Education

Germany student visa requirements have become famous as Indian students continue to remain at the forefront of the international student population in the country for the second time in a row. The latest statistics indicate that 49,483 Indian students are enrolled in German institutions, considering Germany is one of the highest-ranked destinations for Indian students seeking quality education abroad. Popularity in Germany Soars Among Indian Students The number of Indians studying in Germany has surged more than 100 percent in the past five years. Alone during the previous year, there was an increase of 15.1 percent. According to the latest data available from the Federal Statistical Office of Germany, it seems to go nowhere but up. Indian students now form the largest group of international students in the country, and this graph shows how Indians have been opting for higher education in increasing numbers in Germany. The most important reason Indian students opt for Germany is its fantastic engineering programs, which account for 60% of enrollments. Other subjects of choice include law, management, social studies (21%), and mathematics and natural sciences (13%). German practical education, focused by the emphasis of the universities of applied sciences, favours students looking at hands-on experience along with theoretical knowledge. Affordability in Education and Very Strong Career Opportunities Low cost, the low-cost education system of the German educational institutes. Public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees to both domestic and international students. In fact, the only semester fee charged is generally to cover the administrative expenses, transport, and other student services. It is an attractive destination for the students from India, considering the fact that they cannot get an opportunity like this at home. Apart from affordable education, strong industrial ties in Germany provide the graduates with golden job prospects. The universities of applied sciences, making up 44% of the total student population, are known for their emphasis on applied research and teaching. They maintain close connections with regional as well as international companies, which further enhance job placement possibilities for graduates. New Visa Requirements for Indian Students However, still, Germany has a lot in store, and Indian students should be very vigilant about the recently introduced visa regime coming into effect from September 2024. The monetary proof for a German student visa is increased from €934 a month to €992 a month, or from €11,208 per annum to €11,904 per annum. This amount is to be presented as proof that students can sustain their expenses while staying in Germany. Except for the tuition and administrative fees, students from India will also need to prepare for other related living expenses such as lodging, books, etc. The cost of living varies greatly in the different cities, but a student typically pays between €700 and €1,200 monthly for lodging, utilities, food, and transportation. Student Work Opportunities One reason to attract students to study in Germany is the chance to work while studying. International students holding visas for the purpose of studies are allowed to work up to 140 full days or 280 half-days within one calendar year without the need of prior approval by the Federal Employment Agency. The students can do work on a full-time basis while having a break during the semester without limitations, and they can gather extra money and valuable work experience. This is actually one of the main reasons why such a large number of Indian students can afford living from the money they spend on their education: the types of work available are quite versatile. Conclusion Germany as a place for further education is slowly taking its place among the Indian students. Best universities with extremely low prices for studying and good career prospects make Germany a very interesting nation for the young people from India. However, knowledge regarding the current regulation on visas and the financial requirements would be of utmost importance to allow a smooth transition. As Germany continues to attract Indian students in large numbers, this trend is only going to increase in the years ahead.

