-tier faculty. The department of law at Oxford has several law courses, which include a BA in Jurisprudence and postgraduate degrees like the BCL and MJur—with an emphasis on research, critical thinking, and the real-world applications of the law.

University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge is one of the public collegiate research universities situated in Cambridge, England, which was established in 1209. The Department of Law under the University of Cambridge is a combination of tradition and innovation. On one hand, the undergraduate law course is highly detailed, providing students with the opportunity to learn from constitutional law to international law; on the other hand, postgraduate students have the chance to master specialized areas, where they can participate in moot competitions and pro-bono work.

London School Of Economics

The undergraduate in law at the London School of Economics is ranked in the top five in law schools worldwide. The faculty of law at LSE has a primary interdisciplinary focus on the amalgamation of law, economics and social sciences. International students have the opportunity to learn international law, criminal law, tort law, human rights and corporate law from top-ranked lawyers and professors.

Solent University

Solent University is a private university that is located in Southampton. The LLB (Hons) Law program has a focus on professional practice with the help of the foundational legal subjects. A law program at Solent University helps students to have careers as solicitors and also prepares them for a traditional courtroom with the help of their dedicated practice courtrooms and moot competitions. The University has a collaboration with the College of Legal Practice, which helps the students prepare for the Solicitors Qualification Examination (SQE1).

University Of Manchester

The University of Manchester provides flexible legal degrees, such as criminology, international law, and commercial law, that are suited to students’ interests. Through its Legal Advice Centre and other legal clinics, the institution encourages experiential learning.

Conclusion

The UK remains the top priority for students who want to pursue a career in the legal industry. Its law schools provide a combination of innovation and tradition that helps students build the foundation for their legal career.ts for both exams so you can determine which one suits you better.

Let’s Explore Semester At Sea

Posted on by Sakshi Shukla
Reading Time: 3 minutes

College students who apply overseas typically do so to institutions that offer exposure to various cultures, histories, and languages within a single nation. However, for students who are avid travellers and are always on the lookout to spend their semesters while they travel around the world, Shipboard Education, a non-profit institute, has come up with another option known as ‘Semester at Sea’. Read this blog to learn more about the program, how to apply, the financial aid options, and some advice for students who are considering Semester at Sea.

Overview Of Semester At Sea

Introduced by the nonprofit institute for Shipboard Education, Semester At Sea is a multi-country study abroad program that allows students from all around the world to travel, live and take classes on a ship. These trips and voyages usually last for around 100 days and the students can visit at least 10 countries For instance, participants get the opportunity to visit countries like Germany, Portugal, Morocco, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Mauritius, Malyasia and India.

According to experts, students gain the opportunity to see places that they normally do not get the chance to visit. Moreover, students also gain access to have conversations with renowned counsellors and experts that can guide them in their career path. With amenities like gyms and pools, students can even participate in different clubs and attend lectures.

How To Apply for A Semester at Sea?

There are numerous points students should consider while applying for Semester at Sea; some of them are listed below:

  • Applicants who wish to apply for this program should be enrolled in a full-time degree-granting institution and have a minimum of around 2.5 GPA.
  • The student should have an excellent academic background and should have completed a minimum of 12 college credit hours.
  • Students whose first language is not English must have a minimum grade in an English proficiency exam. TOEFL, Duolingo IELTS Academic or PTE Academic are some that are widely accepted.
  • The decisions of the accepted students are released on a rolling basis.
  • It is always a good idea for the student to start applying to the program a year before their chosen journey.
  • After the students get enrolled in the program, it is mandatory for them to deposit $1000 so that their spot can be reserved on the ship.
  • This program is not limited to students in the U.S. but applicants from different backgrounds are welcome to join.

Cost And Financial Aid Options

Here are some ways students who are applying to Semester At Sea can get financial aid options so they get ease on the financial burden:

  • For fall 2025, Semester at Sea is charging between $37,850 and $33,750 depending upon the type of cabin.
  • This price includes the cost of tuition, housing, meals, academic field, internet package, travel health insurance and student services.
  • The candidates are also required to pay some other fees, which include flights, travel visas, textbooks and personal travel.
  • There are some financial aid options that are also available for students; the program allows awards of more than $5 million in funds through merit- and need-based scholarships and grants.

