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As the UK government reviews its Graduate Route visa, Australia imposes stricter English language requirements, and Canada sets up a temporary study permit cap, Ireland is emerging as an attractive destination for international students from Southern Asia. In recent years, Ireland has witnessed a significant increase in the number of South Asian students, particularly from India, with over 7,000 students in 2023 compared to just 700 in 2013. Education in Ireland, which is dedicated to promoting the country's higher education institutions overseas, has been heavily involved in organising education fairs across India to capitalise on this trend. Stakeholders suggest that Indian graduates could fill the labour shortages in Irish companies. Additionally, students from Pakistan are also showing interest in Ireland's courses in data analytics, digital marketing, accounting, and nursing. Ireland's appeal lies in its English-speaking environment, EU membership, and attractive offerings such as the government's GOIS Scholarships, economical fees, and simplified visa processes. However, despite its increasing popularity, there are challenges to overcome. The lack of brand awareness and a need for a more consistent visa policy are among the obstacles highlighted by stakeholders. The Technological University of the Shannon has seen a rise in demand for its programmes, particularly from South Asian students. To attract students, merit-based scholarships, offering up to €4,000, are also available. While South Asia has traditionally been a postgraduate-focused market, there is a growing interest in undergraduate study abroad programmes. South Asian students are attracted to fields like healthcare, engineering, science, information technology, business, art &amp; design, and hospitality. Trinity College Dublin and other institutions are actively engaging with local schools and guidance counsellors to attract more undergraduate students from the region. Despite the opportunities, challenges such as accommodation shortages have kept some South Asian students cautious. The Irish government's new global talent and innovation strategy aims to address these challenges and position Ireland as the preferred destination for international learners.

Ireland Attracts South Asians Amid Global Policy Changes

Ireland is emerging as an attractive destination for international students from Southern Asia. Read more now!

US universities are deepening their connections with Indian counterparts, focusing on vital sectors like artificial intelligence, healthcare, and technology. A recent delegation visit to India revealed this collaborative effort. Tufts University's president emphasised the mutual nature of this collaboration, refraining from describing it as one-sided aid but rather as a bilateral relationship. This sentiment underscores the ethos of cooperation driving 69 American Association of Universities (AAU) institutions acting as facilitators of research. Formed in April 2023, a task force has been actively addressing challenges in enhancing higher education and fostering scientific research. Their recent report, unveiled in January, emphasised expanding research partnerships, student exchanges, and internships.During their productive visit to India, the delegation engaged with government officials and faculty members from prestigious institutions like IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, and others to discuss STEM initiatives. The focus remained on fostering research collaborations, particularly in AI's healthcare applications and semiconductor technology. This task force initiative aligns with the Biden administration's U.S.-India initiative on critical and emerging technology, aimed at bolstering industrial and technological cooperation. Meanwhile, the Institute of International Education (IIE) dispatched its own delegation to India, comprising 17 US colleges and universities. Their mission was to bolster bi-national collaboration, student mobility, and research partnerships, leveraging IIE's extensive history in the region.Discussions during the visit ranged from establishing international branch campuses to exploring the impact of ed-tech on Indian higher education. These efforts aim to strengthen ties and foster innovation in both countries. With over 70 AAU institutions actively involved in research, the partnership holds promise for bolstering research endeavours in India. Additionally, the initiative aims to address visa processing concerns for Indian students and exchange visitors, ensuring smoother transitions. Despite potential shifts in US immigration policies, Indian students remain a vital part of the American higher education landscape. With bipartisan support for stronger US-India relations, the outlook remains positive for students seeking educational opportunities abroad. Tufts University, under President Kumar's leadership, is committed to expanding opportunities for Indian students, including doctoral and postdoctoral trainees. Kumar's own journey, marked by an impactful education at IISc Bangalore, informs Tufts' mission to provide transformative experiences for its students.Furthermore, Tufts aims to drive impactful research, such as synthetic agriculture initiatives, addressing global challenges like food security and sustainability. Through these endeavours, Tufts seeks to empower students to make a difference in the world beyond their academic pursuits.

Indian and UK Universities Strengthen AI & Tech Cooperation

US universities are deepening their connections with Indian counterparts, focusing on vital sectors like artificial intelligence, healthcare, and technology.

