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7 Powerful Myths About the IELTS Writing Test – Completely Busted!

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7 Powerful Myths About the IELTS Writing Test – Completely Busted! Summary: Don’t let myths about the IELTS Writing test sabotage your score. Here are the 7 most common misconceptions — and the truth, straight from CLBS experts — so you can focus on what actually matters. When it comes to studying abroad, IELTS is often the first big step between you and your dream university in the UK, Canada, or Australia. And while the Writing section often feels like the toughest part, most students don’t struggle because of poor English — they struggle because they believe myths. At CLBS, we’ve helped hundreds of students ace IELTS Writing by replacing confusion with clarity. Let’s bust the biggest myths once and for all. Myth 1: “The more I write, the better my score.” This is one of the oldest and most misleading myths. Writing 300 words instead of 250 won’t earn you extra marks — it might even hurt your score. Why? Because quality, not quantity, matters. Each task has a set word count: 150 (Task 1) and 250 (Task 2). Going beyond that wastes time and increases grammar mistakes. CLBS Tip: Focus on structure, accuracy, and clarity. A crisp 250-word essay with good grammar will always outperform a long, messy one. Myth 2: “I must use only British English spelling.” Not true. You can use either British or American English — but stay consistent throughout. For example: If you write color, don’t switch to colour later. CLBS Tip: Choose the version that feels natural to you so you can focus on content instead of second-guessing spellings. Myth 3: “My examples must be real or backed by facts.” You’re not writing a research paper — you’re writing an English test essay. Examiners don’t verify your examples. They evaluate how well you express ideas. Use logical, relevant examples — even if they’re hypothetical. Clarity of thought > factual accuracy. CLBS Tip: Create believable, simple examples that support your point naturally. Myth 4: “I should use as many linking words as possible.” Linking words like however, moreover, and on the other hand help structure your writing — but when overused, they confuse the reader and make your essay sound robotic. CLBS Tip: Think of them like seasoning — enough to enhance flavor, but not overpower it. Use only where necessary to maintain flow and logic. Myth 5: “Using complex words will impress the examiner.” This is where most students lose marks. Using rare or complicated words incorrectly can lower your score. The IELTS Writing test values clarity, range, and accuracy — not pretentious vocabulary. CLBS Tip: Use advanced words only when they fit naturally. If you’re unsure, keep it simple and correct. Myth 6: “I need to use all possible tenses.” Wrong again. Writing with multiple tenses doesn’t make your essay stronger — it makes it confusing. CLBS Tip: Stick to the tense that fits your point. For example, if you’re describing a fact, use present simple. If it’s about a trend, past or present perfect might fit better. It’s better to use fewer tenses correctly than many tenses poorly. Myth 7: “My ideas must be unique or interesting to score high.” No. IELTS Writing is not a creativity contest. You are evaluated on how well you answer the question, not on how original your opinion is. Focus on task achievement, coherence, vocabulary, and grammar. Even simple, logical ideas can score Band 8 if expressed clearly. CLBS Tip: Spend time organizing your essay, not overthinking your ideas. CLBS Expert Insight At CLBS, we’ve seen a clear pattern:   “Students who write clearly, stay within the word limit, and focus on structure consistently score higher.” That’s why our IELTS Writing Training focuses on the real scoring factors — coherence, vocabulary, and grammatical range — not myths or gimmicks. Ready to Boost Your IELTS Writing Score? Join our IELTS Prep Bundle 2025 — designed for Indian students aiming for global universities. Here’s what you get:  20+ free mock tests Lifetime prep access  Expert feedback sessions Custom study plan for your target band Need help with IELTS registration or prep? Connect with our IELTS experts at CLBS today and start preparing the right way.

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Is The GRE Becoming Obsolete In 2025? Expert Opinions

