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Why is Europe Becoming a Prime Destination for International Students?
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Europe Becoming a Prime Destination Among South Asian Students
In recent years, Europe has become a highly sought-after destination for students worldwide, offering quality education, cultural diversity, and abundant opportunities for career growth. While countries like the US, Canada, and Australia have traditionally been popular study-abroad choices, an increasing number of South Asian students are now turning towards Europe for higher education.
Countries such as Ireland, Germany, and France have gained popularity among South Asian students due to their prestigious universities and more affordable education. With lower tuition fees and cost of living compared to destinations like the US, Australia, and Canada, European countries provide a compelling alternative for students seeking to study abroad.
Bhargav Modi, Business Director at EduGo Abroad, highlights the growing appeal of Europe for South Asian students. The region offers not only a liberal and enhanced lifestyle but also international student-friendly policies. These policies allow students to not only pursue their education but also seek employment opportunities during and after their studies. The peaceful environment and openness to migrants make Europe an attractive destination for students looking to study and build their future.
Flexible Study Programs and Easy Entry Requirements
Wide Range of Course Options
Europe offers a vast selection of courses, allowing students to choose fields that align with their career goals. Popular areas like tech and STEM offer cutting-edge curriculums that meet industry demands.
Emerging Non-Tech Fields
Students interested in non-tech fields such as Luxury Brand Management benefit from unique course offerings, giving them an edge in competitive job markets by earning degrees that stand out.
No Mandatory IELTS or Proficiency Exams
European universities often do not require IELTS or other proficiency exams, making it easier for students to secure admissions without the need for additional qualifications.
Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarship programs like Erasmus provide significant financial support, and Indian students consistently rank among the top recipients. This helps ease the financial burden of tuition fees.
Schengen Visa Benefits
The Schengen visa grants students access to multiple European countries, offering invaluable opportunities for travel and career exploration across the continent.
Highest working hours for Indian students
United Kingdom
In the UK, international students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and can work unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Off-campus work is available to those enrolled in full-time degree-level courses at accredited institutions. Additionally, work placements that are part of the academic curriculum are permitted.
Indians may still be at the top of the list for student visa grants in the UK, but recent data from the Home Office shows a worrying decline. A 23% drop in Indian students coming to the UK for higher education was recorded over the past year until June 2024, marking a significant shift amid tighter migration restrictions. Despite this decline, Indian nationals still represent the largest group on the Graduate Route visa, allowing them to work in the UK for up to two years after their degree.
Germany
In Germany, international students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time, or up to 40 hours per week, during semester breaks. They are generally permitted to work for 120 full days or 240 half days each year. Exceptions are made for mandatory internships that are part of their study program.
For non-European Union students, additional guidelines set by the German Federal Employment Agency must be followed. These rules ensure that students balance their work commitments with academic responsibilities while staying compliant with employment regulations.
France
France allows international students to work up to 964 hours annually, which equates to about 20 hours per week during the academic year, and full-time during university holidays.
This work allowance is available to students at institutions that are part of the French social security system. Internships that are a required component of the academic program may have specific exceptions. The French Ministry of the Interior oversees these regulations and exceptions.
Netherlands
In the Netherlands, international students can work up to 16 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during the summer months (June, July, and August). Non-EU/EEA students are required to obtain a work permit, which is typically arranged by their employer. However, internships that are part of the mandatory curriculum for their study program are exempt from these work limitations.
The Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) is responsible for overseeing these regulations, ensuring that international students comply with local employment rules.
Switzerland
In Switzerland, students from EU/EFTA countries face no restrictions on part-time employment. However, international students with residence permits must adhere to specific rules regarding part-time jobs. Here are the key regulations for international students seeking work in Switzerland:
- Work Hours: International students can work a maximum of 15 hours per week during the academic semester. Full-time employment is permitted during semester breaks.
- Residence Requirement: According to the six-month residence rule, international students must live and study in Switzerland for at least six months before they can apply for part-time jobs.
- Language Proficiency: Switzerland is a multilingual country, with German, French, Italian, and Romansh spoken. It’s beneficial for international students to know at least one local language in addition to English to better integrate into the workplace. Language courses are available to help improve proficiency.
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