Do you dream of studying in the UK but you're unsure of how to get started?

Have you applied for a study visa, been rejected and want to know how to apply again?

Do you qualify for a scholarship or assistantship?

To answer these and a host of other related questions, UK officials including Paul Michael chatted with Get Ahead readers on March 5.

For those of you who missed the chat, here's part I of the unedited transcript:

Part II: Study UK: Is taking the IELTS compulsory?

anishamalhotra@rediffmail.com asked, can family friends sponsor. if yes, do we require a proof of relationship?

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. Family friends can sponsor applicants. Ideally we like to see proof of relationship and if you are not related an explanation as to why that person has decided to sponsor your studies in the UK.

Gurusimran asked, Hi Paul, I have completed my engineering from a top ranked indian university in electronics and communication.I want to do masters in banking and finance from leicester university in england.I have scored first division in my engineering.I want to know my chances of getting British citizenship after the completion of my course ; if i get a good job there. Please reply in detail.

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. Upon successful completion of any UK degree course, you will become eligible for the International Graduates Scheme which allows foreign nationals to undertake employment in the United Kingdom. From there it may be possible for you to obtain a work permit. After five years continuous employment, you would be eligible for permanent British residency.

ken asked, hi paul i would like to do my mba in the u.k or otherwise a chartering course in UK.

Aprajita answers, MBA is a very popular course in the UK, hence very competitive, too. It is a one year course and the entry qualifications are a bachelors degree, GMAT score, 2-3 years of work experience and an IELTS or TOEFL score. The requirements, however can vary from one institution to the other. More information available on www.postgrad.hobsons.com www.educationuk.org

Pradeep asked, Hi Paul!! how are you doing today? what path should i choose to settle myself in UK.. I am holding an Engineering degree and having a working exp of 4 yrs. Currenly working with an Investment Bank( MNC's). I am interested in doing Executive MBS programme

Paul Michael answers, Thank you for your question. You should pursue you course of study, after this you may be entitled to switch into work permit employment or into post study employment in the form of the International Graduate scheme. Only once you have secured work permit employment does the time start to count towards the five years for settlement. For more information go to www.workinginthe uk.gov.uk Paul

anandbhaskar11 asked, Hi i am Anand ,I am an Engineer want to do a course i mean short IT term in UK.Plz help Me

Aprajita answers, There are a variety of short courses/summer courses in IT available to study in the UK. Pl check for more information on www.hotcourses.com/ucas, www.floodlight.co.uk.

Tevinmathews asked, Hello, My name is Tevin and I am just appearing for my 12th standard exams.Oxford university always enthralled me and I would like to know there are any under graduate courses which offer scholorship

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. You should contact the British Council via their website at www.britishcouncil.org. They will be able to help advise you on courses at Oxford University. From there, if successful, Oxford University itself will be able to advise you on any scholarships and bursaries available.

anandbhaskar11 asked, Want study VLSI Design course from UK pls help me

Aprajita answers, Thank you for your interest in studying in the UK. For information on UG/PG courses in VLSI, please check on our official web site www.educationuk.org This has an excellant course search facility to provide you with the names of institutions.

chandrasekhar asked, hi paul i want to do my phd in electronics can u pl help me

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. I suggest you contact the British council who will be able to advise you which institutions offer this course. You can contact them on www.britishcouncil.org

naanmani asked, Hi Paul, Can i apply for a P.hd in management schools. I already have M.S degree in construction management..

Paul Michael answers, Thankyou for your question. For advice on courses and institutions in the UK please contact British Council via www.educationuk.org Paul

rish asked, I have a toefl score of 115 out of 120 and GMAT score of 660 btu i have no work experience , is it possible to get an admission in a college for an MBA course. Kindly suggest me with names?

