Education

The new worry for international students is U.S. student visa changes, as every presidential election cycle could potentially change policies that affect visa rules and work opportunities for graduates. Many foreign students are getting increasingly worried about what these changes might mean for their future, especially concerning pathways to residency after completing their studies. The Current State of U.S. Student Visas Foreign students to study in the U.S. typically require an F-1 visa that allows them to engage in full-time academic studies. However, this visa typically comes with post-graduation restrictions unless the student acquires other visas or permissions such as the OPT or the H-1B visa. OPT is one of the most precious bridges for recent graduates to have work experience in the United States in their area of study. For the case of STEM graduates, they may extend their OPT for as long as three years. However, this is not a permanent work authorisation; many students, such as Nigerian-born Ernestino Amaechi, face the pressure of getting an H-1B visa before the OPT period runs out if they want to stay working in the country. Why U.S. Elections Matter to International Student Visas Each administration brings different policies and perspectives on immigration. For instance, policies regarding visa distribution, processing times, and work authorisations are subject to change with each administration, sometimes dramatically. Because these policies can be implemented through executive orders or administrative changes, international students and visa holders live in uncertainty with each new presidency. Trump vs. Biden-Harris on Student Visa Policies Even though student visas are not an issue in this election, immigration is a big issue. Former President Donald Trump once proposed limiting visas, which would have affected international students. During the pandemic years, his administration suspended the F-1 visa for classes conducted entirely online, a move that was rolled back after opposition from universities and lawsuits.On the other hand, the Biden administration has eased some aspects of immigration policy, such as post-study work permits for certain students. Yet neither of the candidates offered a comprehensive plan on student visas. This ambiguity is creating anxiety among international students who are waiting for November election day and who are eager to stay and work for the United States. Challenges of International Students in Obtaining Work Visas H-1B visas, an almost ineluctable next step for students like Amaechi, are very competitive and scarce. Year in year out, applicants far outweigh the limited number of visas available, thereby exacerbating the challenges of foreign graduates who seek to change their status from students to professionals in the United States. Further, statistics depict that rejection rates for a visa are high and predominantly for students from sub-Saharan Africa. Therefore, accessing study and work opportunities for the students in the United States becomes a hard call. Though the interest by sub-Saharan African students keeps increasing, the path leading to and sustaining a visa is still not well clear, especially when the policy might change with an election. How the Election May Impact International Student Visa Policies Down the Line All things, including visa processing times and post-graduation work permits, can change, from the “just stroke of a pen,” in some cases according to the insights of the expert Ben Waxman. International students should, therefore, follow updates regarding the candidates who will bring their visions, making one consider probable changes within the U.S. immigration policy. For instance, a Trump administration would probably continue to escalate the restriction of access to visas and could even trigger an increase in denial rates and may also impact the opportunities of graduates to work immediately after graduation. On the other hand, a continuation of a Biden-Harris administration would probably focus on preserving or even expanding work opportunities for foreign graduates. Since neither side is explicitly committing, the uncertainty facing international students increases. Guidance to Current and Prospective International Students With these uncertainties, there are some strategies you may want to consider if you are an international student currently in the U.S. or planning to come here: Stay up to date on each candidate’s stance on immigration. Immigration should be noted, even though some candidates will not specifically mention student visas. Have a backup plan. H-1B visas are extremely competitive. Consider alternative visa categories or other countries where your skills and education would also be valuable. Explore networking and career opportunities. Early: Building strong networks and career connections while on OPT can also increase your chances if your employer is willing to sponsor an H-1B visa. Conclusion With the U.S. election soon to be held, international students are left wondering what their visa prospects may hold. Every administration brings in different policies that affect the likelihood of visa approvals, OPT extensions, and a better chance at securing long-term residency options. In Amaechi’s case, the stakes are higher, and the need to adapt is essential as she moves forward in her life with the ever-changing U.S. immigration policy landscape.