AI in international education is changing the global scenario and redefining the way a student and an institution go about studying and administering. With AI, this system permits students to learn through a personalized learning path that evolves to improve every student’s experience. As these educational institutions incorporate AI into their systems, they improve administrative processes because they are set to become more effective and efficient. This revolution does not just benefit the international students seeking opportunities abroad but also serves to optimize institutions throughout the world toward a much more dynamic and accessible education system. International Education AI-based Personalisation AI is perhaps most significantly reshaping international education as a concept of highly personalised learning. It can analyse the sea of information a student has accrued to figure out what type of instructional content, pace, and interests he or she needs in order to better learn and advance in their professional or academic life. This will be particularly useful for study abroad students, who are often culturally and educationally different while adapting to a new environment. Universities around the world are embracing AI tools, which will help students overcome such difficulties by offering them personalised course recommendations, learning modules, and interactive tools to aid in effective learning. For example, AI algorithms would be able to predict which courses a student will prefer based on his past performance, his preferences, and even his future career ambitions. Such personalisation encourages the right kind of students toward achieving academics and more engagement with studies. The role of AI is not only restricted to learning improvement; it also generates interest in professional education on AI as well as ML. As industries are getting more and more reliant on AI and ML, the students’ admissions are immediately increasing with time in AI and ML classes throughout the globe, particularly in the U.S., where institutions are most prominent for their latest courses. According to the latest available data, the number of students from India has also increased significantly in their pursuit for courses in AI and ML in U.S.-based schools. This has proven that today, skills acquired in a learnt academic environment are highly valued in the job market, and AI has become an indispensable element for international education for those planning to study abroad. AI-Driven Student Support and Engagement Universities are also interested in using AI technology for support and engagement of students. Some of the examples that are given include AI chatbots to assist students 24 hours a day. They ask questions about admission, course details, and even details about facilities within a campus. This offers instant, personalised support for potential enquiries of international students and facilitates more efficient decision-making for them relating to institutions. AI-based tools certainly make it easier for a student studying abroad to cope with the complexity of the unfamiliar academic system by instantally providing solutions to frequent problems encountered, like visa regulations or housing applications. This level of support not only renders better quality to the student experience but also smoothes easier transitions into programs of choice. Overcoming Language Challenges with AI Another impact of AI on international education is breaking language barriers. Through AI translation tools, students from linguistically diverse backgrounds can access course content in real time, and inclusiveness in global education is promoted. AI tools can instantly translate lectures, assignments, and communication, leaving more time for learning rather than pinning down language barriers. This would mean more accommodations for the non-native speakers of English by the universities as they make their courses available to a wider range of people. This way, education becomes more accessible to many students from across the world, hence increasing diversity and dynamism in learning. Predictive analytics, which enables easy course and career selection AI is also used to harness predictive analytics, which is transformation in the way that universities and study abroad consultants can perform assessments of a student’s interests and performance. This is due to AI as such being able to analyse a student’s patterns and give suggestions about courses and universities to which that student may tend based on the relationship with his or her career goals and academic strengths. This removes much of the guesswork that was long associated with selecting the right academic path using predictive analytics through AI tools. Students no longer need to spend hours researching programs since AI can design recommendations automatically based on past achievements, skills, and personal preferences to make the application process more smooth and efficient. Conclusion As we discuss now, AI certainly is transforming the international education landscape. From individualised learning and greater support for students to overcoming the language barrier and predictive analytics, AI is changing the way students around the world learn abroad. Education is becoming more accessible and inclusive, while at the same time being able to meet the ever-changing needs of industries around the world. Further development of AI will just increase its role in moulding the future of global education and, therefore, offer many new opportunities for both students and institutions.

The student exchange programs are unique because they enable students to broaden their scope academically and culturally. These programs form an effective tool for overall development, both personally and professionally, given the crucial global exposure they provide to the participants, marking a significant difference in their career destinies. In this world where everything connects with everything, participation in the student exchange program not only forms a learning experience but also an investment in one’s future. What is a Student Exchange Program ? A student exchange program is an academic opportunity that allows the students to stay in a foreign country and live there and study for a certain time, usually a semester or academic year. Such programs are usually partnerships between institutions from different countries, permitting students to be submerged in an alien culture while experiencing a foreign system of education. Students are assigned classes in a host institution, participate in extracurricular activities, and get priceless exposure to the foreign language and other cultures with a student exchange. Benefits of Student Exchange Programs Academic and Intellectual GrowthStudent exchange programs afford the student an opportunity to live through different approaches to teaching, curriculum designs, and the overall academic environment. Students leave their host country and experience studying in a different educational setup by taking on different dimensions of how academics work globally. In the end, they learn better, are more creative in their thinking, and are