Education

If Donald Trump does get reelected for a second term in 2025, international students in America may find quite different surroundings: with a large shift toward merit-based immigration policies, toughened requirements for obtaining visas, and increased attention to family-based immigration. This is likely to make international students study, live, and work much harder in the U.S. as the government decides to increase priority for applicants of higher skill and tightens controls on all visa programs. Some adjustments to these changes will challenge opportunities. The changed direction of immigration policies may pose new hurdles for international students and legal immigrants alike, such as times of visa processing, job opportunities, and access to higher education. Here is how moving to America might look in 2025 under President Trump. H-1B and Employment-Based Immigration Could Tighten Further The already-attacked H-1B visa programme, with more regulations during the first term of his presidency, may be in line for even further restrictions from the second-term administration. Changes might include increasing the wage scale to prevent the displacement of American workers, reducing visa caps but giving preference to those applicants with advanced degrees and specialised skills, and increasing processing times with higher denial rates. Other employment-based visa programs, such as the L-1 visa, used for intracompany transfers, also would fall under closer examination. Applicants would be asked for more documentation, resulting in more delays and denials. Family-Based Immigration May Contract Family unification might become challenging if a merit-based immigration regime prevails. Trump’s family-based immigration restrictions are likely to follow the pattern described below: Sponsorship opportunities for siblings and adult children of U.S. citizens and permanent residents are limited. Increased proof of financial stability that makes it hard for some families to reunite Family-based green card processing time delay International Student Changes For international students, the process to study in the U.S. under a Trump administration could be even more problematic. There would be stricter examination of the F-1 student visa process, deeper interview processes, and further inquiry into the current financial condition of the applicant. Further bans could potentially be imposed on those students from countries believed to be security threats or whose academic focus would be in technology and/or science. OPT, a program allowing foreign students to work in the U.S. after they graduate, might also be more highly regulated. Under the Trump regime, most expect the OPT era to shrink, application fees to rise, and the bar for employers hiring OPT students will be increased. While STEM students may still have pathways into transitioning into H-1B visas, Trump’s merit-based focus could make American graduates greater priorities than international students, making competition for jobs fierce. Impact on University Enrolment A decline in international student visa approvals could reduce the flow of new international students to U.S. universities. This would substantially reduce university funding, especially those programs relying on international tuition. It would be extremely difficult for universities to maintain academic quality, and in certain areas of study, such as science and technology, fewer resources would be developed. Public Charge Rule May Return One of the most contentious policies from Trump’s first term, the public charge rule, may be reinstated. This policy provides an analysis of whether an immigrant is likely to depend on government benefits. If so, this rule could make it harder for immigrants to get a green card since it may view them as relying on public benefits. Conclusion Moving to the U.S. in 2025 under Trump’s possible second term may be fraught with challenges, both for legal immigrants and international students. In this merit-based approach to immigration, it could be more competitive and restrictive, with tougher visa policies and fewer options for family reunification. International students will face difficulties in finding work experience, while universities will face class size maintenance challenges due to the issuance of fewer student visas.

A decision to study abroad can bring opportunities for life-changing experiences in academics, cultural experience, personal growth, and professional advantages. As more students pursue international education, the benefits of studying abroad have become increasingly evident. From the feeling of independence to expanding one’s network around the world, reasons to study abroad are endless. Here are five valid reasons why you should take the leap. 1. Expand Academic and Professional Horizons Studying abroad is a great way to expand your academic and professional horizons. International universities offer variety in courses, teaching methods, and novel ideas about the field for which you pursue your degree, whether it be business, science, the arts, or others. Besides, international experience is a big plus to employers. Studying abroad gives you that edge on your resume that some how makes it stand above the many resumes in the pile. The global skills developed in you may make you more attractive to future employers and sometimes even open doors to international career opportunities. 2. New Cultural Immersion Cultural immersion is one of the enriching aspects of studying abroad. You live in a foreign country and thereby have exposure to various languages, traditions, and ways of life that enhance your knowledge of diverse cultures. Either learning a new language, celebrating local festivals, or trying different kinds of food—all can be part of studying abroad and give you the experience of living your life through a different cultural perspective. This, in turn, helps in the building of a global mindset, which is absolutely necessary in today’s interdependent world. Understanding cultural nuances enriches cross-cultural communication, which is highly critical in almost all professional dealings but, more so, in global business and diplomacy. 