Education

The UK’s Labour Party has confirmed a decision that is ringing alarm bells across the academic sector: it is going to maintain the restrictive student visa policy initiated by the previous Conservative government. Pegging the aforementioned position, the Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson, went on to state that the government does not have plans to reverse the restrictions on international students. Labour’s Policy on Visa Policies for International Students In a recent interview with Sky News, Bridget Phillipson was asked if Labour would reverse the “visa restrictions” the Conservative government had put on international students. In quite a firm tone, she replied, “We don’t intend to change that.” This categorically sets out that Labour’s policy on international students will remain the same as that of the Conservatives, who have been introducing various visa rules and regulations with a view to reducing immigration. The most impactful among them, with effect from January 1, 2024, is that international-taught master’s students will not be allowed to bring any dependents to the UK. This and other measures will have a huge impact on the higher education scenario for international students and their dependents. Impact on UK Universities While admitting the significant position of international students in the UK academic scenario, Phillipson did not spare the Conservative government for mismanaging, if not solely exploiting, the higher education sector in the country. She further said that UK universities are under tremendous financial burdens that are being imposed on them, and whether it is liked or not, it is the international students who help the sector survive. “It’s not that international students are taking places that would’ve otherwise been available to domestic students. That is to say, the fees these international students pay subsidise the education of domestic students, aiding institutions in their capability to maintain a high learning standard. Slump in Study Visa Applications The impacts of such visa restrictions, in fact, are already negatively apparent. Home Office data shows that in the period from January to July 2024, applications for study visas remained 16% lower than in the equivalent period in 2023. This decline reflects the growing uncertainty and challenges prospective international students are experiencing in coming to the UK to undertake their studies. The drop in the number of international students is a cause for concern for some UK universities, which have come to depend on the higher fees these students pay. Fewer international students could well mean that the income drop will be so severe that it could well threaten the very mission and quality of the said universities, whether for education or research purposes. Conclusion This view of Labour government carrying on with the visa curbs on international students that was put in place by the Conservative government is not very promising for UK universities and thousands of international students seeking to study in them. Though on record, the financial gains from global students have been an indication, the current policy suggests the nature of restrictions that the approach of the UK towards education would be for some time now.

For decades, the UK has been home to many of the world’s most elite universities, appearing more often in global rankings than any nation except the US. But a raft of government policies has laid bare the deep vulnerabilities in the financial foundation of the institutions and their hard-won reputation. Now, this growing crisis in UK universities is threatening to reverse the nation’s status as one of the most elite destinations for higher education. The Funding Crisis: A Ticking Bomb As recently as the campaign, Keir Starmer’s Labour Party recognised the brewing financial crisis in the higher education sector in the UK but refrained from addressing it by proposing workable solutions. After all, numbers talk: 40 percent of England’s universities are forecast to run at a deficit this academic year. For the first time ever, some of these institutions stand the risk of going bust. This is not just a blip in the system but something symptomatically wrong with the structure. The last government pulled off a recent rule restricting immigration, hitting very hard on international graduate students—an unhelpful move for the flow of foreign money into universities in the UK. Barring most international students from bringing family members, raising the salary threshold for work visas sent the message to those who might want to study in the United Kingdom: “You’re not welcome here.”. Domino Effect: Steep Fall in Number of International Students It does not take much time to react to such policies. International student visa applications dropped 44 percent in this year’s first quarter, and dependent applications by 80 percent. This has come as a shock to universities since most of them heavily rely on the higher tuition fees that international students pay to subsidise lower fees paid by national students. As things stand, the tuition fees for domestic students in England are £9,250, capped since 2017. Had this price increased at the rate of inflation, then today the fees would be more than £12,000. A research study found that only a drop of 16% in international student applications would cost nearly £1 billion in lost revenue to the sector, heaping further pressure on the financial strain that universities are under. The Wider Implications: Underfunding and Decaying Infrastructure Successive years of underfunding have long since left their mark on the UK’s universities. Scores are battling to work with crumbling infrastructure, and significant investment in the education and training of the 50 or so percent of Britons who don’t go to university is long overdue. In present circumstances, with spending being tightly circumscribed, it is clearly impossible for the taxpayer to meet these deficiencies in their entirety. A Balanced Solution