New Delhi: In 2024, students aspiring to study abroad are facing a new set of hurdles, making the dream of international education more complex and expensive. From increasing visa application fees to tightening regulations around work-related visas, the landscape for study abroad programs has shifted significantly. While many countries still welcome international students, changes in immigration policies, rising costs, and uncertain job markets are creating additional stress for students hoping to gain international experience.
Below are the key obstacles faced by students in 2024 and the broader implications of these changes-
Increase in visa application fee
One of the most immediate and noticeable changes for international students in 2024 is the sharp rise in Visa application fees. Various countries have announced hikes in their visa-related charges among which the United States and the United Kingdom remain the most prominent. The US Department of State recently increased the fees for non-immigrant visas by an average of 15 per cent with student visas (F and M categories) now costing up to $245, compared to $160 in 2023. For many students, this increase results in a financial burden, especially when added to the overall cost of overseas education.
Similarly, the UK has raised its Visa fees for international students, with applications for a Tier 4 student visa costing £363 (around $450 USD), up from £348 in 2023. These fee hikes come as part of a broader trend across many Western countries, reflecting an effort to control immigration and offset rising administrative costs. With the combination of higher application fees and living expenses, students are increasingly forced to reconsider their study abroad plans, especially those from developing nations.
Tightening work-related visa policies
Another significant change in the year 2024 is the tightening of work-related visa policies, especially in countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. These countries have long been popular destinations for international students seeking work opportunities during and after their studies. However, new restrictions are significantly limiting these opportunities.
The United Kingdom restricted the post-graduation work visa, making it difficult for students to stay and work after completing their studies. The work period granted under this visa was reduced from two years to one year for those completing undergraduate and master’s degrees in 2024.
In the US, the tightening of work-related visas, such as the H-1B, has created further challenges for international students. The approval rates for H-1B visas, which allow foreign workers to stay and work in the US for up to six years, have dropped in recent years. In FY 2023, only 82 per cent of H-1B applications were approved, a noticeable decline from the 95 per cent approval rate in 2015. The increased inspection of applications, coupled with reduced caps on the number of work visas available, states that international students are facing a more uncertain future after graduation.
Similarly, Australia has faced visa tightening, limiting post-graduation work permits and restricting the ability of international students to bring dependents. In 2024, Australia reduced the length of work rights granted after graduation for some degree holders, impacting students in non-STEM fields, who now face limited access to post-graduation work opportunities.
Increased competition for spots and scholarships
International students are dealing with heightened competition for admission spots and scholarships. In the US, the number of international students in higher education institutions has seen an increase, growing by 4 per cent in the 2023-2024 academic year. However, the increased interest has also led to fierce competition for limited spots at top universities. Moreover, many schools are facing budget constraints, leading them to reduce or eliminate scholarships for international students.
The increase in application fees, paired with the competition for scholarships, means that only students with considerable financial backing or those from specific countries or disciplines are more likely to succeed. For example, the financial aid opportunities for students from low- and middle-income countries have drastically reduced, exacerbating inequalities in higher education access.
Cost of living and housing crisis
The cost of living remains one of the biggest barriers for international students. In 2024, cities like London, New York, and Sydney continue to experience excessively high rental prices, with some estimates suggesting that the cost of living for international students has increased by 10-15 per cent in major study-abroad destinations. In the UK, the average cost of student accommodation has surged to £7,000-£10,000 annually, making it even more difficult for students to manage their finances without the ability to work sufficient hours during their studies.
Housing shortages in popular student destinations have also become a major concern for students. The rental vacancy rate in Sydney has dropped to just 1.5 per cent, creating severe competition among international students for affordable accommodations. This is not only pushing up rental prices but also forcing students to take on more debt or even delay their studies until they can find appropriate housing.
The year 2024 marks a pivotal moment in the landscape of study abroad. Rising VISA application fees, stricter work-related visa policies, and a competitive academic environment present significant challenges to international students. As the demand for international education continues to grow, the way forward will require governments, universities, and students to adapt to an evolving global landscape, making the dream of studying abroad more difficult for many.
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