3. Develop independence and life skills. Studying abroad nurtures independence and life skills. You find yourself moving to a new country, learning to live in an unfamiliar environment, managing your finances, using public transportation systems, and dealing with all everyday problems by yourself. This helps you build resilience, confidence, and self-reliance—very important ingredients for personal and professional success. Besides this, living abroad also teaches you the necessary survival skills such as budgeting, cooking, and time management. The ability to live in a foreign environment may make you more mature and responsible, equipping you with the abilities to meet challenges that will arise throughout your future life. 4. Expand Your Global Network Another considerable advantage one can gain by studying abroad is widening their circle of friends and networking on an international scale. There is bound to be diversity in people with whom you study, professors, or professionals in whatever field. These contacts can serve as lifelong friendships and build up your professional network of contacts. International networking might bring about opportunities that otherwise would have been inexistent. In this way, the international network can later be turned into a real trump card regarding possible future careers, since contacts in various countries open up completely new opportunities for employment, collaboration, and professional development. 5. Witness personal growth and change. It is further than academics; studying abroad is a personal journey into the development of character. Away from home, one is compelled to venture out of the comfort zone and into experiencing new things. This helps build self-awareness, adaptability, and emotional resilience. You will know how to manage risks, adapt to new lifestyles, and know better who you are. The independence and self-assurance obtained by staying in a foreign country may give an impulse for taking on future challenges with optimism to help your evolution both personally and professionally. Conclusion The many rewards of studying abroad may include further academic enrichment through personal transformation. Such is a unique chance to be deeply involved in a new culture, expand one’s circle of global contacts, and acquire life skills that will serve throughout a lifetime. Whether career enhancement or personal growth is your objective, deciding to study abroad can be one of the most rewarding decisions you will ever make.

Germany is one of the favourite countries for international students due to its highly recognised universities, quality academic programs, and research opportunities. Even though tuition can be free or at a very low cost in many institutions, living expenses in Germany may be quite high, especially in major cities. For this reason, many international students look forward with pleasure to part-time work as a way of covering monthly expenses while adding relevant work experience to their resume. So, can international students work in Germany? Well, yes, but with some regulations to be followed. Now, let’s get to how it is possible for international students to work legally while studying in Germany. Germany Student Visa Work Permit for International Students In-country international students are allowed to work part-time, but it all depends on which country they come from. Being informed of the rules will keep international students safe from legal problems when working on a student visa. Rules of Working for International Students Coming from EU/EEA CountriesEU or EEA students, as well as Swiss students, have equal rights with German students. It means they are allowed to work up to 20 percent of the working week during the semester. However, if a student works more than the said limit, one will be obliged to contribute to Germany’s social security system, which may affect studies because of the additional workload. Working Regulations for Students Coming from Outside the EU/EEAThere are various regulations for students from non-EU/EEA countries. Students coming from those countries are allowed to work a total of 120 full days or 240 half days in a year. For any other kind of employment—a job as a research assistant or student assistant at the university is an example—the above-mentioned rule is an exception. Students in this position have to report to the local Alien Registration Office before the commencement of work. The internships during semester breaks will be considered part of the 120-day/240-half-day limit. Moreover, students who earn less than €450 a month are exempt from paying taxes. On the contrary, in cases where the money earned in a month is higher than this amount, they will be provided with a tax number, and that needs to be deducted. However, this amount can be claimed as a refund by students through the submission of an appropriate tax statement at the end of the year. Part-Time Work Benefits for International Students in Germany The following are some of the many benefits of working part-time during studies in Germany: the sustenance of the cost of living and education costs for international students, easier rentals, transportation, and daily consumables. Students also gain relevant work experience that could be a plus in securing jobs in their future career. Part-time work opportunities in Germany enable students to improve their German language capabilities and fit into the culture more effectively. Conclusion International students in Germany are allowed to work alongside pursuing their studies, although any working is guided by one’s nationality. Part-time working can be an opportunity for reducing the financial burden, gaining practical skills, as well as making a person more employable. Thus, balancing between work and studies will make it possible for students in Germany to effectively use their time in the country and create the most favourable conditions for their future careers.