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. I believe that most educational establishments would put equal weight upon your academic achievements and any work experience. Certainly in the UK many students complete an undergraduate degree and then a MBA without intervening work experience. For details on the best universities, business schools, please see www.educationuk.org  or www.britishcouncil.org.

chandrasekhar asked, hi paul, i want to do my phd in electronics can u pl help me

Aprajita answers, The normal minimum period required to complete a PhD is 3+ years. It is the ultimate opportunity for you to pursue your specialist interests. More information available on www.educationuk.org, www.postgrad.hobsons.com. The comparative ratings of UK institutions by discipline available on www.hero.ac.uk/rae

sujata asked, hi i want to earn and learn at uk but finacial problem. i am trying at ctl college at london

Paul Michael answers, Thnakyou for your question. Please contact British COuncil who will be able to advise you about course and colleges in the UK. They will also be able to advise you if there are any scholarships available. Paul

Pradeep asked, how can i apply for HSMP?? what all is required to get HSMP approved. My HSMP score is 90

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. For further information on working in the United Kingdom please go to www.workingintheuk.gov.uk . Please note that from 01/04/2008, all applications for HSMP letters will come directly to the visa sections in India for authorisation of both the HSMP letter and for the visa.

shrinjoy asked, How is ICMA, University of Reading? I have got an offer from ICMA for their MSc International Securities, Investments and Banking.

Paul Michael answers, Thankyou for your question. For details of the rankings of a particular institution you should have a look at the institution's website and also contact British Council via www.educationuk.org for further guidance.

Rahul asked, Have heard abt a lot of top tier MBA schools in UK unable to provide 100% employment. How far is it true.Is it true that unless you do MBA from a top 10 college you wont get jobs to get the investment back?

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. It is not clear exactly what you are asking but if yu are planning to go to study an MBA in the UK, that should be your primary reason for going to the UK and any employment that you take should be part time and not to get your investment back that you have made for your studies.

rish asked, I have applied to Aston Business School , Manchester University , Nottingham University , Lancaster University , Bradford and Leeds. Kindly rank them according to you from best onwards for Msc in International Business? So that I can choose accordingly.

Paul Michael answers, Thankyou for your question. For details of the rankings of a particular institution you should have a look at the institution's website and also contact British Council via www.educationuk.org for further guidance.

Ambar asked, Hi, I hold a valid HSMP to work in the UK. Can i pursue part time MBA's with the same VISA? If not can you please let me know more about the exact procedure for doing it.

Jon answers, Thanks for your question. If you hold a valid HSMP visa, there is no restriction at all on your studying part-time in the United Kingdom. You can study on this visa without a problem.

wasi asked, hi,i am a pharmacy grad. lookin for an ms prog. in regulatory affairs,and need some information bout work permit after completin course

Paul Michael answers, Thankyou for your question. There are several options available to those who complete their studies in the UK and are awarded Degree from UK Universities. These are: � International Graduate Scheme - for those who have completed Degrees in the UK and can stay on in the UK for one year to seek employment (to be extended to 2 years from 1 April 2008). � Fresh Talent working in Scotland for those who have completed HNDs and above at a Scottish Institute and allows you to stay in Scotland for 2 years and allows you to work. In addition there are other ways of staying in the UK and these are for those who qualify for a work permit and further details can be found on the following website: Working in the UK - www.workingintheuk.gov.uk  

danvinder 1 asked, Hi, I have been offered a job with Lidl to work 21 hours per week while studying. Is this allowed?

Jo Cheeseborough answers, Hi Danvinder. You can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full time during school holidays. Thanks for your question. Jo

Gurusimran asked, As i have heard about the Australian type point system for getting permanent residency in England [Images].Is it right. Please throw some light on this .

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. I suggest you follow this link which contains the latest information regarding the points based system www.britishhighcommission.gov.uk  

Vinu asked, Sir, I have not done any graduation. Since I have failed in my Pre-Degree Course, I didn't continue. But later I have done one year diploma in computer application. Now I am working as a Designer for the last 8.5 years. Is it possible for me get the admission in UK for any good course. What will be the cost. please advice me. thanks

Paul Michael answers, Vinu Thankyou for your question. First you should contact British Council for their help in finding a course and institution in the UK. Costs of courses in the UK vary, again British Council will be able to help. Once you have an offer letter form an institution you can then apply for a studnet visa. We will then consider your application.

anishamalhotra asked, can a spouse apply with the main applicant?? on what status is the spouse and what wud be the visa type

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. Yes, a spouse can apply along with the main applicant. You will need to submit evidence of your studies in the UK along with evidence that they can be maintained and accommodated in the UK. The status of the visa is that your spouse has no restrictions on working, but must not use (British) public funds.

