Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience. Before you pack your bags and move to another country to study abroad, you must secure the required student visa. Here’s a look at the latest visa updates and trends to help you navigate your next steps.
Key Highlights:
- Benefits of studying abroad
- Recent student trends
- Updates on visa rules from different countries
- The US
- The UK
- Canada
- Germany
Benefits of studying abroad
Quality education
Students who move abroad gain access to the world’s top-ranked universities, where they benefit from advanced academic programmes, state-of-the-art facilities, and experienced faculty.
Cultural exposure
Students can immerse themselves in new cultures when they live and study in a foreign country. The experience enables them to develop broader perspectives while strengthening their cross-cultural communication skills.
Career opportunities
A degree from a well-known international university will be recognised by employers globally. Additionally, several countries provide students with post-study work visas, enabling them to gain valuable international experience.
Recent student trends
Students moving abroad
As per data from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), ~13,35,000 students are pursuing higher education opportunities abroad in 2024. In the future, the numbers will likely rise as more Indians seek opportunities abroad each year.
Top countries to study abroad
The most popular countries remain the traditional choices, such as the US, the UK, Canada, Germany and Australia. Some other countries explored by students are Ireland, the Netherlands, Italy, Turkey, Japan, the UAE and more.
Updates on visa rules from different countries
US updates for international students
In 2024, the visa process for students remains similar to previous years. Learners must apply for an F-1 visa. The process depends on your acceptance to an institute approved by the Student and Visitor Program (SEVP).
However, some recent changes require the current and prospective students not to spend more than 5 months outside the US when the class is in session. Also, students who study in the US are eligible for OPT for up to 12 months, which is temporary employment that students can seek in their area of specialisation. STEM students can apply for the OPT extension for up to 24 months. The extension application fee has been increased from $410 to $470.
UK updates for international students
The UK visa process for students remain unchanged in 2024. Aspiring learners must receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a recognised UK institute to apply for the required Tier-4 student visa, as usual.
However, the UK Government has put new restrictions on visas for dependents. Only students pursuing PhD and research-based higher degrees can bring their dependents to accompany them. Furthermore, from January 2025 onwards, the monthly fund requirements will change. To study in London, students will need £1,483 per month and £1,136 for outside London. Earlier, the amount required was £1,334 for London and £1,023 for other locations.
Also, going forward, a student visa cannot be switched to a Graduate visa. Now, students must first complete their study programme; only then can they apply for a Graduate visa.
IRCC update for international students - Canada
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has implemented several new rules for student visas in 2024. Firstly, they have limited the number of international student visas to 3,64,000 for 2024. As of January 2024, Canada also requires students to obtain a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from the territory or province where they hope to study.
Graduates from private colleges in Canada who studied under a public-private curriculum licensing agreement (CLA) may no longer be eligible to gain a post-study work visa as per new rules implemented in May 2024. The Canadian Government has also increased the minimum living expenses students must have access to while securing their visa. It has more than doubled from CAD 10,000 to CAD 20,635. These changes aim to lower the pressure on Canada’s infrastructure.
Germany updates for international students
Students hoping to study abroad in Germany must note the change in the financial requirements for 2024. Starting in 2024, students must demonstrate that they have access to €11,904 (approximately INR 11 lakhs) to cover their living expenses for the academic year. This has increased from the previous requirement of €11,208. The updated amount reflects the rising cost of living in Germany and underscores the importance of financial preparedness.
As we can see, the rules for student visas are subject to change. It’s a good idea for students to check official immigration websites to stay updated on the latest rules. Additionally, they must prioritise their financial planning. Students can rely on a loan for education to finance their overseas education. At Avanse Financial Services, we provide other loan tools, like an EMI calculator for education loans, to help you plan your finances for the future.
Source Links:
For other content:
- https://www.business-standard.com/external-affairs-defence-security/news/over-1-3-mn-indian-students-pursuing-higher-studies-abroad-in-2024-govt-124080101441_1.html
- https://www.topuniversities.com/student-info/studying-abroad/studying-abroad-benefits
- https://www.financialexpress.com/business/investing-abroad-study-abroad-outlook-new-trends-and-opportunities-for-indian-students-in-2024-25-3558707/
- https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/study-abroad/story/5-study-abroad-trends-for-indian-students-in-2025-2533043-2024-04-29
- https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/education/study-abroad/studying-abroad-in-2024-25-emerging-trends-and-opportunities-for-indian-students/articleshow/113482819.cms
- https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/study/student-visa.html
- https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/latest-updates/you-can-now-apply-for-your-uk-visa-at-a-hotel-near-you/articleshow/102671902.cms?from=mdr
- https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/family-members
- https://www.educanada.ca/study-plan-etudes/before-avant/permits-visas-permis.aspx?lang=eng
- https://www.financialexpress.com/business/investing-abroad-new-study-visa-rules-for-international-students-implemented-by-ircc-in-canada-3558776/
- https://india.diplo.de/in-en/service/-/2552164
- https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/study/germany-raises-proof-of-funds-requirement-for-student-visas/articleshow/112193910.cms?from=mdr
- https://www.germany-visa.org/student-visa/
- https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/study/new-f-1-visa-rules-pose-challenges-for-international-students-in-the-us/articleshow/113947537.cms?from=mdr
- https://www.financialexpress.com/business/investing-abroad-how-recent-us-visa-changes-impact-international-students-seeking-to-study-or-work-in-the-america-3597247/
- https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/students-and-exchange-visitors/optional-practical-training-opt-for-f-1-students
- https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/students-and-exchange-visitors/optional-practical-training-opt-for-f-1-students
- https://www.hindustantimes.com/education/admissions/uks-2024-visa-changes-how-will-they-impact-international-students-101726658817593.html
- https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/notices/update-public-private-college-partnership-programs.html
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