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| Australia presents many geographic, economic, and social advantages for
prospective students from Japan. The "Land Down Under" features a wide range of geographic conditions, such as a large desert
lying in the center of the nation and rich forest regions, which surround it. Australia has also been open to immigrants for years
and so many visitors find it easy to adjust to the Australian life. It should also be noted that its high level of public
safety makes Australia an attractive destination for many international students and their families. |
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Photo :
Monash University |
Located in the Southern Hemisphere, Australian seasonal conditions are the opposite of those
of the Northern Hemisphere. For example, the average highest temperature in January range from 35¡î to 40¡î, while the average
lowest temperature of the month ranges from 5¡î to 27¡î, varying across regions. Different parts of Australia have
distinctive climate conditions. While 70 percent of the country is a dry climate, there is also a tropical climate in the North,
as well as a temperature zone along the eastern coast and a Mediterranean climate in the South. This environmental variation
allows people to enjoy a number of outdoor activities at reasonable costs.
Most Australian universities are publicly funded comprehensive national universities. Academically speaking, the universities do not
show substantial differences among themselves and all provide a high quality of education. A number of Australian universities are
famous for research in fields such as the environmental sciences and sports sciences.
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Photo :
University of Victoria |
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The second biggest country in the world, Canada extends
from the Atlantic to the Pacific and Arctic oceans. Due to its vast expanse, Canada features wide variations in temperature
and climate. Temperatures can rise to 35 ¡î in the summer (July and August) and with high humidity, especially in the
urban centers of Toronto and Montreal. Winter temperatures range from 0 ¡î to -25¡î, with the West Coast and Niagara Falls
region being more moderate and the Prairies tending to be colder.
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As English and French are Canada's two official languages, choosing Canada as one's educational destination can give one
opportunities to become familiar with both languages. In addition, Canada has a long history of accepting international students,
and is known for providing flexible and extensive services. The quality of Canadian postsecondary education is noteworthy, as all
universities and colleges in Canada show excellent qualities. 40% of the Canadian population has a British background,
followed by 27% with a French background. Canadians who claim national origins other than British or French comprise about 42%
of the population, including native people. The largest non-native, immigrant ethnic groups have German, Italian,
Ukrainian, Dutch, Polish, Chinese, South Asian, Jewish, West Indian, Portuguese and Scandinavian origins.
Canadians also enjoy a variety of sports. The most popular sports are swimming, ice hockey, cross country skiing, baseball, tennis, and
golf. People enjoy the easy access to sports facilities all across Canada.
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New Zealand attracts many Japanese visitors and students who are interested in its vast
expanse of natural beauty, adventurous environment, welcoming city centres, and cultural activities. New Zealand is a country
where you can enjoy both everyday life and the country's natural beauty.
The climate is mild - with averages ranging from 8¡ëC in July to 17¡ëC in January - but summer temperatures occasionally
reach the 30s in many inland and eastern regions.
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Photo :
Nelson Marlborough
Institute of Technology |
New Zealand has been ethnically and culturally connected to Polynesia for at least 1,000 years.
Now, about four-fifths of New Zealanders are of European origin, predominantly from the British Isles, but it also has many from the
Netherlands, Yugoslavia, Germany and other nations. A country that has a long history of migration, New Zealand is very open to
hosting international students.
Many international visitors take part in adventure and tourism activities such as mountain biking, bungee-jumping, white-water
rafting and jet boating, as well as more traditional activities like walking and fishing in natural areas. New Zealand also
offers a diverse range of cultural attractions including farm visits, home-stays, museums, art and craft galleries, wineries
and historic buildings.
The cost of living is (when compared to Japan) considerably less expensive. Recent surveys conducted by N.Z. government
found that average housing costs are $512/month (approx. 32,000 yen: as of January 2003). Lower living costs and a higher standard
of living may appeal to those who are considering studying in New Zealand.
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Photo :
Sussex Downs College |
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Every year, thousands of Japanese visit the U.K. They are attracted by a classic and
historical appearance that is uniquely British. England stands in a front rank of literature for its great authors like
Chaucer, Shakespeare, and the Bronte sisters, etc. But what attracts students to the UK is much more than just its reputation
for great literature. British universities (most of them are public) are open to international students and have a long history
for accommodating students from all over the world. Universities in the UK have a record of achievement in creative/innovative
studies in business, law, the sciences, the environment, philosophy, linguistics, and many other fields. Education in the
United Kingdom is of a very high standard.
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The British climate is not severe - averages range from 3.9¡ëC in January to 17.8¡ëC in July.
Winter is generally cold and wet--during the evening, the temperature drops to below freezing, and is normally just above
freezing during the day. During the summer you will normally be comfortable in pants and a T-shirt, although there are
days when the temperature does fall in the evening.
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Photo : University College Cork |
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An independent, English speaking
nation situated on the Western edge of Europe, the Republic of
Ireland is an increasingly popular destination for students from
all over the world. This consistent growth reflects the fact
that Ireland offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy a unique
blend of the highest education standards with an exciting
cultural experience. Irish people are renowned for their
friendliness and hospitality which greatly contributes to the
ease which overseas students adapt to student life in Ireland. |
Ireland is beautiful - much of the countryside
remains unspoilt providing an excellent natural habitat for a
flourishing flora and fauna. Ireland's landscape provides a rich
environment for the many outdoor leisure pursuits for which it
is famous. Water sports, hill walking, rock climbing are just a
few of the many activities which can be enjoyed when taking a
break from study.
The population of Ireland stands just short of
six million people. Almost 60 percent of Irish people live in
urban areas, with 1.2 million living in or around the capital
city of Dublin on the east coast.
Ireland enjoys a temperate
climate. During the winter months temperatures rarely drop below
freezing and snow is uncommon. The coldest and wettest months
are December, January and February, which have mean temperatures
between 4¡ëC and 7¡ëC. July and August
are the warmest months with average temperatures of between 14
and 16, rarely rising above 20.
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The United States of America, one of the world's largest and most populous nations, has citizens
coming from all corners of the world, with a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds. English joins the country together
socially while Spanish is the second major language and is spoken by many residents in California, Texas, New Mexico,
and Florida. Each state has it's own history and slightly different culture .
The values of liberty and freedom of speech are paramount in the U.S. However, respect for individual opinions must also
be accompanied by responsibility for one's own behavior and thoughts. Hence, students in American
universities and colleges are expected to be independent and to have good problem-solving abilities. For international
students (especially those whose first language is not English), determination and sufficient language skills are necessities
if they are to attend American universities and colleges.
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Photo :
The Fuqua School of Business |
The U.S. has long been the most popular study-abroad destination. Many schools have
international student service offices and are well prepared for admitting students from overseas. The university transfer
system is excellent among U.S. universities, and it is relatively easy to transfer from one school to another. Furthermore,
it is not uncommon in the U.S. that people with extensive work experience go back to university in order to pursue further
education. Therefore, many students have clear goals and a sense of purposes. There are a variety of postsecondary
institutions in the U.S., including two-year colleges, liberal arts colleges, and universities,
serving the various needs and different abilities of students.
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