more productive in their pursuit in school, and they are ready to pursue advanced studies or join a global workforce. Cultural CompetenceStudying abroad develops the sense of cultural and adaptability skills of the students, which are vital for today’s global workers. The student would relate to people of different backgrounds and interact with them, and through such practice, would develop cultural competence and appreciate how cultural differences should be navigated. This consciousness of cultural diversity would enhance relationships in both life and business contexts and prepare the student for success in international business or any multicultural setting. Creating a Global NetworkThrough exchange programs among students, a bond among peers, professors, and international professionals can be developed with integrity. Such bonds tend to be of great benefit in building those infrastructures that might one day lead to professional doors being opened.Additionally, through different academic and professional circles, exposure creates opportunities for mentorship, internships, or careers they may not be privy to at home Why Do Students Require Student Exchange Programs? Deeper Learning and ExposureAcademic systems and ways of teaching are also encountered through student exchange programs. Knowledge acquisition will greatly be complemented in this aspect. New topics, approaches to research, and new academic challenges will sharpen critical thinking and broaden intellectual horizons. Preparing for the Global Job MarketInternational exposure, experience, and cultural awareness are highly valued by employers in the present global job market. Joining an exchange program can reflect that flexibility, self-reliance, and thus competitiveness to succeed in different conditions make a good candidate for employers. Awareness and exposure to cultures and internationals enhance employability for multinationals. Interpersonal and social skillsThey are living away from home in an unfamiliar environment, hence the need to be independent and pliable. Those experiences in the foreign country during their study—a new language learnt or an academic system much different from that which had been encountered before at home—make them mature individuals. This independence will make them feel confident, resilient, and capable of solving problems, which would go a long way in promoting well-rounded personal and professional functions. Language Skills DevelopmentMany undergraduate exchange programs are conducted in a country where a different language is the norm. Immersion in a second or third language setting will make it much easier to both learn and become fluent in that language, dramatically an advantage in this globalised marketplace. Facultative bilingual or multilingual abilities provide students with increased access to careers in areas like international relations, business, and technology. Conclusion: Gateway to Global Opportunities Student exchange programs would not be simply academic travel; they serve as a gateway to personal and professional development. The chances offered in student exchange programs hone the intellectual potential in students, develop awareness of other cultures, and create wider networking effects that can lead to greater prosperity in a person’s profession. An increasingly globally demanding job market that thrives on international experience and cross-cultural competency demands that a student’s decision to participate in such a student exchange program could drastically alter one’s future. In search of academic or professional fulfilment, today’s students need to look at these programs as an integral part of a rewarding global career.

This is one of the best priorities the rich Indian families have been opting for in recent years. According to the Global Quality of Life 2024 Survey conducted by HSBC, a substantial number of rich Indians would consider sending their children abroad for pursuing further studies. As suggested by the survey, 78% of the respondents, falling into a range of ₹84 lakh and ₹17 crore, are likely to shift for international education for their children. Why do wealthy Indians prefer overseas education? The quality of education is high in countries like the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Singapore. Though it has dropped to second rank, the US continues to be the most preferred destination for these parents. The UK and Canada fall in the second and third positions, respectively. These countries provide world-class education and, more importantly, provide opportunities for specialisation in some of the fields that are not available in India. The report also indicates that parents are able to send their children abroad and do so after making sacrifices of most of the retirement savings that they had set aside. Indeed, the cost is high to the extent of sipping up to 64% of the retirement funds of the parents. On average, the annual cost of training the child abroad amounts to an estimate of USD 62,364, making it a sizeable commitment financially. Financial Burdens and sacrifices Interestingly, the urge for proper education is so high among the prosperous Indian families that more and more families are able to tolerate strain on their finances. Ironically, a large number of parents are even tapping their general savings, selling assets, or taking loans to finance the education of their children abroad. The study did suggest that even though there were pressures in terms of financial details, investing this amount was indeed worthwhile, as studies are believed to be long-term fruits that would be able to counterbalance the short-term financial issues. However, parents have their concerns also in sending their children out of their homeland for educational purposes. Among other things, financial cost is the most significant concern among all the concerns that parents have. This financial cost is closely followed by fears that weigh upon the mental, social, and physical well-being of the child. For parents, international education does carry excellent prospects, but there are also emotional and logistical concerns associated with them. Long-term advantages and significant push factors for overseas education From the survey alone, it is not very hard to tell that the primary reason wealthy Indian parents choose overseas education is to ensure better standards of education. Quality education comes first but is second only to an opportunity for children to specialise in areas that may be unavailable in India. In addition, global exposure acquired in gaining education abroad prepares children well for successful careers. Conclusion The Global Quality of Life 2024 Survey sheds light on the increasing trend where large sections of Indian wealthy families are sending their children abroad for education purposes. Though it digs a financial hole in itself, many affluent Indian families consider this as one of their most important investments in the future of their children. The United States, UK, and Canada are at the top of the wish list of these student aspirants; thus, the quality of education abroad fuels the demand of parents to make heavy financial sacrifices.

