European countries are becoming increasingly popular among Indian students due to favorable post-study employment regulations, lower tuition rates, and world-class programs in sectors such as AI/ML, Data Science, IT, luxury, and brand management.
Post-study work periods vary by country, especially when compared to the UK, US, and Canada, European countries offer fascinating opportunities. With a hospitable climate and different cultural experiences, Europe is projected to attract more international students in the coming years.
In an interview with Financial Express Online, Bhargav Modi, Business Director, EduGo Abroad, talks about the costs and regulations of studying in Europe as well as the factors that draw international students to these nations.
What is the prime reason for aspiring Indian students to shift abroad, especially towards European Universities?
One of the biggest reasons why aspiring Indian students are looking at Europe is the range of opportunities at hand and the welcoming predisposition of these countries from a policy perspective.
While fields like AI/ML, Data Science and IT are clearly booming, there’s also a steady uptick in demand for professionals in luxury and brand management in addition to more opportunities opening up in the form of Industry 4.0.
Moreover, the universities in Europe are not only able to provide world-class programs for these fields, but they also offer them lower tuition fees, better post-study work rights, etc.
There’s also the fact that India’s relations with many European countries are fairly good, and the pathway to pursuing education in these countries is fairly streamlined.
For instance, France and India have been having a lot of meaningful, positive dialogue about Indian students going to France and vice versa. In fact, President Macron recently declared that France has set itself a target of welcoming 30,000 students by 2030. This sense of warmth matters to students as well, who want to be in places where there’s minimal turmoil or sense of conflict, as is the case at present in Canada as part of their ongoing crises if we are to draw a parallel.
How are the post-study work rules in European countries compared to the UK, US, and Canada?
The post-study work rules in Europe tend to vary from country to country, but on average countries offer anything between 6 months to 3 years. In France, the post-study work duration offered is up to 2 years. In Denmark, they offer up to 3 years. Compared to the UK, US and Canada, the post-study work rules are pretty favourable.
There are also other advantages that countries offer. For instance, France offers an alumni visa of up to 5 years for students who graduate out of a French university. In the scenario one is unable to find a job in France within the post-study job search duration, they can return home and apply for this visa and be granted up to 5 years to return to France and find a job.
What are the most important rules for students wishing to study in the UK?
Well, first and foremost, you must have your acceptance letter from a recognised UK institution. Then, you must focus on sorting your IELTS out, showcasing financial proof, and then applying for a student visa by paying up the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
There is, of course, a lot more to the process, but with due guidance, you should be able to navigate it pretty smoothly. It’s important that you keep your references handy as well, because most universities will demand the same. Even if they don’t make it mandatory, it is good to submit it at the earliest.
How much does studying under-grad and graduate courses in the UK cost?
It comes down to the specific program and university, but on average, the estimated range is said to be 10-30k pounds per year for tuition and around 1-1.5k per month if you’re going to be living in and around London. If you’re looking to save costs, you can look into accommodations that the university provides on campus or as part of an arrangement or MOU with an out-of-campus residence.
Any other information you would like to share for education in European nations?
If students genuinely care about their prospects and if they enjoy the process of learning and experiencing new cultures and languages and exploring ways of life, then Europe is their oyster. It’s a treasure trove of exciting opportunities and in the years to come, we believe that Europe will continue to gain prominence amongst international students who seek a holistic study abroad experience.
