Enrollment in overseas study programs has surged to record levels among Indian students, with almost 1.3 million participants or enrollees in 2023, indicating a significant rebound post-pandemic.
“This shift reflects a growing interest among students to explore diverse cultures and educational opportunities beyond their home countries,” stated Gaurav Batra, Founder and CEO of Infinite Group.
Numerous changes have transpired in various countries in 2023, leading to alterations in student visa pathways and technical prerequisites such as application procedures and documentation, among other factors.
Batra further mentioned that overall, the current trend has been geared towards simplifying the experience for students venturing to different nations.
“There has been a collaborative initiative among countries to streamline visa application processes and ease technical requirements, addressing documentation concerns for students,” highlighted Batra.
Canada and the UK notably implemented significant modifications in their international visa frameworks, while other nations have remained dedicated to enhancing their pathways for students keen on studying within their borders.
Furthermore, there have been shifts in application evaluation methodologies.
“Overseas universities now place emphasis on comprehensive assessments, taking into account academic achievements, extracurricular involvements, personal statements, and letters of recommendation,” mentioned Amit Singh, Founder of ASL (the parent company of an integrated study abroad platform including UniScholars, UniCreds, and UniAcco).
The top destinations for Indian students pursuing higher education include the UK, Canada, the USA, and Australia.
Changes in Major Study Abroad Destinations:
1. UNITED STATES
The US visa application process has become more rigorous.
“The US has made adjustments to the visa application process, mandating all F, M, and J student visa applicants to utilize their passport details when creating a profile and scheduling visa appointments,” as per Amit Singh.
2. CANADA
While the visa procedures and technical requisites for studying in Canada remained relatively stable in 2023, two significant updates reshaped the landscape.
“Firstly, the financial threshold for studying in Canada has doubled, necessitating students to demonstrate a higher amount in their accounts. This alteration is in response to the escalated cost of living in the country,” explained Gaurav Batra.
Canada has also introduced measures to combat fraudulent practices within the system, requiring Designated Learning Institutes (DLIs) to authenticate Letters of Acceptance (LOAs) directly with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Moreover, Canada has extended the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program, allowing international students an extended work permit of up to 18 months post-graduation.
3. UNITED KINGDOM
The UK witnessed adjustments in its visa procedures in 2023, particularly affecting students aspiring to study in the country.
“The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department implemented changes in fees, with a significant surge in visa fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS),” highlighted Gaurav Batra.
Additionally, the UK banned students from bringing families and dependents on a student visa, except for those pursuing full-time postgraduate-level research degrees.
The UK issued nearly 500,000 study visas for the year ending June 2023, with Indian students constituting about 30% of the total.
4. AUSTRALIA
Australia raised English proficiency test score requirements and savings prerequisites for student visas, reduced age limits for work visas, and intensified scrutiny of second visa applications.
Australia also introduced policies such as temporarily removing caps on working hours and extending post-study work rights for select degree holders.
5. FRANCE
France extended post-study work visas to five years for master’s degree graduates and introduced a five-year short-stay Schengen visa for students who studied in France for a semester to explore job opportunities.
6. IRELAND
International graduates with bachelor’s or master’s degrees in Ireland can stay for two years on a post-study work visa, while PhD holders can stay for three years.
7. ITALY
Italy extended opportunities for Indian students by allowing an additional 12-month stay after completing their degrees, with provisions for professional training and internships.
8. NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand introduced a significant reform in its technical requirements, allowing the IELTS One Skill Retake option, providing flexibility for test-takers to retake any of the four skills if necessary.
These adaptations aim to enhance the international study experience for Indian students amidst an evolving landscape.
Published By:
Roshni
Published On:
Jan 29, 2024