Everything you need to know about how IGN works; from the first consultation to life abroad. Can’t find your answer? We’re one message away.
What does IGN Educational Consultants do?
We help students get admitted into top boarding schools, universities, and graduate programs.
We support & guide across the full process, from school selection and application preparation to scholarship applications, visa support, and pre-departure guidance.
Who do you work with?
We work with students at all levels, from high school boarding school placement all the way to graduate school.
We also work with parents and with schools looking to place or recruit international students.
What is the process of application?
We learn about the student’s academic background, grades, interests, goals, and family budget.
From there we recommend the right type of program (boarding school, undergrad, transfer, graduate) and give you a realistic picture of what’s achievable.
How long does the whole process take?
It varies. The process can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months depending on when you engage us relative to application deadlines, how ready the student is, and which schools you’re targeting.
What do you need from the student to get started?
Typically we need recent academic transcripts, any existing test scores (SAT, ACT, TOEFL, IELTS), a brief personal statement or bio, and a sense of the student’s goals and budget.
We’ll guide you on anything that’s missing.
Is it possible to get a scholarship?
What does a scholarship typically cover?
Most scholarships first cover tuition fees. If anything remains, it goes toward accommodation and meals. Some scholarships are specifically for books and living expenses in the first year.
We’ll be clear about what each scholarship covers before you apply.
Do first-year scholarships continue in subsequent years?
Most scholarships are automatically renewable as long as the student maintains satisfactory academic standing. A few are one-time awards for the first year only.
We’ll always tell you upfront which type you’re applying for.
Which countries do you place students in?
We primarily place students in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Sweden, Finland, and Switzerland.
The US has the largest number of our placements.
Do you help with the visa application?
Yes. We assist with the visa application process and provide guidance on what’s needed.
While 99% of our students successfully obtain their visas, we don’t guarantee visa outcomes as that decision rests with the respective embassy or consulate.
Do you offer SAT, ACT, TOEFL, or IELTS preparation?
Yes, we offer test preparation for SAT, ACT, TOEFL, and IELTS. This service is currently available for students in Rwanda.
If you’re based elsewhere, we can still advise on how best to prepare and which tests are required for your target schools.
Is English proficiency testing always required?
For students whose primary language of instruction is not English, TOEFL or IELTS is almost always required by US, UK, and Canadian institutions.
We’ll advise you based on the specific requirements of the schools you’re applying to.
Which type of schools do you work with?
We work with boarding schools (primarily in the US), universities and colleges (undergraduate and graduate level), and community colleges for students looking to transfer.
We have established relationships with 55+ partner institutions.
Can you help with transfer admissions?
Yes. We support students who want to transfer from their current school or university, including transfers across countries.
We help make the transition as smooth as possible.
Can you help with graduate school admissions?
We offer limited support for students pursuing master’s programs.
We guide you on how to prepare your application materials for the institutions you choose.
Can I work while studying abroad?
It depends on the country. The US, Canada, and Australia allow international students to work part-time during the academic year and full-time during summer.
Other countries have different policies and we’ll brief you on the specific rules for your destination.
Still have questions?
Our consultants are happy to answer you. Get in touch or book a consultation with our expert advisors today.