Can Backlogs Spoil Your Plans of Studying Abroad in 2023?

If you have been thinking that backlogs can stop you from your international education dreams, you are mistaken. Most international institutions in popular countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, the UK and the USA will accept applications with backlogs, provided you clear them before you start your course. In this blog we will learn how to manage backlogs and clear them in order to pursue your higher education abroad.

What are backlogs?

In simple terms, a backlog is an exam that you didn't pass at your first attempt (this could be because you weren't prepared enough or you were unable to attend for some reason). In order to successfully enrol on an international programme, it is important that you have cleared all previous backlogs.

Note: If you have been absent, check with your institution to see if they have marked 'Absent' or 'Zero' in the score column for the exam subject in which you did not appear, as 'Zero' in the score column means backlog, not absenteeism.

How is backlog different from absenteeism?

Backlog means that you didn't do well in your exam. Absenteeism means that you couldn't attend the exam for some reason such as illness, accident or any other genuine reason.

What is a resit certificate?

It's a certificate issued by your academic institution that lists details of your backlogs. If you don't have any backlogs, you won't get one from your institution. However, even if you have no backlogs, your international institution may ask for a certificate with academic transcripts to certify your academic record.

Importance of the transcript

The way backlogs are calculated varies from country to country; some calculate the number of backlogs, while others count the number of attempts to clear the backlogs. It's proof that you've cleared them all.

How do I get a certificate of completion?

The college or university authorities that issues marksheets, certificates, diplomas, transcripts, etc., also issue backlog certificates. Obtain your transcript from the college or university where you completed your studies.

How are transcripts counted?

Different institutions count credits in different ways. Some may count the number of attempts you have made to clear a failed subject, while others may count the number of subjects you have backlogged. For clarity, let's divide them into two categories:

• Number of failed subjects equals number of backlogs

  Countries such as the US and UK consider failed subjects as backlogs, regardless of the number of attempts you made to pass them.

  For example, if you fail a subject but try to pass it three times in different semesters, then the number of failures is counted as one and the number of attempts, i.e. three, does not matter.

• Number of attempts to pass failed subjects equals number of backlogs

  Countries such as Australia consider the number of attempts as the number of resits. For example, if you fail a subject but try to pass it three times in different semesters, the number of attempts is counted as three because it's equal to the number of attempts. These countries use the number of attempts to assess your commitment to the subject/education.

  Note: You can apply for admission to the university of your choice with active backlogs. If you're accepted, the university will give you a conditional offer on the condition that you clear all your backlogs before you start your course.

Will the backlog affect your visa?

You need to understand that it's a process. You will receive your student visa once there is an offer letter from the university abroad, and they take into account your backlogs prior to issuing an offer letter to you. So, it affects you indirectly, not directly.

Impact of active backlogs

If one of your backlogs is active, you may receive a letter from the university, but the form that comes with it will not be generated for a student visa. The offer letter is accompanied by a student visa application form. You will only receive this form if you don't have any backlogs.

Tips for dealing with backlogs

Backlogs can be stressful, but don't worry, we've got your back! Follow these simple hacks to clear your backlog:

• Plan your studies: Planning your studies always works because you can clearly see what is left and what has been completed. You can save yourself from the worry and anxiety of going back and forth.
• Make notes: Writing down not only helps you to remember things, but it also becomes your go-to sheet for revision at exam time.
• Prioritise: Focus more on the weak topics, the ones that were difficult to remember or understand.

Conclusion

In general, your backlog won't affect the visa process as long as your university has accepted your application and given you a confirmed admission. So don't worry, go ahead, complete your application and contact us at MWT Education Consultancy for any doubts or clarifications. Our experienced international education experts will be happy to guide you throughout the entire process.