An attractive site in Greenwich has been reserved for a new development for co-living and student accommodation with over 1,200 beds.The provider, Re:shape Living, has acquired a plot of land on Woolwich’s Macbean Street with the intention of establishing new co-living and student accommodation. It’s envisioned that the property will have a brand-new, two-story community centre and public area.Jaime Browne, co-founder of Re:shape Living, announced that the Woolwich site has the potential to offer and provide the neighbourhood with more than 100 affordable homes and over 1,200 beds.Mr. Browne stated to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS): “We are excited to start to engage with local community groups, charities, small and medium-sized enterprises, and social enterprises over the coming months, so they not only have a genuine opportunity to co-design and inform the proposed uses of the buildings and the wider offering at the Macbean development site, but also become actual stakeholders and direct beneficiaries of the development proposals.”He continued, “The Macbean site is a strategically important development site for Woolwich. It is important that we deliver a neighbourhood where local people feel welcome, and the proposed uses complement and enrich the vibrancy of the town centre.”Greenwich Council in 2021 refused previous plans from the developer L&amp;Q to build five blocks of flats up to 22 storeys tall on the site. The initial plan was for the construction of 595 new apartments on the site of the defunct Woolwich Polytechnic School, which has been vacant for more than 20 years. According to the reports, the project’s scale and lack of social housing were the main reasons for the rejection of the project. The developer, Re:shape Living, is also known for other successful projects like its 300-bed co-living building in Brent named ARK Wembley. In addition to that, they have already created proposals for the old Woolwich Catholic Club on Beresford Street, and the renovation is set to be completed by the end of the year. The Woolwich project is part of a huge plan for the developer to create a series of co-living and purpose-built student accommodation options all across the southeast, including Watford and two sites in London, Bthanel, and Woolwich.The developer is also hoping to build and create partnerships with local groups, as they announced earlier that the company is currently requesting that charities and local community groups identify which retail, cultural, and community facilities are most needed in Woolwich.

Plans for New Student Accommodation in Woolwich

An attractive site in Greenwich has been reserved for a new development for co-living and student accommodation with over 1,200 beds.

On behalf of Barsad Investments, Boyer has just gotten the green light to start its 198-bed student housing in Southampton, which is set to replace the 50-year-old, worn-down St. Margaret's House. The approval was given by the city council on February 20th. The new 3,768.00 sq metre project will push the site’s capacity from 106 bedrooms in the old St.Margaret’s House to 198 beds. The new building will also have five levels compared to the previous building’s four-floor levels. Not only that, but it will also add excellent facilities for its new residents to enjoy. The building will also be built with sustainability in mind and will have a modern design, which is a significant change compared to its run-down predecessors.The impact of the project does not just extend to students, as it will provide high-quality student accommodation in the city and add more options to alleviate the shortage, but it will also free up family-sized homes in Southampton by reducing the number of residents in Houses of Multiple Occupations (HMOs). It will also enhance the character of the neighbourhood. Alice Moore, the associate director at Boyer’s London office, has stated: “Quality student accommodation is in short supply in Southampton, as with so many other cities. By doubling the number of units currently available on the site, this scheme goes some way to meeting the very pressing need. We're extremely pleased to have worked collaboratively with WGP Architects and the wider team on this inspiring project, and we look forward to seeing the development coming forward.”Regarding the building’s facilities, the property is set to feature a great range of facilities that combine leisure and functionality and include an on-site cinema room, social areas on each floor, an on-site gym where residents can exercise, and green areas that will be redeveloped around the property and will act as socialising spaces, among a variety of other unique on-site facilities.The new PBSA will also not be dominant or overbearing, as the property will be visually pleasing and surrounded by trees. In addition to the property’s sustainability, novelty, and superb facilities, residents will enjoy great proximity to the city centre, as the new 6 Hulse Road, Southampton property, will be at a distance of two miles from the city centre.

New 198-bed PBSA in Southampton Gets Approved

Boyer has just gotten the green light to start its 198-bed student housing in Southampton, which is set to replace the 50-year-old, worn-down St. Margaret's House.

Recent data from the UK Office of National Statistics (ONS) reveals that Indian students obtained a remarkable 27% of all UK study visas issued from September 2022 to 2023, totalling over 1.3 lakh. Moreover, Indian nationals received the second-highest number of dependent visas in the same period, with 43,445 visas issued, signifying a staggering 1,900% increase from 2019.The UK has undergone a policy change and will cease issuing student dependent visas starting in January 2024. The overall study visa count for Indian nationals reached 1,33,237, constituting 27% of all sponsored UK study visas, and saw a 5% increase from the previous year. Notably, 91% of study-abroad applicants opted for higher education. Additionally, Indian nationals demonstrated a 97% visa approval rate. The data highlights a substantial growth in dependent and family visa grants, reflecting the strong presence of Indian students in the UK. The new UK visa policy, effective January 2024, has already impacted admissions to some UK MBA institutions. Nigerians and Indians collectively accounted for 68% of student-dependent visas issued in the year ending September 2023. The graduate route extension, introduced in 2021, granted Indians the largest share (43%) of the 1,04,501 extensions to former students in the year ending September 2023. In comparison, Chinese nationals, the second-highest recipients of sponsored study visas, obtained 1,08,978 visas by the end of September 2023.The number of study visas granted to Pakistani nationals experienced the sharpest increase at 30%, reaching 33,150. The data also reveals fluctuations in skilled worker visas for Indians, indicating an 11% drop in the overall figure, while “skilled worker—health and care” visas rose by 76% to 38,866.

