Pabarret, like many people, you seem to be labouring under the misunderstanding that at the completion of your flying training you would hold an ATPL. Not so. You would hold a CPL + whatever ratings you add to that licence. Depending on what exams you pass you could also have exam credits towards an ATPL. I think this common misunderstanding is because of the entrenched use of the term 'frozen ATPL' in JAA-land. 'fATPL' is nothing more than a convenient shorthand to describe holding a CPL + IR + passes in all the ATPL theory exams.
At some later date, having accrued the ATPL min. experience (1500hr total + various subtotals is pretty much the standard throughout the world) and pass a flight test of some form you could then apply for an ATPL.
Similarly to CFI, I tend think that modular training is more cost effective, and taking advantage of Oz or USA training & rental rates - especially when currency rates are accounted for - would usually save money. Even so you must still allow for licence conversion costs on your return to JAR-la-la land. About the only time I'd recommend integrated training at the usually exorbitant rates is if a guaranteed *permanent* job is included after completing the course.
Last edited by Tinstaafl; 5th Oct 2008 at 02:42.