Latest news with #AthenaEducation
NDTV
2 days ago
- Business
- NDTV
"Students Can Still Thrive In The US Education System": Expert On F-1 Visas
F-1 Visa Changes: The number of Indian students opting to study abroad continues to rise each year. However, the process comes with several challenges, particularly visa delays. Students are required to clear interviews and provide strong justification for their choice of course and institution. The United States, one of the most popular destinations for Indian students, has recently introduced changes to its F-1 visa policies, potentially making the application process more harsh. NDTV's Ambika Singh Kahma, speaks to Rahul Subramaniam, Co-founder of Athena Education on why there has been a rise in student F-1 visa rejections and what measures students can take to reduce the chance of their rejection. Question 1: How do recent changes in US immigration policies affect F1 visa applications? Rahul Subramaniam: While recent shifts in U.S. immigration policies, particularly concerning visa interview processes and social media vetting, have introduced new dynamics, the pathway for Indian students aspiring to study in the United States remains robust. India continues to be the leading source of international students in the U.S., with over 331,000 Indian students enrolled in the 2023-24 academic year, marking a 23% increase from the previous year. Yes, we've seen headlines about increased scrutiny and delays, but these are largely procedural updates, not policy reversals. At Athena Education, we view these developments as an opportunity to further strengthen our support systems. We are committed to providing our students with comprehensive guidance on navigating the evolving visa landscape, ensuring they are well-prepared and confident in their applications. Our approach emphasizes meticulous documentation, understanding of the visa process, and readiness to adapt to new requirements. Question 2: How has the recent political climate affected student visa approvals? Are rejection rates higher than before? Rahul Subramaniam: While recent reports indicate a rise in student visa rejections, especially for F-1 visas, it's important to view this within the context of a more robust screening process-not a blanket denial of international talent. The U.S. remains one of the most sought-after destinations for higher education due to its world-class universities, research opportunities, and global networking prospects. Visa officers are now conducting more thorough checks, including digital footprint reviews and academic intent validations, to ensure genuine candidates make it through. For students who prepare diligently, meet eligibility criteria, and demonstrate clear academic and professional goals, the U.S. continues to open its doors. Yes, the landscape has shifted, but the opportunity remains- and with the right guidance and transparency, students can still thrive in the U.S. education system. Question 3: What are the most common reasons for F1 visa rejections, and how can students avoid them? Rahul Subramaniam: F-1 visa rejections can be deeply disappointing. Students must clearly show that their academic path is thoughtfully chosen and that they can communicate this with clarity and confidence. Of course, getting a visa is about preparation and purpose. Keep everything in place-good academics, financial support, and a university admit. The U.S. is home to the largest population of Indian international students, a community that contributes over $7.2 billion to its economy. Beyond numbers, Indian students bring talent, innovation, and cultural richness-making them an essential part of the American academic fabric. America wants international students as much as international students want to receive high quality American education. Students who stand out are often the ones who are well-informed, honest, and authentic in their interviews. Question 4: If a student has received their I-20 but is still waiting for a visa interview date, what would you suggest they do in the meantime? Should they consider confirming other college offers to reserve a spot, or hold off until the visa decision is made? Rahul Subramaniam: If you've received your I-20 but are still waiting for a visa interview date, I completely understand the uncertainty that comes with this situation. Right now, the best thing you can do is stay in close touch with your university's Designated School Official (DSO). They can advise you on the next steps if there's a prolonged delay - some universities even offer the option to defer your admission if needed. I wouldn't rush into accepting other college offers just yet, especially if your heart is set on a particular school. Changing universities at this stage could mean going through the entire I-20 and SEVIS process again, which might not necessarily speed things up. In the meantime, consider using this period productively. Look into online courses or certifications related to your field of study. They not only strengthen your academic profile but also show continued commitment and focus. Question 5: What are the key factors that US colleges consider when evaluating international student applications? Rahul Subramaniam: When US colleges evaluate international student applications, they're looking far beyond just academic transcripts. Yes, strong grades and test scores are essential, but what truly sets an applicant apart is their ability to demonstrate intellectual curiosity, personal initiative, and a meaningful engagement with the world around them. Universities take a holistic approach, they pay close attention to essays, letters of recommendation, extracurriculars, and the student's personal story. They want to understand not only what the student has achieved, but why they pursued those paths and how they've grown through them. Cultural perspective and global awareness also carry weight, especially as campuses look to foster diverse, dynamic communities. At Athena, we've seen that students stand out when their applications reflect clarity of thought and a sense of purpose. Our mentorship approach brings together experts, from Ivy League alumni to former admissions consultants, who help students shape high-impact, globally relevant projects and original ideas that push boundaries. Through deep one-on-one mentorship, students build profiles that aren't just impressive, they're authentic. Question 6: What advice would you give to students who are planning to apply to US colleges and pursue an F1 visa? Rahul Subramaniam: If you're planning to apply to US colleges and pursue an F1 visa, my best advice is to start early and stay organized. The journey is much more than just paperwork, it's about telling your unique story and showing why you're a great fit for the university and the country. Focus on building a well-rounded profile: strong academics matter, but so do your passions, projects, and the impact you want to make. Be prepared for the visa process. Also, remember that the US government has had social media checks as part of visa screening since 2019, so keeping your digital presence professional and consistent is important. Lastly, don't hesitate to seek guidance from mentors or experts who understand both admissions and visa intricacies. With thoughtful preparation, clarity on your goals, and a genuine application, you can navigate this process successfully and set yourself up for an exciting chapter ahead. Question 7: What impact does the Harvard visa revocation case have on other universities? Rahul Subramaniam: It is important to view recent events in the larger context of the strong and long standing educational ties between the U.S. and India. India remains the largest source of international students in the U.S., showing how vital this academic relationship is for both countries. Given India's strategic importance to the U.S., especially in education and technology sectors, we are confident that these are temporary measures and that the overall pathway for Indian students to study in the U.S. will remain open and robust.
