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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.

According to UniQuest, the UK’s International student acceptance in January 2025 is 31% higher than the same time in 2024. This growth is largely driven by postgraduate courses in business and management, which saw a 17% year-on-year increase.<h3 dir="ltr" style="">Growth in Key Postgraduate Programs</h3>Jennifer Parsons, UniQuest's Chief Market and Partnerships Officer, attributed this performance to the huge demand for business and management programs, which dominate January intakes. Postgraduate computing courses, especially in AI and data science, were not far behind. Parsons highlighted that the 2024 market faced challenges due to socio-economic issues, such as the collapse of the Nigerian Naira and policy changes in countries like India and Nigeria. However, 2025 has seen renewed interest from key regions, including South Asia.<h3 dir="ltr" style="">Policy Shifts Impacting International Student Trends</h3>Growth in UK international student acceptances follows a challenging 2024, in which visa restrictions limited international students' ability to bring dependants with them. A survey of UK business school deans showed major declines in applications from non-EU countries at that time. In contrast, firmer visa policies in other major English-speaking destinations, such as Canada and Australia, have made the UK a more attractive destination. Canada has reduced its cap on international study permits by 10% for 2025 and 2026, while Australia has increased the visa application fees and introduced stricter regulations. “The UK looks like a more welcoming environment,” said Parsons, citing both policy changes in competitor markets and faster offer processing times by UK institutions.<h3 dir="ltr" style="">Positive Outlook for UK Higher Education</h3>UniQuest described the increase in acceptances as a "strong start for higher education" in 2025, reflecting a reawakening of interest in studying in the UK. The Labour government's decision to retain the two-year Graduate Route visa in July 2024, allowing international students to work in the UK post-study, has given the sector further reason to cheer. This is due to the fact that the UK has successfully been able to adapt to changing global conditions and improve its processes for recruiting students.

International Student Acceptances in the UK Rise by 31% at Start of 2025

Global trends shape higher education: the UK sees a rise in international student acceptance in 2025, driven by demand for business and management courses.

Germany has become a top destination for Indian students to pursue higher education. The number of Indian students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies has greatly increased, making Indians the largest student community in Germany. This clearly shows India's inclination towards Germany as a higher education destination.<h3 dir="ltr" style="">15.1% Increase in Indian Students</h3>The number of Indians studying in Germany rose impressively, according to new figures from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). This is not the first time such a steep rise has occurred, indicating that Germany is gradually becoming a popular destination for Indian students.<h3 dir="ltr" style="">Engineering Remains the Top Choice</h3>Engineering is the most opted-for course for Indian students in Germany. This is due to the fact that Germany has always been popularly known for technology and engineering. There is also a huge demand for skilled engineers in the job market worldwide.<h3 dir="ltr" style="">Other popular fields</h3>Other than engineering, which remains the most sought-after course for Indian students, students are now looking at various fields of study. Other popular choices include laws, business administration and management, and social science courses are also equally preferred among the students of India, revealing the diverse nature of students’ interests.<h3 dir="ltr" style="">Reasons Behind the Increasing Interest</h3>There are several reasons why more and more Indian students are choosing Germany as their study destination. These reasons include:<ul style=""><li dir="ltr">Excellent education: Germany is well known for its universities and high academic standards.</li><li dir="ltr">Reasonable tuition costs: Compared to many other countries, tuition fees in Germany are quite reasonable, particularly at public universities.</li><li dir="ltr">Work opportunities after graduation: Germany has a policy that enables graduates to seek employment within the country for up to 18 months after completing their studies, enabling them to gain working experience in case they are offered employment.</li><li dir="ltr">Rich cultural diversity: German society offers a friendly environment for students from around the world.</li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="">The Future of Indian-German Educational Ties</h3>In the future, it is seen that the educational relations between the two countries will further develop and grow in strength and complexity. Indian students are to increase, making the Indian-German grow stronger. Since Germany is working assiduously to improve the quality of its education sector and offering greater opportunities to international students, it will open the doors for Indian students to enroll themselves in future courses in Germany.

Germany's Growing Appeal for Indian Students

Germany is a top destination for Indian students, with a 15.1% rise in enrollments. Top courses include engineering, law, and business.

