 
In this tutorial, we discuss if college rankings predict student success with Kristi Marchesani from the University of Northern Iowa.
We look at:

What life is like in Cedar Falls, Iowa
Do college rankings predict student success?
What employers look out for when hiring college graduates 
Should college ranking scandals impact your university choice
Why rankings are not the best tool for students to select a great school
The most important factor that determines student success in universities
How the University of Northern Iowa handles student engagement 
How prospective international students can get in touch with the University of Northern Iowa

Additional resources

Why College Engagement Matters More than Selectivity
What do Employers Look for When Hiring Recent Graduates
The Rankings Farce
Are Rankings Being Rigged (again)?

Personal Statement Tutorials
Are you writing a personal statement for your university admissions applications?
Check out these useful personal statement tutorials.

* Complete Guide to Writing a Winning Personal Statement for University: Tips, Examples, and Advice
* How to Write a Winning Scholarship Personal Statement: With Examples
* How to write a Resume Personal Statement That Gets You the Job – with Examples and Tips
* Statement of Purpose vs. Personal Statement: Six Differences Between the Two
* Residency Personal Statement Examples: Top Tips for Best Length, Content, and Structure

If you’re a prospective international student and need to pass IELTS for university then we can help you achieve IELTS success. Click here to get started.
You can download or listen to the audio version here:
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Do College Rankings Predict Student Success?

Education

Training

Language Courses

Higher Education

K-12

Educational Technology

Language Learning

By Ben Worthington, founder and manager of IELTSPodcast.com. An expert IELTS tutor with over 12 years of experience, Ben has helped thousands of students each year achieve Band 7 or higher on their IELTS exams.

How Can Understanding Nouns and Verbs Improve Your Academic Task 1 Writing?
Many words in Academic Task 1 can function as both nouns and verbs with only slight modifications. Understanding how to distinguish and use these forms correctly is crucial for clarity in your writing.


What Are the Common Patterns You Should Recognise in Academic Task 1?
Recognising and using common grammatical patterns such as Adjective + Noun and Verb + Adverb can significantly enhance the quality of your Academic Task 1 responses.


How Do You Identify and Use Adjectives and Adverbs Effectively?
Distinguishing between adjectives and adverbs is key to mastering grammar for IELTS Task 1. Understanding their proper usage can greatly improve the precision of your descriptions.


What Advanced Vocabulary Is Essential for Comparisons in Academic Writing?
Using precise comparison vocabulary is indispensable in academic writing. Learn to specify the extent of differences or similarities with appropriate terms to enhance clarity and impact.


How Can Expanding Your Vocabulary Improve Your Academic Task 1 Responses?
Enriching your vocabulary with a variety of adjectives and appropriate prepositions can elevate the quality of your writing, making it more engaging and effective.


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Further Reading and Resources

* Academic Task 1 Guide
* Task 1 Vocabulary Enhancements
* IELTS Grammar Essentials

For additional learning, check out educational materials at University of Oxford.

 

Five Key Skills for IELTS Academic Task 1

 

Cost of Studying and Living in the UK
Hello there IELTS students, my name is Ben Worthington. For over 12 years, I’ve specialized in preparing students for the IELTS, helping them achieve Band 7 or higher. Today, we delve into the costs associated with studying and living in the United Kingdom.
Joining me is our expert, Fedoua, to discuss everything from tuition fees to living expenses. Let’s unpack the financial aspect of studying abroad in the UK.
Tuition Fees for International Students
International students can expect a range in tuition fees depending on the institution and the type of course. Fees might start as low as £12,600 with a scholarship and can go up to £30,000 per academic year. Understanding this range can help you plan your education budget effectively.
Living Expenses
The cost of living can vary greatly depending on where you choose to study in the UK. For instance, accommodation costs in London could range from £650 to £1,200 a month. It’s important to factor in other expenses like food, transportation, and leisure, which can quickly add up.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Many universities offer financial aid and scholarships, which can significantly reduce the financial burden. These are often competitive and may cover only a portion of the total fees. Additionally, students can work part-time to supplement their income, with international students allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
Budgeting Tips
Effective budgeting is crucial for managing your finances abroad. Cooking at home, using student discounts, and exploring second-hand shops are practical ways to save money.
Additional Resources

* IELTS Preparation Tips
* Understanding IELTS Essay Structures
* Boost Your IELTS Vocabulary

For more insights and resources, visit our main site.
About Ben Worthington
Ben Worthington, founder of IELTSpodcast, has dedicated over a decade to teaching IELTS and helping students worldwide achieve their best scores. Ben’s approach combines practical strategies with intensive practice to ensure students succeed.
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Cost of Studying and Living in the UK

By Ben Worthington, founder and manager of IELTSPodcast.com. With over 12 years as an expert IELTS tutor, Ben has helped thousands of students annually achieve a Band 7 or higher on their IELTS exams.