UK Dependant Visas for Indian Students Up 1,900%

Indian students obtained a remarkable 27% of all UK study visas issued from September 2022 to 2023, totalling over 1.3 lakh.

Recently, Edinburgh has hosted the Going Global event 2023, which was held between November 20th and November 23rd. It was set to bring together educational leaders worldwide to discuss scalable partnerships in the higher-education sector.Some of the most notable figures to attend included:<ul style=""><li dir="ltr">Gillian Keegan: Secretary of State for Education.</li><li dir="ltr">Beatrice Muganda Inyangala: Principal secretary of the Kenyan State Department for Higher Education and Research.</li><li dir="ltr">Matias Marin: Director of international relations at the Universidad Catolica de Manizales and chair of the Colombian Network for Internationalisation of Higher Education.</li><li dir="ltr">Christopher Maiyaki: Acting executive secretary of administration at the National Universities Commission in Nigeria.</li><li dir="ltr">Andrea Nolan: Vice-chancellor of Edinburgh Napier University.</li></ul>Some of this event’s most important statements included Keegan’s statements, backed up by research analytics expert Jonathan Adams’ research, where she stated: “Adams showed that we were collaborating more and that those countries and institutions that developed international collaborations increased their impact. "It made us all richer—if you’re better connected, then you react quicker, and you pull ahead in the global race. She also stressed how this knowledge-sharing and collaboration will continuously improve education systems worldwide as well as people’s lives all over the world.&nbsp;Following Keegan’s statements, Beatrice Muganda Inyangala addressed gender diversity at Kenyan universities. She stated that universities in Kenya are reaching gender parity. In addition, she added that universities must be more purposeful by paying more attention to labour market needs.Matias Marin addressed how partnerships would benefit his home country; however, the strong values Colombians hold can bring tension if no equity in partnerships is held. Many representatives from Latin American countries have also weighed in on the lack of reciprocity, saying that "they're sending students and not receiving them back.”This is why Maddalaine Ansell, director of education at the British Council, has stated that “partnerships have got to be real; they’ve got to be trust-based; they’ve got to be equal; they’ve got to be sustainable in the sense that both sides are committed to something for the long term."Many agreements have also been struck, such as those between the University of Aberdeen and Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University in Riyadh, as well as talks between Keegan and Nigerian officials discussing the expansion of the country’s relationship in the higher education sector.In short, some of the focal points discussed in the event included having more equal partnerships in the higher education sector as well as more focused goals for higher education with regard to market needs. It also focused on looking at higher education worldwide as a holistic system that strengthens collaboration and avoids the waste of money.Ever since its creation in 2004, the Going Global event by the British Council has brought together international education leaders from around the world. Over the years, this event has proven successful in forging alliances, connecting, sharing knowledge, and networking. These conferences have continuously enhanced further and higher education, and will continue to do so in the future.

Educational Leaders Gather at Going Global in Edinburgh

Recently, Edinburgh has hosted the Going Global event 2023, which was held between November 20th and November 23rd.

IDP has introduced a ground-breaking online English language test, Envoy, aiming to provide an enhanced and enjoyable learning experience for both students and English language educators.Developed by linguistics experts and driven by AI, the Envoy test is globally accessible and assesses all four language skills—reading, writing, listening, and speaking—in a concise 90-minute timeframe. Results, aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), are swiftly available within two hours. Leveraging decades of experience in global education, IDP combines its insights with advanced AI technology to offer students a genuine assessment of their English skills. Envoy features open-ended questions designed to evaluate language and communication skills in real-life contexts.This flexible test can be utilised at various stages of a student's English language journey, supporting programme entry diagnostics, progress checks, and overall proficiency assessments. Moreover, teachers can customise lesson plans to individual student needs, fostering ongoing improvement in English proficiency and confidence. Lauren Mcswain, Envoy's marketing manager, emphasises that the test is a result of IDP's profound understanding of global education and the demand for a flexible, cost-effective assessment tool. The innovation aligns with IDP's commitment to integrating AI-powered technology into human-centred services, empowering teachers to guide students in realising their full potential.Other testing solutions, such as the 'pyjama test' by Password English Language Testing and advancements by Duolingo, LanguageCert, PSI, Trinity, iTEP, Cambridge Assessment English, and Pearson, underscore the industry's evolving landscape.With partnerships spanning over 890 universities and institutions globally, IDP remains at the forefront of shaping English language testing and education.