According to the QS World University Rankings, American schools are the majority among the best MBA providers globally. For the fifth year, Stanford Graduate School of Business was ranked the #1 MBA provider worldwide in 2025, while The Wharton School ranks second, Harvard Business School ranks 3#, and MIT Sloan ranks #4.&nbsp;QS Global MBA Rankings 2025 contained 340 institutions of the best MBA providers globally. It also included a series of business masters in different approaches, including marketing, management, finance, supply chain management, and business analytics. &nbsp; The US remains dominant, with the top four institutions and seven others in the top 20, including Columbia Business School, Northwestern (Kellogg), UC Berkeley (Haas), UCLA (Anderson), Chicago (Booth), Yale School of Management, and NYU (Stern).&nbsp;Furthermore, the second country to be featured in the top 20 is the UK, with London Business School ranking #5, Cambridge (judge) ranking #7, Imperial College Business School ranking #18, and Oxford (Said) ranking #19.The rest of the top 20 schools contain French schools HEC Paris and INSEAD, Spanish schools IE Business School and IESE Business School, which consequently ranked #9 and #10, and an Italian school, SDA Bocconi School of Management, which ranked #20. “By providing a detailed comparative analysis, these rankings help prospective students make informed decisions about programs that align with their career goals,” said QS president Nunzio Quacquarelli.&nbsp;He also added, “Whether aiming to lead in corporations, innovate in start-ups, or impact the public sector, students can use these insights to shape their professional paths.”. In QS Global MBA Rankings 2025, U.S. institutions continue to lead in MBA education worldwide. American schools dominated four of the top spots in the new rankings. At the same time, the ranking included other prestigious UK and European universities to underpin the increasing diversity of top-tier MBA programs available to students globally.&nbsp;While these rankings are important for graduate students who wish to know which programs will best position them for career advancement, they also signal which institution can give students the skills and networks to thrive in a constantly changing global economy.

US Schools Lead Global MBA Rankings with Top 4 Positions

According to the QS World University Rankings, American schools are the majority among the best MBA providers globally.

Discovery Education collaborates with the UAE's Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation for Education (AGFE) to enhance STEM learning for students aged 13 to 18. Known as "STEM Connect," this collaboration will aim to offer educators in the UAE relevant, practical, and stimulating STEM learning experiences through digital resources that inspire students. This initiative follows a high demand for STEM skills in the UAE and is evidently on course with the grander vision of building a knowledge-based economy.STEM Connect is a bank of flexible, deep digital resources in Arabic and English that Discovery Education will develop specifically for this initiative. This will include lessons, videos, and interactive activities. Designed in alignment with UAE educational standards, these resources would aid teachers in deciding how best to incorporate a real-world STEM challenge into the course content to be delivered to students. The material will be adapted to excite students about STEM fields and any future career opportunities in the sciences, technology, engineering, and mathematics.One of the main goals of this partnership is to equip Emirati students with crucial competencies to excel in a competitive international landscape. STEM Connect aims to inspire the next generation of Emirati leaders and innovators by focusing on problem-solving, critical thinking, and innovation through hands-on, project-based learning approaches integrated into the STEM Connect resources.The collaboration highlights UAE's commitment to achieving the highest academic standards and its forward-looking strategic vision. The skills of the 21st Century include being STEM literate, and by prioritising state-of-the-art STEM Education over other courses, the UAE is gearing itself to be well placed in addressing such challenges and both the citizens and prospective professionals being ready for tomorrow's jobs.The introduction of STEM Connect is part of AGFE's more comprehensive mission to enhance the availability and quality of standard education in the Arab world. By partnering with global industry leaders such as Discovery Education, AGFE is working to help close the gap between education and employment, ensuring that even before they enter university or a career-ready program of study, students are prepared academically (and skills-based) for the modern workplace.The UAE Vision 2021, an integral part of this initiative, identifies innovation and research as crucial for future success in advancing the science-based economy. Discovery Education and AGFE Partnership Backs UAE Vision to Lead World in Innovation, Knowledge-Based Economies through STEM++ Education.Overall, this partnership will provide the best-in-class technologies for Emirati students and educators. It is an excellent example of how to promote the culture vital for ensuring that innovation and excellence in education continue long into the UAE's future. The excitement and enthusiasm of the students and their teachers make STEM Connect very promising, and it will pave the way for future generations in the UAE who will be building this nation.

Discovery, UAE Partner to Boost STEM Education

Discovery Education collaborates with the UAE's Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation for Education (AGFE) to enhance STEM learning.

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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.