Things Students Should Consider While Applying For Semester At Sea

There are some things students should consider while they are applying for Semester At Sea:

  • This program might not be the best fit for every student, especially for students who are exclusively looking for language immersion or an internship experience.
  • All the courses in the program are taught in English, and learning a new language usually requires daily immersion in the culture and the daily use of the target language.
  • For students with the goal of learning a new language, it’s always recommended that they opt for a program that helps them stay in a single country for a longer period of time.

IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Test Is Better?

Posted on by Sakshi Shukla
Reading Time: 3 minutes

If you wish to study abroad, apply for a visa, or work in an English-speaking nation, you may need to present proof that you can communicate in English. Two English proficiency tests are hugely in demand and respected worldwide: IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). They are generally accepted, but which is better? The answer is quite dependent on individual personalities, preferences, and requirements specific to the institution or country in consideration.

IELTS vs. TOEFL: An Overview

Let’s understand the tests quickly before going to compare:

IELTS: Developed by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English, Work accepted in the UK, Australia, Canada, and many other countries thus has two versions: IELTS Academic, for students applying to universities and IELTS General Training, for work, migration, or non-academic purposes.

TOEFL: Conducted by Educational Testing Service (ETS) in the US with preference for admission by many American and Canadian institutions. Primarily an Internet-based test (TOEFL iBT), but there is also a paper-based test offered in some locations.

Now, let us compare them with respect to various aspects:

1. Test Format

IELTS Format:

  • Listening: 30 minutes (40 questions)
  • Reading: 60 minutes (40 questions)
  • Writing: 60 minutes (2 tasks)
  • Speaking: 11-14 minutes (face-to-face with an examiner)

TOEFL Format:

  • Reading: 35-56 minutes (30-40 questions)
  • Listening: 36-51 minutes (28-39 questions)
  • Speaking: 17 minutes (4 tasks, responses are recorded)
  • Writing: 50 minutes (2 tasks)

Key Difference:

IELTS employs human examiners for the speaking test, whereas TOEFL responses are recorded for computerised evaluation. Thus, the IELTS tests a wider range of accents, and the TOEFL emphasises North American accents.

2. Speaking Test: Face-to-Face vs. Recorded Responses

Another obvious difference can be found in the speaking section.

IELTS: You have an interactive speech with an examiner. This may feel quite natural and comfortable—preferably for you—human interaction.

TOEFL: You’ll speak into a microphone, and your responses will be recorded and graded by artificial intelligence or human graders. Some test-takers find this quite tough because it seems to be so unnatural and stressful.

What is better? If you feel very confident to converse in English with a good deal of casualness, then you might opt for IELTS. Or, maybe your preference is to have structured answers that can be typed into a computer; hence, TOEFL works for you.

3. Writing Section: Handwritten vs. Typing

In IELTS, you write your essays by hand.

In TOEFL, you simply type your answers on a computer.

TOEFL may be in your favour if you are a fast typist; otherwise, if you prefer writing with a pen, then IELTS will suit you best.

 4. Scoring System

IELTS: Scores from 0 to 9 per section are given, and an overall band score averaging each section is computed.

TOEFL: Scores from 0 to 120 are awarded.

Is there a test that is said to be easier to score high? No simple answer. Some test-takers think IELTS grading is easier on writing and speaking, whereas others find TOEFL easier because of its structured format.

5. Acceptance and Recognition

IELTS: More widely used in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and others; recognized in several universities in the U.S.

TOEFL: Accepted in the U.S. and Canada but is also worldwide.

Check with your institution or visa requirements before making a decision.

 6. Availability and Cost

IELTS: It is held in more than 140 countries. Fees change from region to region, but usually, tests can be expected to range fees from $215–$250.

TOEFL: Available in 165 countries, with fees between $180 and $250.

Both tests are widely available, but the channels may differ depending upon your exact physical location.

Which Test is Good For You?

IELTS is the right choice for you if:

You are better at handwriting than typing

A personal interaction will make you feel more comfortable speaking than speaking into a microphone

You would like a bit of variety in accents—British, Australian, and so on

You wish to attend universities in the UK, Australia, or Canada

TOEFL might be the better choice if:

You prefer typing over handwriting

You are fine talking to a computer instead of a real person

You would be more comfortable with North American English

You wish to attend U.S. or Canadian universities

Conclusion: Which is Better?

