The pandemic has changed the international education scenario around the world. At the same time, study abroad aspirants have a new perspective when it comes to their destinations. Indian students, in particular, are looking for off-beat destinations for pursuing overseas educational opportunities. Now that the restrictions are eased, and global universities are welcoming students back for physical classes, new trends are on the horizon. Let us highlight the major ones.
UK IS OVERTAKING AUSTRALIA FOR INDIAN STUDENTS.
Australia was one of the top international education destinations for Indian students in pre-pandemic times. However, the picture changed completely when the country closed its borders for almost two years. Even as travel resumes, things are far from usual. Countless students are moving from Australia to the UK for their study abroad goals. The UK is emerging as a winner because of faster approvals and support initiatives to ease the return of Indian students. The post-Brexit labour shortages in the UK present future opportunities for young graduates. Healthcare, logistics, and information technology are likely to be the high-demand segments. The new Graduate Route is another reason for the UK becoming more attractive. Students completing their undergraduate or master’s degree in the country can stay back and work for two years.
CANADA IS A CLEAR WINNER OVER THE US
Indian students planning to travel to the US are now pivoting towards Canada due to valid reasons. Canada handled the health crisis better than the US. Further, immigration is far easier in Canada, making it a good option for students looking to stay back permanently. Not to mention, the cost of quality education is much lower compared to US universities. Canada is one of the clear winners in pandemic times, with the US lagging far behind in the number of international students.
NEARBY DESTINATIONS ARE POPULAR
The pandemic-induced travel restrictions and lockdowns made it hard for Indian students to return from far-off destinations. Flight tickets were beyond reach, and travelling back was even harder. Not surprisingly, the popularity of nearby destinations has soared in the new normal. Singapore is attracting them in growing numbers as it is closer to home and has globally reputed universities. Indians are also considering Dubai campuses of Canadian, American, and UK universities.
TWINNING PROGRAMMES ARE GOING STRONG
Another trend that has surfaced amid the ongoing pandemic is the growing acceptance of twinning programmes. Essentially, these programmes are agreements between foreign universities and local institutions or pathway providers. Students can pursue international education in their home country for a certain period. After the initial phase, they can travel abroad and join the university campus to complete the remaining course. They can also transfer credits to the partnering foreign university.
The study abroad aspirations of Indian students took an initial blow, but the demand is close to normal now. However, these trends are making an impact on the choices and goals. Whichever way they go, it is clear that the pandemic is not going to stop them from realizing their vision.
If you are considering studying abroad why don’t you discuss your prospects and opportunities with experts at Lurnable’s dedicated study abroad counselling division LurnPathways?