Windrush Scheme Eligibility: UK residents without documentation regarding their immigration status can apply for their legal rights. Those who are eligible receive the documents needed to assert their right to reside and work in the UK; some may even be eligible for British citizenship. A comprehensive guide on eligibility and benefits of the Windrush Scheme is as follows. What Is the Windrush Scheme? The Windrush Scheme is for those who have stayed in the UK for some years but do not have any paper evidence of their immigration status. Many people had moved from Commonwealth countries before the changes in the UK immigration laws that demanded official documentation. What the scheme offers for those who are eligible is proof of residence, the right to work, and even British citizenship. Eligibility Criteria for the Windrush Scheme To qualify under the Windrush Scheme, there are specific requirements you’ll meet in terms of when you arrived and how long you spent in the UK. This section explains what the qualification requirements are: 1. Entering the UK from a Commonwealth Country Before 1973You likely qualify for residence if you entered the UK before 1973 from any of the Commonwealth countries. All those children who had already immigrated to the UK by their parents from one of the Commonwealth countries qualify.2. Entering the UK Before 31 December 1988Anyone who entered from any country before this date and has settled in the UK will qualify too.This applies to any of your nationalities.3. Commonwealth Citizens and Right to CitizenshipCitizens of the Commonwealth who settled in the UK prior to 1 January 1973 may also have the right to British citizenship. In this case, the children may also qualify for the same or a residence proof. Documentation Available Depending on your case, documents that you may receive under eligibility are as follows: You can be eligible to receive: 1. British citizenship or Certificate of EntitlementBritish citizenship: British citizenship is bestowed for the purpose of common-wealth citizens who settled in the UK before 1973. Those people who have come to the UK are able to become citizens; however, the children born abroad of a parent who already was in the UK get it through birth right too.Or, the certificates of entitlement to the right of abode might also be given.2. Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)You are eligible to apply under the Windrush Scheme, whereby you will need to establish your eligibility for this ILR.ILR gives a person indefinite leave to remain and the right to reside in and work within the UK.3. eVisa and Other Electronic EvidenceEligible individuals may apply for an electronic visa and other electronic evidence, including an eVisa to prove the fact of their residency. Applying to the Windrush SchemeCollect all documentation proof of arrival and continued residence before you apply to Windrush, either online or through the Windrush Help Team, which is here to aid. Compensation SchemeIt will compensate those who had a tougher time based on not having the required documents, and eligible people may claim recompense based on such losses as being thrown out of work, housing, or medical insurance. Special Cases of Re-entry for ResidentsIf you were in the UK and had to leave the country for more than two years, you might need a returning resident visa to regain your residence status. Alternatively, when abroad and have lost ILR, you can get a 10-year multiple entry visa. Conclusion: Reassuring Your Status with the Windrush Scheme The Windrush Scheme is one of the essential programs for people who would like to demonstrate their entitlement to live and work in the UK. It allows Commonwealth citizens, especially long-term residents, to look forward to permanent residency, citizenship, and even compensation for lost opportunities. Getting your eligibility confirmed will ensure you and your family have the rights and protections that you deserve.

Professional Network Abroad gives an access to a wide and resourceful field of career development and creates long-term links with the global community of the industry professionals and colleagues. During your period of study or work abroad, you will have opportunities to attend events, fellow students, and social media. A professional network abroad is an enrichment of international experience and makes your future career even more impressive. Here are six time-tested ways to create a good professional network while studying abroad : 1. Join Student OrganizationsParticipating in student organizations is a great way to start building a professional network overseas. Most colleges or universities have clubs that relate to the field of study or interest and link similar-minded people with similar goals. Many universities offer professional associations, cultural clubs, or even academic societies that could be a perfect environment to start networking. Such groups have typically established alumni networks that include mentors and possible job opportunities. 2. NetworkingUniversities and local communities always organize networking events, such as career fairs, industry seminars, and workshops, for students. These are excellent opportunities to meet professionals in the industries, know different ways to enter an industry, and even find internships or job opportunities. Active communication and follow-up with the contacts after will surely increase your professional network abroad. 3. Internships and Part-Time JobsLanding an internship or part-time job allows you to have industry experience on your resume but also connects you with professionals in your industry. Working with such industry veterans will give you insights, mentorship, and practicable skills, coupled with great connections that can pay off in the future for your career. Many internships abroad also help you be professionally enhanced even within different cultures that you can bring to global workplaces. 4. Use Social Media SmartlyLinkedIn and GitHub are pretty good platforms to expand professional networks beyond your native country. You will have a chance to connect through a professional LinkedIn profile with professionals from the industry, university alumni, and mentors around the world. Participate in the industry-related discussions, share related content, and get involved with your connections to make them more visible. Following the alumni of your university or professionals from your field through social media might also bring virtual networking opportunities. 