Key questions to ask a university during this pandemic – Covid19

Posted date: 09 Jun 2020

There is expected to be some confusion and trepidation around following your academic ambitions in the current world. This can be all from whether the course you want to study will be available, or whether you can study at your choice university. When making crucial decisions, it 's important to have all the relevant information available and that means asking the right questions. We have looked at key student concerns and got some tips on what questions you should ask a university so you're in the knowledge.

Is the university accepting applications for the year 2020 intake?

This is the first and most important question you need to get a reply for. Actually universities across the globe take their lead from governments and health authorities. This may mean that new emergency laws have been put in place which affect people's movement and institution opening.  

2.  Has the criteria for university entrances modified due to corona virus?

Knowing which criteria are central to your academic ambitions to be accepted into a certain program or course. A significant number of universities have reassessed or adjusted the entry requirements for some programs in the context of the current pandemic. It is especially the case for results of the English language examination, entrance exams and evidence of prior results. All of the above have historically taken place in person testing or assessment, and have been a requirement for acceptance. Know that you're not alone, and a lot of students have similar experiences. It is not feasible for students to complete IELTS exams at testing centers or attend pre-sessional English courses, given the restrictions currently in place. This has meant a move online, with IELTS offering the new IELTS Indicator and universities allowing students to access resources through online learning platforms for pre-sessional English courses.

3. Will university campuses be open for the academic year 2020 to commence?

Universities need to take every precaution to ensure both the students and staff's health and safety. These are told by both internal procedures and approved guidance from the government. Some countries, and association universities, have targeted tentative reopening dates and lightening some restrictions, but this is not guaranteed by any means. Helpfully, several universities have set up dedicated programs to help students address these issues.  

4. Will the institution offer the online courses?

That is a very important question to ask. Even if the online program is only temporary until face-to - face training in the classroom can resume, it is important to know if the course you wish to follow will be available for the start of the 2020 year. Recall that not all classes will be delivered online and that some elements of a program can not be replicated in the online world. Try to get a sense of what the course will look like online and what you will need to get involved, such as the technical requirements and what system the university can use.

6. Will the university continue to provide financial aid and scholarships?

Still, many institutions offer scholarships and financial assistance. In some cases, the terms and conditions and requirements for applications may have slightly altered to accommodate certain changes, such as online learning or qualification criteria.  You may find, unfortunately, that some funding schemes or scholarships have been delayed or suspended until they can be awarded or the financial situation stabilizes. It is particularly true of financial assistance provided by university-affiliated businesses, associations, private donors and governments. Your best plan is to do as much research as you can and see what's available and get in contact with an agency and find out more about unique awards.

 7. How are deadlines for exams and appraisals?

The scheduling of examinations and evaluations at universities, including entrance exams and tests, has changed quite considerably. Universities have made significant adjustments, including cancelations and a shift to an online setting, to their schedules. Some institutions have cancelled the end of semester / term examinations and have already completed work and assessments to inform evaluation of the students.

10. What about the immigration assistance and sponsorship?

It can be difficult to apply for and obtain a visa with most of the world working under travel advisory's and restrictions. Some universities are still actively supporting applications for visas and providing the necessary supporting documentation, where and if possible. If this is done in their case you will need to check with a university. By monitoring government websites, communicating with your embassy and checking with service providers, you can also keep updated with the latest developments.

Posted By

GSP Admin