What Are the Essential Dos and Don’ts for Crafting a Stellar Task 1 Response?
Join us in our latest podcast episode where we delve into the intricacies of tackling the IELTS Academic Task 1. Learn the secrets to success in this critical component of the IELTS exam with valuable insights and practical tips.


How Can You Effectively Analyse Visual Data and Structure Your Response for Maximum Impact?
Discover strategies for selecting relevant information, effectively analysing visual data, and structuring your response to maximise impact in the IELTS Academic Task 1.


What Are Proven Techniques to Enhance Vocabulary, Coherence, and Overall Writing Proficiency?
Explore proven techniques to enhance vocabulary, ensure coherence, and improve overall writing proficiency, with insider advice from experienced educators and successful test-takers.


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Further Learning Resources

* Academic Task 1 Writing Guide
* Common Mistakes in Academic Task 1
* IELTS Vocabulary Enhancements

Improve your understanding further with academic resources from edX, an educational platform offering courses from top universities.

 

IELTS Academic Task 1: Dos and Don’ts Unveiled – 2024

 


5 Essential Tips for Students Looking to Study Abroad
By Ben Worthington, founder of ieltspodcast.com
Ben has over 20 years of experience teaching English and helping students achieve Band 7 or higher in IELTS. He has pioneered AI tools for essay checking to further aid students on their journey to success.


Introduction and Background
In a detailed discussion on the IELTS Podcast, Ben Worthington introduces Fedoua, a seasoned expert in international education, to share crucial insights for students considering studying abroad. Drawing from her extensive experience in international education, Fedoua offers invaluable tips for prospective international students.


Planning and Research
Starting early with thorough research is crucial. Understanding the nuances of living and studying in a new country is vital for a smooth transition. This includes knowledge of visa requirements, cultural norms, and educational expectations.


Financial Management
It is essential to plan your finances meticulously. This includes tuition fees, living expenses, and emergency funds. Fedoua emphasizes the importance of proving financial stability for visa applications, particularly noting that funds should be maintained in your account for at least 28 days before applying.


Cultural and Mental Preparation
Adjusting to a new cultural environment can be challenging. Fedoua suggests that students mentally prepare for cultural differences and seek out communities that can offer a sense of belonging and support abroad.


Accommodation and Safety
Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for your safety and comfort. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with local safety norms and healthcare facilities.

For more insights and tips on studying abroad, visit IELTS Podcast.
Connect with Ben and the community on LinkedIn, Facebook, and WhatsApp.
|Direct Download Here | Stitcher | iTunes | Spotify | Soundcloud |


 

What are Our 5 Tips for Students Looking at Studying Abroad

 
Unlocking the Mysteries of Connected Speech in the IELTS Listening Exam
By Ben Worthington, founder and manager of IELTSPodcast.com. Ben is an expert IELTS tutor with over 12 years of experience, helping thousands of students each year achieve Band 7 or higher in their IELTS exams.

What is Connected Speech and Why is it Important for the IELTS Listening Exam?
In the IELTS Listening exam, understanding connected speech is crucial for high scoring. Connected speech involves the flow of sounds, words, and phrases in spoken language, often changing pronunciation and linking words. This article delves into connected speech, exploring practical examples, common issues, and offering advice to enhance listening skills.


How Can Understanding Connected Speech Improve Your IELTS Listening Skills?
Connected speech features such as elision, linking, and reduction are essential for understanding real-life conversations and exam recordings. Recognising these can dramatically improve comprehension.


What Practical Examples Illustrate Connected Speech?
Examples like “I’m gonna” for “I am going to” and “Whatcha doin?” for “What are you doing?” demonstrate how connected speech operates in everyday language.


How Can You Recognise and Practice Connected Speech?
Techniques for mastering connected speech include listening to native speakers, transcribing spoken English, and engaging with authentic materials like podcasts and movies. Practicing these techniques can significantly boost your listening accuracy.


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Explore More on IELTS Listening

* IELTS Listening Strategies
* IELTS Listening Practice Tests
* IELTS Listening Tips

Further your understanding of connected speech with resources from Cambridge University’s Language Education Department.

 

Do College Rankings Predict Student Success?

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