The Indian rich have a high demand for overseas education, and most of them can afford to go ahead and waste savings on their children’s higher education abroad. According to a survey commissioned by HSBC for its Global Quality of Life 2024 report, more than three quarters of affluent Indian parents either plan or have planned their children for higher education abroad. This survey, conducted amongst 1,456 Indians with an investable surplus between Rs 84 lakh and Rs 17 crore, underscores the fact that international education remains the most preferred notwithstanding financial pressure. While a growing price for international education is increasingly becoming unaffordable for Indian parents, “the average annual cost of educating a child overseas stands at USD 62,364, or a whopping Rs 52 lakh per annum. This may consume up to 64% of parents’ retirement savings income, thus putting significant pressure on families. In order to finance their children’s education, parents are forced to use general savings, borrow money, or sell off valuable assets. Despite the financial load, parents do not think it is a bad investment in pursuit of quality education, whatever the sacrifice may be. The United States continues to be the top destination among Indian students, followed by the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Singapore. The reasons being, of course, better quality education, international exposure, and good facilities for specialisation in many streams. Primary Reasons Behind Choosing Overseas Education One of the reasons was that the quality of education sought abroad is perceived to be much better compared to what the local institutions are able to offer. This international exposure, most parents feel, will no doubt provide their children with better academic opportunities, global perception, and competitiveness in job prospects. Another driving factor is being able to specialise in a niche that may be available but not readily accessible in Indian institutions. It also emerges from the survey that parents see overseas education as a stepping stone to a wider career. Often, studying in a foreign country opens doors for multinational companies to come in for internships, networking, and work experience, thereby improving the overall career prospects of their children. Financial and emotional concerns for Indian parents While quality is the main theme for sending children abroad, financial concerns rank high in the list of Indian parents. According to the survey, the expensive cost of overseas education is a major cause of anxiety, followed by social and mental health. Many a time, parents are concerned about how their child will fare abroad, adapt to the new culture, and keep them safe. These concerns notwithstanding, the urge to give their children the best education and opportunities makes many Indian families bold in taking big financial steps forward. For some, that may mean postponing retirement or scaling down their personal financial goals just so their children get a top-class education abroad. Conclusion: The Juggling Act for Indian Families This, in fact, is a very good reflection of how Indian families view overseas education as a means of investing in the future of their children. Though the financial sacrifices involved are great, many parents feel that the benefits accrued—whether quality education or better career prospects—are well worth the price. Thus, the increasingly large number of Indian families resorting to foreign institutions for higher education would need to balance their financial future with aspirations pertaining to their children’s success.

