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Economic Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Economic Times
Rising costs and visa hurdles push international students beyond the US,UK
Synopsis The United States, once the top choice for international students, faces challenges due to stricter immigration laws and rising costs. Consequently, countries like Japan, South Korea, and India are actively attracting foreign students with relaxed rules and affordable education. This shift indicates a more competitive global education landscape where students prioritize visa policies and career prospects. The United States, long seen as the leading destination for international students, is facing increasing uncertainty. Tightening immigration laws, unpredictable visa rules, and rising tuition costs have made many students reconsider the value of studying there, according to a report by The Times of India. A notable example came when the Trump administration moved to revoke Harvard University's license to host foreign students. Although courts blocked the move, the incident raised concerns about the country's reliability as an academic host. ADVERTISEMENT According to the US State Department, 1.12 million international students in the country contribute over $50 billion to the economy. But funding cuts to universities and tuition fees crossing $100,000 have started to weaken the country's academic appeal. Similar trends are emerging in other English-speaking countries. Global universities step in as US cracks down on foreign students In the UK, the government is reportedly considering reducing the post-study work visa from two years to 18 months. Restrictions introduced in 2024 also prevent most graduate students from bringing dependents, as reported by Times Higher Education. Canada, which once welcomed international students in large numbers, has now placed a two-year limit on new enrolments. ICEF Monitor notes that foreign students previously made up 2.5% of the Canadian population. Australia has also imposed enrolment caps, raised visa fees, and increased oversight, with Reuters attributing these moves to domestic political pressure. While traditional destinations impose new limits, several countries are positioning themselves as alternatives. These include nations that are facing ageing populations and shrinking youth numbers. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates) Japan, where the population of 18-year-olds has nearly halved in 30 years, aims to host 400,000 international students by 2033, according to The Hechinger Report. South Korea is targeting 300,000 students by 2027, with one in five people already over the age of 65, CNN reports. Singapore has relaxed permanent residency rules for foreign graduates. Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Malaysia are also expanding their reach in the international education has announced plans to attract 500,000 foreign students by 2047. With its growing education system and widespread English instruction, the country is seeking to become a serious destination for international education. ADVERTISEMENT Several European countries are seeing a rise in international enrolments as well. Germany and Spain recently hit record numbers. Though English-language programs remain limited, lower tuition fees are drawing interest. For example, Japan's average annual tuition is about $4, US universities are now opening campuses abroad to bypass immigration hurdles. Other institutions are stepping in to fill gaps. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology recently announced plans to admit students affected by US visa uncertainties. ADVERTISEMENT "The university will provide unconditional offers, streamlined admission procedures, and academic support to facilitate a seamless transition for interested students," the institution stated on its website. These developments suggest a shift toward a more distributed and competitive global education system. While the US, UK, and Australia remain influential, they no longer dominate. With global politics and demographics in flux, students are now choosing based on visa policies, costs, and career prospects as much as academic prestige. ADVERTISEMENT The global education landscape is undergoing change, and new players are emerging with long-term strategies to attract international talent. (With inputs from TOI) (Catch all the Business News, Breaking News, Budget 2024 Events and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Subscribe to The Economic Times Prime and read the ET ePaper online. NEXT STORY
Time of India
6 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Harvard's fallout shows: Where international students may go if the US shuts them out
As Harvard faces challenges, international students explore new countries for education. (AI Image) For decades, the US has been the world's most popular destination for international students. According to US State Department data, the country currently hosts over 1.12 million international students, generating more than $50 billion annually. Harvard University, along with other top US schools, has long been a key draw. However, with the US government tightening immigration policies, including a recent move to end Harvard's ability to enroll international students, the global higher education landscape is experiencing seismic shifts. This policy change, initiated by the Trump administration, marks a turning point for international education. Harvard has already seen a drop in its international student intake due to rising tuition fees, lost research funding, and mounting visa uncertainties. As US universities lose their allure, students are increasingly considering alternative destinations to pursue their academic dreams. Countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia have long been popular options, but even these traditional study destinations are introducing tighter restrictions, prompting students to explore newer, less traditional alternatives. The rise of non-traditional study hubs As the US, UK, and Canada face mounting immigration challenges, a new wave of countries is vying to attract international students. Among them are nations in Asia and Europe, which are actively pursuing global talent to fill their universities and close workforce gaps. Harvard's policies and the broader US trend have highlighted the vulnerability of long-established education hubs, pushing students to look elsewhere for stability. Japan, for example, has set an ambitious goal to attract 400,000 international students by 2033, as reported by ICEF Monitor. The country is responding to a demographic crisis, with its aging population and declining birth rates leading to fewer high school graduates. As part of their strategy, Japanese universities are increasing the number of English-taught programs, making it easier for international students to study without needing to learn Japanese. Tuition fees in Japan are also relatively low, with yearly costs averaging around $4,000, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious students, especially when compared to the US, where tuition can exceed $100,000 per year at private universities. South Korea, another rising player, aims to host 300,000 international students by 2027. As reported by ICEF Monitor, the country is focusing on enhancing its research opportunities and making post-study work pathways more accessible. This makes South Korea a prime destination for students interested in high-quality education and employment opportunities. European nations stepping up Europe is also witnessing a surge in interest from international students. Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands have all reported record-high numbers of foreign students in recent years. Germany, in particular, offers high-quality education with minimal tuition fees—many public universities charge no tuition for international students, aside from administrative fees. In Spain, the low cost of living and increasingly diverse academic programs in English have made it a competitive option for students seeking value without compromising on quality. According to Forbes, India has also made significant strides in attracting international students. The country plans to enroll 500,000 international students by 2047, focusing on increasing the availability of English-language programs and improving research facilities. The future of global education The growing number of alternative study destinations offers a glimpse into the future of global higher education. As more countries step up to welcome international students, US universities face an uncertain future. Harvard, once the crown jewel of US higher education, now finds itself in the crosshairs of shifting US immigration policies. Despite these challenges, the influx of international students into countries like Japan, South Korea, and Germany signals that students are more than willing to seek out new opportunities. As reported by Forbes, international students are now prioritizing not just the prestige of their institution but also stability, affordability, and post-graduation opportunities. Ultimately, Harvard's fallout could be the beginning of a broader trend in which global education becomes less dominated by traditional powerhouses and more diverse, with a wider range of countries offering valuable academic experiences. With US immigration policies tightening and international students seeking new pathways, the global education landscape is poised for significant change. Ready to empower your child for the AI era? Join our program now! Hurry, only a few seats left.