The IELTS exam is said to be a short route towards universities in English-speaking countries for incoming international students. Whatever your destination might be, whether Canada, the UK, Australia, or somewhere else, knowing the IELTS exam dates, paper pattern, and marking scheme is crucial. This blog will take you through the upcoming IELTS exam dates for September 2024 and give you an overview of the paper format and scoring system. IELTS Exam Dates in September 2024 IELTS Exam dates in September 2024 include the following: September 7th, 2024: Academic only September 14th, 2024: General Training and Academic September 19th, 2024: Academic only September 28th, 2024: General Training and Academic Candidates who wish to study abroad in countries like the United States of America, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and several European countries need to register for one of these dates. IELTS is recognised by universities and institutions around the world; hence, it is of prime importance if one needs to head abroad to study. Understanding the Pattern of the IELTS Paper The pattern of the question paper consists of four sections, namely reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Following is what each section consists of.1. Reading>> Format: Three passages from newspapers, journals, or books.>> Questions: 40 questions based on the reading material.    Duration: 60 minutes.>> Focus: The passages shall be designed to assess a candidate’s comprehension and ability to process information quickly. 2. Writing>> Format: Two pieces of writing>> Task 1: A 150-word writing piece>> Task 2: A 250-word essayTime: 60 minutes.>> Skills: The questions assess your skills on how you could present arguments, analyse some data, and express your ideas vividly. 3. Speaking>> Format : The speaking section is taken as an individual-based interview, and it’s divided into three parts.>> Introduction and Interview>> Cue card-based talk>> A discussion about the given topic in detailTime: 11 to 14 minutes>> Skills: This section grades your fluency, coherence, range of vocabulary, and pronunciation. 4. Listening>> Format: Four recorded monologues and conversations>> Questions: There are 40 questions based on the audio recording.Time: 30 minutes.>> Focus: The recordings test your ability to understand main ideas, opinions, and detailed information. IELTS Marking Scheme The IELTS marking scheme consists of band scores that range from 0 to 9. Each section, which comprises reading, writing, speaking, and listening, is separately graded; an overall band score is calculated by averaging the four section scores.For example, if a candidate scores: Listening: 7 Reading: 6.5 Writing: 8 Speaking: 7.5 The average of the scores across the four sections would be 7.25; this gets rounded down to 7.0.List of IELTS Exam Dates Coming 2024Candidates who cannot take this test in September can choose other IELTS exam dates coming in 2024: October 5: Academic and General Training October 10: Academic October 19: Academic October 26: Academic and General Training November 2:  Academic November 7: Academic November 16: Academic and General Training November 23: Academic November 30: Academic and General Training December 5: Academic December 7: Academic and General Training December 14: Academic and General Training December 21: Academic Conclusion Since the IELTS exam plays such an important role in a student’s migration to another country for higher education, it is of utmost importance that their preparation be much better. Knowing the pattern of the IELTS paper and the method of marking will surely give more confidence to candidates in attempting each section confidently. Now, note down the IELTS 2024 exam dates and schedule your preparation accordingly. Good luck!

The UK Universities have been under a lot of financial squeeze for some months now since tightened visa restrictions came into force on international students. The tightened rules have brought applications from international students down sharper than ever before, lowering the income that usually comes to the universities in the form of higher tuition fees. This has driven many universities to raise domestic tuition to compensate for their growing deficits and solve the financial problems they find themselves in. Impact of Visa Restrictions on University Finances Visa restrictions, introduced during the tenure of former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, have been so limiting to the ability of international students to bring along their families that the number of student applications has plummeted. Official figures showed applications from overseas were 30,000 fewer than in the same quarter for 2024. That has left universities scrambling to find a way to bridge the financial gap since international students often pay higher tuition fees compared to their domestic students and are a crucial source of income. In the 2022-2023 academic year, the UK’s higher education generated more than £50 billion, most from tuition fees and grants. On account of the reduction in numbers due to restrictions on international students, universities have fallen into significant financial pressure. Sally Mapstone, president of Universities UK (UUK), a representative of 141 higher education institutions, said the new restrictions are making all universities “feel the crunch.” Tuition Fee Hike: The Only Solution ? This would be a balancing-off against the loss of money coming in from foreign students. Tuition fees for home students in the UK have been capped at £9,250 annually since 2017, but with higher inflation and operational costs, this is definitely an unsustainably low rate. Shitij Kapur, head of King’s College London, urged an increase in fees to between £12,000 and £13,000 to fill the shortfall in funding. This means that the deficit is quite considerable in the sector, with universities facing a shortfall of £1.7 billion in teaching and £5 billion in research funding. Unless domestic fees are increased, many institutions will have little choice but to cut courses, axe staff, or, in the most extreme of cases, face closure. Government’s Role in Addressing the Crisis Speaking at a UUK conference in Reading, the newly appointed Education Secretary, Labour’s Bridget Phillipson, admitted that ‘big, complex issues face our higher education sector’. She promised attention but perhaps not immediate action. This comes after universities have been urging the government for more investment and support to protect what many believe is the UK’s world-leading system. Conclusion Visa curbs for international students dealt a blow no doubt to the finances of UK universities, which may be compensated by increasing home tuition fees. Support by the government will be relevant toward ensuring teaching and research at the higher education institution remains viable during such uncertainty and hence allow UK universities to continue offering world-class education.