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Is The GRE Becoming Obsolete In 2025? Expert Opinions For decades, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) was the gold standard for students applying to master’s and PhD programs across the globe. Whether it was engineering at MIT, economics at LSE, or psychology at NYU, the GRE was seen as the ticket to proving academic readiness. But in 2025, the story is very different. Universities worldwide are rethinking the role of standardized tests, and the GRE has quietly lost the dominance it once enjoyed. Why is the GRE losing ground? Shift to Holistic Admissions Universities increasingly prefer to evaluate applicants on a broader range of factors: academic performance, research projects, professional experience, and personal statements. GRE scores no longer hold the same gatekeeping power. The Rise of the GRE’s Competitors Many programs now accept (or even prefer) the GMAT, IELTS/TOEFL, or no test at all. Business schools especially have shifted toward more flexible requirements. Equity and Accessibility Standardized tests like the GRE have long been criticized for bias and for favoring students with access to expensive test prep. Dropping the GRE is part of a larger movement to create fairer admissions systems. COVID-19’s Lasting Impact The pandemic forced universities to rethink admissions criteria when test centers were closed. What started as a temporary waiver has now become a permanent policy for many programs. What does this mean for Indian students? More Flexibility: Students applying abroad can now rely more on their academic transcripts, projects, and statement of purpose (SOP) rather than stressing only about test scores. Higher Weight on Profiles: With GRE optional, universities expect stronger profiles—internships, research, leadership, and clarity of career goals. Selective Use of GRE: For highly competitive STEM programs, a good GRE score can still act as a differentiator. But it’s no longer “mandatory.” Why the GRE Still Matters Before you dismiss the GRE completely, it’s important to note that the exam continues to hold weight in several key ways: Selective Programs: Top-tier and competitive universities still strongly prefer or require GRE scores for differentiation. Scholarship Opportunities: A high GRE score can strengthen funding applications. Global Recognition: Unlike university-specific requirements, the GRE is universally accepted across thousands of programs worldwide. Objective Benchmark: In an era where GPA scales vary widely across countries, GRE scores offer a common yardstick. The Student Perspective Here’s the truth: while some students may get into great universities without GRE scores, others—especially those applying from India or other competitive applicant pools—can stand out with strong GRE results. For ambitious students aiming at Ivy Leagues, top STEM programs, or PhDs, the GRE is still a valuable ticket. CLBS’ Take At CLBS, we guide students through this changing admissions landscape. Our approach is simple: personalized strategy. We evaluate your target programs, profile strengths, and career goals before advising whether to take the GRE. For some, the test may be optional—but for others, it can be the very factor that secures admission and scholarships. Final Word The GRE may no longer be the only gateway, but it remains a powerful one. The smart move is not to blindly follow trends, but to make informed, strategic choices. At CLBS, we’re here to help you do exactly that. If you’re planning for Fall 2026 admissions, talk to us about how to tailor your application strategy for a post-GRE world.

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Private vs. Public Ivies: Your Complete Guide to America’s Top Universities

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Private vs. Public Ivies: Your Complete Guide to America’s Top Universities Dreaming of studying in the U.S. but unsure where to start? You’re not alone—and you’re not without options. While Ivy League schools often dominate the conversation, there are dozens of other elite universities that offer Ivy-level academics, life-changing opportunities, and global prestige. These schools—commonly known as Private Ivies and Public Ivies—can be your golden ticket to success. Let’s break them down — and show you how CLBS Institute helps students not just dream about them, but get in. What Are “Private Ivies”? Private Ivies are non-Ivy League schools that rival (and sometimes surpass) the Ivies in academic excellence, research, prestige, and placement. These universities are known for their competitive admissions, exceptional faculty, and world-class opportunities. Top Private Ivy Universities Carnegie Mellon University – Extremely strong in computer science, robotics, and engineering. CMU Qatar is also a worldwide option for gifted students. Johns Hopkins University – Famous worldwide for medical research, public health, and international studies. Emory University – Famous for medicine, business, and liberal arts programs, with strong connections to the CDC. Georgetown University – Strong in international relations, politics, law, and business, in Washington, D.C. Northwestern University – Hosts premium programmers in journalism, business (Kellogg), and engineering. University of Southern California, USC – Famous for cinematic arts, business, and engineering with a global alumni network. Rice University-A smaller elite university known for its science, engineering, and undergraduate research University of Notre Dame – programmers in business, political science, and theology programmer, and always emphasizes community values. Vanderbilt University – Located in Nashville, with outstanding programs in education, law, medicine, and liberal arts. All these top UK business schools have something special to offer — but the best one for you will depend on your profile, career aspirations, test scores, and work experience. This is where CLBS Institute assists you in making the right choice — confidently. What Are “Public Ivies”? Public Ivies are state-funded universities that deliver an Ivy-caliber education—often at a more affordable cost. These schools are large, research-focused, and globally recognized. Binghamton University – A SUNY institution that values, does research, and excels at pre-med programs. University of Florida (UF) – Topped for engineering, business, and biological sciences programs. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) – Topped world-wide for engineering, CS, and data science. University of Maryland – Tipped for public policy, cybersecurity, and research and located near Washington, D.C. University of Wisconsin–Madison – World-famous for agriculture, economics, and environmental sciences. Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) – One of the top choices for STEM, AI, and technology careers. University of Michigan – Frequently ranked among the best for business, engineering, and medicine. University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) – Famous for computer science, business, and liberal arts. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) – Best public university for public health, journalism, and law. University of Virginia (UVA) – Extremely well-known for its commerce school, law school, and college life. How CLBS Institute Helps You Get In At CLBS, we don’t just show you the doors to top universities — we help you walk through them. Personalized Counseling We match your academic profile, passions, and goals to the right-fit U.S. universities — whether that’s a Public Ivy, Private Ivy, or traditional Ivy League. Test Preparation World-class training for: IELTS  IELTS UKVI TOEFL GRE GMAT DSAT SOP, LOR & Application Support Craft unforgettable Statements of Purpose, powerful Letters of Recommendation, and ace university interviews — with expert guidance at every step. Real Strategy, Real Results Our students are studying at top schools across the U.S., and we’re proud to have been their strategic partner from day one. Your Dream University Is Closer Than You Think Whether your goal is to experience the prestige of Johns Hopkins, the innovation of Georgia Tech, or the spirit of Notre Dame—CLBS is with you, every step of the way. 📞 Book your FREE Strategy Call today: connect with us now

