Emerging Study Abroad Destinations: Prominent study-abroad choices for Indian students encompass France, Germany, Dubai, Spain, and Malta.
Indian students are expanding their horizons when it comes to studying abroad, moving beyond the conventional choices of the US, the UK, Australia, and Canada. This trend is influenced by various factors, including evolving policies and initiatives in different countries.
In a specialized interview, Saurabh Arora, Founder & CEO of University Living, a global student housing marketplace, discusses the top 5 up-and-coming study abroad destinations and provides insights into the dos and don’ts of selecting an international study destination.
What are the emerging study destinations for Indian students?
France is proactively inviting Indian students with a target of hosting 30,000 by 2030. Likewise, Germany’s affordability and outstanding education system have led to a notable 107% surge in Indian students over the past four years.
Spain has seen an approximately 12% increase in international student numbers over three years. In Singapore, the Indian student population has surged from 1,500 to 10,000 between July 2021 and March 2022. Moreover, Dubai is witnessing a rising Indian student population, particularly in primary and secondary education.
Ireland has tripled its international student population from 2010 to 2020, accommodating over 25,000 students in 2021. Meanwhile, Malta’s English language training sector is experiencing a rebound, marked by a 103% increase in enrolments in 2021.
What are the big reasons for this shift?
Countries like Germany, Spain, France, Ireland, Dubai, Singapore, New Zealand, and Malta are gaining popularity due to simplified visa procedures, enhanced access to information, and growing incomes, making global education more accessible for Indian students.
What are the do’s and don’ts of selecting an Emerging Study Abroad Destination?
- Begin by assessing visa processes and give preference to countries with streamlined and student-friendly procedures.
- Affordability is another crucial factor, taking into account the total cost of education, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other associated costs. Emerging destinations often provide more budget-friendly options compared to traditional choices.
- Evaluate the language prerequisites for courses, as some countries may offer programs in English, while others may require proficiency in a specific language.
- Look for institutions with solid reputations and accreditation.
- Investigate often overlooked aspects, including support services like student housing, post-arrival settling-in services, and ongoing cost-of-living expenses.
What are the five emerging destinations & what are the advantages?
Germany: Due to its affordability and outstanding education system, it provides several advantages, including low-cost or free education, straightforward visa procedures, and a range of English-taught programs.
Language requirements vary depending on the program. The cost of living is reasonable, with a monthly average of Euro 500-550 for shared accommodation and Euro 700-800 for private rooms.
BSBI, Arden University, Gisma, SRH Hochschule Berlin, the Technical University of Munich, and Ludwig Maximilian University are renowned for their courses in engineering, computer science, and business administration.
Studying in Spain offers a culturally enriching experience, with popular fields of study such as tourism, architecture, and international business. The visa process typically takes between 30 and 60 days, and the cost of living is generally reasonable.
Cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Pamplona, and Valencia are well-known for their programs in law, arts and humanities, marketing and finance, STEM degrees, as well as Spanish language courses for international students.
Top Universities: The University of Barcelona ranks among the top 100 universities globally. Other leading institutions include the Autonomous University of Madrid, Pompeu Fabra University, Complutense University of Madrid. University of Valencia, Polytechnic University of Catalonia, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, University of Granada. IE University, Universidad de Sevilla, and University of Salamanca.
Studying in France comes with numerous advantages, including a streamlined visa process, notably the 5-year short-stay Schengen visa for postgraduates. The visa application is relatively straightforward, with short-term visas processed in around 6 days and long-term visas in up to 1 month, with moderate fees.
France offers globally recognized degrees, with popular courses to study in Paris covering engineering, fashion, hospitality, dessert making, MBA, data analytics, marketing, and arts. The official and mandatory language of instruction in France is French. And most academic programs at universities and educational institutions are conducted in French. However, there are also English-taught programs available, especially at the postgraduate level. The cost of living, including accommodation, is relatively high compared to its immediate neighbor, Germany.
Top Universities: PSL University, Polytechnic Institute of Paris, Sorbonne University. Paris-Saclay University, Lyon Normal School, HEC Paris, and Sciences Po University.
Malta is gaining popularity due to its affordable living expenses and the use of English as the predominant language. Commonly pursued courses include business, tourism, and information technology. The visa application procedures are typically straightforward and take a minimum of 7 to 15 days. Accommodation options are very affordable.
Top University: The most renowned is the University of Malta, which offers a wide range of programs in fields such as finance, hospitality, computer science, as well as Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Film Studies, and Performing Arts.
Dubai: Dubai is a favored destination for international students owing to its cosmopolitan environment. The visa processing time for Indian students in Dubai is approximately 15 to 20 working days. Accommodation options encompass on-campus housing, with shared apartments being a more economical choice.
Top Course Options: Engineering, Financial Accounting, Applied Logistics Management, Architecture, Management, MBA, etc.
Top Universities: University of Wollongong in Dubai, American University in Dubai (AUD). The British University in Dubai (BUiD), Middlesex University Dubai, American University in the Emirates. Institute of Management Technology – Dubai (IMTD), Canadian University Dubai, Zayed University UAE, and Murdoch University Dubai.
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