₦airaland Forum

Which Countries Require WES Evaluation for Immigration?

1. United States

WES evaluation is required for immigration purposes in the United States.

2. Canada

WES evaluation is required for immigration purposes in Canada.

3. Australia

WES evaluation is required for immigration purposes in Australia.

4. United Kingdom

WES evaluation is not required for immigration purposes in the United Kingdom, but some employers and educational institutions may require it.

Why Is WES Evaluation Required for Immigration?
There are three main reasons why WES evaluation is required for immigration:

1. Immigration regulations
WES evaluation is required for immigration purposes because immigration authorities need to verify the authenticity and equivalency of foreign academic credentials before granting visas or work permits.

2. Educational system differences
Educational systems vary across countries, and WES evaluation helps to ensure that foreign academic credentials are comparable to those in the host country.

3. Proof of education and qualification
WES evaluation provides proof of education and qualification, which is required by immigration authorities to determine an applicant's eligibility for immigration.

WES stands for World Education Services, a non-profit organization that provides credential evaluation services for international students and immigrants. Established in 1974, it has evaluated millions of foreign academic credentials.

This thread provides a comprehensive guide on WES evaluation, whether you need it for immigration, how to choose the right evaluation type, requirements, fees, and tips for a successful evaluation.

VenExchangee:
OP, I've been looking for a way to send money to from Nigeria to Thailand, apart from crypto.
The last time I called my account officer if I can send via western union, she said I can receive but can't send, pls any recommendations?

Hi,
You can use the "Others" payment option on the Pay4Me App to send money from Nigeria to Thailand

Pay4Me

Pay4Me App provides seamless financial transactions for international students and immigrants. In addition, the financial app allows users to make instant payments to schools, businesses, and loved ones without the lengthy and costly process of traditional banking and payment providers.

Pros

· Peer-to-peer financial support

· Easy to register an account

· Low, transparent service fees

· All services are available online

· 24/7 support

Cons

· Peer-to-peer transfer only in Nigeria (plans to expand to other countries)

· No fixed exchange rate

Features
1. Free instant peer-to-peer transfers

2. Loan feature

3. Fund wallet availability

4. Payment History

5. Real-Time Updates on Transaction Status

6. Referral Bonus

7. Cash backs and withdrawals

8. Active community, offers, and perks

Fees and exchange rates: Pay4Me App has no hidden transfer fee and offers the most competitive exchange rate

Safety: Fully authorized and safe to use

Speed: Transactions happen within 10 minutes, while transfers can take 24 hours to three days, depending on service.

Pay4Me partners with licensed and accredited money transmitters, banking partners, student loan companies, immigration firms, colleges, and universities. Users pay in their local currencies when they can pay on the platform.

How to send money with Pay4Me?

· Download the Pay4Me App from the Google Play store or Apple store

· Sign up and login into your account

· Navigate to “Payments” and select your payment option

· Fill in your payment details and additional information.

· Proceed to the payment page and pay in your local currency using a bank transfer or Card.

· You'll get a confirmation mail from Pay4Me App.

Wise

Wise has become an excellent choice for people who want to transact in less popular currencies with no hidden charges. The app offers users multi-currency accounts in over 80 countries at a transparent transfer fee.

Pros

· Mid-market exchange rates and transparent service fees

· 40% of transfers are instant, 80% are delivered within 24 hours

· Registered with FinCEN

· All services are available online or in the Wise app

· Personal, business, and enterprise level services are available

Cons

· No branch network

· Variable fees and limits apply

· Accounts are not interest bearing

· Services, fees, and delivery times vary based on the destination

· Transfers to bank accounts only

· A one-time fee to open a business account or get a debit card

Features

1. Multi-currency account

2. Wise Card

3. Wise Assets

4. Business Account

Fees and exchange rates: low, transparent fees and mid-market exchange rate

Safety: Fully regulated worldwide

Speed: most transfers are instant; 90% arrive in 24 hours

Wise links your debit card for easy transactions and offers no monthly fee or minimum balance before usage. Hence, you can use your Wise account for any financial transaction.

How do I send money with Wise?
Download the Wise app from the Google Play store or Apple store, or sign up with Wise online.

· Type in how much you'd like to transfer.

· The kind of transfer

· Fill in your details

· The details of who you're sending money to

· Review the details of your transfer.

· Choose your transfer type and how to pay

WorldRemit

The WorldRemit app allows you to send money to your loved ones within minutes, while some transfers get to the recipients within 24 hours in any part of the world. In addition, when you introduce someone to the app, you receive a voucher for your subsequent transactions.

Pros

· No minimum transfer amount

· Easy-to-use website

· Large range of destinations

· Many transfer options

· Fast transfer option.

