Studying Abroad in 2025: How to Navigate Canada, Australia, and Other Countries’ New Rules

Additionally, from November 2024, university graduates must achieve a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) Level 7 and university graduates must achieve a CLB Level 5 to qualify for the Post-Graduation Work Permit – a crucial way for international students to stay and work after the Study in the country.

Mehta explains that this may be difficult for students who struggle with their English skills. And students studying non-STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) fields where language skills are important may find it difficult to meet these requirements, further limiting their employment prospects after graduation.

To combat visa fraud amid increasing concerns about individuals overstating their financial means to enter the country, students are now required to pay at least CAD 20,635 (Rs 12.19 lakh) compared to CAD 10,000 (Rs 5.9 lakh). for living expenses and education as well as more detailed proof of their financial ability.

“These stricter financial requirements could prove particularly challenging for middle-class families in India. Meeting these requirements could deter some students from applying to Canadian institutions altogether,” says Mehta.

Also Read: Forbes India Ready Reckoner for Studying Abroad: From Choosing the Right Country and University to Applying for a Visa

Australia:

To manage the growing number of international students, address the housing shortage and ensure alignment with Australia’s labor market needs, Australia also introduced regulations in 2024 that impact Indian students – the second largest international student group (15 percent) in the country.

In July 2024, the student visa application fee was increased from AUD 710 (Rs 37,602) to AUD 1,600 (Rs 84,737). And they now need proof of at least A$29,710 (Rs 15.73 lakh) out of A$24,505 (Rs 12.97 lakh) in funds to cover living expenses.

The USA and Great Britain:

Not only has it become more difficult to find visa spots to study in the United States, but the process for the F-1 visa – a nonimmigrant visa that allows international students to study in the United States at an accredited institution – has also become more stringent .

According to a news report citing US State Department data, India saw a sharp decline in US F-1 student visas: from January to September 2024, only 64,008 visas were issued – a 38 percent decline from 1.3 lakh in 2023.

To study in the UK, the visa fee has increased by 35 percent to £490 (Rs 52,134). In addition, international students are expected to have sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their stay from January 2, 2025.

New alternatives

As a direct result of the new guidelines, educational consultants say students have approached them to reconsider their major and goal.

“There has been a noticeable shift in student preferences, with Ireland becoming the top choice due to its 90 percent visa success rate,” says Palak Neema, founder of Mumbai-based education consultancy Learner Aid.

European countries such as Germany, Finland, Spain and France are also seeing increased interest, she informs, with many of these countries also introducing English-language programs for international students.

“This has opened up access to quality education in Europe for non-native speakers, especially Indian students,” adds Neema.

Additionally, Asian and Middle Eastern countries such as the United Arab Emirates and Singapore have also gained popularity, says education consultant Karan Gupta. He adds that the Netherlands and New Zealand are also emerging as alternatives for Indian students seeking quality education without so many hurdles.

Also read: Democratizing Education in India: Overcoming Barriers and Building Bridges

Stick to the original plan

The new guidelines, coupled with stricter employment rules and high tuition and living costs, may have prompted students to look for cheaper alternatives, but that may not be the right approach as it could lead to dissatisfaction in the long run, says Mehta.

Therefore, despite the challenges, students can stick to their original plans while keeping the following points in mind:

Academic and linguistic preparation

The red pen: As competition for limited places increases due to caps, students must ensure that their academic performance is exceptional. Good grades in relevant subjects and good test scores in SAT, ACT, GRE and GMAT help students stand out in the competition. Additionally, as these countries increase their English proficiency standards, Indian students need to prepare for exams like IELTS, TOEFL or PTE even if they have a good command of the language. The idea is to exceed expectations and requirements.

Learning aid: It’s helpful to plan these tests and start preparing early because you have one less component to worry about once you get a good result. There will also be time for retakes if necessary and provide more flexibility in securing scholarships and financial aid. Submitting applications early will help avoid last-minute complications.

Australia in particular has introduced the requirement that students demonstrate a genuine intention to study. Students must be clear about their academic and career goals in their statements and during visa interviews. This may require counseling or coaching to ensure they are effectively communicating their commitment to education and not just immigration opportunities. It is therefore an advantage to hire an expert at an early stage.

Improve your profile

The red pen: Because universities and visa officials often evaluate holistic profiles, students must demonstrate leadership skills, community involvement, or unique talents. Through voluntary or entrepreneurial involvement in areas relevant to your studies, applications can be strengthened and made more competitive.

Learning aid: If your academic background is not strong, consider certifications, internships, or relevant work experience to enrich your application. These additional qualifications affect your chances.

Financial preparation

The red pen: Indian students should gather all necessary financial documents early, including bank statements, proof of family income, sponsorship letters, scholarships and education loan documents. It is important to demonstrate that funds will cover tuition, accommodation and living expenses for the duration of the program.

The intention of applying for a visa should be purely educational. It also helps to prove your intention to return to India by providing documentation proving that you have roots in your home country. This can be the presentation of ownership papers or proof of a family business.

Learning aid: These documents are often closely scrutinized during visa procedures, particularly in countries such as Australia.

Families need to approach financial planning with foresight. Start budgeting for college and living expenses early, taking into account additional costs such as visa fees, insurance, airline tickets and potential unforeseen expenses.

Education loans are a smart option, especially those with deferred repayment that allow students to repay as soon as they start earning money after graduation. These loans often come with an interest-free payout during college, which can ease the financial burden on families. Opting for fields that offer a high return on investment can also ensure that students find well-paying jobs after graduation, making loan repayment easier.

Also, seeking scholarships or grants in these countries can help reduce costs and ensure that the quality of education is not compromised.

Consider policy changes temporary:

The red pen: Political and economic conditions often influence policies that limit the admission or work opportunities of international students. Students should stay abreast of evolving labor market trends in their destination country. This can help them adjust their academic focus or career goals to meet the demand for specific skills and ensure a smoother transition into the world of work.

All currency conversion rates in INR as of December 20, 2024.