In reality, there is no test that is better than the other. The one that suits you best depends on your proficiency, preferred mode of examination, and intended institution or country. Therefore, if you relish an interactive speaking test for the IELTS and writing on paper for the essay part, then IELTS is certainly for you. However, if you feel confident in taking computer-based exams where responses have to be structured in certain formats and typed out, then the TOEFL is for you.

Before making a choice, find out what your chosen university, employer, or immigration authority requires. It may also be a good idea to take practice tests for both exams so you can determine which one suits you better.

Major Differences: IB vs. Indian Curriculum

Posted on by shivam
Reading Time: 3 minutes

Education is an important aspect of a child’s future, and choosing the correct curriculum turns out to be one of the most critical decisions parents and students have to face. While in India, this crucial decision oscillates between two educational paradigms: the International Baccalaureate (IB) and the Indian national curriculum-laying CBSE, ICSE, and state boards. While both systems have their advantages, they do cater to different ideologies, aspirations, and goals.

Inquiry vs. Memorization-or a Blend

The International Baccalaureate curriculum is based mostly upon inquiry-based learning. It encourages students to form questions, explore concepts, and think critically. For example, when studying history in IB, a student may need to analyse primary sources to question historical narratives, as opposed to simply memorising facts and figures. This concept lays the basis for curiosity and creativity and guides the students toward problem-solving within a world that thrives on these properties.

The Indian curricula, such as CBSE or ICSE, on the contrary, tend to employ standardisation to instill the basics. The foundation is usually laid through textbook-based learning with much emphasis on memorisation. While this ensures uniformity across schools and regions, sometimes it does stand in the way of creative exploration, placing greater pressure on exam performance over practical learning.

A Holistic vs. A More Academic Approach

Evidence of IB’s holistic approach can be seen in core components of its TY, EE, and CAS. These processes bring real-world application into the academic curriculum in regards to research skills, independent learning, and community service initiatives. Thus, making a student socially conscious and academically strong.

Assessment Methods: Process vs Outcome

IB’s Continuous Assessment

IB comprises of internal assessments (like essays and projects) and external exams. These assessments evaluate not just what students know but how they apply their knowledge in practical contexts. For instance:

  • A biology student might conduct an experiment and write a detailed lab report.
  • A history student could analyse historical events through an extended essay.

This evaluation reduces the pressure of exams and also promotes critical thinking.

Indian Curriculum’s Exam-Centric Approach

However, Indian boards rely on final exams to assess student performance. While this system ensures objectivity and standardisation, it can lead to immense stress as students’ futures hinge on a few hours of testing. The focus on theoretical knowledge over practical application may also leave gaps in skills like research or problem-solving.

Global Exposure vs Local Relevance

IB: An Access To Global Education

IB focuses and has an emphasis on global citizenship, making it an excellent choice for students who are aiming for universities abroad. The curriculum’s rigour prepares them for academic challenges at top institutions worldwide. Moreover, IB also helps students to adapt to different environments—an important skill that is required in today’s world.

Indian Curriculum

Indian boards provide education that can adapt to the country’s socio-economic landscape. It helps students for national entrance exams and careers within India by focusing on foundational knowledge that is relevant to local contexts.

Accessibility and Affordability

IB

As compared to CBSE and other Indian Curriculum schools, IB schools are lesser in India—around 200 compared to thousands of CBSE or ICSE schools—and are mostly based in the urban part of the countries. Their high tuition fees (often exceeding ₹4-5 lakhs annually) make IB accessible only to a handful of families.

Indian Curriculum

CBSE and ICSE schools are much  more affordable and widespread across India. This accessibility ensures that quality education reaches a broader demographic, making it more inclusive.

Student Experience

IB

The IB curriculum is undeniably more challenging as it demands time management, independent learning, and intellectual curiosity.Here, students have to take care of  multiple assignments along with extracurricular commitments like CAS projects. However, this helps them build practical skills that are required for their future.

Indian Curriculum

Indian boards are more straightforward, have a clear syllabus, and have predictable exam patterns—this reduces stress for some students, while others can find it less stimulating as compared to IB.