is Called for There are big market and political risks connected to relying too much on international students. The government should, however, appreciate the fact that hosting international students was in the best interest of Britain, just as it still is. Not only are these students providing a financial boost, but they are also building important academic, cultural, and commercial ties vital in a post-Brexit world. Labour should be willing to allow universities to charge realistic tuition fees that increase over time with the rate of inflation. Meanwhile, offering financial support for those who can least afford higher fees. On immigration, visa restrictions should be relaxed with safeguards on the ground against their abuse. This could include more frequent auditing, closure of fraudulent programs, and extension of the requirement that institutions not only maintain data but also report it for oversight. A Call for Innovation and Adaptation Ultimately, it will be left to the UK universities to adjust to the new financial environment. That will likely mean new sources of income, stronger relationships with industry, and partnerships with other institutions. There will also need to be more effective use of alumni relations as another source of income generation. Not all universities will survive this era of transformation. Some mergers or even insolvencies may well prove inevitable—and if managed properly, could actually lead to a healthier, more sustainable higher education sector.

The United States of America is undoubtedly one of the most envied destinies for higher education, with a system that almost ensures very good academic excellence and the best research opportunities. The cost of education is quite high in the U.S., and for that reason, it turns out to be a major trouble for international students. But fortunately, there are so many scholarships that ease the burden and make world-class education pretty feasible. In this blog, we are going to discuss some of the top U.S. scholarships for international students, some of which are specifically for Indian students, so that you can fulfil your dream of studying. 1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program One of the most reputed and long-standing scholarships dedicated to international students offered by the government of the USA is the Fulbright Foreign Student Program. It offers graduate study in all disciplines other than medicine. It is especially popular with young professionals and artists who wish to carry out academic studies in the U.S. for a year or more. Ranging from a tuition fee to a living allowance, health insurance, and travel expenses, the Fulbright Program is indeed a golden opportunity for students aspiring to study in the USA. 2. Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program The Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program is a scholarship available to an international student from an American-sponsored college for research in non-degree academic study and professional development in the United States. The program is designed for fellows who are seasoned professionals and requires 10 months of academic study. The fellowship covers almost all important expenditures—tuition fees, allowances, insurance, and transport—to fully support the winners of this fellowship. 3. You are welcome here. Scholarship Scholarships are an independent initiative that invites ideas from international students around the world. This non-governmental scholarship clearly works for applicants who are now interested in submitting an essay or a video that will reflect other intercultural exchange activities. Two annual and renewable scholarships are provided under this program by participating U.S. universities and colleges. Not only does the scholarship reduce and minimise financial stress, but it also inspires students to cross into other people’s cultural spaces by enriching and making the study experience in the USA better. 4. IEFA Scholarship IEFA scholarships must rank among the top scholarships that are offered to students between 14 and 18 years of age. They target needy students who are preparing themselves for college education and make their study in the USA less burdened financially. They are, therefore, able to recognise academic excellence in the early quarter and hence support the given student throughout higher education. 5. AAUW International Fellow The AAUW International Fellowships are available for women outside the United States and help in the pursuit of full-time graduate or postgraduate studies. This fellowship is nongovernmental, and all graduate and postgraduate students are awarded it. Its fellowships have variable amounts according to level: $20,000 for a master’s or first professional degree and $25,000–$50,000 for graduate or postdoctoral study. All the things described above make the scholarship highly helpful for women students who are pursuing higher studies and research in the USA. 6. World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program The World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program is specifically designed for all international students from developing countries wishing to take a master’s degree in any field related to development. This fellowship includes coverage for all tuition fees, round-trip airfare, comprehensive health insurance, and a monthly stipend. The scholarship desires to enrich the students with the right knowledge and skills in the field of development so that they can further contribute towards the growth and development of their country. Conclusion For many students all over the world, higher studies in the USA are a distant dream wherein the problem of finances comes anew. These scholarships will help the aspiring undergraduate, graduate student, or professional overcome a great part of the financial burden and set the way for success in the United States. These scholarships for international students to study in the USA, like the above-mentioned, make this costly dream come true.