5. Networking with faculty and academic advisorsOf course, do not neglect to connect with faculty members as well as academic advisors, because professors have a whole network of contacts in most industries and can refer the student to internships or research or even full-time jobs when graduating. Building a relationship with your instructors can assist you in mentorship. This may lead to your opportunities in academia or, if you wish, it may open up professional experience abroad. 6. Ways to Overcome the Limitations of Networking AbroadAll the cultural differences and language barriers of a foreign country itself introduce all the challenges one may see in adaptation to a new social environment. These can, however, be overcome through targeted strategies: Language Skills: Language courses or practicing with native speakers can help improve communication skills; this will boost confidence and ease networking situations.Be cultural sensitive, learn the ways and doings of this people, for you might know that in understanding and showing respect for cultural nuances is where the better relationships were built.Confidence and open-mindedness: Ask about new people, have a positive attitude, be not afraid to step outside of comfort zones when seeing new faces. Conclusion Creating a professional network abroad is about developing a support system, broadening your horizons to appreciate different perspectives, and broadening your global experience. Active participation in student organizations, networking events, internships, faculty engagement, and overcoming cultural barriers help you enrich your study abroad journey and set up the foundation for a successful international career. Time and effort invested in networking as an international student can be priceless in building a better future career. The relationships built across borders are not only going to give you insight or support but will span your professional and personal life

Canadian study-abroad alternatives have also picked up as Indian students reassess options due to the recent diplomatic tensions and reports that trigger challenging experiences in Canada. With such challenges involving squeezed job markets, very high living costs, and concerning incidents affecting students there, many students who opted for it are now looking elsewhere. Luckily, with the great diversity of high-quality universities and relatively reasonably priced options, Europe emerges as an attractive alternative for Indian students who no longer wish to go to Canada. Why Indian Students Are Turning Towards Alternatives to Canada Prospect students in this current political environment and the diplomatic relations that have gone sour between these two countries, and from what I have heard some recent reports that show in Canada many students fail to get well-paying jobs hence resorted to low-scale, which happens not to be according to their qualification. Such a kind of financial investment is also quite significant, so this means the students will really look forward to gaining this kind of value for these career options. With these issues in mind, the countries of Europe, such as Germany, France, Poland, the UK, and Ireland, are exciting opportunities, with reputable institutions, affordable programs, and thriving job markets. Top Five European Study Abroad Destinations for Indian Students Here are five European destinations that Indian students can explore for high-quality education, with affordable tuition fees and diverse cultural experiences : 1. GermanyAmong these countries are some that offer quality educational systems, which houses some of the best universities in Europe. These include, among others, the following international German institutions with several English programs: Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Technical University of Munich, Heidelberg University, and Humboldt University of Berlin. Tuition Fees: There are free or very low-cost public universities. For example, at the Technical University of Munich, a master’s course will cost as low as €4,000 per semester.Popular Programs: Germany is really famous for engineering, business, and information technology.Living Expenses: This again varies, but on average, students spend about €800 to €1,200 per month.One such friendly student visa policy can be seen by Germany allowing post-graduation work, which remains one of the most loved study-abroad destinations from India. 2. FranceThere are world-class universities and premier business schools like the Sorbonne University, Sciences Po, and HEC Paris. While there are about 9,500 Indian students across France right now, the country is planning to increase more. Tuition Fees: The fee is highly affordable to moderately costly. Depending on the program, business degrees cost around €30,000 per year, while in public universities, it is rather cheap.Special Initiatives: There is a special one-year French language course for students that really helps in a smooth study experience in France.Post-Study Work: For graduates, a work visa ensures that after leaving the class, there are chances for skill building and gainful employment.Studying in France provides the students with a rich cultural setting that helps them grow not only as individuals but also for their careers. 3. PolandPoland is becoming one of the low-cost destinations for Indian students seeking quality education in Europe. The top institutions include the University of Warsaw, the University of Wroclaw, and Jagiellonian University, with affordable programs. Tuition Fees: The tuition fees for the master courses at Wroclaw University in Poland are so low that they start as low as €7,000-€8,000, which makes this one of the cheapest options in Europe.Living Expenses: The student can comfortably manage his monthly expenses at just €400-€600. This makes it one of the perfect places in the world for students staying on a tight budget.Course Specializations: In Poland, the most demanded degrees are business, information technology, and medical sciences.With low-cost education and relatively affordable living expenses, Poland is the best study abroad alternative from Canada. 