University Updates and Student FAQ About the Coronavirus Pandemic

We strongly encourage students to hold on to their study abroad plans for the time being. At the moment, everybody is affected, and educators worldwide are looking for ideas on how to organize the next student intake period. This could be in the form of delaying programme start dates, offering (more) online education or even reducing tuition fees. The best option at this time is to get directly in touch with the university. Please keep in mind that universities are very busy at the moment, so it might take a little longer for them to reply to your questions.

English language tests are impacted by the pandemic. Here is the latest information about how test providers are adapting:

• TOEFL can be done at home
• IELTS suspended in most test centres
• PTE Academic suspended in most test centres. Alternative test for PTE Academic
• GRE can be done at home
• GMAT offered online since April

Find more information about TOEFL and GRE test centres here:

https://www.ets.org/s/cv/important-update/

We recommend you periodically check for updates about your favourite study programme on our Studyportals websites and the official website of the university you intend to go to.

Most of the universities already delayed their start dates. You should check with the website of the university you applied to.

This is very hard to foresee and depends per country, region and university. Studyportals keeps on updating the information on our programme pages constantly. If you are already enrolled, you should get directly in touch with your university. Please keep in mind that universities are very busy at the moment, so it might take a little longer for them to reply.

You should check with your university since this is a case by case situation. But most probably yes, the format will switch to online, at least for now.

Online degrees and on-campus degrees are equally accepted by employers. Most companies understand that times and learning methods have changed. In order to make sure an online programme is not a scam, check the accreditation of the university providing it, as this will typically also be the way that employers check the value of your degree. Read more information about:

• How online learning develops your skills
• How to find good online degrees
• Myths about online studies
• Tips about how to avoid education scams

Check out these articles for lists of the best universities offering online studies:

• Top online universities that are as good as on-campus schools
• 10 top UK universities ideal for distance learning
• Best online MBA degrees – University rankings 2020
• 10 top European business schools offering online MBAs
• 10 great European distance-learning universities
• 10 U.S. universities offering top distance education

The situation of the Buccalaureate exam may vary depending on the country. In order to receive accurate information, please visit the website of the Ministry of Education from your country. If you want to take the International Baccalauteate exam, you may find this link useful:

https://www.ibo.org/news/news-about-the-ib/covid-19-coronavirus-updates/

There are many scholarships available and you should check your eligibility. For some of them a gap year doesn't matter that much.

Easy access and frequent contact with faculty members make a big difference. Being physically and mentally present makes a difference. Clear assignments and deadlines are essential. Read more about this topic here:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-media-psychology-effect/201903/12-best-practices-in-online-teaching-and-learning