Study in Canada has always been considered one of the options because of its high educational standards, vibrant multicultural cities, and attractive post-study work opportunities. However, this may dramatically change in 2024, as international student commencements could fall by 50% because of changes in policies related to visas, which also include a temporary cap on study permits that may affect the country’s appeal to aspiring students. This move has created confusion and apprehension among potential students, which has seen a marked decline in the number of applications received. Not only will the move affect Canada’s higher education segment, but it also presents an opportunity for competing study destinations to lure more international students, such as the U.S., Germany, and Italy. Understanding 2024 Study Permit Cap The Canadian government, as early as January 2024, would try to impose a temporary cap on the number of study visas issued to international students. Such a cap would translate into an estimated 364,000 approved study permits by the end of 2024, a drop of 35% compared to the number issued last year. Canadian Immigration Minister Mark Miller announced that the country needs to find a way to control the increased number of students who are entering the country, with its strained infrastructure and resources. In a recent report, ICEF Monitor estimated that the number of applications for study permits processed by the government of Canada was 54% fewer in Q2 2024 than the total in Q2 2023. This dramatic decline is indicative of broader trends, with ApplyBoard estimating that overall applications processed in 2024 will decline 39% year-on-year. Study Permit Approvals: Projections 2024 These changes are starting to have real-world effects. If recent trends in the country continue, Canada is on pace to approve just about 231,000 new study permits in 2024. This would be a drastic 47% drop from the 436,600 new study permits approved in 2023 alone. The prospect of such a low approval rate, at below 51%, sees many students deferring or looking elsewhere to pursue their higher education goals. Key Market Impact: Indian Students India has over the years consistently been one of the largest contributors of international students to Canada, with a high rate of acceptance at 85 percent. As compared to the same six months of the year 2023, only half as many Indian students were approved for study permits in 2024. The reasons for this drastic decline can be pinpointed at the new visa cap and also miscommunication regarding the policy changes. Shift in Demand Towards Other Destinations Recent changes to Canada’s study permit policies have left international students looking at options elsewhere. According to research from Studyportals, students are looking more and more toward the U.S., Germany, and Italy—all of which have reported rising applications. ApplyBoard says global searches for “study in Canada” in 2024 were down 20% on 2023, confirming a wider trend of waning interest. The ApplyBoard report indicates that partly driving this decline in the processing of study permits during the first half of 2024 has been students putting their applications on pause or deferring to look for other destinations that can offer more certainty and fewer restrictions. This is, therefore, one of the reasons why countries such as the U.S. and Germany reap a larger share of international student demand. Impact on Postsecondary Programs Most significantly, Canada’s temporary cap on study permits will affect those capped post-secondary programs by a projected 50% reduction of study permits in 2024. Cap-exempt programs are expected to see a 24% reduction. This reduction could have drastic implications for institutions that heavily rely on international students both for revenue and cultural diversity. Conclusion The decline by 50% in Canada’s international student commencements, therefore, in 2024, becomes a watershed moment in global education. While Canada’s temporary visa cap is perhaps necessary as a way to regulate infrastructure and resource challenges, it is patently apparent that such a decision is driving students toward other countries with more stable and predictable policies. It will be of great essence to monitor policy changes as affecting international students and understand alternative destinations like the US, Germany, and Italy for the year 2024.

Study in Germany has now emerged as a favourite study destination for Indian students, while they have now become the largest community of international learners at German universities for a second year in a row. This trend reflects an increased affinity with German academic programs, where enrollments by Indian students have more than doubled in the last five years. Steady Growth in Enrolment of Indian Students According to recent data published by the German Federal Statistical Office, the number of Indian students in Germany increased 15.1% in the last year alone. For the Winter Semester 2023-2024, there were 49,483 students from India enrolled. Such continuous growth in enrolment is indicative of the quality of education in Germany but also of the growing perception among Indian students of Germany as their favoured destination for higher education studies. It is the culmination of affordable tuition fees, quality education, and the ability to work post-study in Germany. Many Indian students consider it a stepping stone to European career opportunities due to huge demand from industries and, above all, the rich industrial base. Also, particularly at present, engineering and technology studies are in huge demand. Popular Fields of Study Among Indian Students Recent data reveal that engineering is the most sought-after area of study pursued by Indian students in Germany. German universities are highly reputed worldwide in this field; hence, 60% of the students enrolled in engineering classes. Further important sectors include law and management as well as social studies, with a percentage share of 21%, and mathematics and natural sciences (13% of shares). This diversity of academic interest shows how a large base of student aspirations is taken care of by Germany, making it even more appealing to people. The emphasis on industry-relevant education makes Germany an attractive destination for career-orientated students. The field of engineering offers a lot of research and internship opportunities, through which, in particular, students can get to work on projects that are highly valued in the job market. New Work Regulations for International Students Another reason why students from abroad find Germany so appealing is because it has flexible working legislation. The German government has extended working hours for foreign students studying in Germany from non-EU countries under a new act, effective March 1, 2024. It is now permitted for students to work 20 hours per week, greater than the maximum of 10 hours per week. This, in turn, provides the students with more earn-while-studying opportunities that might better meet the demands