Awad asked, After we graduate, when does teh visa expire?

Paul Michael answers, Awad Your student visa will normally include an extra period at the end of your study which can be used for dissertations and/or graduations. However it may be that your visa will have expired when the graduation ceremony takes place in which case you would have to apply go to the UK for your graduation as a visitor. Paul

Vinu asked, Sir, I have not done any graduation. Since I have failed in my Pre-Degree Course, I didn't continue. But later I have done one year diploma in computer application. Now I am working as a Designer for the last 8.5 years. Is it possible for me get the admission in UK for any good course. What will be the cost. please advice me. thanks

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. The UK has a number of institions that offer a variety of different courses. I am not able to comment on the the best course for you but we expect students applying for a visa to be able to show that they have sufficient funds to cover the cost of the course plus the British Council suggest that students in London [Images] require 7300 pounds per year to cover the cost of your accomodation and living expenses

Ambar asked, Hi, Thanks a lot for your answer on my 1st query. My friend has done his masters in the UK and is back in India. Can he re-apply for a work permit in the UK with his masters? or should he get his HSMP to enter the UK again.

Jon answers, Thank you. If he has completed his masters within the last year, he can apply under the International Graduates Scheme. If not, he will need to apply for either the HSMP scheme, or obtain a job offer from the United Kingdom and apply as a work permit holder.

Shumon asked, Hi..i want to study in UK

Jo Cheeseborough answers, Thank you for your question. First you should contact British Council for their help in finding a course and institution in the UK. Costs of courses in the UK vary, again British Council will be able to help. Once you have an offer letter form an institution you can then apply for a studnet visa. We will then consider your visa application.

ila asked, my course was already started on 14th jan 2008 without getting extention letter from my college i applyed but they refused their reason is: i have to show the next course when it starts but they didn't return my original offer letter from my college. without offer letter can i apply? for my student visa

Paul Michael answers, Ila Thankyou for your question. You should ask the visa office where you made your application for the original offer letter to be returned to you. You can can then ask your college or university for a new offer letter. Paul

Shumon asked, Hi..i want to study in UK

Aprajita answers, Thank you for your interest in UK education. You will be able to obtain information on studying in UK on www.educationuk.org. You can also attend weekly briefings at 3 pm on most Wednesdays of the month at the British Council, New Delhi office.

gt asked, Hi, I am final year MBBS student. I want to do my masters from UK? What test do I have to write to qualify one? And can that test be taken from India.

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. The entry requirments depends on which institution you decide to study at. I suggest you contact the university that you wish to study at and find out what their entry requirments are

saharsh asked, hello sir,what is the best age to do masters in u.k

Jo Cheeseborough answers, Saharsh. You can do a masters at any age.

Rosy asked, Which is the best university for Masters in Electrical Engg. with IELTS Band Score of 6.0?

Paul Michael answers, Rosy Thankyou for your question. To assess the ranking of an institution you should have a look at the institution's own website and also contact British Council via their website at www.educationuk.org Paul

charles asked, Hi, I have secured admission for Msc in University of Strathclyde commencing from september 2008. When should I apply for visa? Can you give an idea about the nature of Chevening scholarships interview?

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. You can apply up to three months before your course begins. Applications at present take 4 days to consider, but if you are called for an interview, this may take longer. Ideally, you should apply for your visa 4 - 6 weeks before your course starts.

partha asked, I want to study MBA in Banking & Finance .Which are the affordable and recognized institution? Where is the duration and fees of these courses. Regards

Aprajita answers, Thank you for your query, Partha. Institutions offerings MBA courses is available on www.postgrad.hobsons.com and www.prospects.ac.uk. Duration of an MBA programme is one year and fees varies from Pounds 5500 to Pounds 25000.

anishamalhotra asked, my UK visa has been rejected once. can i apply again. Reason was insufficient funds and no intensions to come back. I'm a working in an pvt co.

Jo Cheeseborough answers, Anishamalhotra. You can apply again. We recommend that you consider why you were refused and address these issues in your application and demonstrate you you are able to meet the rules. If you cannot meet the rule, you will be refused again. Jo

kunal asked, hello sir, i have done my post graduates in biotechnology and now i want to pursue my phd in uk but while searching on net most of the scholrships and postions are only for uk or EU student there are not much scholarship avialabel for indian student can you help me about some scholarship availble for indian student ?