IDP to Introduce AI-Powered English Language Test

IDP has introduced a ground-breaking online English language test, Envoy, aiming to provide an enhanced and enjoyable learning experience for students and English educators.

The government has announced a funding agreement with the European Investment Bank. The plan is to give €434 million for new student beds.Minister for Further and Higher Education Simon Harris and Minister for Housing Darragh O'Brien have stated that a €434 million investment will be given for student accommodation.This money will help the higher education institutions (HEIs) provide over 2,700 student beds all over Ireland.The Housing Financing Agency (HFA) and European Investment Bank (EIB) agreed that a €434 million financing initiative will greatly help fund higher education institutions. It will also help in building new, affordable student housing. This will include the reconstruction of accommodation options at Irish universities. “This is fantastic news for Irish universities and their students, and I want to pay tribute to the EIB and HFA for delivering this important agreement,” Harris said. He continued, “Every student bed we create has a double benefit. It helps the student and their family, but it also frees up private rental accommodation in our cities and towns.”He added, “This investment by the EIB and HFA will have significant benefits for access to education and, crucially, for the wider housing market.” Concluding his speech, he said, “This announcement will assist institutions with the cost of building accommodation and help bridge the gap between viability and affordability for students. Applications will now open, and I look forward to seeing the outcome of this important partnership.”This amount of money is considered the first-ever student housing funding agreement between the EIB and HFA. There is a 40-year €200 million loan from the EIB, in addition to the HFA matching the investment, bringing the total to €434 million. The EIB and HFA’s announcement comes in hand with a €61 million funding announcement from the government. They both play a huge role in the development of over 1,000 beds across four Irish universities.O’Brien stated, “This government is focused on scaling up the supply of all types of housing and accommodation, including student accommodation, which we know is so badly needed.”He also added, “The HFA is already playing a significant role in facilitating the delivery of thousands of social and affordable homes throughout the country. So, it is well placed to play a lead role in improving the supply of student accommodation. I want to commend everyone involved in this historic agreement.” The HFA is known to have delivered over 2,400 student beds across Ireland, with the EIB providing €950 million for housing investment by the HFA.This started in 2021, when the HFA began to provide financing to higher education institutions to support the delivery of student accommodation. It has also been given approval to add technological universities. With the help of the university and the technological university sector, there is a development plan in the process. Barry O’Leary, Chief Executive Officer of the Housing Finance Agency, said, “We had the pleasure of visiting new student accommodation delivered by the University of Galway and Trinity College Dublin in recent months and were impressed by the quality and innovation of the developments.” He added, “We are proud to support these housing schemes with financing, and we are eager to work with higher education institutions to facilitate the delivery of more high-quality, affordable student accommodation across the country”.“This latest cooperation between the HFA and the EIB will ensure that long-term, competitive financing is available for new student housing projects over the next five years.”Werner Hoyer, President of the European Investment Bank, added, “The European Investment Bank is committed to backing visionary investment that strengthens access to education across Europe and, over the last decade, has supported transformational investment at hundreds of Irish schools and all Irish universities, as well as the construction of social housing across the country. Werner Hoyer added to his previous statements, ”The €200 million 40-year EIB financing agreed with our long-standing partner HFA today will build new student accommodation across Ireland, providing students with better and more affordable places to live and reducing pressure on local housing.”

Housing Financing Agency Gives €434 Mil. for Student Beds

The government has announced a funding agreement with the European Investment Bank. The plan is to give €434 million for new student beds.

