Studying abroad has become an attractive option among students today. It not only gives them access to high-quality education, but also opens doors to global experiences, new cultures, and better careers. Rules for higher education in different countries, changes in visa policies, scholarships, and facilities like post-study work visas are constantly changing. It is important for students to be aware of these changes so that they can make the right decisions.
In this article, we will discuss the latest information and trends about studying in major countries such as the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and Europe. Apart from this, we will also highlight the main challenges and opportunities that international students face while studying abroad.
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Study in the USA
The United States has always been a top educational destination for international students. Its higher education system is one of the most prestigious in the world, including world-renowned universities such as MIT, Harvard, and Stanford.
Changes in Green Card Validity and Its Impact on Students
In 2024, the US has increased the validity of the automatic extension of the Green Card from 24 months to 36 months. This change will directly benefit those students who have started the process of permanent residence after completing their studies. In case of any obstacles during the Green Card process, USCIS will now provide them with ADIT (Alien Documentation, Identification & Telecommunications) stamp. Whose Green Card has not been renewed.
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
The largest facility in the US for international students is Optional Practical Training (OPT). This program gives students the opportunity to work for 12 months after completing their studies. Students pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) majors can extend this period by an additional 24 months, providing a total of 3 years of work experience.
OPT increases the chances of getting a job in the US and obtaining permanent residence there. Many Indian and Chinese students especially take advantage of this facility.
Challenges for student visa
In recent years, there have been increasing complaints of delays in appointments for U.S. student visas (F1 visas), especially from countries such as India and China. To address this problem, the U.S. Embassy is improving visa processes so that students can receive their visas on time and begin their studies without any delay.
To increase the number of international students in the United States, the government has also made plans to streamline visa processes and improve the OPT program.
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Study in Canada: Opportunities and New Rules
Canada has strengthened its position as a leading destination for international students in recent years. Its higher education system is very attractive in terms of quality, diversity and employment prospects.
Post-GraduationWorkPermitProgram (PGWPP)
The most popular program among international students in Canada is the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP). Under this program, students are allowed to work in Canada for 3 years after completing their studies. This work permit helps students a lot in the process of Permanent Residency.
In 2023, Canada announced to increase the working hours for international students. Now students can work full-time even during their academic session, which was previously limited to only 20 hours.
Scholarships and Affordable Education
Education in Canada is relatively expensive compared to the US and UK. The government and various universities offer various types of scholarships to students, some of the prominent scholarships are:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: This is one of the most prestigious scholarships in Canada, which is offered to research-oriented students.
- Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchange for Development (SEED) Program: This program aims to inspire students from ASEAN countries to study in Canada.
Permanent Residency and Express Entry System
Canada’s Express Entry system prioritizes students who have work experience in Canada. Recent changes to the system have made it easier for international students to obtain permanent residence. This gives students who study in Canada the opportunity to stay and work for a longer period of time.
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Study in the United Kingdom (UK): New Visa and Scholarship Opportunities
GraduateRouteVisa
One of the most important changes for students after studying in the UK is the Graduate Route Visa. This visa allows students to work for up to 2 years after completing their studies in the UK. For PhD students, this period can be up to 3 years.
This visa has led to a significant increase in the number of international students in the UK, especially among students from countries such as India and Nigeria. This visa is a big attraction for students who plan to work and obtain permanent residence in the UK after their studies.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
There are many prestigious scholarships available for studying in the United Kingdom (UK), which provide financial assistance to international students. These scholarships help students to receive high-quality education and reduce financial burden. Following are some of the major scholarships offered by the UK government and various universities:
- Chevening Scholarships: This scholarship is funded by the UK Government and is awarded to high-potential international students. This scholarship covers tuition fees, travel expenses and living costs.
- Commonwealth Scholarships: This scholarship is for students who come from Commonwealth countries and wish to pursue postgraduate education in the UK. This scholarship covers full tuition fees, travel expenses, and other study-related expenses.
- Clarendon Fund Scholarships: This scholarship is offered by the University of Oxford and provides full financial assistance to international students for Master and PhD programmes.
In addition, many UK universities such as the University of Edinburgh and the University of Manchester offer special scholarships for international students. The aim of these scholarships is to attract highly talented students and reduce their study costs.
Diversity and internship opportunities in UK education
UK universities place a premium on diversity and practical experience in their study programmes. Many courses include internships and industry contact opportunities, helping students gain valuable employment experience during their studies.
International students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week while studying in the UK, which helps students become financially independent and meet their study expenses. Additionally, the UK Tier 2 Work Visa is for students who wish to work professionally in the UK after completing their studies. The visa also helps those students apply for permanent residence.
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Study in Australia: New Policies and Employment Opportunities
Australia is renowned for its high-quality education system and safe, friendly environment. Its universities provide world-class research and education in a variety of fields, making the country an attractive destination for international students.
Student Visas and Work Opportunities
In 2023, Australia has increased the working hour limit for international students to allow them to work more. Previously, students were only allowed to work 40 hours per fortnight during their studies, but now students are allowed to work more hours even during the academic session. This change has been made to help students financially and to meet the labour shortage in the country.
One of the most prominent work visas for students in Australia is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), which allows them to work for 2 to 4 years in Australia after completing their studies. This visa also helps students in the process of getting permanent residency, especially if they have studied in regional areas.