Cons

· Complex transfer fees

· Limits on large transfers to specific destinations

· Maximum transfer amounts

· Unpredictable fee structure

· No currency hedging options

Features
1. Instant money transfers

2. Track your transfers

3. Real-time exchange rates

4. Zero fees on your first three money transfers

Fees and exchange rates: low, transparent fees and not completely predictable

Safety: Fully regulated

Speed: Most transfers arrive in 24 hours, while some happen within minutes

WorldRemit offers different transfer methods and accepts payment from payment platforms, but not Google Pay. The app monitor accounts for unusual activity.

When you accidentally transfer money to the wrong recipient, the app can recall your transaction if you can contact WorldRemit immediately.

How do I send money with WorldRemit?
Download the iOS or Android versions of the World Remit app.

· Login to your account and

· Choose the destination country

· Select the transfer method

· Enter the amount you want to send

· Add your recipient's information, including their name, contact information, and account details to the money being sent (if applicable). Continuation: https://pay4me.app/blog/139/6-best-international-money-transfer-apps-for-nigerians

Here’s a summary of these money transfer apps and the things we like about them:

1. WorldRemit: A multi-currency money transfer app with no hidden costs and offers service in more than 130 countries.

2. Wise: An effective money transfer app for personal and business customers with the mid-market exchange rate

3. Remitly: Excellent for people who want to make low-cost payments to their family and friends.

4. OFX: It offers a 24/7 phone service and ensures you receive personal support.

5. Western Union: The app allows you to transact business almost anywhere.

6. Pay4Me App: A seamless transfer app built for international students that offers the most competitive exchange rate and swiftness in every transaction.

We selected based on the Google Play store and Apple store rating data and customer reviews, including service efficiency.

In this thread, we have compared the different features, delivery times, exchange rates, and other important features of many financial apps to highlight the six best international money transfer apps for Nigerians.

Blackdeewhy:
Thank you so much for this piece.
Without the SEVIS fee, you can't finish the filling of your D-160 as a student.


Also, OP, can you help out with clarity on WAEC and WES payments?

Thanks in anticipation.

We have a thread on that already. Please check our profile for it. If, however, our thread doesn't answer your question; then you can go ahead and ask us here. We'll be more than happy to answer.

14. Why Is Sevis Fee Important?
SEVIS fee is important because it is a mandatory fee that F and M visa applicants must pay to maintain their status as nonimmigrant students in the United States. This fee is used to cover the costs associated with running the SEVIS program, which tracks the activities and statuses of international students and exchange visitors in the US. Paying the SEVIS fee is also a requirement for obtaining a visa to enter the US as an F or M student, and failure to pay the fee could result in delays or denial of your visa application.

15. How Long Does Sevis Fee Last?
SEVIS fee is valid for a period of 12 months from the date of payment. During this time, you can use the fee to obtain a visa and enter the United States as an F or M nonimmigrant student. If you do not use SEVIS fee to obtain a visa within 12 months of the payment date, you will need to pay the fee again.

16. How Many Times Do You Pay the Sevis Fee?
You are required to pay SEVIS fee once for each new F or M visa application you submit unless you are transferring your SEVIS record from one school to another or changing your visa status. If you pay the fee and your visa application is denied, you will need to pay again for a new visa application. If you do not obtain a visa within 12 months of paying the SEVIS fee, you will need to pay the fee again for any future visa applications.

17. How Long Does It Take for Sevis Fee to Reflect?
It takes up to three business days for the SEVIS fee payment to be processed and reflected in the SEVIS database.

18. How Much Is U.S. Sevis Fee in Nigeria?
The SEVIS fee is a standardized fee worldwide, so the amount is the same regardless of your location. As of March 2023, the SEVIS fee for F-1 and J-1 visa applicants is $350. Continuation: https://pay4me.app/blog/138/35-facts-about-sevis-fee-for-international-students

8. What Is the Validity of the Sevis Fee
SEVIS fee is valid for a period of 12 months from the date of payment. This means that if you pay the fee but do not obtain a visa within 12 months of payment, you will need to pay again if you wish to apply for a new visa.

9. Can I Pay Sevis Fee Online
Yes, you can pay SEVIS fee online. In fact, paying SEVIS online is the recommended method of payment for F-1 and J-1 visa applicants.


11. Is Sevis Fee Refundable
SEVIS fee is generally non-refundable. However, in certain circumstances, such as if your visa application is denied or your program is canceled and you re-apply for the same visa within 12 months, you may not need to pay the fee again.