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During this year's International Education Week, universities and organisations across the sector celebrated international students' valuable contributions to higher education.The overarching theme for the week, "International Education is the Future," set the tone for various events and activities. The US Department of State, in collaboration with the Department of Education, structured daily themes for the five-day celebration.The week started with "Open Doors to the Future," aligning with the release of Open Doors data and revealing positive news that the US hosted over a million international students last year, marking the fastest growth rate in four decades. Subsequent daily themes included "You are the Future," which emphasises diverse opportunities in international education; "The Future is Global," exploring exchange programmes; "Innovate the Future," highlighting non-traditional learning avenues; and "Lead the Future," showcasing the transformative impact of international education. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stressed the unique value of studying abroad, emphasising the ability to see the world from different perspectives and fostering enduring connections. Meanwhile, the UK Council for International Student Affairs organised the UKCISA Fest, providing a platform for international students in the UK to influence policy based on their lived experiences. Universities UK International marked the week with video releases featuring international students' perspectives, such as Shähla from Finland, who expressed her enthusiasm for studying medical physiology at the University of Leicester in the UK. The overarching message echoed the importance of international education in shaping a global future.The Council of Europe, a prominent global human rights organisation, marked the week with the theme "Peace for the Planet. A planet of peace." This theme serves as a compelling call to collectively reconsider our world, utilising global education as a tool for solidarity and change, aiming to contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world, according to the organisation. In the United States, various institutions contributed their own unique celebrations. The University of Denver collaborated with the US Consulate General in Mumbai to launch a project fostering increased partnerships between US and Indian higher education institutions. Open Doors data indicated that India's international student population experienced a notable 35% year-on-year growth. Mike Hankey, US Consul General at the US Consulate in Mumbai, expressed the hope that the United States Mission in India would assist Indian educational institutions in internationalising their campuses, fostering collaborative efforts in research, tech development, and people-to-people interactions. Virginia Commonwealth University celebrated the week with various events, including a faculty-led study abroad showcase and an international alumni meetup. The University of Delaware organised multiple events, which featured a coffee hour hosted by Korean students and a Diwali celebration. Ravi Ammigan, the university's associate provost for international programmes, expressed anticipation for IEW as an opportunity to reflect on the remarkable global experiences both on their campus and at the numerous institutions they proudly collaborate with worldwide each year.

2023 International Education Week Celebrations

During this year's International Education Week, universities and organisations celebrated international students' contributions to higher education.

The US educational sector has recently announced exciting news. According to the US State Department's 2023 Open Doors report and the Institute of International Education, new enrollments have exceeded previous pre-COVID times. This is significant news, as now an additional 298,000 international students have enrolled, and additional numbers from 2024 have shown another 8% increase in international students.Allan E. Goodman, CEO of the Institute of International Education, recently stated, “Over one million international students studying in the US reflects a strong rebound, with the number approaching pre-pandemic levels”. This marks a fantastic recovery for the US education sector and further solidifies the United States’ position as one of the top study destinations. Numbers have shown that the countries sending the most international students to the USA were China and India, making up 53% of the international student population coming to study in the USA. The number of Chinese students has recently been diminishing at a rate of 9%, but now it is only falling at a rate of 0.2%, which shows a recovery in Chinese students coming to study in the USA.Contrarily, India had a 35% increase in students coming to study in the USA compared to the previous year. This is the highest increase that India has seen so far in students coming to study in the USA. Other top sending countries include, in order, South Korea, Canada, Vietnam, Taiwan, and lastly, Nigeria. The Sub-Saharan African region is also seeing its highest growth rate, with an increase of 18%.According to Forbes, this increase has immensely impacted the US economy, as it has contributed more than $40 billion to the US economy in the 2022–2023 academic year. This contribution is attributed to tuition and general spending, including housing, food, transportation, and much more.

US International Students Surpass 1 Million

According to the US State Department's 2023 Open Doors report and the Institute of International Education, new enrollments have exceeded previous pre-COVID times.