for their living expenses. The new regulation has also been extended to students who, for instance, have come to Germany to explore educational opportunities but have not yet obtained university admission and also the students who are attending German language preparation courses. The policy change is seen as a positive step toward allowing international students to be more financially secure in their studies and thus making Germany enrolment options even more attractive internationally. Germany’s International Education Commitment The German Academic Exchange Service, DAAD, has been right at the forefront of making Germany an attractive country for higher education. The DAAD regional office in New Delhi has pointed out in a recent press release the continuous upward trend of Indian students’ choice of studying in Germany. It also tries to proactively support international students through scholarships, guidance, and other practical resources necessary for their studies. Why Indian Students Choose Germany Affordable Tuition Fees: Most German public universities charge low or no tuition fees from students. This makes higher education at universities quite accessible for middle-income class students in India. Post-Study Work Opportunities: After completing their studies, students in Germany can avail themselves of a liberal post-study work visa and thereby remain in the country for as long as 18 months in search of employment. Excellent Industrial Links: Since Germany is an industrially developed country with one of the strongest economies in the world, the advanced engineering sector opens a wide horizon after graduation, especially towards technology, manufacturing, and research-based industries. World-Class Education: German universities are renowned for their high academic and research standards, hence guaranteeing globally recognised degrees. Conclusion With a continuous rise in the number of Indian students coming to Germany, it can be inferred that a good education reputation combined with favourable work policies acts as an influencing factor. Indeed, thanks to lenient work policies, rich higher education opportunities, and bright post-university prospects, Germany nowadays holds a top position among countries popular with Indian students who seek quality higher education and pursue international careers.

Australia’s international student cap has created apprehension in the education sector, considering that it may change the paradigm to question, or at least make less distinctive, the long-standing reputation of Australia as a global leader in quality tertiary education and a diverse cultural experience for its international students. What Are the New Changes? The Australian government, headlined by the centre-left Labour Party, is proposing a limit of 270000 on international student places from next year. The places are comprised of 175000 in higher education and 95000 in skills colleges. A proposed cap comes when there is a growing sense of concern over immigration amid an extending housing crisis. Although this has gone down very well with Australian voters, it has been condemned by the higher education sector. A second belief by critics is that the cap could damage Australia’s reputation as a destination of choice for students from around the world. Concerns of the Higher Education Sector David Lloyd, the Chair of Universities Australia, has spoken from his heart about what he perceives to be the negative consequences this policy may have on the nation’s education system. In the National Press Club in Canberra, Lloyd warned that such countries as the UK and the US are better poised to take advantage of Australia’s decision and take the international students to those nations. He also pointed to Canada as a cautionary tale, where similar restrictions led to a deeper-than-anticipated decline in the number of international students enrolling. “Australia risks the same destiny,” he said; such a policy might give the impression that international students were not welcome any longer in Australia. Polling and Public Opinion on the Student Cap Interestingly, this move to cap foreign student enrolments has found wide-ranging support among the general Australian public. In fact, in a recent poll conducted by Essential, more than 50% of Australians believed the 270,000 student cap was “about right,” while for 37%, it was still too high. The rising level of migration and the housing crisis are the mainstays of all voters’ thinking, and it is likely to reflect itself in the results of support for the policy. With a national election to come in the next nine months, the government is balancing these public sentiments with the need to preserve Australia’s international education industry. As Education Minister Jason Clare pointed out, “Australia’s international education industry makes us money, makes us friends,” while the government also needs to protect the system’s integrity. How Other Countries Stand to Benefit The current policy decisions only serve to allow the UK, US, and Canada to take advantage of Australia’s loss in appeal. All these countries are equally keen to get students who they feel may change their decision to come to Australia owing to perceived restrictive or unwelcoming policies. Their universities already have strong support systems for international enrolments and stand to gain from a setback within Australian borders. Victoria’s Premier, Jacinta Allen, came out to assure that her state is still open to international students. But for Australia as a country, how it would be able to extend the same level of attraction to foreign students in light of new restrictions remains a challenge. The Future of Australia’s International Education Industry Australian universities and students in foreign countries are also at a dilemma. At the same time, the general public is in support of the cap, while experts fear that it may damage the country’s reputation in the international education market. The country, being one of the favourite destinations for international students, would see numbers go down sharply. The government does indeed walk a tightrope between soothing public anxiety about migration and housing and the long-term health of its international education industry. In which direction it would eventually turn—whether the cap on students would manage the system more effectively or inhibit Australia’s global competitiveness—remains to be seen. Conclusion A cap of 270,000 on the number of international student places in Australian universities has brought into question whether this decision will have an adverse implication for Australia’s global education repute. Fears mount that with Australia’s student visa policy changes well in place, the country’s universities could lose their competitiveness to aspiring destinations in the UK, US, and Canada. With the public already hugely in support of this cap, the government still has many decisions to make for the after-effects on long-term damage this cap will bring to Australia as a preferred overseas study destination.

