When I started looking at going to university in my home country of Cameroon, my first choice was computer science, but because I did not have any honours at the baccalaureate level, my application was refused in this field. I was directed to my second choice: physics.  

This did not discourage me. On the contrary, I was determined to prove that the lack of honours at the baccalaureate level did not define my true academic level. 

The process of choosing a university, moving there and then settling into an entirely new community is daunting for every student. For LGBTQIA+ students and anyone questioning their gender identity and sexuality, this can be especially true. 

What is GPA? 

GPA is a system used in high schools and universities, mainly in the US, to measure a student’s performance and academic achievement. GPA is calculated by converting grades or percentages you receive for an assignment (A, B, C etc) to a corresponding point on the GPA scale (more information on this below). 

There are some ways to calculate your GPA – if you have been studying at a school in the UK for example – for your university application to the US, by using a GPA calculator. 

Choosing to study at a higher education institution is a life-changing decision. If you are the first in your family, it can feel overwhelming regardless of how much or how little support and advice is available. It is highly likely that you’re having to seek support and advice from new connections outside your family network, while also having to inform your family of the seriousness of your next steps. 

University of Oxford in October 2024. 

My name is Bailey Thompson and I studied electrical engineering at Western University in Ontario, Canada. I also completed a certificate in engineering leadership and innovation to explore my interest in business and leadership.  

Throughout my academic career, I was an active member of many clubs, notably Western’s Women in Engineering student club and a variety of intramural sports.  

The PTE Academic English Language test  and TOEFL iBT tests will now be accepted by all Student Direct Stream (SDS) applications to study in Canada. 

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will accept the English language tests in SDS applications from 10 August 2023. 

To prepare for my study abroad journey, I watched YouTube videos about student life in the Netherlands. These videos shared some practical tips and tricks that proved useful later, but I did not see any videos about what really matters the most: settling in a new country. In this article, I will share some tips that will hopefully help you to adapt to your new life in the Netherlands.

Growing up in Malaysia in a household of six people made overseas vacations for our family rare. My ayah (father) and grandparents would continuously remind us that education opens more doors for us to explore the world. They were correct.