Over 20,000 former international students in Canada have been granted permanent resident status in 2023 throughout the year. In 2022, 19,735 former students became permanent residents of Canada. This has changed in 2023, as the number of students has increased; 20,580 former international students transitioned into permanent residents in the first quarter of the year. There is a 78% increase in former international students receiving permanent residency in Canada compared to 2019, which is a huge increase within a four-year period. As for popular destinations in Canada, Ontario is at the top of the list! Around 35% of former students applying for permanent residency chose Ontario to stay in 2023. This is followed by Columbia (21%), Quebec (12%), and Alberta (9%).Global Affairs Canada shed light on the absolute need for more diversity in the study locations international students choose in Canada. They suggest that this will “spread the burden on services” and the economic impact on students more equitably”. As a result of Canada's plans to stabilise permanency residency levels in 2026, the government is conducting new strategies to address the growth of immigration.Canada has a target to maintain for the next two years: increase the number of permanent residents to 485,000 and 500,000 in 2024 and 2025, respectively. This is all in hopes of achieving at least 500,000 permanent residencies by 2026. Despite the huge number of former international students, they still make up a minority of Canada’s permanent residents. However, last year only, 437,180 people were granted the status, which is the highest number on record. Canada also witnessed a huge wave of enrollment from foreign students in colleges and universities, with over 800,000 international students in the country in total.Several studies have been conducted, proving that the majority of students in Canada have a main aim, which is to become permanent residents later on. Jenny Francis is an instructor at Langara College, whose research focuses on employment pathways for international students. She says, “The number of students gaining permanent residency is very small when compared to the overall number in Canada, and some students take “false hope” from the available pathways”. “I think it’s important to stress that being an international student or a prospective international student isn’t a guarantee of permanent residence or a guarantee of citizenship”. Immigration Minister Marc Miller stated this at a conference. He also discussed “unscrupulous agents” entertaining “false hope that if you can get into a programme, you can become a Canadian [citizen].” However, he highlighted that, in reality, there are limited pathways to permanent residency in Canada, so students must remain realistic. This is why Francis urged agents and colleges to be more responsible and make it clear that studying in Canada is “a chance to get permanent residency, but it’s not a certain or guaranteed pathway by any means”.

Permanent Residency in Canada Given to 20,000 Former Students

Over 20,000 former international students in Canada have been granted permanent resident status in 2023 throughout the year.

Indian and Australian ties are reaching new heights amidst a recent visit by Australian education leaders to India. This visit was led by the Australian Minister of Education, Jason Clare, who visited the country earlier this year. Indonesia is also to be visited, as Australia recognises both India and Indonesia as “two economic superpowers in the making,” as stated by Clare.&nbsp;The meeting between Clare and his Indian counterpart, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, will not be the last, as they are expected to meet again for the Australia-India Education and Skills Council, which occurs annually.One of the main points discussed was the importance of not only focusing on Indian students coming to Australia but also on Australian institutions going to India. Before preparing for a visit to two Australian universities opening in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City, also known as GIFT City, Clare said: “International education isn't a one-way street.” These campuses are for Deakin University and the University of Wollongong. Both of these campuses are expected to accept students in mid-2024.&nbsp;This step to open both campuses in India shows how highly regarded Australian universities are in India. It is also a great opportunity for Indian students looking to get the Australian educational experience from their own country, as many students cannot afford to travel. Clare also stated in an interview that India’s policy for 2035, which targets 50% of young people enrolled in higher education, would be a great opportunity for Australia.Another institution planning its footsteps in India is WSU, which has plans to establish a university in India. If successful, it will tremendously impact research and outreach in India. As stated by WSU vice-chancellor Barney Glover, “That’s really what we’re hoping to achieve—more Indian students studying literally in Australia as well as having a very significant presence in India. It also gives us a base for our collaborative research and outreach in India."&nbsp;If WSU’s Indian campus is approved, it will focus on teaching STEM degrees, which will employ both local and Australian academics as well as enrol over 1000 students in the first five years.&nbsp;Glover has also added, “They are going through a huge transformation as a nation and how they think about the future for India. As a consequence of that, the place of education and skills development has grown enormously in the minds of the Indian government and the Indian population”.There are also currently more than 400 partnerships between Indian and Australian institutions, some of which ensure mobility. Australia-India Institute chief executive Lisa Singh has stated, “Two-way mobility of students between Australia and India is another growth area for universities. The more these institutions do to build those linkages, the better”.

Australia and India Continue Strengthening Education Links

Indian and Australian ties are reaching new heights amidst a recent visit by Australian education leaders to India.