The New Zealand student visa policy becomes increasingly relevant in the light of the recent decision to cap international student admissions in Australia at 270000 by 2025. The change in policy is to make sure that record migration levels are kept in check and pressure on housing markets is eased. It is exceptionally important for Indian students, who comprise a big slice of the international student population in Australia. With Australia tightening its policy screws, New Zealand has emerged as a hot destination for quality education among students heading abroad. Here are seven valid reasons that explain why New Zealand is an ideal destination for higher education: 1. Simplified Student Visa PolicyAlong with one of the most streamlined processes for a student visa, New Zealand is making life much easier for international students to pursue higher education in the country. While the student visa application has recently gone up to NZD 550 and will go up further to NZD 750 on 1st October 2024, it is still way lower compared to that of Australia. The processing time required to get a student visa in New Zealand normally takes about 31 working days, which roughly equates to six weeks, so as not to delay the student in commencing their studies.Compared to Australia, the visa processing is quicker and more affordable in New Zealand. Thus, New Zealand’s student visa policy is a definite plus for Indian students in pursuit of higher education with efficiency and economic investment. 2. Economical Education, Internationally Recognised QualificationsCompared to other popular countries like Australia, the USA, or the UK, New Zealand has a relatively more affordable education system. Tuition fees and living costs are by far less expensive compared to other countries, hence very appealing to a student with a small budget. Also, most universities in New Zealand feature among the best universities globally and offer a number of degrees in several fields, including arts, media, engineering, business, IT, and health. Besides, New Zealand has an affordable education system accredited to globally recognised qualifications, which allows students to enjoy high-quality education without the significant financial burden associated with pursuing studies abroad. 3. New Zealand has a lower cost of living compared to Australia.Although different in different locations and lifestyles, living costs in New Zealand are generally relatively lower compared to other major cities such as Sydney and Melbourne in Australia. The average cost of living in New Zealand ranges between 1,200 and 1,600 NZD a month, hence quite economically viable for a student. While Wellington and Auckland may be expensive, New Zealand on the whole is more affordable than Australia. For the international students in a scramble for that elusive combination of cost and quality, New Zealand is home. 4. Unlimited Research and Innovation OpportunitiesNew Zealand boasts world-class research and innovation facilities in areas such as environmental science, agriculture, biotechnology, information technology, and many more. Several universities also engage their students in quality research work, thereby making the country ideal for students with academic and entrepreneurial aspirations. If students are interested in working for global challenges, New Zealand offers immense opportunities under a research-based learning environment. 5. Post-Study Work OpportunitiesAmong the several other advantages, the country boasts a liberal post-study work visa policy. A student might be allowed to stay in New Zealand and work for three years, depending on the level and duration of the course taken. This visa work policy will enable international students to gain proper work experience and thus make entry into the job market far easier. For the student who finally intends to build their career across international boundaries, post-study work opportunities in New Zealand further add tremendous value to studying there. 6. Safety and a Friendly AtmosphereNew Zealand is a country within the low categories of the crime index, making the country really safe.. It is also very friendly and embraces international students into its communities, which helps new arrivals get used to living abroad. Such a multi-ethnic, tolerant society definitely provides comfort and support to students coming from different parts of the world, including India. Also, with New Zealand’s beautiful natural environment and outdoors lifestyle combined, the country is an absolute haven for students that take their love of nature and the outdoors seriously, coupling these interests with academic pursuits. 