GMH Communities and Wexford Science &amp; Technology have recently announced their collaboration for a new UC Davis student housing project near the Sacramento campus. This new project will provide students with 256 units, catering to undergraduate and graduate students. It will also be available to young technology, life sciences, and healthcare professionals.The available room types will include studios, small studios, and one-, two-, and four-bedroom apartments. It will have various amenities, such as co-working spaces, a small market, a conference room, a 24/7 concierge service, conference rooms, and soundproof office pods.GMH Communities, one of the partners in the project, prides itself on various features typically found in their projects. These feature high-speed internet in all their units, a health-focused approach, including spaces for exercise and outdoor activities, smart entry systems for maximum security, and a work-life blend by adding workspaces such as co-working spaces and entertainment.ANOVA Aggie Square, the new UC Davis student housing, will also be part of the first phase of a much larger project: Aggie Square. The new Aggie Square is set to be a large project combining various facilities, such as state-of-the-art research facilities and offices, and creating a unique “live, learn, work, and play environment,” which will ultimately foster and bring creativity. One of the ways it can do that is by creating a unique environment and spaces where professionals can get together and work together. GMH's Annova brand is set to offer this environment to its residents, offering modern residential features while considering the needs of students and professionals in the science, healthcare, and technology industries.This project was preceded by another successful project on the city campus; this is why Gary Holloway Jr., CEO and President of GMH Communities, had the following statement: “This innovation district is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and GMH Communities is excited to bring Aggie Square—along with all of its potential—to life."He also stated: "Through the expertise we've gained from ANOVA uCity Square and our long-standing partnership with Wexford Science &amp; Technology, we continue to evolve property offerings, services, and amenities to create a comprehensive living environment where professionals and students can work, learn, live, play, and thrive. This next chapter in our company's history is shaping out to be a very exciting one."

Plans for New 256-Unit UC Davis Student Housing Announced

GMH Communities and Wexford Science & Technology collaborate on a new UC Davis student housing project near the Sacramento campus.

Canada has always been a favourite for international students wanting to study abroad because of the many universities and affordable cost of living. However, according to research by IDP, over the past years, Australia has also become very popular as a study destination for students.On the other hand, there has been a lot of talk about the quality of education in the UK, and some think that it has declined a lot over the last six months.Research has shown that Australia has been gaining around 2% more students who are choosing it as a preferred study destination; this has increased the country’s popularity with international students. Canada has declined compared to past years, but it’s still one of the top choices.In third place sits the UK, with over 22% of students naming it as their first choice destination, and the USA follows with around 19%. These are according to IDP, which has surveyed over 10,000 international students from 98 different countries.Students stated that the quality of education is the most important factor when choosing a place to study. The UK, the USA, and Canada were not rated as highly as they were before on a survey conducted in March 2023.Australia is the only country that students fixated on while talking about the quality of education, which is why it’s now growing in popularity.After the quality of education, the opportunities for employment are the second most important factor for students, with Australia being the top choice one more time, followed by Canada and the USA. When it comes to post-study work visa policies, Canada takes first place.CEO of Universities Australia, Catriona Jackson, has stated that Australia “needs more international students to help with the skill shortages we are seeing right across the economy”.“The government’s new migration strategy must enable more of these talented people to remain in Australia and use their Australian education in the area they have studied when there is a clear need for their skills,” she added.Students in the UK have reported the lowest satisfaction rates among the four top study destinations. The USA was the best destination when it came to student fulfilment.Simon Emmett, the IDP Chief Executive Officer, gave a warning that the UK won’t be able to rely on its reputation for high-quality education soon. “Global competition between destination countries for international students remains high, and the impact of perceptions of post-graduation opportunities, or lack of opportunities, continues to impact student choice,” Emmett stated.He also added, ”The sector must come together to promote the UK effectively by better highlighting the holistic appeal of our universities and reinforcing a broader set of reasons why students should choose the UK.” He thinks it’s “essential to protect” the important policies students look for, such as the graduate visa route. “Promoting the UK and highlighting the contributions that international students make to universities is a top priority for the organisation.” Jamie Arrowsmith, director of Universities UK International, stated. In addition, 45% of students who took the survey said that safety was also a key consideration. And 43% expressed that supporting international students was a key deciding factor.

Australia and Canada Top Study Destinations for Students

According to research by IDP, over the past years, Australia has also become very popular as a study destination for students, besides Canada.

