Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome!
At ScholarLightEd, we understand that pursuing a global education can be challenging for African students aiming for universities in the US, India, or Europe. Below, we address common questions to guide you confidently. For more, book a free consultation at Register and let us illuminate your path.
1. What is ScholarLightEd?
ScholarLightEd, founded by Loretah Chibaya, Ph.D., empowers African students to apply to top universities in the US, India, Europe, and beyond. Our team provides expert support for admissions, scholarships, visas, and interview preparation, crafting the strongest applications possible. While we cannot guarantee admissions, funding, or visas, we maximize your chances with personalized guidance.
2. Who can work with ScholarLightEd?
We assist high-achieving African students in their final year of high school or university with excellent grades, targeting undergraduate or graduate programs abroad. Our team supports students from all backgrounds, including those seeking significant financial aid.
3. Why choose ScholarLightEd?
Our unique approach includes:
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Precision: Our founder’s scientific rigor ensures meticulous applications.
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Transparency: Clear fees; for the India track, no 50% refund if an offer letter is received, no refunds for other tracks.
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Accessibility: Free consultations and annual pro bono support for one under-resourced young woman.
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Holistic Support: From applications to cultural transitions, we prepare you for global success.
4. How do you assist with university applications?
Our team guides you through:
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Selecting universities aligned with your goals (e.g., Harvard, IIT Bombay, Oxford).
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Crafting compelling essays, resumes, and recommendation strategies.
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Ensuring timely submission and compliance with requirements. We optimize your application, but admissions decisions are made by universities.
5. How do you select universities for me??
We assess your academic profile, interests, and preferences to recommend universities, considering academic fit, location, and financial aid. For example, a biomedical student might target Johns Hopkins or IISc Bangalore. Our team prioritizes affordability and career alignment.
6. How do you assist with scholarships and financial aid?
Our team identifies scholarships and aid, including full-ride programs at schools like Yale, NYU Abu Dhabi, or DAAD in Germany. We help with:
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Financial aid forms (e.g., CSS Profile).
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Scholarship essays.
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Merit and need-based applications. Funding depends on university decisions, but we ensure competitive submissions.
7. Can you find fully funded programs?
Yes, we target universities offering generous aid, like Amherst or low-tuition German institutions. Our team strengthens applications for full funding, though awards are not guaranteed and depend on your financial need and university criteria.
8. What if I can’t afford to study abroad?
We focus on scholarships, grants, and low-cost programs (e.g., German public universities). Our affordable fees, free consultations, and pro bono program for one applicant from a disadvantaged background annually ensure accessibility.
9. How do you support visa applications?
Our team assists with:
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Understanding visa requirements (e.g., US F-1, European student visas).
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Compiling documents (e.g., bank statements, acceptance letters).
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Preparing for visa interviews with mock sessions. Visa approvals are determined by embassies, but we ensure thorough applications.
10. What interview preparation do you offer?
We provide mock interviews for admissions and visas, covering common questions, communication skills, and cultural nuances. Our team enhances your confidence, but outcomes depend on your performance and interviewer decisions.
11. What’s the process of working with ScholarLightEd?
After a free consultation, our team:
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Evaluates your academic and extracurricular profile.
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Upon receiving payment, we will develop a tailored plan with university and scholarship targets.
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Guides application drafting, editing, and submission.
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Supports test prep, visas, and interviews. We support you until you’re campus-ready
12. How long does it take?
We recommend starting 6–12 months before your study start date (e.g., Fall 2026). US deadlines are often November (Early Decision) or January–February (Regular). Our team provides a customized timeline.
13. Do you help with tests like SAT, GRE, or IELTS?
Yes, we offer test prep strategies, recommend resources, and advise on timing and score goals. Our team doesn’t administer tests but ensures you’re prepared for competitive scores.
14. What can I expect from ScholarLightEd?
Expect personalized guidance to create strong applications, pursue funding, and prepare for interviews and life abroad. Our team has helped many students reach top universities, but outcomes depend on external decisions.
15. What if I don’t get an offer letter?
For the India track, you’re eligible for a 50% refund only if no offer letter is received; if an offer is received, no refund is provided, regardless of whether you accept or attend. No refunds are available for other tracks. Our team offers follow-up support to explore alternatives or reapply, though outcomes are not guaranteed.
16. How much do your services cost?
Our fees are transparent, with no hidden costs, and vary by track. For the India track, a 50% refund is available only if no offer letter is received; if an offer is received, no refund is provided. Other tracks are non-refundable. Contact us for a quote after your free consultation. Our pro bono program supports one under-resourced young applicant annually.
17. Do you help with adjusting to life abroad?
Yes, our team prepares you for:
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Academic systems (e.g., US lectures, European seminars).
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Cultural adjustments and culture shock.
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Internships and global networks. This ensures you thrive in your new environment.
18. How do I get started?
Book a free 10-minute consultation here to share your goals. Complete our client form, and our team will craft a plan to guide you to your dream campus. This can also be done via whatsApp or email.
19. Have more questions?
Reach out here to book a free consultation. ScholarLightEd is your ally in illuminating your path to global education.