India Today
7 days ago
- Politics
- India Today
What advisories for Indian, foreign students in US warn against
International students, including those from India, have come under scrutiny by the Trump administration, resulting in advisories from the US government and universities that caution them of the potential pitfalls. These advisories provide critical warnings to students, urging them to avoid any action that could jeopardise their visa status as recorded in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).The US government has warned Indian and other international students against skipping classes or leaving their programmes amid the ongoing mass deportation issue. The advisory follows guidance from several universities across the US, which have advised their international students against non-essential US Embassy cautioned Indian students enroled in American institutions that failing to attend classes, withdrawing from their programme, or leaving without proper notification could jeopardise their eligibility for future visas. "If you drop out, skip classes, or leave your program of study without informing your school, your student visa may be revoked, and you may lose eligibility for future US visas," the US Embassy in India said in an official statement on US Embassy in India also issued a warning to foreigners on May 14 about the serious consequences of staying in the United States beyond the allowed time on their Saturday, the embassy posted on X (formerly Twitter), saying, "If you remain in the United States beyond your authorised period of stay, you could be deported and could face a permanent ban on travelling to the United States in the future."advertisementIt has also advised students to steer clear of criminal URGES STUDENTS TO MAINTAIN LEGAL STATUSThe Embassy asked students to maintain their student status."Always adhere to the terms of your visa and maintain your student status to avoid any issues," the statement issued on Tuesday US has issued a strong warning to visa applicants, stating that criminal convictions may result in a permanent ban on entry."Criminal convictions can permanently bar you from entering the United States. Even minor offences can trigger visa denials. Consular officers have access to your criminal background and will discover past violations or arrests," the US Embassy in New Delhi wrote on X on May 22."Tell the truth on your application and in your interview – lying can get you banned", it ADVISORY FOLLOWED BY VISA REVOCATIONS TOOThe advisories were issued following President Donald Trump's recent crackdown on immigrant students, which began last month. Many students have been forced to leave the country after their F-1, J-1, or M-1 visa status was abruptly revoked and their SEVIS records canceled — often due to minor past certain cases, the immigrant students were not even found guilty, while in others, no reasons were to a report by ICEF Monitor, a source for data on international education and student mobility, nearly 5,000 student records were impacted at the height of the visa reasons have varied from pro-Palestine protests to minor traffic violations, often dragging students into complex legal situations and creating widespread response to legal challenges from students, universities, and educational organisations, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reversed its decision in late April and reinstated the visa status of the affected increasing uncertainty surrounding the enforcement of immigration policies, universities throughout the US are advising international students to avoid non-essential UNIVERSITIES TO STUDENTS: 'AVOID NON-ESSENTIAL TRAVEL'Numerous universities across the country have warned international students against travelling abroad this summer, expressing concern that they may face difficulties reentering the US."Due to the increased risks involved in re-entering into the United States, we are advising members of the Duke international community to avoid international travel unless essential," Duke University wrote last month in a memo to students and faculty."A valid visa does not guarantee entry to the US," the varsity University also encourages its students to postpone non-essential travel, especially if they require a new visa to return, citing potential delays and uncertainties in visa university, in a note issued last month, stated that given recent Executive Orders signalling possible travel restrictions and changes to US visa processing, they are encouraging current international students and scholars to consider postponing nonessential travel (especially if you need a new visa to return) until there is more clarity from the Trump of California, Berkeley, also issued an advisory, saying upcoming international travel was risky due to "strict vetting and enforcement."Amid advisories and regulations, Indian students face anxiety and uncertainty about finishing their education and a life ahead in the Watch
Hindustan Times
27-05-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Are you an international student in the US? These violations can cost you your visa immediately
On Tuesday, May 27, the US Embassy in India warned Indian or foreign students that if they are found skipping classes or dropping out of their courses, they might end up losing their student visas. 