Paul Michael answers, Kunal Thankyou for your question. For details on scholarships for study please contact British Council via their website at www.educationuk.org Paul

floydrules asked, I've done an MBA from UK (after doing hotel management) let's say if I apply for a working Visa for hotel jobs, can i change my field after getting a work permit? I would like to pursue my PhD simontaneously while working in the corporate filed?

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. If you are on the International Graduates Scheme, there is no restriction upon what employment you take. If you are on a work permit, this job is specific i.e. food and beverage manager (in a hotel). Therefore, if you move employer's you should apply for a new work permit. If you have either HSMP, IGS or work permit visas, you can study part-time.

Rahul asked, Hi thanks for the earlier answer..I was refering to post-MBA employment..I have heard it is very difficult jobs in UK AFTER MBA..

Sean answers, Thank you for your question. I am sorry but I am unable to comment on how difficult it is to get jobs in the UK I suggest you look at the following website which should be able to offer you advise about working in the UK www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk

Krishnakumar asked, After 10+2 in India with ICSE CErtificate I wish to do Undergraduation course in UK.Kindly extend the guidance

Paul Michael answers, Thankyou for your question. For guidance on courses and institutions in the UK please contact British Council via their website at www.educationuk.org Paul

gggggg asked, tasmac in india offering mba with University of wales certification. is it acceptable by others?

Paul Michael answers, Thankyou for your question. To assess the ranking of an institution or the acceptability of a course to other you should have a look at the institution's own website and also contact British Council via their website at www.educationuk.org Paul

deepak asked, Hi..i want to study in UK

Jo Cheeseborough answers, Deepak. Thank you for your query. You will be able to obtain a lot of information on www.educationuk.org

tejas solanki asked, what is the significance of "trusted partner" which many consultants mention in their ads - tejas , from baroda

Jon answers, Thank you for your question. We advise people to use one of our trusted partners. This does not 'guarantee' you a visa, but the student agent will make sure that your documents are in proper order and are adequate for the visa application. A list of our trusted partners is available at www.educationuk.org.

ila asked, but in vfs they said u can apply with xerox copy of my offer letter is it true sir? becos this is the second time my application was refused

Sean answers, Thank you for your question which appears to have been posted in two parts. We generally do not keep original documents but if on this occassion yours have been retained please contact us so that it can be returned. We do need to see the original copies of any offer letters or extention of course start date.

Ashutosh asked, I would like to about the job oppurtunities in UK as compared to US after completing MS.

Paul Michael answers, Thankyou for your question. There are several options available to those who complete their studies in the UK and are awarded Degree from UK Universities. These are: � International Graduate Scheme - for those who have completed Degrees in the UK and can stay on in the UK for one year to seek employment (to be extended to 2 years from 1 April 2008). � Fresh Talent working in Scotland for those who have completed HNDs and above at a Scottish Institute and allows you to stay in Scotland for 2 years and allows you to work. In addition there are other ways of staying in the UK and these are for those who qualify for a work permit and further details can be found on the following website: Working in the UK - www.workingintheuk.gov.uk

Ranjeesh asked, i want to know that whether i can pursue my higher education in Uk Becuase I am a Diploma Holder.

Aprajita answers, Thank you for your query, Ranjeesh. Sure, it is possible for your to pursue a course of study with a diploma qualification. Pl decide subject you would be interested to study and then identify the institutions that would be offering the course. You are then requested to write to them with your academic and non-academic qualifications and work experience (if any). For more information on subjects and institutions, pl check on www.educationuk.org

Satya [Images] asked, Paul, I am a working professional and interested further studies. Can i study and work simultaneously in UK and is it leagal?

Jo Cheeseborough answers, Satya. You can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full time during school holidays. Thanks for your question. Jo

somebady asked, Hello, which is the best university to study advertising in UK?

Jo Cheeseborough answers, Somebady. Thankyou for your question. For guidance on courses and institutions in the UK please contact British Council via their website at www.educationuk.org

Part II: Study UK: Is taking the IELTS compulsory?