Choosing between IB and Indian curriculum is not about deciding which is superior—it’s about finding the right fit for each student’s unique needs and goals. The IB curriculum offers a transformative journey that nurtures global citizens equipped for university life abroad. Meanwhile, Indian curricula provide academic foundations tailored to local contexts at an accessible cost.

How Tough Is It To Get Into Harvard? SAT, Acceptance Rate and More.

Posted on by shivam
Reading Time: 3 minutes

While researching premium institutions around the world, students frequently come across Harvard University. Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States, Harvard is a private Ivy League Research University and is also considered one of the oldest institutions of higher learning. Read this blog to learn more about how students can navigate their path to secure admission into Harvard and what the application requirements are.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rates at Harvard are gloomingly low—indicating it’s exclusivity and the high calibre of it’s applicants. Through the last many cycles of applications, Harvard’s overall acceptance rates have hovered around 3-4%, with slight variations depending on the year

Overall Acceptance Rate: The Class of 2028 saw Harvard receive applications from 54,008 students and accept only 1,937, which resulted in an overall acceptance rate of 3.6%.

Early Action versus Regular Decision: Early Action applicants generally have better chances as compared to Regular Decision applicants. In fact, for the Class of 2028, the acceptance rate for Early Action was 8.7% as compared to a  2.7% for Regular Decision. Applying early under Harvard’s restrictive Early Action system can significantly improve an applicant’s chances of admission.

SAT Scores: The Academic Bar

Standardised test scores are a critical component of Harvard’s admissions process. While Harvard has adopted a test-optional policy in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, submitting strong SAT or ACT scores can significantly enhance an applicant’s chances.

Average SAT Scores: Successful applicants typically score between 1460 and 1570 on the SAT. The average score for enrolled students is around 1550, with a breakdown of approximately 760 in Reading and 790 in Math.

ACT Scores: The average ACT score for admitted students is an impressive 35.

Why Test Scores Matter: Despite being test-optional, over 80% of admitted students still submit standardised test scores. High scores demonstrate academic rigour and help applicants stand out in a competitive pool.

What Are the Other Requirements for Harvard?

Harvard follows a holistic admissions process and thus evaluates applicants on more than just their grades and test scores. Here are some other major points and key factors that Harvard considers:

 GPA and Academic Excellence: The average GPA of admitted students is an unweighted 4.22 on a 4.0 scale.More than 92 percent of accepted students rank in the top 10 percent of their high school class.

Extracurricular Activities: Leadership, initiative, and, most importantly, outside activities are among the qualities that Harvard values.Successful applicants often have outstanding accomplishments in athletics, the arts, research, or community service.

Personal essays: Personal essays provide admissions officers with an understanding of the applicant’s character, values, and dreams. Compelling narratives that showcase how the student connects with the mission and vision of Harvard are considered to be paramount and particularly impactful.

Letters of Recommendation: Strong recommendations should come from teachers or mentors who can speak about the applicant’s intellectual curiosity and personal qualities.

Interviews: While this part of the application is not required for all the applicants, however,  interviews can help get a deeper insight into a candidate’s personality and how they can be a potential fit at Harvard.

Factors That Make It Tough To Get Into Harvard

There are several factors that affect and contribute to Harvard’s selective admissions, some of which are as follows:

  • The sheer volume of highly qualified and educated applicants makes it very challenging to get into Harvard, and it consistently rates in the top 5 universities of the world. Students are aware that they will get an outstanding education at this prestigious institution. A Harvard degree might also make an impression on potential employers
  •  Most candidates have perfect GPAs, nearly perfect test scores, and strong extracurriculars. Even valedictorians face rejection due to intense competition.
  •  Harvard seeks well-rounded individuals who can contribute uniquely to campus life. While stellar academics are essential for consideration, applicants must also stand out in other areas to secure admission.

Gaining admission to Harvard is undoubtedly challenging, but it is also achievable. With an acceptance rate consistently below 4%, every aspect of an application must be truly exceptional to stand out. Whether through outstanding academics, an impeccable personal essay, or impressive extracurriculars, successful applicants bring not only talent but also resilience and authenticity.

Earning the elusive opportunity to attend Harvard is nothing short of extraordinary—a testament to hard work and ambition at one of the world’s most prestigious institutions.

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