International students do not just go to study abroad; it means cultural change, learning the laws and regulations of that place, and then gearing up themselves for professional success thereafter. This guide maps out ways in which students can thrive, not just survive, during their international academic journeys. Surviving First: The Early TransitionGaining admission to a foreign university is only the beginning. The real test of endurance lies in adapting to a new environment that has its own set of cultural, academic, and legal demands. For over a million international students who enter their first academic year in the U.S., the initial months are really crucial. Orientation programs, besides understanding the dos and don’ts of the local culture and education system, go a long way in steering clear of unnecessary pitfalls. Understanding Local Rules and Regulations Among the very first challenges an international student faces are those visa and work regulations. Ignorance of local laws leads to serious consequences, as recent cases showed where students were placed under deportation due to visa violations. According to the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, SEVIS, visa issues affected more than 2,000 international students in 2022 alone. In order not to find oneself in such situations, it is crucial to be aware of legislation concerning working hours and legal constraints related to student visas. Thriving: Lifelong Learning for the FutureAfter settling, thriving as an international student involves attention to both academic and personal development. Upskilling is among the most significant tips toward securing a future.We are living in a world that is fast-paced and digital, and to be on par, learning has to be a continuous process. AI and data analytics are restructuring industries, and it is believed that by 2025, automation could affect 85 million jobs. Upskilling opportunities therefore need to be leveraged through online courses or workshops for students to stay ahead of the curve. India, while studying abroad, provides the cheapest training on the latest technologies, such as generative AI and low-code, no-code solutions, which will give the student added capability to develop skills in high demand. Building Your Professional Brand The brighter your professional identity, the brighter your career prospects will shine through. Success for an international student means investing far more than just money into education—it’s about personal and professional growth. Networking sites such as LinkedIn boast in excess of 930 million members and are invaluable in helping showcase such expertise. Take advantage of all such opportunities to network with professionals in your field, find mentors, or let potential employers know about you. Personal Finance: Invest wiselyYour international study experience is a critical investment. Cost of Education/Living in the United States. may average an estimate from $20,000 to $50,000 per year for an international student. You should achieve a balance in spending on your education against investing in your personal growth and skills development. The life of an international student means one has to be prepared for eventualities that challenge one’s existence financially. Academic integrity is an important component of your success as a student. Most colleges and universities consider plagiarism one of the most serious infractions. Actually, studies conducted by the International Centre for Academic Integrity found that 68% of undergraduate students said they had cheated on an exam or assignment. So, it is important to learn the rules of academic writing in order not to make an unintentional plagiarism that will affect your academic reputation. Engage in community and impact-based activities. While academics are great, involvement in community and impact-based activities gives meaning to your international experience. Volunteering, joining student organisations, and participating in local community initiatives could offer a sense of belonging, enrich your resume, and provide important life skills. Many universities encourage their students to be involved in different projects that have a difference in making. Leverage university resources effectively. From career counselling services to international student support centres, colleges have many resources available that can offer valuable guidance, networking contacts, and practical advice to help international students make the most of their experience. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, 86% of institutions offer career counseling. Students rarely take advantage of those that do exist. Conclusion The very routine of academic diligence will hardly be enough for an international student to keep their head above water and make it through. Other crucial ways are understanding the local regulations, upskilling ahead of the game, building a professional brand, and making wise financial decisions. University and community engagement will thus mean that students leverage international education as a transformational opportunity full of rewards.