4. United Kingdom (UK)Indian students always love the UK for the very reason that it provides top-class educational institutions as well as cultural experience. There are now more than 185,000 Indians currently studying at universities like Imperial College, King’s College, Oxford, Cambridge, and the London School of Economics (LSE). Tuition fees: The master’s programs at UK universities cost around £20,000 (or roughly₹20 lakh) per year, though premier universities may charge more.Post study work opportunities: Students will have the opportunity of the two-year post study work visa in the UK that allows them to engage themselves in employment opportunities in case they are not able to secure a job immediately.Policies for students: Britain remains one of the prime destinations despite Brexit, with full emphasis on international student admissions and simplification of the visa process.The UK is one of the favorite destination countries abroad for Indian students due to excellent and world-recognized universities, strong alum networks, and employment scopes. 5. Republic of IrelandCampus lives are rich and vibrant at Republic of Ireland, it is very famous for being very technologically advanced nations and institutes such as the University College Dublin, Trinity College Dublin, and Dublin City University. Tuition: The tuition fees for an international student at Trinity College Dublin would be about €22,000-€23,000 for each year for most of the courses.Student Statistics: It has a growing number of Indian students. The figures are around 7,000 students at present.Industrial Connection: The fact is that Ireland has a successful tech industry. The students find excellent placement after the end of their courses in areas like technology, data science, and finance.The country is friendly to the students, and its economy is more welcoming to tech, which is why they prefer it as a place to study in Europe for Indian students. Conclusion: Opening Up to the European Arena Beyond Canada It would be quite prudent for Indian students to look into Europe when there is uncertainty about options in Canada. All these countries have their respective benefits, starting from Poland with its very affordable tuition fees to the job opportunities in Germany, France, and the UK. There are many options in European nations that help the student achieve his goal and also acquire international experience. These European destinations for study abroad seekers represent

Study Abroad Survey 2024: a dream for many students around the world, because it brings in new opportunities and gives broader perspectives. According to recent findings from surveys by IDP Education’s Emerging Futures between August and September 2024, the two favorite destinations have now emerged as Australia and the US, outshining Canada as the favorite destination. Trends of Studying Abroad Preferences Change The survey from IDP Education managed to reach 6,046 respondents who hail from 114 different countries. Perhaps the greatest surprise would be that as many as 66% of those participants were seeking to travel for study purposes to one, two, or more countries, which clearly represented their growing needs to have far more search preferences rather than being glued into traditional selections. That, while a favorite choice to study overseas remains a very popular and open destination as that of Canada, other top destinations continue to open wider options like Australia, while the number of American college choices increased. Why Australia and the US Are Emerging As Popular Destinations Among Students There are numerous reasons why students thought of looking for new alternatives. Some of the critical reasons that make Australia or the US a preferred alternative to Canada are as follows: Stability of Visa Policy: The article states that the turmoil in political relations and the visa policy has made the students more inclined towards a stable option. Both Australia and the United States have traditional practices toward international students and very streamlined visa policies. High Quality Education and Opportunities: The US and Australia are famous for good quality education, excellent amenities, and superior opportunities that students can utilize for gainful employment post their completion of studies. Cultural Experience and Lifestyle: It is the cosmopolitan, international community, the diversity that exists in Australian and US cultures, and the support available to students from their student communities that boosts the rankings of the destination for a student coming from anywhere on earth. Takeaways Study Abroad Survey 2024 47% of the respondents changed their plan regarding international education over the following years due to the tuition and living expenses, shifting policies in different countries around the world, and also for the visa issues. These are the primary findings on the above: Financial: Most feared this barrier as students perceived high tuition fees, rising living costs, and higher visa charges as significant disincentives. Most consider carefully these costs and would therefore weigh their benefits or possible returns on career progression to multiple destinations. It is clear from the survey that the students are making their choices wider, as more than half of the total respondents preferred to look into more than one country. And, most importantly, people want a transparent visa, post-study work provisions, and inexpensive education for them to get interested in other countries than Canada as well. Canada’s reactions to this new trend among the students who want to be abroad for their studiesCanada is still an attractive destination, but rising interest in Australia and exchange opportunities in the US will make institutions in Canada perhaps face problems such as access for learning and do more to better international students’ conditions to stay in competition. Canadian institutions and policymakers can focus on the provision of more scholarships, lower international tuition fees, and more transparency in postgraduate work options. Conclusion: New Horizons for International Education Therefore, it reflects the flexibility of students who keep searching for stable, affordable environments with available opportunities to pursue their higher education. The growing popularity of Australia and the US gives students wider choices toward fulfilling their aspirations at both economic and career levels. For those considering their study abroad journey, this shift provides an opportunity to remind each potential traveler of where the latest requirements in visas, funding, and long-term opportunities can be found.