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
15-05-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
India-UK trade deal may cushion blow of UK visa curbs on students: Experts
On May 6, 2025, India and the United Kingdom concluded talks for a free trade agreement (FTA). Less than a week later, the newly elected Labour government under Keir Starmer released a white paper proposing sweeping immigration reforms. The timing has stirred discussion on what these parallel developments could mean for Indian students, who have been one of the largest international student groups in the UK. The country has long been seen as a top choice due to its post-study work opportunities, prestigious universities, and clear education-to-employment pathways. Can the FTA support Indian students in the UK? Aritra Ghoshal, founder and director at One Step Global, believes the FTA could help, but only if education is explicitly included. 'Such agreements often go beyond goods and services; they open the doors for mobility of talent and recognition of qualifications,' said Ghoshal. 'If education is treated as a service under the FTA, we may see smoother visa norms, better mutual understanding of degrees, and maybe even work-integrated pathways for Indian students.' Rahul Subramaniam, co-founder of Athena Education, said the FTA could make it easier for Indian graduates to work in the UK if it leads to mutual recognition of professional qualifications. 'It could lead to more exchange programmes, joint research projects, and potentially better visa arrangements,' he said. Christopher Abraham, head of SP Jain School of Global Management in Dubai, said the agreement might even encourage UK institutions to increase collaboration with Indian universities. 'It could also encourage fewer financial or regulatory constraints, enabling Indian students to access better quality education in the UK,' he added. But others are more cautious. Mamta Shekhawat, founder of pointed to the government's shift in tone on immigration. 'The white paper establishes whole new approaches to migration, be it for education, work, or family. The pathway to permanent residency for students will become longer and more competitive,' she said. Graduate route under review One of the most discussed proposals in the immigration white paper is a review of the Graduate Route, which allows international students to remain in the UK for work after finishing their studies. Key proposals include: Shortening the Graduate visa from 2 years to 18 months Limiting eligibility to graduates entering RQF level 6 and above jobs Reviewing the long-term future of the route altogether 'The shortening of the Graduate Route period, coupled with heightened employment criteria, may be detrimental to perceived return on investment,' said Abraham. New rules for sponsoring universities The white paper proposes stricter oversight of institutions hosting international students. Changes include: < Raising the Basic Compliance Assessment (BCA) threshold by 5 percentage points < Introducing a red-amber-green rating system to classify universities by compliance levels < Enforcing improvement plans and recruitment caps for poorly performing universities < Requiring institutions to sign up to the Agent Quality Framework if they use international agents Concerns have also been raised around asylum claims by international students nearing visa expiry, particularly from countries where conditions haven't changed. Students from lower-ranked institutions have shown the sharpest rise in visa grants, the white paper said. Financial and visa restrictions Among other proposals, a new levy on international student tuition fees is being considered, with proceeds going to the UK's higher education and skills system. The short-term English study visa is being reviewed due to a high refusal rate of 48% in 2024 Study visa grants peaked at 498,000 in the year ending June 2023, with student net migration at 262,000 in June 2024. Dependants of students rose sharply from 16,000 in 2019 to 143,000 in 2023, according to the white paper. Indian students reconsidering options 'The recent tightening of post-study visa norms and immigration scrutiny has understandably made some students cautious,' said Ghoshal. He added that while students haven't entirely turned away from the UK, many are comparing it more closely with countries like Australia and New Zealand, where the path to work or residency may seem more predictable. 'It's not about the UK becoming 'less attractive', but about students wanting greater clarity and assurance before making such a big decision,' he said. Akshay Chaturvedi, founder and CEO of Leverage Edu, said the white paper proposals were expected and reflect a balance between different interests. 'From an India lens, with the UK-India FTA in the backdrop, we're likely to see prioritisation of talent in sectors like healthcare, technology, environment, culinary arts, and retail,' he said. 'I wouldn't read too much into the 24 to 18-month change on the Graduate Route.' He also noted that the new English requirements were long due and welcomed stronger compliance through frameworks like the Agent Quality Framework. 'At least in India, we saw the British Council, BUILA and others drive this for a while now,' he said. FTA could soften impact of immigration clampdown Experts said the FTA could become a counterbalance to the tightening immigration rules, depending on how it is framed. 'If strategically leveraged, the UK-India FTA could restore confidence by promoting greater institutional collaboration, clearer qualification recognition, and smoother pathways for professional integration,' said Subramaniam. Abraham agreed. 'Balanced policies that align immigration with talent branding will enable the UK to remain competitive,' he said. Ghoshal added that a dedicated India-UK talent corridor, focused on education, tech, or research, could help regain lost ground—'but it needs to be more than lip service,' he said.