7. International Student Scholarships and Financial AidNew Zealand has various scholarships available for international students, which helps reduce the financial burden of studying abroad. In addition, many institutions offer merit-based scholarships and financial aid packages, which bring the overall cost of education significantly lower. These financial aids make the concept of affordable education in New Zealand even more accessible, thereby giving international students further incentive to come to New Zealand for their studies. Conclusion It is now one of the most renowned destinations for higher education due to its streamlined process for visa applications, reasonably priced education, possibility for post-study work, and secure environment. In the wake of Australia’s strict policies toward the enrolment of students, New Zealand offers a worthy alternative to students desiring an internationally recognised education sans inflated costs and unwieldy bureaucracies. Whatever the reasons—cost of living, globally recognised qualifications, or a friendly community—New Zealand is ready to reap benefits from this evolving global education landscape. For Indian students who look for the next academic adventure, New Zealand provides all the right reasons to be there.

RBI has finally brought much-needed clarity with regard to Education Loans for OCI Cardholders. The central bank has clarified that henceforth, the Overseas Citizens of India, OCI cardholders, would be eligible for loans to pursue studies abroad in India. This comes after the recent intervention by the regulator following a representation by Indian Overseas Congress. According to the statement by RBI in August, the OCI cardholders residing in India would henceforth be able to access higher education funds sans unnecessary hurdles. Salient Features of RBI’s Explanation 1. Education Loans for Resident OCIsThe explanation provided by RBI entitles the OCI cardholder resident in India to education loans for studying abroad under the Model Education Loan Scheme. Banks had earlier approached for interpretation if such loans were to fall under LRS or specific conditions applied. Indeed, this explanation has made amply clear the fact that resident OCIs are entitled to such loans for international education—a huge development in facilitation of access to finance for this category of students. 2. Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) ApplicationOne of the basic questions that banks asked is whether education loans for resident OCIs will fall under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme. As mentioned under the scheme, resident individuals, including minors, can remit $250,000 per financial year for permissible transactions, including for education expenses. The RBI explained that the LRS does not restrict the remittance of domestically borrowed funds for current account transactions like education. As such, resident OCIs can remit funds under this scheme without any upper limit on the loan amount for education purposes. 3. Loans for OCIs Residing Outside IndiaAs against resident OCIs, non-resident OCIs can avail themselves of education loans from Indian banks only for studies conducted in India. This difference underlines the stand taken by the RBI on capital account liberalisation, which restricts the borrowing by non-residents when it is for use outside the country. The result is that non-resident OCIs can get education loans to study in India but not to pursue foreign education. Demand for education loans is increasing. In fact, education loans have been in great demand with increasing global mobility of students and soring tuition costs abroad. This becomes evident from the fact that public sector banks have seen 17 percent year-on-year growth in the number of accounts and 14.8 percent in amount disbursed towards education loans in FY24, informed Pankaj Chaudhary, Minister of State for Finance. The PSBs have disbursed₹ 28,699 crore towards education loans during the current fiscal year, indicating an increased need for financial support amongst Indian and OCI students. Though there is no separate data available as to loans granted specifically to OCIs, this clarification by the RBI can be expected to enhance access to funds for a substantial portion of the Indian diaspora holding OCI cards and residing in India. Conclusion Therefore, the RBI’s clarification on education loans for OCI cardholders is a very welcome move that will ensure students holding an OCI status in India can undertake higher education abroad without any financial constraints. Secondly, the RBI has clarified remittance and capital account liberalisation. This solution was much needed and would be welcomed by students and lenders alike.