The United Kingdom has always been the most favoured destination when it comes to higher education, with some of the most prestigious universities and cultural diversity. Life-changing experiences await students in the UK. Beyond excellent academics, without a doubt, the UK student visa application becomes a very important process in accomplishing this journey extraordinaire for international students, especially those from India. We will help you through five of the most frequently asked questions in the UK student visa application process. 1). What do UK educational institutions offer? The UK hosts a lot of the world’s most highly rated universities, like the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, and the University of Edinburgh. All these universities are notable not just for their academic excellence and historic campuses but also for their lively student communities. A course in the UK would let students have that competitive advantage associated with studying at some of the world’s most prestigious research institutions, being taught by renowned academics, and experiencing different cultures from around the world. It means much more than getting a degree; it is life-changing and will eventually lead you to global opportunities. 2. Which type of visa is best for a student? If you are a student, the most appropriate visa to study in the UK would be a student visa; it was formerly known as a Tier 4 visa. This visa allows you to stay in the UK for the time it takes you to complete your course. The UK government has also established the Graduate Route, a program through which students can remain and work in the UK for as long as two years post-study. This is extremely valuable work experience that will put you at an advantage in the global job market, allowing you to use knowledge gained from your qualifications in real-life situations. The application for a student visa in the United Kingdom is pretty straightforward. However, all the requirements should be met so that one can secure a visa. 3. Can students work while they are studying? Yes, it is possible for students to work part-time during their studies in the UK. As stated in the UK student visa requirements, a student may work a maximum of 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. In other words, you may earn some money towards your living expenses while earning practical working experience. It also enriches your academic journey in a multicultural environment with highly valued skills by any employer anywhere in the world. 4. What Else Can You Explore During Your Course? The UK is not a place where all you are going to do is go through books and be a nerd all the time; rather, it’s a country burdened with history, culture, and beauty. From the very busy streets of London to serene landscapes in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales, there is something waiting to pique your curiosity. From iconic landmarks to world-class theatre and diverse culinary delights, you can enjoy a world of experiences within the UK alone. Such immersion will aid your experience in making it simply unforgettable. 5. What Language Skills Should Students Acquire? The UK is where the very method of teaching the English language was born; therefore, it is the ideal destination to fine-tune your linguistic skills. For most international students, more specifically those from India, the opportunity to study in the UK would mean studying at native levels of English. These enriched language skills will be of great value to you during your studies and beyond in a global career. The approach in the UK to communication and language skills is such that it ensures you leave with a dual advantage: first, academic qualifications; second, improved language skills. Conclusion Studying in the UK is more than applying for a student visa. You’re coming over to participate in one of the most vigorous cultural and educational environments that will shape your future. So, once you understand the UK’s student visa requirements and the unique opportunities it has in store, you can make the most of studying in the UK.