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Best UK MBA Colleges: How To Choose The Right Business School — With Expert Help

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Best UK MBA Colleges: How To Choose The Right Business School — With Expert Help From CLBS Studying in the UK presents globally top-class opportunities for MBA hopefuls — but with so many globally top-ranked business schools, how do you choose which one is best suited to you? There are 10 top business schools in the UK, providing students with an overview of what makes each distinctive. But knowing which one suits your academic record, career objectives, and personality remains unclear — and that is where CLBS Institute comes into play. Top 10 UK Business Schools for MBA — and What Makes Each One Special 1. London Business School (LBS) Placed high on the list of global B-schools, LBS is perfect for students who want to pursue careers in consulting, finance, or corporate leadership internationally. Its alumni base includes McKinsey, BCG, Google, among others. 2. Cambridge Judge Business School Reputed for academic rigor coupled with practical problem-solving, Cambridge Judge is a destination for entrepreneurs, researchers, and changemakers. 3. Oxford Saïd Business School With a leadership emphasis and global reach, Oxford Saïd is appealing to students who value strategy, social innovation, and cross-industry learning. 4. Imperial College Business School As part of a world-leading STEM university, Imperial is ideal for those seeking a career in tech, FinTech, data analytics, or innovation-led roles. 5. Warwick Business School (WBS) Warwick combines academic intensity with practical experience. It is particularly good for marketing, finance, and international business strategy. 6. Bayes Business School (previously Cass) In the heart of London, Bayes features robust programs in finance, insurance, risk management, and international business — with extensive industry links. 7. Durham University Business School Durham focuses on developing leadership, teamwork, and practical experience and thus is an ideal choice for students seeking both academic rigor and individual development. 8. Bath School of Management Bath is famous for work experience, sustainability, and management consultancy. It’s perfect for students who want to get work experience while studying. 9. University College London (UCL) School of Management UCL has a contemporary, innovation-streamed curriculum, perfect for students who want to start startups, work in tech, or hold strategic positions in innovation-driven companies. 10. Alliance Manchester Business School One of the largest and most renowned UK schools, Manchester pairs academic rigor with global focus, with flexibility and solid business research links. So, Which One Should You Select? All these top UK business schools have something special to offer — but the best one for you will depend on your profile, career aspirations, test scores, and work experience. This is where CLBS Institute assists you in making the right choice — confidently. How CLBS Aids Your MBA Process Personalized Counseling & B-School Match We advise you based on your education, career goals, test scores, and desired industry — determining the school that best suits you, not merely rankings. Full Exam Prep CLBS provides experienced coaching for IELTS , IELTS UKVI, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT, and DSAT — the tests most universally needed for UK MBA admission. Application Counselling & SOP Writing Our counselors assist you in building a robust application with a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP), resume, and mock interviews to achieve the best possible chances of admission. Genuine Support, Not Tricks We don’t promote cookie-cutter solutions. Our guidance is grounded in actual results, career direction, and worldwide trends — all specific to you. Still Not Sure Which School You Should Attend? If you’re still undecided which UK business school is best for your ambitions — relax. You’re not the only one. Let CLBS guide you through it with a step-by-step plan. 🎯Book your FREE Strategy Call today on http://www.clbs.in. Your future matters — and CLBS is here to help you navigate it, step by step.