Applications for the Chevening Scholarship 2025, which presents an opportunity for prospective students from every part of the world for an opportunity to study for a one-year master’s at any prestigious university in the UK, have commenced. The highly competitive scholarship will be fully funded, covering course fees, accommodation, and travel expenses – which for many students are just a dream if they want to study in the UK. Why Choose Chevening Scholarships? The Chevening Scholarship is known for the development of future leaders, influencers, and decision-makers in fields. Considering that the application will close on November 5, 2024, applicants have a great chance to be beneficiaries of the program, which offers more than just financial support but also the extensive network of professionals and resources to help them build their futures. Eligibility Criteria for Chevening Scholarships 2025 Educational Qualification : The candidate needs to have an undergraduate degree; it is the minimum requirement for getting admission into the master’s program in the UK. Applications to University: An applicant must show three different course applications to the UK university and needs to gain at least one unconditional admission offer from a UK university by the deadline. Nationality: Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country or territory. Work Experience: The applicant must have a minimum work experience of two years that equates to 2,800 hours. The experience should include in-service conditions: full-time, part-time, internship, voluntary work, and either paid or unpaid. However, experience gained as part of a degree program is not taken into consideration. A commitment to return to one’s home country for a period of at least two years after the completion of one’s scholarship is needed on the part of the successful candidate. Important Dates: Chevening Scholarship 2025 Application Opens:  August 6, 2024Application Deadline:  November 5, 2024Reading Committee Assessments:  Mid-November 2024 to January 2025Deadline to Submit Educational Qualifications and References:  February 19, 2025Interview Period:  February 26 to April 25, 2025Scholarship Results Announced:  June 2025 onwardsDeadline to Submit at Least One UK University Offer:   July 11, 2025 How to Apply for Chevening Scholarships 2025? Application for Chevening Scholarships 2025 is rather easy and simple. The applying candidates need to log in to the official website, chevening.org, and click the ‘Apply’ link on the homepage. The candidate can then fill out the application form online after registering themselves with Chevening. It is recommended to print a copy of the application form for personal records after clicking on the submit tab. Conclusion For everyone who wants to continue further studies in the United Kingdom, the Chevening Scholarships 2025 emerge as an incomparable opportunity. This fully funded scholarship, with an introduction to a global professional network, is more than financial aid; it’s a doorway to enriching academics and professionals.

New Zealand has gradually emerged as one of the favourite destinations among Indian students for quality education, combined with the enrichment of life. Globally recognised degrees, good visa policies that are student-friendly, and vibrant cultural experiences are pushing more Indian students to head towards New Zealand with each passing year. In the following sections, we will discuss six important reasons why New Zealand has emerged as the first priority of Indian students for going abroad to study. Following are six reasons why New Zealand is a favourite destination for Indian students: 1. Easy Student Visa Policy It allows for one of the easiest and fastest student visa processes in the world. Even after the recent increase in its visa application fee from NZD 375 to NZD 750, it’s still less restrictive and faster than destinations like Australia. This flexibility enables students to avoid delays and concentrate on their academic sojourn much earlier, thus making New Zealand a hassle-free destination for Indian students. 2. Globally recognised qualifications New Zealand universities are globally reputed for their rankings and accordingly offer degrees recognised and accorded respect throughout the world. Be it the engineering or business management sector or fields related to creative arts, the qualifications obtained from New Zealand universities say a lot about your future career prospects. Moreover, you will also get modern, fully equipped facilities, along with ample opportunities in almost every stream of study if you are a research-orientated student. 3. Affordability with Scholarships and Financial Aids Relatively speaking, New Zealand’s education system may look quite a bit more affordable compared to other popular study destinations, like the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia. The tuition fees are not too high, but the rather low cost of living of the country makes it a real deal for the majority of Indian students. On average, an Indian student’s monthly living expenses would amount to about INR 84,998 (1,715.4 NZD). Besides these, the availability of scholarships, which are strictly for international students, can be another way to reduce financial burdens further and find it easier to continue with academic dreams. 4. Work Opportunities after Study New Zealand hosts one of the most liberal post-study work visa schemes in the world. It allows international students to remain and work in the country for up to three years post-completion of the degree. The student is then subjected to a wealth of working experience and positions well for possible permanent residency in New Zealand. 5. Relatively Low Cost of Living New Zealand is relatively an affordable country for students. The annual cost of living, which includes accommodation, food, and transportation, ranges from NZD 18,000 to NZD 27,000, depending on the region. Even cities like Wellington and Auckland, with higher costs compared with other places, are more affordable in comparison with the bigger Australian cities. This now makes for a great balance: their budgets are manageable, yet they enjoy an excellent lifestyle. 6. Safe and welcoming environment From its friendly, more inclusive culture to New Zealand’s standing as one of the safest countries in the world, it is an easy place for Indian students to adapt to and thrive in a multicultural society that welcomes them. Enjoy multiple outdoor activities: trekking, skiing, or simply visiting national parks for a healthy, active lifestyle. Therefore, Conclusion With its relatively affordable education, globally recognised qualifications, flexible visa policy, and safe, welcoming environment, New Zealand is definitely one of the favourite study destinations for Indian students. Added advantages like post-study work opportunities and relatively lower living costs make New Zealand an excellent destination academically and personally for Indian students.