The application is now open for the 2025 Commonwealth Masters Scholarship to the United Kingdom.Advertisement no. 01/2024: The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, UK, invites applications from candidates for high-end scholarships awarded to Indian students for pursuing full-time Master’s degree courses commencing in September/October 2025. While the procedure for applying will start in September 2024, it certainly gives a much-needed headstart to the eligible candidates who want to get ready and prepare the documents for applying to the scholarship. Key Dates and Application Process:  The application for the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship, 2025, shall be online.The application process involves submission through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s Online Application System and ends with the Ministry of Education’s Sakshat Portal. Commonwealth Scholarship Commission OAS: Opens: 10 September 2024Closes: 15 October 2024 Ministry of Education Sakshat Portal: Opens: 10 September 2024Closes: 31 October 2024 Prospective applicants are encouraged to go to the Ministry of Education’s website to receive details and directions for applying online.  Ministry of Education Sakshat Portal: The below eligibility is needed for the 2025 Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship:  Citizenship and Residency: The candidate should be a citizen of India and a permanent resident. Academic eligibility: A first degree must have at least an upper second class by September 2025, which translates to a 2:1 honour in the Indian context; that is, 60% marks in graduation.  This is a criterion whereby the applicant must establish that one will be unable to finance their study in the United Kingdom without the scholarship.  Program Restriction: The scholarship is only available for one-year taught Master’s programs and does not include MBA. The selection of scholarship awardees is a prerogative of the CSC, outside the Ministry of Education. Why Apply for a Commonwealth Masters Scholarship? The Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship is one of the most competitive opportunities available to students who want to pursue further studies in the UK, with tuition and further maintenance fees being awarded to the majority of students. In that sense, it is a really good opportunity for those who perhaps cannot afford to study abroad. You can study in some of the most famous and renowned institutions in the UK, a great boost to the resume. Conclusion  If you meet the eligibility criteria and are ready to study a Master’s Degree in a United Kingdom-based institution, grab this opportunity. Make sure you apply timely, preparing the documents well in time, and taking note of all the requirements and deadlines for each step of the process. Maybe this is one of those ways by which the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship 2025 may just be the ticket one needs to belong to the best educational system in the a world that makes for a really enriching educational experience. For details and more applications, one should visit the Ministry of Education website.

The upcoming EducationUSA fairs in India offer a great opportunity to Indian students with higher education aspirations within the United States. These fairs take place in eight cities from August 16 to August 25 and are organised by the US higher education sector with the idea of providing a platform where students can communicate directly with representatives from more than 80 accredited US universities and colleges. This is an opportunity for you, whether your goal is undergraduate, postgraduate, or a doctorate, to explore the various educational options that exist in the United States. What to Expect at the EducationUSA Fairs EducationUSA fairs in India are much more than just descriptive; they practically animate all your academic dreams. The fairs will travel from August 16 to August 25, from Hyderabad, Chennai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Pune, Mumbai, and finally to New Delhi. Each of these events will be held in a specified hotel in the mentioned cities at specific times, keeping the busy schedules of aspiring students and their families in mind. These fairs are free to visit; however, prior registration is a must. This allows the organisers to have a structured event where the attendees would have good interaction with the representatives of the universities for the students to get necessary information about admissions, scholarships, and student life at US campuses. It includes information sessions on college application and visa processes, which give students an overview of the path to studying in the USA. Why attend the Education USA Fairs? The EducationUSA Fairs are so important. According to the US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, “The EducationUSA fairs are a great way to explore the amazing educational opportunities available in the United States.” Whether your interests lie in science, technology, engineering, arts, or business, the United States offers an education to further your academic and professional goals. They get you in touch with representatives from a great variety of colleges and universities in the US, many of which may be offering scholarships or other forms of financial aid. You have first-hand exposure to what life is like on a US campus, exactly what kinds of support services are available to international students, and how to navigate what is often a very complex admissions process. Generally, the fairs will put everything under one roof by providing you with all the tools and knowledge you need to make responsible decisions in regard to studying in the USA. Highlight your calendar: EducationUSA Fairs Schedule August 16: Hyderabad August 17: Chennai August 18: Bangalore August 19: Kolkata August 21: Ahmedabad August 22: Pune August 24: Mumbai August 25: New Delhi All these events will be done in a hotel in a town. Pre-registered for this event so as not to miss the opportunity and make full use of this wonderful chance. Conclusion The EducationUSA fairs in India definitely do not dishearten any student who sincerely has a keen interest in higher studies in the United States. They offer that very rare opportunity to meet one-on-one with US university representatives, receive information regarding the application process, and find the right program from a large set of options available to international students. Are you ready to leap forward into your academic future? Be at one of these fairs between August 16 and August 25.