The Canadian government intends to stabilise new permanent residency levels by 2026 after years of increasing immigration. Additionally, it plans to revamp the post-graduation work permit programme to better align with labour market demands.Canada has seen a surge in permanent residents in recent years, reaching a peak of 437,000 in 2022, which has strained housing and infrastructure.To address these challenges, the federal government has unveiled an updated strategy to manage future growth while ensuring a balance between labour force requirements and provincial capacity.The government commits to collaborating across departments and with regional authorities to create a more coordinated approach to housing, healthcare, and infrastructure.The surge in permanent migration coincided with a rise in international students choosing Canada for their education, many of whom aspire to become permanent residents.On November 1st, Immigration Minister Marc Miller revealed the new goals. Canada will maintain its planned goals for 2024 and 2025, increasing the number of new permanent residents to 485,000 and 500,000, respectively. In 2026, permanent resident levels will stabilise at 500,000.Notably, the first three quarters of 2023 have already seen around 20,500 former study permit holders gain residency status in Canada, surpassing the 2022 total of 19,735, as per data from the IRCC.Shamira Madhany, Managing Director for World Education Services Canada, views the new immigration targets as a balanced approach while still offering international students an opportunity for permanent residency. However, she also suggests additional actions to enhance Canada's appeal as a destination, including simplifying pathways to permanent residency, providing collaborative support for students, and providing clear pre-arrival information.The government has also pledged to enhance the post-graduation work permit programme, particularly for major sectors, although specific details remain limited.The IRCC's new strategy focuses on international students with high-demand skills, exploring measures to facilitate their transition into the labour force. Global Affairs Canada will work on marketing high-demand skills and sectors to prospective international students.Marc Miller emphasises the significance of immigrants to Canada's economy, especially considering the ageing population. By stabilising newcomer numbers, the government aims to address housing, infrastructure, and sustainable population growth effectively. The plan seeks to balance economic growth, humanitarian traditions, Francophone immigration support, and collaborative levels of planning.Furthermore, in line with its Francophone immigration strategy, the government plans to tackle barriers faced by students from sub-Saharan Africa who want to study in Canada. This includes developing a pilot programme with select post-secondary institutions to address financial requirements and facilitate applications to institutions in Francophone minority communities.The IRCC also reiterates planned changes to the international student programme, including the recognised institution framework, but stakeholders believe more comprehensive support for international students is necessary. Recommendations include increased cross-sectoral collaboration, stricter regulation of education agents, and expanded eligibility for services provided by the settlement sector.

Canada Adapts Graduate Work Permits to Stabilise Residency

The Canadian government intends to stabilise new permanent residency levels by 2026 after years of increasing immigration.

As the housing crisis worsens in Germany, international students are desperately in need of more options. A huge number of students in Germany, both local and international, have been having trouble finding accommodation options for the new academic year due to the ongoing student housing crisis in the country. According to local media, this crisis has affected international students who chose Germany as their study destination this year. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) has conducted research showing that Germany is now the third most popular study destination for international students.The German higher education institutions have welcomed over 367,578 international students in the 2022–23 academic year, which is indicated to be a huge achievement, as it is an increase of five percent from the previous year.Given this huge number, most students are trying to find a place to stay while staying in Germany, but it has been challenging due to the lack of apartments in the country.Thomas Schmidt from Social Affairs on the General Student Committee (AStA), which represents the interests of students at German universities, said, “Some students are able to rent a place using a financial guarantee from their parents, but it’s especially difficult for international students because they often aren’t able to provide such a guarantee”.It has been reported that a study by the Eduard Pestel Research Institute claims that there was a shortage of over 700,000 apartments nationwide earlier this year.In order to help students who need accommodation options, the Student Association in the central German city of Göttingen has rented out a hotel to provide availability for students. They have given them these rooms at a reasonable price and will have a reduced price for the first weeks of the semester. A one-bedroom apartment’s expense in the city centre of Munich is around €1,367.The German government, mainly led by Olaf Scholz, has pledged to have 400,000 apartments built each year after taking over the office at the end of 2021.“We want to make it clear that we are committed to achieving our stated goals. Our goal is to increase the number of domestic housing units to this level,” Scholz said at the first Alliance Day last year. The government hasn’t met the target so far; experts think that this target will not be met any time soon. According to the Macroeconomic and Business Cycle Research Institute, this target will fail by an even larger margin next year.

Foreign Students in Germany are in Urgent Need of Accommodation

A huge number of students in Germany have been having trouble finding accommodation options for the new academic year.