12. How Much Is Sevis I-901 Fee
The SEVIS I-901 fee for F-1 and J-1 visa applicants is $350

13. Documents Required for Sevis Fee
To pay SEVIS fee, you need the following documents:

Your SEVIS ID number, which can be found on your Form I-20 or DS-2019
Your passport information
Your contact information, including email and mailing addresses
Country of birth and citizenship
School Code from their Form I-20
Make sure to have all of these documents ready when you begin the SEVIS fee payment process.

1. Meaning of Sevis Fee
SEVIS fee, or Student and Exchange Visitor Information System fee, is a fee that international students and exchange visitors must pay to the U.S. government. It's used to maintain the SEVIS database, which tracks the immigration status and whereabouts of international students and exchange visitors while they are in the United States.

2. How Much Is Sevis Fee Now
The current SEVIS fee for F-1 and J-1 visa applicants is $350 as of March 2023. However, it's important to note that the amount is subject to change, so it's recommended to check the official U.S. government websites for the latest fee information.

3. How to Pay Sevis Fee for F1 Visa
You can pay sevis fee for an F1 visa using a trusted payment platform ( for example, the Pay4Me App). Payment takes 24 hours or less to complete.

4. Can I Pay Sevis Fee After Visa Interview
No, you cannot pay SEVIS fee after your visa interview. SEVIS fee must be paid before your visa interview, as it is a mandatory requirement for F-1 and J-1 visa applicants. You will need to bring a printed copy of the fee payment receipt to your visa interview as proof of payment.

If you fail to pay SEVIS or pay it too late, your visa application may be delayed or denied. Therefore, paying the fee at least three business days before your visa interview is important to avoid any issues with your visa application.

5. Sevis Fee Payment by Debit Card
You can make sevis fee payment with a debit card, local bank card, Ussd, and bank transfer. Log in to the Pay4Me App, fill out the required details, and pay via debit card, bank transfer, or ussd.

6. Sevis Fee for International Students
International students applying for an F-1 or J-1 visa to study in the United States must pay SEVIS fee before their visa interview. This is a one-time fee that helps to fund the operation and maintenance of the SEVIS system. As of March 2023, SEVIS fee for F-1 and J-1 visa applicants is $350. However, the fee amount is subject to change, so it's important to check the official U.S. government websites for the latest fee information.

The SEVIS fee is a necessary part of the process of studying in the United States. But beyond that, there's a lot that's not commonly understood about this fee. How does it differ from other visa fees? What's the timeline for paying it? And what happens if you miss the deadline? In this thread, we'll share 35 FAQs about SEVIS fee by international students.

Tip 5: Use Public Transportation
Public transportation is a more affordable option than owning a car in the UK. Owning a car comes with many expenses, including fuel, insurance, parking fees, and maintenance costs. On the other hand, public transportation offers a range of affordable options, such as buses, trains, and trams.

To use public transportation in the UK, purchase a travel card or pass that offers unlimited rides or discounted fares. Also, download transportation apps like Citymapper and Google Maps to help you plan your routes and schedules.

Meanwhile, avoid peak hours when using public transport, as fares may be higher and the services may be more crowded. Instead, you can walk or pick cycling for short distances, as it's more affordable and healthier.

In addition, check if your university or college offers transportation discounts or student subsidies.

Tip 6: Buy Used Textbooks
One smart way to save money as a student in the UK is to buy used textbooks. Used textbooks are often significantly cheaper than new ones and can still provide the information you need for your studies.

Some practical tips for finding used textbooks in the UK:

Check with your university's bookshop or library.
Look for used textbooks online through Amazon, eBay, or AbeBooks.
Consider purchasing digital versions of textbooks, as they are often cheaper than print versions.
There are also some popular textbook resources you could use to find affordable textbooks, such as TextbookRush, Chegg, and ValoreBooks. By buying used textbooks, you can save a lot of money on your academic expenses.

Tip 3: Find Part-Time Work
Finding part-time work is essential for international students in the UK, as it can help you cover your living expenses and gain valuable work experience. Many universities and colleges offer on-campus job opportunities, such as working in the library, cafeteria, or administrative offices. You can also find part-time work in retail, hospitality, or customer service off-campus.

Start by checking your university or college's job board or career center. Also, search popular job websites, such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and Monster.

That said, when applying for part-time jobs, highlight your relevant skills and experience in your CV or resume. Ask your professors or supervisors for references or recommendations. Additionally, you can apply for internships or work placements, as they provide valuable work experience and potential job opportunities after graduation.

Tip 4: Cook Your Meals
Eating out is one of the biggest expenses for international students in the UK. But choosing to cook your meals can save you a significant amount of money while allowing you to eat healthier. Plus, you get to customize your meals to your preferences.