Dr. Gita Piramal Scholarship is the first attempt by Somerville College at Oxford University to sponsor fully Indian students at one of the worlds most elite institutions. Highly academic, financially less privileged students would find this scholarship an opportunity of a lifetime. A tribute to Dr. Gita Piramal: The Dr. Gita Piramal Scholarship honors contributions by Dr. Gita Piramal toward the academic and corporate world. This distinguished business historian has, over time, played an important role in the way people perceive corporate India; indeed, her works are part of the discussion material in many MBA programs worldwide. Dr. Piramal has been connected with Somerville College, being a Senior Associate Fellow and mentor, guiding up-and-coming leaders in business and beyond for decades. Reflecting on the establishment of the scholarship, Dr. Piramal expressed, “India has always been my family home, while Somerville has served as my intellectual home for many years.” This scholarship will enable bright young minds from India to benefit from Oxford’s rich academic environment, contributing to India’s future development.” Her commitment to fostering talent underscores the importance of education in shaping the future of India. Supporting Bright Minds The Dr. Gita Piramal Scholarship will elevate India’s talented students by sponsoring full tuition and a living stipend. It is designed for candidates from underprivileged backgrounds to ensure that financial barriers will not stand in the way of world-class education. It will be a five-year program, with the expectation of enriching India’s intellectual pool and supporting sustainable growth in the country. Contributions by Dr Piramal and the power of this scholarship inspired a great remark from Jan Royall, Principal of Somerville College: “It is a privilege to honor such a longstanding friend of the college in this way. The name of Dr. Piramal will be associated with inspiring brilliant Indian students to seize the opportunities of an Oxford education and to use their learning to contribute to India.” Improving Access to Education Since its inception in 2013, the OICSD has supported to date over 60 Indian students at Oxford University. Many of these students returned to India to spearhead serious problems in Indian healthcare and technology, especially climate change. Induction of the Dr. Gita Piramal scholarship will further drive the mission towards ensuring the ability to access more meritorious talents to the academic resource pool and possibilities that Oxford offers. This scholarship program does not only represent educational benefits for the students of India, but it also represents global cooperation and knowledge transfer. From this perspective, Somerville College and the Piramal family are investing in the leaders of tomorrow and working towards a more sustainable future for generations to come. To ApplyScholarship applications can be done based on eligibility criteria and the steps to apply for the same, which can be downloaded from the official website: Dr. Gita Piramal Scholarship. The very main purpose of this scholarship program is to attract some of India’s brightest minds to join Oxford University and experience that transformative educational journey. Conclusion: A Pathway to Success The establishment of the Dr. Gita Piramal Scholarship at Somerville College marked a giant step for access to quality education by Indian students, removing that financial hurdle in the process of entirely assisting students. With the help of Somerville College and the OICSD, Indian students can now pursue study and work at one of the world’s great universities.

