AusEd-UniEd Consultant Services

SHE wanted to go to law school here but was overwhelmed by the competition for places in local universities.

He wanted to do a Bachelor of Applied Science (Civil Aviation) course but it wasn't offered in Singapore.

So Nurul Nordin (main head picture), 21, and Ahmad Basheer, 24, went abroad.

Mr Kelvin Mok, 32, a marketing manager and education counsellor at AusEd-UniEd Consultant Services, said that the number of people going overseas to study has gone up in the recent years.

"Last year, we placed about 200 students in universities abroad."

He said a degree's prestige and recognition are the top priority for such students.

Nurul agreed: "Recognition of a degree is most important factor." She is pursuing a law degree at Sheffield University in the UK.

Mr Mok said the UK is the first choice for most Singaporeans wanting to study overseas.

But, he said, most ultimately settle for Australia. "UK is further away from home."

"Course fees in Australia are cheaper than UK," said Mr Basheer.

Mr Mok said his organisation not only helps students pick a university, it also helps them with the application procedure, student visa, lodging and flight bookings.

The company holds a pre-departure seminar to inform students about the rules and regulations of the country they are heading to.

Grateful

The students are grateful for the pointers.

Ahmad said: "Aus-Ed Singapore narrowed down the university choices for me.

"All the paperwork was handled by them. I just had to provide them with the necessary documents and they took care of the rest."

Nurul said: "I also called them to enquire on certain aspects of the country and about the university itself and they were more than willing (to help)."

Both students are staying in on-campus accommodation and are enjoying their time overseas.

"Australia is more flexible than Singapore and I find that I have time outside classes to enjoy myself and do some self-study," said Ahmad.

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