To start cooking, stock up on basic kitchen essentials, such as utensils, pots and pans, and seasonings. You can find affordable cooking supplies at local supermarkets or discount stores. Consider buying in bulk to save even more money.

Finally, plan your meals ahead of time and make a shopping list to avoid overspending on unnecessary items. Look for local markets and discount supermarkets to find fresh and affordable produce. Continuation: https://pay4me.app/blog/137/10-smart-ways-to-save-money-as-an-international-student-in-uk

Tip 1: Create a Budget
A budget is vital for managing finances as an international student in the UK. It helps you track expenses, avoid overspending and save money. But how do you create a budget? First, evaluate expenses, including tuition fees, rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, and entertainment. Then set realistic goals for saving and spending by allocating a specific amount to each expense category.

Meanwhile, several free budgeting tools and apps, such as Mint, YNAB, and PocketGuard, can help monitor your spending, set financial goals, and alert you when you overspend. Therefore, create a budget to stay on top of finances, save money, and prioritize essential expenses like rent, food, and transportation.

Tip 2: Find Affordable Accommodation
You can significantly reduce your cost of living as a student in the UK by finding affordable accommodation. Look for housing options that fit your budget, such as shared apartments, dormitories, or homestays. Consider the location, amenities, and transportation costs when selecting your accommodation.

When you live in a shared apartment or house, you save on rent, utility bills, and other expenses. You also enjoy the opportunity to socialize and make new friends.

On the other, finding homestays, where you live with a local family, allows you to experience their culture and way of life. This can be an excellent opportunity to practice your language skills and immerse yourself in the UK culture.

Picture this: you're an international student in the UK, immersing yourself in a new culture, exploring new places, and meeting new people. It's an exciting time, but the reality is that the cost of living in the UK can quickly eat into your budget. Accommodation, transportation, and other expenses can add up quickly, leaving you struggling to make ends meet. But don't worry; this thread covers ten smart ways you can save money as an international student in the UK.

Can you explain the different types of IELTS exams available?

The IELTS has two types - IELTS Academic and IELTS General. IELTS Academic is for anything related to study migration, while IELTS General is for work or PR-related migration. Both types test the four basic means of effective communication: Speaking, Writing, Listening, and Reading. Although they are similar, the type of questions asked in Listening, Reading, and Speaking differ. The Academic version is more academic inclined, while the General version is more work-related.

Interesting! Could you tell me more about what is tested in each type?

IELTS consists of four modules, and each module tests the four basic means of effective communication: speaking, writing, listening, and reading. The Speaking module assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English through a face-to-face conversation with an examiner. The Writing module evaluates your writing skills by asking you to complete tasks like writing an essay or letter. The Listening module tests your listening skills by playing audio recordings and asking you to answer questions related to them. Finally, the Reading module assesses your ability to read and comprehend written texts, such as articles or academic texts. Continuation: https://pay4me.app/blog/136/how-to-ace-your-ielts-exam-for-scholarships-and-jobs-abroad-7-expert-tips

You seem to have a good track record with IELTS candidates. Should we refer to you as the IELTS whisperer or guru?

(Laughs) Maybe, Maybe not. But I believe I have been able to figure out the techniques for acing IELTS, and it's not as bad as people thought before I wrote mine.

I noticed you mentioned he is in Canada with a PR. What can one use the IELTS for, and is it compulsory for studying or working abroad?

IELTS means International English Language Testing System. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is designed to help you work, study or migrate to a country where English is the native language. This includes countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, and the USA. Depending on the purpose of your travel, IELTS might be compulsory. For example, anyone looking to migrate through PR or a Work Visa in Canada will definitely need to write IELTS.

Could you introduce yourself to us?
My name is Tamakloe Feyikemi, and I currently work as the Head of People and Operations at Pay4Me Technology.

Tell us about your record tutoring individuals who want to write the IELTS.
I started tutoring IELTS candidates after I wrote the exam in 2021. My first experience was not even a planned tutoring session; a member of staff reached out for help, and I decided to assist with a one-month tutorial that prepared him for the exam. After he wrote the exam, he passed in flying colors and is currently in Canada with a PR. He referred two more people, a Nigerian and a Pakistani, who also aced their exams. From there, I decided to add it to my stream of income and have since taught close to eight people, and the least of them had an overall score of 7.5.

During our Community event on Friday, we had the pleasure of speaking with Tamakloe Feyikemi, a test-prep expert, discussing tips on how to ace the IELTS exam for scholarships and jobs abroad.

