Lowyat.NET: Latest topics by VanillaScoop

Are Top Australian Universities hard to get in?

VanillaScoop — Wed, 22 Jan 2014 17:21:41 +0800

I'm currently taking A-levels and I was told that universities in Australia look at your best 3 subjects, IELTS score and do not require personal statements nor interview. I'm wondering how true that is.

Anyone with experience that got into Top Australian Universities like Queensland, ANU, Melbourne, UNSW or Sydney with A-level results? Particularly Pharmacy or even Business degrees.

Does one have to obtain straight A*'s to even stand a chance to get into these universities or will straight A's suffice?

Need opinions

VanillaScoop — Sun, 24 Mar 2013 21:37:18 +0800

I received my SPM results less than a week ago and am qualified for bursary (if there still is one). I applied for a few scholarships and admission to several polytechnics in Singapore. First of all, I have decided on doing a degree on Pharmacy but undecided of the route to get there.

The first alternative, is to wait out for the announcement of the bursary from KPM. If it stays like last year, most likely I will be doing A-levels in Taylor's for about 2 years. If I manage to secure a scholarship from JPA, then I can proceed to do a degree in Pharmacy in local private institutions. If I don't.. then I would most probably major in Bachelor of Education.

The second alternative, is I would be studying diploma in Singapore if I am accepted to Singapore Polytechnic's Diploma in Applied Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Science or Temasek Polytechnic's Diploma in Pharmaceutical Science. I will be exempted from first or second year for my degree depending or my GPA after graduating. I will be taking Tuition Grant and loan the rest of the tuition fees. But my parents will have to fork out money for my living expenses, accommodation, etc.. I can only apply for scholarship on the tuition fees (to lessen my parents burden but might not even get it) after entering the polytechnic. I will probably continue my degree back in Malaysia.

The problem is the bursary announcement will probably be released in mid April, whereas I would have to accept or reject the admission to polytechnic 2-3 days after the status is announced online on the 31 March to 1 April. Orientation starts on the 8th April and I have to act fast..

I would like to know your opinion on the safest route if you were in my shoes. All feedback is welcomed.

Troubled

VanillaScoop — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 19:52:33 +0800

I'm taking Edexcel A-levels now with the 3 sciences and maths combo.. These past 2 months, I've been scoring nothing beyond 60 for all 3 science subjects for unit 1 itself, which is considered the easiest among the other units and am starting to doubt myself.. I'm taking 100% scholarship and I highly doubt I am able to keep it.. I'm considering seriously to drop Physics to concentrate more on the others..

I wasn't gifted in Physics but managed to struggle my way through SPM level because well.. it's SPM.. but yet to get my results back la.. Many of my classmates in college are super smart and hard working which makes me wonder which dumb school did I come from.. I'm not a hard worker either do that doesn't help..

I am considering either Pharmacy or Dentistry for my career but I don't know if Physics is a required subject for Dentistry. Advices are highly appreciated and constructive criticism are welcomed, thanks.