In the first semester of the 2022–2023 academic year, German universities saw a remarkable enrollment of approximately 370,000 international students, setting a new record for the country. This represents a 5% increase from the previous year, when there were 350,000 non-local students studying at German institutions.According to recent data released by Germany's academic exchange service, DAAD, Indian students have surpassed the Chinese to become the largest nationality group for the first time, with around 46,000 Indian students now studying at German universities.<a href="https://www.daad.de/en/" rel="nofollow">DAAD</a>'s president, Joybrato Mukherjee, attributes the continued international interest in German education to its high academic quality, the affordable tuition fees, and the promising career opportunities available to graduates in the German job market. Most of Germany's public universities remain tuition-free for international students. However, <a href="https://www.tum.de/" rel="nofollow">Technische Universität München</a> is set to introduce fees for non-EU students in compliance with new regulations in the state of Bavaria.In recent years, the German government has taken initiatives to attract more skilled workers from abroad and to encourage international students to choose Germany as their study destination, addressing the country's skilled labour shortage.Federal Education Minister Bettina Stark-Watzinger expressed her delight with the latest statistics, stating that Germany continues to be highly attractive for international students and researchers, deeming these figures "very good news" for the country.The number of Ukrainian students in Germany also saw a significant increase during the winter semester, with 9,100 students, marking a 43% rise from the 2021–2022 academic year.Furthermore, the number of international students at Germany's Applied Sciences universities has more than doubled over the past decade, reaching nearly 107,000 students, a remarkable 140% increase. Standard universities in Germany also experienced substantial growth, with a 64% rise in international student enrollment over the same period.DAAD's report also highlighted the presence of approximately 70,000 international scientists working at various research institutions across the country, making Germany the second most popular destination for international researchers, sharing the position with the UK and following the USA.Monika Jungbauer-Gans, the scientific director of the German Centre for Higher Education Research and Science Studies (DZHW), emphasised the vital importance of international mobility in science, especially for successful research endeavours. She noted that at renowned research organisations like the <a href="https://www.mpg.de/en" rel="nofollow">Max Planck Society</a> and the Leibniz Association, nearly one-third of the scientific staff (29%) comes from abroad.Research conducted by the <a href="https://www.oecd.org/" rel="nofollow">OECD</a> revealed that Germany and Canada lead globally in retaining international students, with over 60% of students who obtained visas in 2015 still residing in Germany as of 2020.

Record-Breaking 370,000 International Students in Germany

In 2023, German universities saw a remarkable enrollment of approximately 370,000 international students, setting a new record for the country.

In a recent AIEC conference, which hosted Minister Jason Claire, the Australian minister of education, various updates were revealed regarding the Australian education system and immigration laws. It has been the case that various misuses of the Australian student visa and malpractices by some educational agencies have affected the Australian education system’s integrity. This is why Australia’s Ministry of Education has been working for more than 18 months to reform the Australian education system and Australia’s immigration laws.<h2 dir="ltr" style="">Background</h2>Throughout the years, many have been using the Australian student visa as a gateway to migrate to Australia without the intention of learning and have been using cheap institutions to secure their stay in Australia. On the other hand, various educational agencies have resorted to shady practices that use loopholes in the Australian immigration system. This has limited the chances of students who deserve an education by accepting applicants with no true learning intentions.This, however, is not a general rule, as it was revealed that over 75% of international students studying in Australia are using education agencies, many of whom are law-abiding. They have had a tremendous impact on the education industry in Australia. However, many students have also misused certain loopholes and exploited students, especially by luring them away from their institutions, promising them work, and claiming unlawful commissions.<h2 dir="ltr" style="">What is Being Done About This?</h2>The Australian government is set to introduce a more complex immigration system, with Clare O'Neil, the Australian home affairs minister, stating on the 2nd of October, “The party is over. The roots and loopholes that have plagued this system will be shut down. This is the first of many announcements this week to restore integrity to international education and to our migration system." This was in response to the welfare and safety of students in Australia. To implement this plan, a new division is being created that focuses on immigration and compliance. It has received an initial funding of AUD 50 million and is set to ease up the complexities of the Australian immigration system.Another major change that’s being made is the change to the proof of financial funds requirement being pushed to $24,000 and working hours for students being capped at 24 hours per week.<h2 dir="ltr" style="">Are These Changes Beneficial for International Students?</h2>These are, without doubt, positive changes that are set to benefit students, especially those looking for <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia" style="">student housing in Australia</a>. The Australian government recognises that many students exploit the system and use PBSA student accommodation to their advantage. Allocating PBSAs to deserving students will definitely help with the Australian student housing crisis through careful filtration. On the other hand, you will need to showcase higher financial means, and working hours will be capped at 24 hours.

Major Immigration Changes Expected in Australia

Various updates were revealed regarding the Australian education system and immigration laws at an AIEC recent conference.

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