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Digital SAT Success: How To Outsmart Inference Questions Every Time

DSAT /

Digital SAT Success: How To Outsmart Inference Questions Every Time Inference questions: the moment when the SAT stops asking what’s there and starts asking what follows from it. These are the questions that make students go, “Ugh… this could be A… but also C?” Sound familiar? At CLBS Institute, we train students not just to read passages — but to read between the lines, predict the answer before looking at the choices, and eliminate traps like a pro. Here’s how we teach it. What is an Inference Question, really? Inference = what must be true based on the passage, even if it’s not directly stated. 🧩 It’s like a puzzle: If the author says “She turned away, blinking back tears,” you infer: she was emotional or trying not to cry. You don’t need proof, but you do need support. Common Wording You’ll See: “Which of the following is most reasonably inferred…” “Based on the passage, the author would most likely agree that…” “The information in the text most strongly suggests that…” The CLBS Method: 4-Step Inference Takedown Step 1: Read the Context Sentence + 1 line before + 1 after Don’t skim. You need tone, intention, and precise meaning — even one adjective can flip the inference. Step 2: Cover the Choices. Think First. CLBS tip: We train students to predict before peeking. Ask: If I had to write the answer myself, what would it say? Step 3: Eliminate the Extremes SAT loves to throw in “always,” “never,” or “everyone” — too extreme. Inference = safe, supportable, moderate. Step 4: Match, Don’t Invent Correct answers feel like: “Yeah, that makes sense.” Wrong answers feel like: “Whoa, where’d that come from?” We tell our students: Inference is not imagination. It’s precision. Let’s Try One (CLBS Practice Example) Passage: The researcher was surprised by the result, but admitted it matched what other labs had seen. Q: What can be reasonably inferred about the researcher’s result? A) It was manipulated for consistency. B) It was consistent with previous findings. C) It disproved all earlier studies. D) It was more accurate than other labs’ data. Correct Answer: B — the result matched what others had seen. The word “surprised” might tempt you into guessing something extreme, but the actual inference is calm and supported. Why Students Get These Wrong — and How CLBS Fixes That They overthink or second-guess. They focus on how they feel instead of what the passage says. They get tricked by strong language or abstract ideas. At CLBS, our Digital SAT sessions include: Live walkthroughs of real inference questions Daily Quickfire Challenges with inference traps SAT-style prediction practice Inference Spotting Drills that train the brain to slow down, not zone out Final Words: Inference Is Logic with a Little Emotion Yes, you need to read carefully. Yes, you need to think critically. But no, it’s not a guessing game. With the right strategy and practice, SAT inference questions become predictable, beatable, and dare we say — enjoyable. Ready to Train Smart, Not Just Hard? 🎯 Book a FREE Strategy Call with our CLBS Digital SAT mentors 📚 Explore our high-performance SAT prep system 🌐 Visit http://www.clbs.in or DM us “SAT” to get started

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Countries With The Best Job Opportunities For Students Studying Abroad

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Countries With The Best Job Opportunities For Students Studying Abroad Balancing Study and Work Abroad Studying abroad is a period of seemingly ice-cream-like excitement; however, it is not without its challenges to manage finances in this course of higher education. Apart from guidance in university selection and test preparations to fulfill the requirements of their visa applications, we at Catalyst Learning by Sanchita help students plan their study abroad journey from finance planning to the end. One of those factors students consider is how many working hours they can spend and how much they can earn to support themselves during their studies abroad and gain international work experience. 1. United States On-campus work: F-1 visa students can work up to 20 hours/week during academic sessions and full-time during breaks. Off-campus work: Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Requires enrollment in an internship course. Optional Practical Training (OPT): Up to 12 months (STEM extensions possible). Recent change (2025): No major policy shifts, but stricter CPT/OPT oversight. 2. United Kingdom Student Visa (formerly Tier 4): Undergraduates & Master’s: 20 hours/week during term for full-time students aged 16 or over. Ph.D. students: Unlimited hours under the new Graduate Visa pathway. Full-time work allowed during holidays. Note: Some universities impose stricter limits—always check institutional policies. 3. Canada Updated 2024–2025 policy: 24 hours/week during academic terms (up from 20 hours in 2023). Full-time work permitted during scheduled breaks. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Unchanged (up to 3 years). 4. France Annual cap: 964 hours/year (~20 hours/week). University jobs: Often more flexible (e.g., teaching/research assistantships). Post-study work: 2-year residence permit for job seekers (2025 policy). 5. Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500): 48 hours/fortnight (≈24 hours/week) during term. Unlimited hours during breaks. New 2025 rule: Tighter enforcement of hour limits; penalties for violations. 6. Germany 120 full days or 240 half-days/year (≈20 hours/week). Exceptions: University-affiliated jobs (no hour limit). Full-time work allowed during semester breaks. Post-study: 18-month job-seeker visa. Final note – Always verify the latest regulations with official immigration authorities or university guidelines, as policies may change. Make Your Study Abroad Journey Outstanding with CLBS Work rules vary by country and visa type. Your choice should align with financial needs, career goals, and university policies. At CLBS, we help with: University admissions (tailored to your budget and goals). Test prep (IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT, GRE). Scholarship guidance and post-study work strategies. Reach out to us today to plan your journey wisely!

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