International students are the most affected by the pandemic, right from the first time it hit the world until today, even when it is under control. If you have study abroad plans, apprehensions come along because you have no idea when the virus may hit back. Even as universities across the world open for offline classes, international borders may get closed, and flights may be affected. Moreover, you have to stay on top of the latest visa and quarantine rules to ensure a smooth journey.
It is easier said than done because rules around COVID-19 management in different parts of the world are constantly evolving. You may have no idea how things would pan out on the day before your flight. While you cannot control the prevailing situation, it makes sense to be alert and get your facts right before you embark. Let us explain the current rules for international students at top study abroad destinations.
USA
The USA has several travel restrictions for international travellers from countries like India. But Indian students flying in for starting their academic year from August 1 have some exemptions after the country got into the moderate risk status in August this year. If you have an F-1 visa or M-1 visa, you can travel to the US. But you can arrive only 30 days before your academic programme starts. You will be recommended to undertake a COVID test within 3 to 5 days after arrival. Even if you test negative, you must stay in quarantine for seven days.
CANADA
Fully vaccinated international students travelling to Canada are exempted from mandatory quarantine upon arrival as long as they meet the requirements issued by the government. The country does not allow direct flights for Indian students until September 21, which means you will have to undergo an RT-PCR test from a transit country before landing in Canada. It makes flying to Canada a tad more expensive for international students. Additionally, there is a massive backlog of student visa applications for the country, so a delay is impending as well.
UK
International students from India were previously placed on the red list by the UK, but they have been transferred to the amber list from August 8. It means you can now travel to the UK, provided you fulfil certain conditions. For example, you will have to book a COVID-19 RT-PCR test and pay for it before traveling. You will get the test when you land in the country. Further, you will have to go through a 10-day mandatory home quarantine upon entering the UK. You can apply for the new post-study work visa scheme if you start your course this year or early next year. But you will have to be here with a student visa before April 6, 2022.
AUSTRALIA
Australia currently has travel restrictions for everyone except its citizens. But it has plans for facilitating the return of international students by collaborating with states and territories and educational institutions in the country. State and territory governments will have the authority to decide which students and educational institutions can be a part of the International Student Arrival Plan. Participating students will require a travel exemption to arrive in Australia, and the relevant state or territory government will apply on their behalf. If you plan to get in through the International Student Arrival Plan, you will have to check the state-specific travel and quarantine guidelines.
Although universities around the world are trying to move towards normalcy, things still appear dicey for international students. Your best bet is to stay updated with the latest information so that you can realign your plans accordingly. Get your vaccinations at the earliest, and ensure it is approved at your study abroad destination. As things seem to improve day by day, hope is just around the corner. Meanwhile, you should stay focused and wait for the right time!
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?