Central Europe study abroad trends reveal that these Indian students now prefer countries from the region, such as Italy, Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, Austria, and Malta rather than the traditional Anglosphere destinations of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. According to insights revealed by University Living at the Global Education Conclave 2024, the inflow of Indian students into those countries has increased significantly toward the respective nations in the last few years because they provide high-quality education and lower tuition costs along with adequate post-study options. This reflects the attractiveness of Central European countries as the first destination for the Indian student population seeking foreign studies. The Indian student population at European institutions would grow by more than 200%, outpacing the growth perceived in the U.S., UK, Australia, and Canada by up to 150%. This is because the current base of Indian students in European countries is small, thus offering large room for growth in the study abroad sector. Saurabh Arora, founder & CEO of University Living, said Central European countries are now more prepared to teach in English, hence more accessible to international students. Also, more Indian families can now afford sending their children abroad for higher studies, thus expanding the market for universities in Europe. Drivers of Preference towards Central Europe According to the University Living report, European Student Landscape: Beyond Beds and Benches, the factors contributing to the trend of an increase in Central Europe as an overseas destination for Indian students are: Quality of Education and Low Fee CostsCentral Europe can offer high-caliber education to students, mostly on relatively lower tuition fees. Public universities have experienced these in most of their institutions. Courses such as in the fields of engineering, design, and cultural studies attract so many students, mainly into countries like Germany and Italy. Value walks together with the ability to ensure the quality of financial access. What happens after study ? Can there be mobility within Europe for students ? There is vast scope post-graduation in Europe for international graduates. There are adequate schemes that provide opportunities for students to stay after graduation or intern in an organization, so it is very alluring to many Indians wishing to seek international exposure. Additionally, the degree offered by Schengen countries facilitates excellent mobility throughout Schengen countries; for example, one is allowed to visit and be permitted to work within other countries that are also members of Schengen Area. Staying in Europe is a great experience for Indian students, as it helps them to experience a diverse culture, language, and lifestyle. Berlin, Barcelona, and Vienna are such cities where the student communities are quite active, allowing Indian students to build networks all over the world and make their international experience rich. Popular Courses and Universities for Indian Students in Central Europe Along with this trend of student choices for Central Europe come particular preferences in courses as well as institutions that complement the needs of the contemporary global job market. Of the top courses and their respective institutions, according to the report from University Living, this includes:1. India Students prefer engineering, research, and natural sciences’ courses at German institutions. This includes institutions like the TU Munich and Heidelberg University.2. Spain: The most popular and followed disciplines in Spain are in medicine, architecture, social sciences, and the biggest establishments such as the University of Barcelona and the University of Madrid.3. Italy: Indian students interested in art, design, or cultural studies often opt for the University of Bologna and Sapienza University in Italy.4. France and Portugal: Both Sorbonne University from France and the University of Lisbon and NOVA University in Portugal are favorites with Indians as well. Economic Impact of International Students in Central Europe International students, along with Indian students, amount to a significant proportion in the economies of Central European countries. For example, as of 2023, international students in Europe collected over €16 billion on their behalf in rental incomes, real estate development, and demand for student apartments. University Living has taken shape as a global market place for student housing with the help of a community-based approach and has successfully aided more than 2 million beds across 515 cities worldwide, including several famous European cities in the UK and North America. Conclusion: Why Central Europe Is the Next Big Destination for Indian Students As academic options are increasing in Europe, Central Europe has started becoming a destination for most Indian students. Cost-effectiveness and a multicultural atmosphere combined with an extensive pathway post-study attract international students from India to the region’s universities. Such a shift in student mobility to Europe reflects an emerging landscape where Indian students opt for countries like Germany, Spain, Italy, and France rather than the traditional destination as it is affordable, with quality education and a great cultural experience. By 2030, Central Europe is also expected to further maintain its position, which would boost inter-exchanges among different educational institutions and strengthen the worldwide academic community.

