Question 1

What countries can I study in through Empire Overseas Education?

Accepted Answer

We support applications to universities in the UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, New Zealand, Ireland, and the USA. Our counsellors are destination specialists, so you will work with someone who deeply understands your chosen country.

Question 2

Is the initial consultation free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, your first consultation is completely free with no obligations. During this session, we assess your profile, discuss your goals, and recommend suitable universities and programs. You can then decide if you want to proceed with our full counselling services.

Question 3

How long does the entire process take from consultation to enrollment?

Accepted Answer

Typically 3-6 months depending on the destination country and intake timing. We recommend starting at least 8-12 months before your intended start date to ensure the best university options and scholarship opportunities.

Question 4

How many universities should I apply to?

Accepted Answer

We typically recommend applying to 3-5 universities: 1-2 aspirational choices, 2 target universities that match your profile well, and 1 safe option. This gives you the best balance of ambition and security. We help you build this shortlist based on your academic profile, budget, and career goals.

Question 5

What documents do I need for my application?

Accepted Answer

Common documents include: academic transcripts, degree certificates, English language test scores (IELTS/PTE/Duolingo), passport copy, Statement of Purpose (SOP), CV/resume, recommendation letters (usually 2), and a portfolio (for design/creative programs). Requirements vary by university and country - we provide a personalized checklist.

Question 6

Can you help with my Statement of Purpose (SOP)?

Accepted Answer

Yes, SOP support is a core part of our service. Our counsellors review and provide feedback on your SOP, ensuring it is tailored to each university. We do not write it for you, but we guide you on structure, content, and what admissions committees look for.

Question 7

What IELTS score do I need?

Accepted Answer

Requirements vary by university and program: UK universities typically require 6.0-7.0, Australian universities 6.0-6.5, Canadian universities 6.0-6.5, and German programs taught in English require 6.0-7.0. Some universities accept PTE, TOEFL, or Duolingo as alternatives.

Question 8

Do you help with visa applications?

Accepted Answer

Yes, visa guidance is included in our comprehensive counselling package. We help with document preparation, financial evidence, SOP for visa (where required), and interview preparation. We make sure every application is thorough and well-documented.

Question 9

What happens if my visa is rejected?

Accepted Answer

Visa rejections are rare with our guidance (under 2%), but if it happens, we analyze the rejection reason, help you address the issues, and reapply. We do not charge additional fees for reapplication support. In some cases, we may recommend an alternative country if the rejection reason is difficult to overcome.

Question 10

Can I work while studying?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most study destinations allow part-time work: Australia (48 hrs/fortnight), UK (20 hrs/week term-time), Canada (20 hrs/week off-campus), New Zealand (20 hrs/week), Germany (120 full days/year), Ireland (20 hrs/week term-time). Work rights are tied to your visa type.

Question 11

Can you help me find scholarships?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We maintain a database of scholarships across the universities in our catalogue and government programs. During your consultation, we identify scholarships you may be eligible for and help you prepare strong applications. Check our Scholarship Finder page for a searchable list.

Question 12

What types of scholarships are available?

Accepted Answer

Scholarships fall into several categories: merit-based (academic excellence), need-based (financial need), government-funded (Chevening, DAAD, Australia Awards), university-specific, country-specific (for students from certain countries), and subject-specific (STEM, healthcare, etc.).

Question 13

When should I start applying for scholarships?

Accepted Answer

Start researching scholarships 12-18 months before your intended start date. Most major government scholarships (Chevening, DAAD) have deadlines 10-12 months before the program starts. University scholarships are often awarded at the time of admission, so apply to the university early.

Question 14

How much does your counselling service cost?

Accepted Answer

Our service fees vary depending on the package and destination. We offer transparent pricing with no hidden costs. The initial consultation is free, and we discuss fees clearly before you commit to anything. In many cases, our fees are offset by the scholarships and cost savings we help you achieve.

Question 15

What is the total cost of studying abroad?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary significantly by country: UK (GBP 15,000-35,000/year tuition + GBP 12,000-15,000 living), Australia (AUD 20,000-45,000 + AUD 21,000 living), Canada (CAD 15,000-35,000 + CAD 15,000 living), Germany (minimal tuition at public universities + EUR 11,000 living). We help you build a detailed budget.

Question 16

Are there payment plans available?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer flexible payment plans for our counselling fees. Many universities also offer installment payment options for tuition. We help you understand all payment options including education loans, which we can connect you with through our financial partners.

Question 17

What is included in your counselling package?

Accepted Answer

Our comprehensive package includes: profile evaluation, university shortlisting, SOP and essay review, application submission support, visa guidance, pre-departure orientation, accommodation guidance, and post-arrival support. Some packages also include IELTS preparation support.

Question 18

Do you guarantee admission?

Accepted Answer

We cannot guarantee admission as decisions are made by universities. However, our counsellors have deep knowledge of admission criteria and we only recommend universities where your profile is competitive. Our overall offer rate is 94% across all applications we submit.

Question 19

Can you help if I have low grades?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many excellent universities have flexible entry requirements, foundation year programs, or pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. We assess your full profile including work experience, extracurriculars, and potential, not just grades.

Question 20

Do you provide support after I arrive in the country?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our support does not end when you board the plane. We provide pre-departure orientation, airport pickup coordination (in select cities), accommodation guidance, local SIM card and bank account advice, and remain available for questions during your first semester.

Question 21

Can you help with accommodation?

Accepted Answer

We provide guidance on accommodation options including university halls, private student accommodation, and shared housing. For some destinations, we have partnerships with accommodation providers. We also share tips from past students about the best areas to live.

Question 22

What about post-study work options?

Accepted Answer

Each country has different post-study work visa options: UK (Graduate Route - 2 years), Australia (post-study work visa - 2-4 years), Canada (PGWP - 1-3 years), New Zealand (post-study work visa - 1-3 years), Germany (18 months to find relevant work). We discuss these during your consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions