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Big win for all the students who’ve ever said, “Why pick just one major?” Several top UK universities are now introducing targeted scholarships specifically for interdisciplinary majors, and it's not just a passing trend. It's the future of education catching up with reality. Let’s talk facts. <a href="https://www.lis.ac.uk/" rel="nofollow">The London Interdisciplinary School (LIS)</a>, known for its cutting-edge approach to education, is now offering the <a href="https://www.lis.ac.uk/scholarships" rel="nofollow">MASc Innovation Scholarship</a>, a grant of up to £5,000 for students pursuing bold, blended programs like climate science plus design or psychology plus economics. Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/london/university-college-london">University College London (UCL)</a> has expanded funding opportunities for students enrolled in its Arts and Sciences BASc programme, a degree where you can literally mix philosophy, coding, global politics, and beyond. <a href="https://reuben.ox.ac.uk/" rel="nofollow">Oxford’s Reuben College</a> is also stepping up. Their scholarship arm is now prioritising applicants who want to explore complex global issues through interdisciplinary study, such as AI ethics, biosecurity, and sustainable development. These fully funded opportunities are tied to programs that reflect the real-world need for boundary-crossing thinkers. The change signals a clear truth: schools now praise bold ideas as much as tidy tradition. If you've dreamed of mixing code with narrative or lab work with management, 2025 is your moment. Money is flowing, and the UK is doubling its bets on courses that ready learners for tomorrow's blended jobs.

UK Universities Are Rolling Out New Scholarships for Interdisciplinary Degrees

Top UK universities are funding interdisciplinary degrees in 2025 with scholarships for bold majors like AI ethics, climate design, and global innovation.

If you're an international student dreaming of studying in <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia" style="">Australia</a> and sticking around after graduation, here's something you really need to know. Starting from July 2024, the Australian government has officially rolled back the temporary post-study work rights extension that was introduced during the pandemic. This change means that you're no longer offered the extra two-year extension that was previously allowed to international graduates in areas of skills. So, what does that mean for you in 2025? Actually, it depends on your degree level. International students who complete a bachelor’s degree can now stay and work in Australia for up to two years. If you're pursuing a master’s degree, the post-study work visa duration will range between two and three years. This depends on the course. PhD graduates still have the longest stay period, as they have up to three years on the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485). Another major update is the age cap. Previously, international students could apply for post-study work rights until the age of 50. As of the new changes, the age limit has been reduced to 35 for most applicants. There are still exceptions for students from <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/hong-kong">Hong Kong</a> and British National (Overseas) passport holders, as well as for those undertaking research-based qualifications, who may still be eligible under the older age threshold. These updates come as part of Australia’s new Migration Strategy. This strategy aims to tighten international student pathways and prioritise high-skilled graduates for permanent residency options. Of course, this does create fewer opportunities for extended stays, but there are still ways to remain in Australia after your graduation. Graduates can explore regional visa pathways, skilled occupation lists, or employer-sponsored visas, and this depends on their area of expertise. The key takeaway? Australia is still very much open to international students; at the same time, the post-study environment is no longer as generous or guaranteed. If you're planning to study in 2025 or beyond, stay informed, check the latest visa rules regularly, and think ahead about your long-term goals.

Australia’s Post‑Study Work Rights for Graduates 2025

Australia updates post-study work rules: 2025 grads face shorter stays, a lower age cap, and fewer visa guarantees. Plan early and stay informed.

The UAE is stepping up, and students are noticing. The country’s quickly becoming a top pick for international students who are over the whole UK, US, Canada grind, as it offers numerous scholarships, smooth visa rules, and a bunch of solid academic partnerships. Big-name universities like Khalifa University and the American University in Dubai have started handing out scholarships. It’s all part of a bigger move to put the UAE on the global education map, and honestly, it’s working. Recent data shows a sharp increase in international applications this year. Students are tapping out of expensive cities and long visa wait times, and looking for somewhere more practical. The UAE offers faster visa approvals (some in under four weeks), lower living costs, and better post-grad job prospects. That’s a win all around. While some Western countries are tightening their rules and cutting post-study work rights, the UAE is doing the opposite. They're making it easier to get in, stay, and actually build a future. On top of all that, universities are upgrading everything from campus facilities to course content. Most programs are now fully in English, and there are tons of global tie-ins with universities in the US and UK. Internships are being built straight into the degree experience, too. Students already in the UAE say the vibe on campus is super international, the lifestyle’s exciting, and the support systems are solid. To help even more, the Ministry of Education recently launched a new portal where you can check out accredited universities, compare courses, and track scholarships without wasting time. If this momentum keeps going, education experts say the UAE could land a spot in the top five global study destinations. And honestly? That doesn’t sound far off.

UAE Is Becoming the Study-Abroad Hotspot Everyone’s Talking About

Discover why the UAE is rising as a top study destination with scholarships, fast visas, lower costs, global degrees, and strong post-grad prospects.

Big news for all students in the MENA region and Arabic speakers worldwide: Casita now speaks your language! We’re excited to introduce Casita Arabia, your new space for everything student accommodation, now in Arabic. Whether you’re planning to study in the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, or anywhere else around the globe, we’ve got your back in your own language. We know that finding a place to live abroad can feel overwhelming. Between hunting for the right location, managing your budget, and understanding the application process, there’s a lot to take in. That’s why we launched Casita Arabia to make your journey smoother, clearer, and way less stressful. We’re bringing you all the latest updates with our new Arabic Instagram page and student housing tips in a way that’s easy to follow and totally tailored to what you care about. Sometimes you just want to hear things in your own words. So whether Arabic is your first language or just one you’re more comfortable with, Casita Arabia is here to help you feel more confident and informed about your student life abroad. We’ll be posting regularly, answering your DMs, and sharing everything you need to know to start your study abroad journey. So if you're from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the UAE, Morocco, Jordan, or anywhere in between, this one’s for you. Casita’s always been about making student housing simple. Now, we’re doing it in Arabic too. Follow us on Instagram here: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/casita_arabia?igsh=bndqOTh5aG5pa2Ux" style="" rel="nofollow">@Casita_Arabia</a>.

Big News for Arabic-Speaking Students: Casita Arabia Is Here

Big news for all students in the MENA region and Arabic speakers worldwide: Casita now speaks your language. Follow our Casita Arabia page on Instagram today!

Spain has shared some exciting updates for international students. These changes are all about helping students during and after their studies. If you are thinking about studying in Spain, this is great news! <h3 dir="ltr" style="">Work More While You Study</h3>In the past, international students in Spain could only work 20 hours per week while studying. As we speak, the Spanish government has increased this limit. Students can now work up to 30 hours per week. This means you can earn more money and get more work experience while you are still studying. Working more hours helps students pay for their living costs. It also gives them a chance to learn new skills and understand the Spanish work culture. Many students say this will make life much easier for them. <h3 dir="ltr" style="">Stay Longer After You Graduate</h3>Before, after finishing your studies in Spain, you had limited time to find a job. As for now, students can stay for 12 more months after graduation. This gives you more time to look for work in Spain. This change is helpful for students who want to build their careers in Spain. You don't need to leave the country right after finishing your course. Instead, you can stay, apply for jobs, and even start working if you get hired. <h3 dir="ltr" style="">Other Helpful Changes</h3>There is also good news for students who want to study in programs that used to need Spanish language tests. Some universities are now relaxing those rules. This means more programs are available to students who only speak English. These changes are part of Spain’s plan to welcome more international students and make their lives easier. The country wants to be seen as a friendly and supportive place to study and work. So if you're planning to study abroad, Spain might be the perfect choice. You can work more hours during school, stay longer after you graduate, and have more options for courses.

Spain Extends Work Hours and Post-Graduation Stay for International Students

Spain now lets international students work 30 hrs/week, stay 12 months post-study, and access more English-taught programs. Great news for future students!

Egyptian students interested in postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom can apply for funding through the GREAT Scholarships 2025 programme. This initiative is a collaboration between the British Council, the GREAT Britain Campaign, and 72 UK universities. It offers scholarships to students from 15 countries, including Egypt. The programme provides financial support to help cover tuition fees for eligible candidates. Participating Universities and Scholarship Details: <h4 dir="ltr" style="">University of Sheffield</h4>The University of Sheffield is offering a £12,500 scholarship for one Egyptian student enrolling in a one-year taught postgraduate programme starting in autumn 2025.Eligibility Criteria:<ul style=""><li dir="ltr">Must hold an Egyptian passport and reside in Egypt</li><li dir="ltr">Must have an offer for a full-time postgraduate course at the university.</li><li dir="ltr">Must meet academic and English language requirements.</li></ul>The application deadline is 12 May 2025. <h4 dir="ltr" style="">Buckinghamshire New University</h4>Buckinghamshire New University is offering a £10,000 scholarship for an Egyptian student enrolling in a full-time postgraduate taught programme beginning in September 2025.Eligibility Criteria:<ul style=""><li dir="ltr">Must be an Egyptian national residing in Egypt.</li><li dir="ltr">Must hold an offer for a postgraduate programme at the university.</li><li dir="ltr">Must meet academic and English proficiency requirements.</li></ul>The application deadline is 14 June 2025. <h4 dir="ltr" style="">Additional Opportunities</h4>Other UK universities participating in the GREAT Scholarships 2025 programme may also offer funding for Egyptian students. Applicants should review the official British Council website for a complete list of participating institutions and detailed eligibility requirements. These scholarships help reduce tuition costs. Applicants should ensure they meet all requirements and submit applications by the respective deadlines. For more information, visit the official scholarship pages of the universities or <a href="https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding/great-scholarships" style="" rel="nofollow">the British Council’s GREAT Scholarships portal</a>.

Scholarship Opportunities for Egyptian Students in the UK

GREAT Scholarships 2025 offers funding for Egyptian students pursuing postgraduate studies in the UK, with awards up to £12,500 at select universities.

Campus living costs in the UK for universities such as the University of York and the University of Manchester will increase starting with the 2025/26 academic year. This decision was initially opposed, but it was approved after university decision makers decided that it was a worthwhile step, presumably to tackle a financial deficit. &nbsp;On-campus accommodation rent will increase by an average of 9% or more, resulting in various accommodation options reaching nearly £200 per week, bringing it up to the same price as some luxury off-campus accommodation options.&nbsp; This increase may surprise many students who did not see it coming; therefore, it has been announced well in advance to allow ample time for them to plan and save for their preferred accommodation option. This increase in rent will impact first-year university students most of all, as they are the main demographic of those who live in on-campus accommodation options.&nbsp; As this may push students to work more hours during their studies, some universities have recommended that students only work for 20 hours per week maximum, to avoid overworking themselves or neglecting their studies.&nbsp; The University of York is one such university that has recommended avoiding overworking. The University of York Student Union is continuing to oppose this increase for as long as possible. The University of York SU Union Affairs Officer, Lewis Parrey, commented: “It is unforgivable that the University is pushing their financial failures onto the student population, who are already struggling under increased cost of living pressures. “Students have had to take on significant part-time work burdens, with many struggling to afford to pay for groceries, rent, and other basic necessities. This increase in rent prices only worsens the immense pressure students are facing. The students of York deserve better than this from their university.” The Community &amp; Wellbeing Officer, Freddy Russell, also commented: “This is a complicated issue, but it can actually be boiled down to a simple fact: Students have never been more financially vulnerable. Until the university demonstrates complete understanding of this through action, we will keep doing what students’ unions have always and will always do: fight for students.”

The Price of Living on Campus Just Went Up—Here’s Why

On-campus rent at UK universities like York and Manchester will rise by 9%+ in 2025/26, raising concerns over affordability and student financial strain.

Casita proudly celebrates The Combworks as it receives its third Global Student Living Award for offering excellent accommodation to students. The Aberdeen-based property achieved another triumphant win, the Best Individual Property (UK &amp; Ireland) Award at the 2024 Global Student Living Awards, its third prestigious recognition in this category. The Global Student Living Awards greatly recognise student accommodation because winners are chosen directly from students' feedback. Recognition goes to properties exclusively, which fully prioritise student satisfaction. The Combworks maintains unmatched service quality while delivering beyond expectations in every aspect of its outstanding student accommodation service. Winning this award for the third time shows The Combworks' dedication to maintaining the highest standards in student accommodation. The property has set a benchmark for quality accommodation in Aberdeen, including modern facilities and a welcoming community atmosphere. The team's continuous efforts to enhance student living, provide outstanding support, and create a safe, comfortable environment have been acknowledged by the students themselves. Well-designed and modern apartments with complete furnishings are available, along with fast Internet connectivity and purpose-built study areas.Students living at The Combworks experience community interaction through social gatherings and study common areas and communal facilities that promote both learning and friendships.The staff teams demonstrate exceptional support by assisting students throughout their residences and addressing all their needs. The Combworks' continued success at the Global Student Living Awards reinforces the importance of student feedback in shaping the industry. As more accommodation providers strive to meet and exceed student expectations, the recognition of top-tier properties like The Combworks serves as an inspiration for the entire sector. If you're looking for award-winning student accommodation in Aberdeen, explore <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/1112-the-combworks-aberdeen-uk">The Combworks</a> on Casita today!

The Combworks Wins Prestigious Best Individual Property Award!

The Combworks, the Aberdeen-based property, receives its third Global Student Living Award for offering excellent accommodation to students.

The top UK universities are expanding in India. This is driven by the country's growing demand for higher education and its large, young population. This move allows British universities to increase their global influence and strengthen educational ties with one of the world's growing economies. They aim to offer more opportunities for Indian students and create stronger connections between the two countries' education systems by partnering with Indian institutions. India has a large student population and a growing middle class, which makes it a great opportunity for universities to expand internationally. Millions of Indian students are eager to gain new knowledge and skills to help India grow and succeed in the world, and British universities are well-known for offering high-quality learning. Universities like the University of Birmingham are working with Indian institutions to bring UK-quality education to students in India. These partnerships allow students to study fields that are crucial for India's future, like engineering, business, and computer science. Students get the same high standards and expert teaching as they would in the UK, earning UK degrees, but without leaving home. They can stay in India, close to family and familiar surroundings, while still gaining an international education. UK universities are starting to set up campuses in India as part of a bigger plan. More British universities are thinking about opening branches there too. This move helps UK universities attract a wider range of students and grow their global reputation. It also gives students in India and nearby countries a chance to study at these universities without leaving their region. Having UK university campuses in India gives Indian students the chance to get a top-quality British education without going to the UK. This makes studying much easier and cheaper and reduces the challenges of going abroad. Students can learn at a high global institution while staying in their homeland. This also strengthens the educational and cultural ties between India and the UK and encourages better cooperation and understanding.

British Universities Expanding Educational Collaborations with India

UK universities are expanding in India to meet rising education demand. Partnerships offer British degrees locally, strengthening UK-India academic ties.

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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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