For the second year in a row, Princeton University leads Forbes’ America’s top universities and Colleges ranking. Ranked among the top 500 for educational, financial, and career outcomes, this is a very illuminating guide for prospective students. As we go through the top universities in America for 2024, let us establish what stands out about them, or for what reasons each of these has been rated as the best options for higher education. 1. Princeton University Located in Princeton, NJ, Princeton University continues to perform highly on all metrics while providing the best education a student could want. With an outstanding 97% six-year graduation rate for low-income students and an average alumni salary upon graduating at $189,400, Princeton continues to be one of the most viable options for students looking to make it to the top. Large amounts of financial aid are doled out to ensure higher learning is available to all, with the average grant a whopping $59,792. Acceptance Rate:  6%SAT Composite Range:  1490-1580ACT Composite Range:  35-35 2. Stanford University Stanford University occupies the second position, having a very vibrant learning environment along with one of the highest earning potentials for graduates. Located in the centre of Silicon Valley, the private university has an average grant aid of $60,619 and an alumni salary of $177,500. It is one of the finest destinations for future leaders and budding entrepreneurs, having a rather vigorous academic curriculum combined with an innovative culture. Acceptance Rate:  4%SAT Composite Range:  1500-1580ACT Composite Range:  33-35 3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is known for its cutting-edge research and gruelling academic programs; hence, it is a favourite of every student majoring in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. With average grant aid at $ 45,591 and an alumni salary on par with Princeton at $ 189,400, it continues to chum out some of the most influential innovators globally. There is great respect for the institution’s insistence on excellence through its selected track of admission and set high academic standards. Acceptance Rate:  4%SAT Composite Range:  1530-1580ACT Composite Range:  35-36 4. Yale University Founded in 1701, Yale University represents one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United States. The university offers a rich academic heritage combined with influential research opportunities. Situated in New Haven, CT, Yale is generous with its financial aid, offering an average grant of $63,523. Graduates from here command an average salary of $168,300, which makes Yale a very good option for students aiming both at academic and career success. Acceptance Rate:  5% SAT Composite Range:  1500-1580ACT Composite Range:  33-35 5. University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) UC Berkeley is among those world-famous public research universities with excellence in academic reputation and vibrancy on campus. With more than 33,000 undergraduates, Berkeley offers one of the most diverse learning environments. It extends an average grant aid package of $21,669, making it somewhat friendly for many candidates. Berkeley attracts highly ranked universities nationally and globally, creating a pool of successful graduates. Acceptance Rate:  11%Total Cost:  $73,115 a year 6. Columbia University Located in New York City, Columbia University is considered one of the most prestigious Ivy League institutions because of the academic excellence it maintains and the influence it has on international affairs. With an average grant aid of $61,061 and a strong alumni salary of $156,000, this university assures its graduates of a good return on investment. Due to its excellent location and top-ranked faculty, this university is enormously sought after by students from around the world. Acceptance Rate:  4%SAT Composite Range:  1490-1580ACT Composite Range:  34-35 7. University of Pennsylvania (Penn) Located in Philadelphia, PA, the University of Pennsylvania is an Ivy League interdisciplinary hub famous for its key research programs and was ranked as one of the best universities in America. It offers generous funding, with an average grant of $57,175 covering a significant portion of a student’s tuition. After graduation, Penn graduates enjoy excellent prospects on the job market, earning an average salary of $171,800—a testimony to the university’s investment in students’ futures. Acceptance Rate:  7%SAT Composite Range:  1500-1570ACT Composite Range:  34-35 8. Harvard University As the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States, Harvard University has upheld its reputation as a global leader in education. Located in Cambridge, MA, Harvard offers an average grant aid of $61,801, assuring that students from all walks of life can afford a Harvard education. Graduates earn an impressive average salary of $171,400, making the value of a Harvard degree unmistakable. Acceptance Rate:  3%SAT Composite Range:  1490-1580ACT Composite Range:  34-36 9. Rice University Due to low student debt and high success