NDTV
13-05-2025
- Business
- NDTV
Can UK-India Free Trade Agreement Benefits Indian Students? FAQs Answered
UK-India Free Trade Agreement: The UK and India have agreed a trade deal to make the goods cheaper and benefit the economies of both the country. Last year, the trade between the UK and India totalled 42 billion pounds and the UK-India trade deal is expected to increase the trade by an additional 25.5 billion. The agreement took three and a half year to be signed. The UK is India's 16th largest trading partner and India is the UK's 11th largest partner. More than 90 per cent of the products have been impacted from the UK-India free trade agreement. India has reduced taxes implied on UK on various products including: Electrical machinery Aerospace Cosmetics Scotch whisky, gin and soft drinks food including lamb, salmon, chocolate and biscuits Medical devices Higher-value cars UK has lowered taxes implied on India on various products including: Jewellery and gems Food products including frozen prawns Clothing and Footwear Few cars The FTA might help build strong relations between institutions of India and UK that can lead to increased exchange programmes, joint research initiatives and potentially more favourable visa arrangements for students. Here, we speak to some experts who explain how India-UK FTA will benefit students: Q. Will the UK-India Free Trade Agreement benefit Indian students? Answer:"Yes, the UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) holds the potential to benefit Indian students by fostering closer educational and professional ties between the two nations. While the FTA primarily addresses trade and economic cooperation, its provisions can indirectly open up new opportunities for Indian students in the UK," said Rahul Subramaniam, Co-founder, Athena Education. Q. In what ways might the agreement create opportunities for Indian students? Answer: Mr Subramaniam said that the UK-India FTA can create several opportunities for Indian students: Enhanced academic collaborations: The agreement could encourage partnerships between Indian and UK universities, leading to joint degree programs, research collaborations, and student exchange initiatives. Scholarships and financial aid: The FTA might pave the way for more scholarship opportunities and financial support for Indian students, making UK education more accessible. Streamlined visa process: Improved diplomatic relations could lead to more efficient visa processing and potentially more favorable post-study work visa policies for Indian students. Q. Are student visa policies included in the FTA? Answer:"No. The FTA does not encompass student visa regulations. Immigration policies remain under the purview of the UK's domestic legislation and are not directly influenced by the trade agreement," said Yatharth Gulati, co-founder, Rostrum Education. Q. How might the agreement create opportunities for Indian students? Answer: The education expert gave a detailed answer, explaining that the FTA opens doors to: Professional Mobility: Easier access to UK job markets, especially in sectors like IT, finance, and engineering; Academic Collaboration: Increased partnerships between UK and Indian institutions, leading to more exchange programs and joint research initiatives. Financial Relief: Exemptions from certain contributions reduce the financial burden on Indian students. Q. Has the changing immigration policy made the UK less attractive to Indian students? Answer: "Yes. The 2024 ban on dependents for most international students and the extension of the residency requirement for permanent settlement from 5 to 10 years have made the UK less appealing. These changes have led to a significant drop in Indian student visa applications," added Mr Gulati. Q. So, can the FTA revive interest in studying there? Answer:"Potentially, the UK-India FTA could reignite Indian students' interest in studying in the UK by addressing some of the concerns arising from recent immigration policy changes. By fostering stronger educational ties, recognising professional qualifications, and possibly influencing more student-friendly visa policies, the FTA can enhance the overall appeal of UK education. "However, for the FTA to effectively revive interest, it must be complemented by tangible policy adjustments that directly benefit students, such as reducing financial barriers and providing clearer pathways to employment post-graduation. A holistic approach that combines the strategic objectives of the FTA with student-centric policies will be crucial in restoring the interest in the UK," said Mr Subramaniam.