A new report, released by the International Higher Education Commission (IHEC), highlights the importance of making "internationalisation at home" a central element of the UK's upcoming higher education strategy. The report "Is the UK developing global mindsets?" raises concerns about the diminishing international diversity within British universities.The Chairman of IHEC and former universities minister, Chris Skidmore, noted that the concept of “internationalisation at home” had been undervalued in the past. The report defines “IaH” as "the purposeful integration of international and intercultural dimensions into the formal and informal curriculum for all students within the domestic learning environment."Skidmore emphasised that the UK's international education should go beyond attracting international students to the country. It should focus on creating truly international campuses with attractive international-based curricula, exchange programmes, and inclusive facilities to make the UK an appealing destination for international students.The report explores the challenges and opportunities of ensuring the UK remains globally engaged. It points out that the recent growth in international students has yet to be accompanied by increased diversity. In fact, diversity has decreased due to the loss of incoming Erasmus+ exchange students and a continued decline in the study of foreign languages by UK students.Skidmore stressed the need for a more relevant and purposeful approach to higher education, ensuring that campuses and courses prepare students for the modern international world they will eventually work in.Anthony Manning, co-author of the report and dean for global and lifelong learning at the University of Kent, sees “internationalisation at home” as a cornerstone for preparing the next generation of UK and international university students for a more interconnected and promising future. He suggests that IaH should be a key feature of the next focus of the UK's international education strategy.This report is part of a series by IHEC, contributing to developing a new higher education strategy in the UK. Chris Skidmore, who published the UK's International Higher Education Strategy in 2019, established IHEC to create a more ambitious and detailed vision for the future.David Pilsbury, another co-author of the report and the chief development officer at Oxford International, believes that the UK's higher education sector should prepare for more challenging times. While acknowledging the UK's competitiveness, he points out that other countries, such as Australia, are embracing new approaches to remain competitive.Pilsbury highlights the importance of enhancing the student experience and expects some critics to question the investment in these aspects. Still, he emphasises that these "fluffy" elements significantly influence student recruitment. The report features successful models, such as Coventry University's 'Model for Progression for International Experience,' which drove international recruitment and global engagement.Pilsbury anticipates a more nuanced approach to future higher education strategy, with a focus on both international recruitment and robust internationalisation at home. He also calls for measuring the quality of the international student experience, including aspects like welfare, accommodation, graduate employability, student mobility, and engagement with sustainable development goals.

Calls for "Internationalisation" Amid Diversity Decline UK

A report highlights the importance of making "internationalisation at home" a central element of the UK's upcoming higher education strategy.

London is one of the world’s most desirable student cities, ranking first in 2024’s QS Best Student City Rankings, above Tokyo, which ranks second worldwide.The city’s desirability can be largely attributed to its history, culture, economic strength, and most importantly, its high-ranking institutions, such as Imperial College London (6th worldwide), UCL (9th worldwide), and King's College London (40th worldwide), among other prestigious universities that rank in the top 100 worldwide as of 2024. This has made it a top choice for Indian students, who make up a significant portion of international students in the UK.According to the UK government, Indian students made up one-third of all applicants for sponsored study grants. In addition, the Guardian reported that, according to the Office of National Statistics, last year, 114,000 Indian students decided to study in the UK. This number is expected to grow by 10% each year.However, many Indian students have found it difficult to find London student accommodation, as room availability has been limited and rent prices have increased. This has led many students to stay in crammed spaces; one student reported that the first flat he stayed at housed eight people in a five-bedroom apartment. Other Indian students have also struggled to find a UK-based guarantor, leading them to pay the full amount upfront. Many residents renting out privately have also been reluctant to rent to younger students. In addition, some locals in Edinburgh have also opposed the demolition of old homes to make way for student housing, as they have stated that the city is already facing a housing shortage. However, it is highly unlikely that difficulties such as these will deter the resilient Indian students from studying in the UK, as they have time and time again adapted; this will most likely only result in Indian students finding new housing alternatives. To add to the struggle, the student visa fee has increased to Rs 51,787, which might limit the students’ budgets while studying abroad. However, these issues can be improved if you start your search early, at least three to six months before the start of your study, as this will give you the time to find the closest and most affordable options to your chosen educational institution. Lastly, try to keep your options open, as London, in particular, has a housing shortage. Casita can help you find various accommodation options and can also refer you to trusted UK guarantor service providers.

Visa and Rent Posing Challenges for Indian Students in UK

Many Indian students have found it difficult to find London student accommodation, as room availability has been limited and rent prices have increased.

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Stay up-to-date with the latest student news in the UK. Casita's team brings you top news written by professionals.

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News

We are not just talking about student news in the UK but all over the whole.

New 198-bed PBSA in Southampton Gets Approved

UK Dependant Visas for Indian Students Up 1,900%

Educational Leaders Gather at Going Global in Edinburgh

IDP to Introduce AI-Powered English Language Test

Housing Financing Agency Gives €434 Mil. for Student Beds

The latest news from Casita

Ireland Attracts South Asians Amid Globa...

Indian and UK Universities Strengthen AI...

Plans for New Student Accommodation in W...

News

We are not just talking about student news in the UK but all over the whole.

New 198-bed PBSA in Southampton Gets Approved

UK Dependant Visas for Indian Students Up 1,900%

Educational Leaders Gather at Going Global in Edinburgh

IDP to Introduce AI-Powered English Language Test

Housing Financing Agency Gives €434 Mil. for Student Beds

The latest news from Casita

Ireland Attracts South Asians Amid Globa...

Indian and UK Universities Strengthen AI...

Plans for New Student Accommodation in W...

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