SAT is the leading and premier university admission test across more than 65 countries globally. Any student aspiring to get into a well-reputed college is well aware that their chances of getting in through SAT scores are pretty high. The college readiness test covers three major areas: evidence-based reading and writing, math, and an optional essay. The part that usually causes the most difficulty for test takers is the math portion. Math Here, along with discussions about the SAT Math section, are some tips, strategies, and insights that tell students how to go about this all-important part of the test. With proper and effective guidance and preparation, one can not only fare excellently in the math section but also unfasten oneself into an overall enhanced SAT score, the gateway to admission into one’s dream institution.  Understanding the SAT Math Section The SAT Math test mainly measures problem-solving skills and applying mathematics to real-world problems. Below is a structure of the section, including the timing: Structure and timing:  No. of Questions: 58 total questions Time: 80 minutes (or about 1.4 minutes per question) Content: comprises much core high school math, with a focus on algebra, geometry, and data analysis.  SAT Math Question Types Format Description Percentage Multiple Choice (MC) Choose the best answer from four provided options. 75% Student-Produced Response (SPR) Provide your own answer by entering it in the specified field. There may be more than one correct solution. 25% SAT Math Content Breakdown Content Area Emphasis Topics Covered Algebra Mastery of expressions, solving equations, and data interpretation Linear equations (1 and 2 variables), Linear functions, Systems of equations, Linear inequalities, Analyzing relationships Problem Solving and Data Analysis Quantitative literacy and real-world data analysis Probability and conditional probability, Statistical claims and inference, Ratios, rates, percentages, Data distributions, Models and scatterplots Advanced Math Understanding complex mathematical concepts Equivalent expressions, Nonlinear functions and equations, Systems of nonlinear equations Geometry and Trigonometry Spatial reasoning and trigonometric applications Geometry basics (lines, angles, triangles), Spatial dimensions (area, volume), Trigonometric functions (right triangles), Circular shapes and properties (circles) Mastering the SAT Math Section: Tips and Strategies  Success on the SAT Math requires development not only in knowledge but also in strategy. Following are some important tips that would guide you for success: 1) Read the question properly: Take care as you are reading each of the questions—to understand it carefully and adequately—often rushing through leads to errors of reading. Know precisely what it is asking for or explaining before you dive into working. 2) Use Working Paper Powerfully: You’re also reducing the likelihood of making an error. And it keeps your thinking organised:Write the steps clearly enough that you can re-look at your work if you need to. 3) Start with the Easy Questions: The SAT Math section should consist of easy, medium, and hard-level questions. Do the easy ones first to get quick points and get confidence. Save the more difficult questions for later so you do not waste time on just one question. 4) Estimate when appropriate: There are some questions where you can estimate the answer quickly without going through each and every detail of the process.Estimation can help you to KNOWN answers and thus eliminating Not the correct answer. 5) Manage Your Time and Stay Calm If you find yourself stuck on a problem, move on and return to it later. This section requires good time management to complete it.Use the process of elimination to narrow down answer choices and make an educated guess if needed. Common Mistakes to Avoid Avoiding common pitfalls can make a significant difference in your SAT Math score. Misunderstanding the Question: Read the language of every question carefully. Try to pick up clues that get you on the correct path. Spending Too Long in One Place: It is crucial not to become a glutton on a regular question. So manage your time as efficiently as possible on all your questions. Missing Key Information: Read all parts of a question. Small details can sometimes play the most important role in determining an answer. Conclusion The SAT math section is a game of preparation, strategy, and practice. You would, therefore, be able to really boost your score by knowing the structure of the test properly, using effective steps, and using trusted resources. Remember, solving the math section is not just solving problems; rather, it is an attempt to demonstrate the skills of critical thinking by applying mathematical contents to a real situation. Continuous effort in proper preparation will put you in the right position for a high score, thus helping you reach your success in academic goals.