'If you drop out, skip classes, or leave your program of study without informing your school, your student visa may be revoked, and you may lose eligibility for future U.S. visas. Always adhere to the terms of your visa and maintain your student status to avoid any issues,' the official statement, shared on X, read. International students in the United States have been uncertain and anxious ever since US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials revoked the visa status of thousands of students recorded in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). At the peak of the revocation activity, almost 5,000 student records were affected, an ICEF Monitor report revealed. However, ICE went on to reverse its decision in late April after facing various legal challenges from students, universities and education bodies. ICE also restored the visa status of those who were impacted. However, US authorities have continued to use their legal powers to cancel student visa status and carry out deportations. Earlier, hundreds of international studentsstudying in the US received emails from the US Department of State (DOS), asking them to self-deport as their F-1 visas (student visas) had been revoked because of campus activism. Students who shared or liked 'anti-national' posts were also targeted. Amid the uncertainty faced by international students,Prashant Ajmera, immigration lawyer at Ajmera Law Group, explained that some immigration violations, which 'occur when a student breaches the terms of their visa,' can land them in trouble, according to Business Standard. These violations include: 'These violations can lead to termination of the SEVIS record, deportation, bans of three or ten years from returning to the US, and serious difficulties obtaining future visas,' Ajmera said. Ajmera also explained that some criminal violations involve breaking the US laws, and can even overlap with immigration violations. 'Underage drinking, drink driving, credit card fraud, shoplifting, or possession of prohibited items can all trigger criminal proceedings, visa revocation and removal from the US,' said Ajmera, adding that the US maintains interconnected databases that enforcement agencies can access, which lets them cross-check student data. Mamta Shekhawat, founder of said that it is a 'misconception that only crimes lead to visa revocation.' 'Students can lose visas for non-criminal issues such as not maintaining student status, breaching visa terms, providing false information or even questionable social media activity. We've seen cases where incomplete forms or small documentation errors caused delays, rejections and cancellations,' Shekhawat added. Kajal Dave, co-founder of LaunchEd, said, 'Minor documentation lapses that are corrected promptly won't usually lead to visa loss. Repeated or serious discrepancies, however, draw attention. Students must keep records updated and act fast if issues arise.' Peeyush Agarwal, co-founder and CEO of Invest4Edu, said that students often face trouble with their visa because of unauthorized work. 'Many students mistakenly take freelance or part-time work off-campus without approval from their Designated School Official or US Citizenship and Immigration Services. Failing to maintain a full course load or not informing the university about changes of address or school can also trigger loss of status,' he explained. 'The biggest issue is often not wilful wrongdoing but simply a lack of awareness,' added Agarwal. 'Students should speak regularly with their international student office and never assume something is allowed under their visa.' Ajmera advised students to remain calm if they face such problems in the US and are contacted by US authorities. 'Never resist or run from police, as that turns a small problem into a criminal offence. Ask for legal representation immediately,' he said.
Time of India
21-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Japan fast-tracks global education push; eyes 4,00,000 international students by 2033
Japan is moving steadily toward its long-term goal of hosting 400,000 international students by 2033. As of May 2024, the country had already exceeded its first milestone-reaching and surpassing its pre-pandemic benchmark of 312,000 students three years ahead of schedule, as per a report by ICEF Monitor. According to data from the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), there are now 336,708 international students in the country. This marks a 21% increase from the previous year and positions Japan well on the path to meeting its 2033 target. Most of the students (96%) are self-funded, while the remaining few receive scholarships from the Japanese government or foreign governments. Higher education institutions account for 68% of enrolments, and Japanese language schools make up the remaining 32%. Play Video Pause Skip Backward Skip Forward Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration 0:00 Loaded : 0% 0:00 Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 1x Playback Rate Chapters Chapters Descriptions descriptions off , selected Captions captions settings , opens captions settings dialog captions off , selected Audio Track default , selected Picture-in-Picture Fullscreen This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Text Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Caption Area Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Drop shadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Among those enrolled in higher education (229,467 students), 40% are in undergraduate or junior college programmes, 25% are pursuing graduate studies, 33% are in professional training colleges, and 2% are in university preparatory courses. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates) The majority of international students in Japan come from other Asian countries. In 2024, 92.5% of students came from within the region, with China, Nepal, Vietnam, Myanmar, and South Korea making up nearly 80% of total enrolments. Nepal saw particularly strong growth, with a 70% increase in student numbers year-on-year. Live Events RECOMMENDED STORIES FOR YOU International students face challenges rebuilding their lives after US reversal in visa crackdown Studying in UK just got more expensive for international students The Post-Brexit edge: Why Ireland is fast becoming a preferred study destination for international students Japan's major urban regions remain the key destinations. The Kanto and Kinki prefectures, which include Tokyo and Osaka, hosted more than 75% of the international student population. Academically, 70% of international students were studying humanities or social sciences, while 14% were enrolled in science or engineering programmes. Japan's education policy continues to prioritise global engagement, and the current enrolment numbers reflect growing interest and access for students from across Asia.