As a seasoned IELTS instructor, Tamakloe Feyikemi has helped countless students succeed on the IELTS exam and gain admission to universities abroad. This thread covers strategies and techniques students can use to boost their IELTS scores and achieve their goals. Read the full conversation below!

7. What are your plans after completing your studies in Canada?
The immigration officer wants to know your plans after you complete your studies in Canada. Be honest about your intentions and what you plan to do after completing your studies. Show that you have a plan for your future in Canada or in your home country and that you're committed to achieving your goals.

8. What is the purpose of your visit to Canada?
When an immigration officer asks, "What is the purpose of your visit?" they seek to understand the reason for your travel to Canada. As a student, you should be prepared to provide information about your studies and the educational institution you will be attending. Make sure your acceptance letter or other relevant documents are readily available to present to the officer if asked. Providing a clear and concise answer will help demonstrate your preparedness and seriousness about your studies in Canada. The purpose of my visit is to pursue higher education in Canada.

9. Which university/college have you applied to?
The immigration officer wants to verify that you have applied to a legitimate and recognized educational institution in Canada. Ensure to provide the name and address of the university or college you will be attending and any relevant documents or correspondence related to your admission.

4. Do you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay in Canada?
Here, the immigration officer wants to ensure that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Canada. Therefore, you must show your bank statements or any other evidence of financial support.

5. Do you have any family or friends in Canada?
The immigration officer wants to know if you have any ties to Canada. If you have family or friends in Canada, make sure to provide their names and contact information.

6. What is your educational background?
The immigration officer wants to know your educational background and qualifications. Therefore, be prepared to provide information about your previous studies and qualifications. Continuation: https://pay4me.app/blog/135/canada-immigration-interview-questions-and-answers-for-students-a-detailed-guide

1. Why are you visiting Canada?
The immigration officer wants to know the reason for your visit to Canada. As a student, you should be prepared to provide information about your studies and the school you will attend.

2. Where will you be staying in Canada?
The immigration officer wants to know your accommodation plans in Canada. So be sure to have your accommodation details, such as your dorm's or homestay's address, readily available.

3. How long will you be staying in Canada?
The immigration officer wants to know the duration of your stay in Canada. Ensure you have your return ticket or a travel itinerary showing when you plan to leave Canada.

This thread discusses a series of questions the immigration officer may ask you, to determine your eligibility and intentions for studying in Canada. Follow each question carefully and see what's expected of you when answering.

Oh, you were applying for other scholarships as well?
Yeah. You know, we can't just put all our eggs in one basket.

Does applying for so many scholarships affect the chances of getting any of the scholarships?
I don't think it particularly does. But I always advise we keep our options open, so far as it aligns with what we are looking for. In the beginning, I was all about applying for scholarships in the UK, as those were the ones I knew at first. Then, I later found the ones in US and Canada, but most required some form of exam like IELT or GRE or cold emailing. I knew I didn’t have money to spend or enough strength in mind to start cold emailing, but I had other things.

Or you can just keep applying until one gets accepted…
Apply to as many as you can. Maybe you can have top priorities just to give them your best shot.

I noticed you mentioned "as long as no money was involved.’’ Are you saying you didn't pay for any scholarship application out of the many you applied for?
No, I never did pay any fees for any scholarship.

Oh wow...I didn't even realize it covered this much.
Yeah, it does…laughs.

That literally means you're a baller while studying?
I cannot suffer in this life…hahaha

How did you come across the scholarship?
I saw the advertisement on LinkedIn, but I also did see it on other platforms. So I directly applied for it, and it was pretty straightforward cause I had even forgotten about it after applying. I was going through this phase where I was applying to as many applications as I could, so far, no money was involved. Continuation: https://pay4me.app/blog/133/schooling-abroad-how-i-secured-a-fully-funded-scholarship-abroad-plus-monthly-stipend

Miss Willie, a beneficiary of the TotalEnergies scholarship (also known as NNPC/Total Fully funded Scholarship), shares her journey with us on how she secured a fully funded scholarship as a Nigerian. Read the chat below.

Can you give a brief introduction of yourself?
I am Nsongurua Willie, from Akwa Ibom State, and a lover of God. I studied Industrial Chemistry for my BSc at UNIBEN and currently undergoing my Master's studies in Sustainable Industrial Engineering at Grenoble INP in France. Actually, I developed an interest in sustainability, hence the change of course.

Lovely. Sustainability is the future…
Yeah.

How are you funding your master's study?
Good question. I am actually on a fully funded scholarship, thanks to TotalEnergies. In Nigeria, the scholarship is called NNPC/Total Fully funded Scholarship. So that’s the one I am benefiting from. And they cover my VISA fees, including renewal, flight expenses, tuition fees, monthly stipends, etc.