FAQs
- I have completed a degree in which all instruction was in English. Do I still have to take the TOEFL / IELTS exam?
- I have been away from studies for a long time. What if I cannot get any academic references from my previous university?
- Where do STEP students live while in London?
- Does the STEP scholarship cover living expenses during the academic programme in London as well as during the extended practica back home?
- Can I apply to both STEP and GPISH?
- How are classes organized during the academic phase in London? How many hours of class do I have per week?
- Is it possible to work part-time in London while studying?
1. I have completed a degree in which all instruction was in English. Do I still have to take the TOEFL / IELTS exam?
Currently, if your degree is from a university in India, Pakistan or Tajikistan, the IOE does require that you submit a valid TOEFL or IELTS score. (Scores are valid up to three years from the date of the test). The only circumstance in which applicants from these countries may be exempt from submitting TOEFL / IELTS scores is if they have completed at least one full year of university-level studies in the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia or New Zealand.
2. I have been away from studies for a long time. What if I cannot get any academic references from my previous university?
In this situation, you should submit alternative references from people who can support your ability to undertake graduate-level studies. These may be professional superiors / colleagues from a current or past workplace.
STEP students are currently housed in self-catered, single student accommodation. Some rooms have private kitchen / bathroom and others are shared.
4. Does the STEP scholarship cover living expenses during the academic programme in London as well as during the extended practica back home?
Yes. All STEP students receive a monthly stipend for the full two-year programme, the amount of which is in line with British Council guidelines. Students will continue to receive the stipend during the two extended practica in their home countries.
Yes. However, each programme has distinct aims. Therefore, you are encouraged to think very carefully about how either programme would meet your academic and career goals before applying. In reviewing your application(s), the respective selection committees will be looking for your ability to make a strong case for your decision to apply to a particular programme.
6. How are classes organized during the academic phase in London? How many hours of class do I have per week?
The MA in Education programme follows a lecture – seminar – tutorial model. Students spend approximately 12 hours per week in class, attending lectures, seminar and tutorial sessions. The MTeach programme is conducted almost entirely online, with some face-to-face classess held throughout the academic year. Students are expected to keep up with their MTeach assignments alongside their MA lectures, readings and class work. During the winter and spring terms, students also teach Saturday morning religious education classes in London RECs. The tutorial sessions provide some time for Saturday teaching preparation.
Due to the intensive nature of the STEP, students are discouraged from taking up employment during their studies. STEP students are engaged in coursework six days per week, including Saturdays when they teach religious education classes in London RECs.
Last updated: 9/9/2010 17:30
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