How important is the English language for Indian students?
Maninder Singh: The significance of knowing the English language has never been as dire as it is being felt now. With our Government getting strict on unscrupulous travel agents, people have realised the value of going abroad through the legal way. Taking a test in English proficiency — International English Language Testing System (IELTS) — or enrolling in an English-speaking course puts prospective immigrants, especially the students, to a foreign land on a sound footing. We at BetterThink not only help our students get the required bands but also equip them for life-time. Number of free practice tests in IELTS and English language are available on www.tcyonline.com, the online initiative of TCY. I always advise my students to attempt as many tests as possible to improve their band score and command over the language. How safe is New Zealand and does it encourage permanent settlement? Kerry Greig: We have quite strict laws in place to protect students. In New Zealand a foreign stud