Among such international collaborations in education between Germany and India, the German Dresden University of Technology and the Indian Institute of Technology, Chennai, have joined hands to provide a dual-degree program. This, in fact, was included in a recent speech by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a way to encourage international academic mobility while also answering the emerging need in Germany for more skilled workers. Enhance Academic Cooperation between Germany and India The newly signed accord between Dresden University and IIT Chennai is part of the much broader vision for deeper educational and economic ties between Germany and India. Students will gain degrees, widely recognized internationally, that practically will widen their career options. “This is an extremely important development for Indian students,” observes Rajaraman Narayanan, professor-in-charge at IIT Madras. People-to-people connection is a very important pillar of our relations,” said Prime Minister Modi while highlighting the dual degree initiative as the way to “skill and vocational education.” Dual Degree Program Structure: Learning from Two Top Institutions The dual-degree program between IIT Chennai and Dresden University allows students to spend their time studying in both countries. Academic and cultural understanding gained through this education will make the student fit well in a global workforce. Engineering, technology, and healthcare are high-demand fields; graduates will have a competitive advantage in an interdependent job market of today. This extra incentive for students to participate is provided by the Skilled Labour Strategies developed by the government of Germany to overcome the deficiencies of labor shortages. Self-explanatory is Germany’s move to increase the annual visa quota for skilled professionals from India from 20,000 to 90,000 with a view to the value of the talent of Indians. This is well placed to ensure the students take advantage of an overall strong academic and professional environment and build a career that contributes to the German as well as the global economy. Enhance Germany’s offerings for Indian students to expand study abroad. Germany has always been a highly preferred destination for Indian students in technical and engineering courses, and this collaboration would be one of the strongest answers to the current trend of international students. For instance, this dual degree is a catalyst to get Indian students out into the competitive job market with the needed experience and qualification, making graduates from IIT Chennai and Dresden University stand out to international employers. Aligns with Germany’s skilled labor strategy Germany’s Skilled Labour Strategy is meant to sponsor talent from India to fill labor gaps. This is one such dual-degree program that follows up on this strategy. The program not only fulfills the needs of workers but also enriches the educational culture of Germany by providing education to a group from diverse origins. The program for skilling Indian youth further maintains Germany’s focus on sustainable economic growth and development of skilled labor. Prime Minister Modi underlined the benefit for both parties by mentioning that the youth power of India was contributing to the prosperity and growth of Germany. He warmly welcomed Germany’s Skilled Labour Strategies, which invite talented Indian students to Germany for opportunities that would contribute to the economy of Germany. Future of Indo-German Collaboration in Education and Workforce Development This joint degree program marks a significant milestone in sharing both educational and economic targets that have been mapped for Germany and India. Since the education plans suit the current workforce requirements, this is one pattern that can be adopted by any future collaborations. When students undergo such programs, they will acquire rare skills as well as technical expertise to be deployed into industries that have very stringent requirements for international cooperation. Conclusion In conclusion, the IIT Chennai and Dresden University dual-degree program is one of the pioneering efforts to increase academic mobility and skill development for Indian students. It is an important step as the world is increasingly embracing globalized education, thereby ensuring that students gain the experience, qualifications, and confidence to excel in international careers.

The Auckland University of Technology internship program has provided the rare opportunity of working on a pioneering research project for a 20-year-old BITS Pilani student from the stream of electronics and electrical engineering, Preetham Reddy Kasarla. This collaboration of the prestigious institutions in India and New Zealand develops a bond between the institutions, helping Indian students have access to advanced research in special fields and strengthening global academic bonds. An Esteemed Internship Opportunity at Auckland University of Technology In May 2024, student Preetham Reddy Kasarla from BITS Pilani traveled to New Zealand to take up a unique research internship at the Auckland University of Technology (AUT). This was yet another exposure for him to one of the most specialized fields in electronics: designing terahertz antennas on a chip. Such antennas are critical to high-frequency applications and can be of microscopic proportions, making them even more complex and valuable research topics. Working under the guidance of Professor Xuejun Li from the AUT School of Engineering, Computer, and Mathematical Sciences, Preetham conducted his internship. The topic involves the utilization of cutting-edge technology, such as the Ansys HFSS (high-frequency structure simulator) software, to overcome the challenges with the theory and design of the antenna. Basically, research is targeted at upgrading the efficiency and manufacturing process of nanoscale antennas that are of crucial applications in biomedical fields and high-speed communication technologies. How BITS Pilani and AUT Come Together for This Internship Preetham’s international internship journey to BITS Pilani started when Dr. Ashwin Polishetty, a senior lecturer at AUT, visited BITS Pilani in 2023. After seeing a LinkedIn post about Dr. Polishetty’s visit, Preetham reached him out for a connection with Professor Xuejun Li at AUT. Such opportunities would come in handy, and, more importantly, “This was a unique opportunity to connect BITS Pilani and AUT through student internships and confirm AUT’s commitment to collaborate with the top-ranking universities in India for research and academic purposes.” This collaboration reflects AUT’s commitment to fostering international research exchanges. Pro-Vice-Chancellor International Guy Littlefair comments on the significance of such research projects: “Preetham’s project highlights the value of international research collaborations and helps outline how advanced technology can benefit a range of subjects.” The university, rejuvenated by its renewed interest in developing student mobility, offered Preetham accommodation and expense help while undertaking this internship. Learning Experience and Future Plans This was not just an academically enriching experience at AUT but also a step towards future collaboration. Though the internship is not for academic credit, he looks forward to continuing research in New Zealand when he goes back to India, working closely with his mentor at BITS Pilani, Prof. Sourav Nandi.” His internship filled out valuable knowledge to his already impressive background on robotics and allowed him to merge his passion for on-chip electronics with practical research. He said AUT labs were well equipped, especially for running complex simulations. In essence, he would strive to overcome the manufacturing challenges of nanoscale antenna design and eventually develop prototypes at the new antenna facility of BITS Pilani. Conclusion International academic partnerships like this New Zealand internship for Indian students show great promise. From a BITS Pilani campus to an Auckland University of Technology campus, the opportunities for Indian students are nowadays expanding to engage in research initiatives. With AUT taking the charge in arranging such an experience, Indian students are able to step onto the world stage and contribute towards innovations that can possibly build the future of technology. Preetham’s internship symbolizes the way international research collaborations create impact and how students use global platforms to produce unprecedented outcomes. The connection between BITS Pilani and AUT further expands opportunities for such students searching for similar internship opportunities, bringing Indian talent within the international research ecosystem. It describes the importance of the BITS Pilani abroad internship as well as stresses international research collaboration. The hopes and dreams of the Indian students are being fulfilled through the internship at Auckland University of Technology in Preetham.