rates of its graduates, Rice University in Houston, TX, has seen a significant rise in the rankings. With a mean grant aid of $51,955 and an alumni salary of $152,100, Rice offers good return value. Rice has small class sizes and focusses much on offering individual attention, making it one of the hottest choices for those who want a closely knit academic community. Acceptance Rate:  9%SAT Composite Range:  1490-1570ACT Composite Range:  34-36 10. Cornell University Located in Ithaca, NY, Cornell University had strong academic programs and campus life to place it in the top 10. The average grant aid and alumni salaries are $50,000 and $155,400, respectively. With this, Cornell offers quality education coupled with excellent career prospects. The university is committed to research and public engagement and, therefore, is leading in higher education. Acceptance Rate:  7%SAT Composite Range:  1470-1570Composite Range of ACT:  33-35 Conclusion The best top 10 universities in America, in 2024, will provide outstanding educational opportunities, financial assistance, and career opportunities. Success is introduced at the doorstep of these prestigious higher learning institutions, which will grant students everything they need to turn their academic and professional aspirations into reality.

Overseas education insurance has cropped up as an important aspect, with 1.33 million Indian students heading overseas for higher education this year. The increasing need for customized insurance products shows that companies will have to introduce more variety and fine-tune their products to cater to the emerging needs of the students. With the increasing geopolitical risks-the War in Russia and Ukraine-and increased healthcare costs in most countries, comprehensive and tailored insurance plans are in greater need than ever before. Growing Demand for Custom-Made Insurance Cover The fact remains that Indian students going abroad are prone to a number of risks that range from sudden medical emergencies to risks of political turmoil that may finally force them to leave a country without notice. Most of these, conventionally, are either partly covered or not covered at all by insurance providers. However, with the increasing demand, insurers are trying to fill this gap. HDFC Ergo is now considering offering customisable insurance packages specifically designed for students from among leading insurance companies. Given that, students would be able to customise according to their needs, such as overseas medical expenses, cancellations of trips, or emergency evacuations, among others. The art of unbundling and customising these packages will become imperative with increasing complexity in students’ insurance needs. New Products for Emerging Needs Given the increasing sensitivities, Tata AIG recently launched two new policies targeted at the student segment. While its Travel Guard Plus policy offers comprehensive cover, its Student Guard policy covers the students for two to three years continuously. In fact, this is just what students need when pursuing a multiyear education program in a foreign country. More recently, ICICI Lombard joined the fray with covers including accommodation cost, the cost of travel back home in the case of emergency evacuations, or even reimbursement of tuition fees in case of interruption of studies. The insurance provider also offers 24×7 Smartline assistance in case of travel emergencies to make life just a little easier for the student or their family. Costs Rise in High-Risk Areas Insurance covers for students going to high-risk zones such as Israel will be very expensive. With increased cancellation of trips and other uncertainties, the premium in these zones has increased by 20-25%, says Hiten Kothari, Chief Underwriting Officer, HDFC Ergo. This trend reflects broader market forces at play, such as escalating healthcare costs and the compulsions imposed by foreign universities to introduce compulsory insurance policies. For instance, in the UK, the Immigration Health Surcharge has jumped significantly, with students required to pay 1,164 pounds for a 12-month master’s course compared to 705 pounds previously. There have been similar jumps in the US and Canada. The Winning Edge of Indian Insurance Despite these pitfalls, Indian insurers have managed to stay ahead of the game. Their more flexible and comprehensive plans at lower costs compared to those offered by universities abroad make them a popular choice for students. This is an important thing because international students seek affordable yet extensive coverage that protects them against the unexpected challenges associated with studying abroad. Conclusion As students from the country are increasingly studying abroad, the insurance landscape, too, is constantly and fast-pacedly changing to meet the needs of students. With companies like HDFC Ergo, Tata AIG, and ICICI Lombard spearheading, Indian insurers have been designing plans for students that are more relevant, flexible, and comprehensive enough to ensure excellent protection, whatever the destination of the students.