India Study Abroad trends report indicate that still more students who had passed Indian state boards continued growing international education with more girls in 2024. There was a shift on who studies abroad in the perceptions because more and more girls were opting for international education hence breaking the record increase in international student seekers. This new tide of international students represents an important shift in demographics since the local board students have started leaving the traditional aspirations behind and take up their experiences in different parts of the world. Indian State Board students discover global education ends stereotypes. Believe for long enough that only students from the elite boards like ICSE and CBSE wanted to go abroad. But now this perception is changing, where Indian state board students are studying in a growing number abroad. The report vividly brings across the fact that state board students are as keen to experience global opportunities as students from the larger established education systems. They want exposure, different methodologies of education, and a high-end career. Interestingly, the majority of the population is female students, in 34% of all interested students in studying abroad, as reported. The trend especially points to a significant shift whereby female students have pushed the boundaries of what one can envisage in educational aspirations and career development. Actually, women students are increasingly studying abroad. The female student population studying abroad was a reflection of the approach by which women were flouting their cultural expectations to meet their academic aspirations on a global platform. Changing Trends in Destination and Subjects in Study Abroad If classic study destination majors like Canada and the UK are considered as a benchmark, then the US retains the top position; however, there is a significant shift in the interest of applicant students towards emerging destinations like Japan and the Netherlands. These countries are increasingly preferred by Indian students due to the high-class institutions and innovative packages that their academic institutions offer. This, apart from reflecting interest in various cultures and ways of academizing, also reflects a desire for students to stand out through unclear or radical location choices. In fields, while STEM fields continue to remain high, the interest in non-STEM areas is growing. Now, students are opting for psychology, law, sport sciences, architecture, performing arts, and social sciences. Such diversification also has to do with a change in the pattern of academic interest, seeking well-rounded and multifaceted educational experience. Today’s students appear to cultivate a great deal more than just a technical career, instead trying to contribute in all the other areas that require critical thinking and creativity as well as social understanding. Causes of the Emergence of International Desires One of the major reasons many Indian state board students prefer to study abroad is the rapid digital penetration across India. Such online resources and education platforms ensure even the remotest corner of the country is informed about studying abroad. Digital tools have democratized access to education opportunities worldwide, giving students all the information related to scholarships, programs, and admissions. Increased access to international education has also opened more opportunities for female students who, for reasons of socio-economic and cultural factors, would not have been exposed to the opportunity of studying abroad. The incidence is thus reflected in the general perception of female students nowadays, who have been enhanced in awareness regarding the possibility of studying abroad, with increased participation on this aspect. Conclusion It’s an encouraging leap in the numbers of students from Indian state boards going abroad—an indication that there is a democratization process of global learning opportunities that we are witnessing. Students from local boards, in greater and greater numbers, want to pursue international education—and today, these very students are rewriting that debate of ‘who gets to study abroad and why’. Indian state board students abroad are on a strong study trend with the stride and hunger for higher education, moving forward with more female students, which will continue to rise in 2024. As information is gained and access to global education increases, it will result in the growth of bringing in a greater diverse and inclusive pool of international scholars.