International education is still adapting to the gradual recovery of the world from the global pandemic and economic uncertainties. New trends and shifts are emerging in the study abroad program that make it more accessible and suited to the needs of the modern student. Here are the top trends in study abroad expected to dominate 2024 and beyond: flexible hybrid learning options and new visa policies.

1. Increasing Hybrids and Online Options in Study Abroad
In recent years, flexibility has been one of the key factors for the selection of study-abroad destinations for students. Hybrid learning is the new trend these days that offers online and offline classes. This helps the students learn from anywhere in the world and have real-time interactions with professors and peers. Many leading universities are now offering flexible options for studying abroad that can help students experience different cultures while balancing their academic commitments from a remote location.

2. The US and UK are more popular among international students:
Despite global challenges, the US and the UK remain at the top of international students' wish lists for studying abroad. Recent surveys have shown that demand for programs in these countries has surged, and universities are upping their efforts to provide world-class education and post-study opportunities. For example, in the UK, it extended the post-study work visa allowing international graduates to remain there for up to two years, giving them a chance to get experience by working. This would surely attract students to get some international market kick start their career.

3. Sustainability Stepping Front and Center in Study Abroad Programs
As sustainability continues to be at the top of the agenda globally, study abroad programs have also started reflecting this trend. The universities are adopting eco-friendly practices, offering green study programs, and promoting responsible tourism. Students are now more conscious of the environmental impact of their travel and many prefer destinations that fit into their values for sustainability. This growing focus on eco-consciousness is reshaping the way study abroad programs are designed and marketed.

4. Higher Demand for Non-Traditional Study Abroad Destinations
While service-based offerings-for example, the US, UK, and Australia-remain attractive to students, other European, Asian, and Latin American destinations are becoming more popular with international students seeking less expensive and more distinctive academic environments. For a rich cultural experience in an academic setting at a more affordable price, students head abroad to Lisbon, Barcelona, Seoul, and Mexico City.

5. Increasing Scholarships and Financial Aids
With the rising cost of education, students are looking at every possible avenue to fund their study abroad experience. Fortunately, more scholarships, financial aid options, and grants are being offered by governments, universities, and private organizations. By 2024, there will be many opportunities that will help students reduce the financial barriers to make international education accessible to a diverse range of people.

6. Reform of Visa Policy for Enhanced Student Mobility
Countries like Canada and Australia now offer more student-friendly visa policies to attract international talent. The digital nomad visas as well as the post-graduation work permits that are now going to be longer are going to give ample opportunities to students to gain work experience while staying abroad after completing their courses. The coming years could see more ease in the career transition and increased international mobility for such students due to these new visa reforms.

7. Mental Health and Well-being Policy for International Students
Since international students are becoming more of a problem when it comes to global concerns, issues regarding their well-being are attracting much attention among universities now. These include counseling services, peer groups, and wellness programs offered to enable students in their learning institutions to surpass difficulties in various ways. Studying overseas is strenuous and a proper set of mental health services is therefore the prime parameter in studying destination.

8. The Digital Nomad Lifestyle and the Future of International Education
With the rise of remote work, the concept of digital nomadism is catching the attention of students worldwide. Many are now considering studying abroad while working remotely, balancing their academic commitments with freelance work or internships. This trend is opening up new opportunities for students to travel, work, and study abroad simultaneously, offering a unique and flexible lifestyle that combines education with professional experience.

Conclusion
The landscape of study abroad changes in 2024 towards more flexibility, sustainability, and mental health. As students continue seeking more personalized and impactful learning experiences, universities and institutions should adapt to the changing requirements of international students. Therefore, the future of study abroad now looks even brighter with new visa policies, more enhanced financial aid options, and more inclusive programs for international students.

Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com...for-indian-students/articleshow/113482819.cms

In recent years, the number of international students willing to pursue higher education in the United States is considerable, though many are attracted by the world-class universities and career opportunities in the country. However, despite the appeal of studying in the U.S., international students face so many problems as they affect their journey to complete their academic program. From academic pressure to cultural differences, the road to success may be more complicated than expected.

1. Academic Expectations and Pressure
Probably the greatest challenge faced by international students is the very demanding academic environment at an American school. Teaching styles that are usually unfamiliar to those found back home in the students' countries of origin may include independent research, contributing to class discussions, and critical thinking. Also, the grading systems are different, and international students find it hard to understand what the expectant standard regarding assignments, exams, etc., is. The pressure to maintain such high grades is mounted even more.

2. Cultural Adaptation and Homesickness
Another issue international students face is the harsh reality of cultural adjustment. Although America is the melting pot, international students at some point still feel lonely or disconnected from their college mates because social customs, ways of communication, and lifestyle may be severely different so they tend to feel homesickness or even culture shock. Missing family and familiar traditions make it tough for them to integrate themselves into campus life, particularly at the beginning of their stay.

3. Material Expense
Studying abroad in the U.S. is not cheap, and the financial struggle for most international students persists. Many institutions' tuition and living costs are too high even with the help of scholarships or financial aid. Visa restrictions often prevent students from having enough work opportunities to earn enough money. Many students quickly find it hard to balance their study schedule with part-time work or complete internships and job opportunities that can be limited in the job market.

4. Visa and Immigration Issues Solution
Visa and immigration regulations are always a concern for international students. Changes in the U.S. immigration policy can at times uncertainty about one's ability to stay in the country after postgraduation or to do an internship and participate in a postgraduation work program. In addition, all these visits, document renewals, or traveling back home bring legal requirements onboard bringing upon stress. More stringent rules and visa policies have further complicated the matters, raising questions about the future of these students.

5. Psychological Health and Well-being
The growing concern is students from abroad. The pressure brought on by studying conditions, social isolation, fiscal worries, and sometimes problems with a visa create so many psychologically negative impacts. These pupils increasingly report higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression but will rarely seek help due to stigma discouraging discussion or unfamiliarity with mental health resources in the United States.
Some colleges provide on-campus, on-site mental health services. However, dealing with the resources in a different country is another form of challenge.

6. Prejudice and Racism
Unfortunately, however, discrimination and racism can still exist among some international students. Be it considered as issues of nationality or ethnicity and accent, international students face bias which can make a difference in the feelings of belongingness and, more importantly, mental well-being. These are doubly challenging for those students who live far from their families and support networks. Universities are trying, but it is not a simple thing for most students, especially amidst the highly political climate.

7. Career Opportunities and Work Permit
Many international students come to the United States with many goals, one of which is professional work experience post-graduation; however, 'the job market' can be a tough career hunt. "Navigating the job market while obtaining the appropriate work visas to be able to work, such as an H-1B visa, may be quite complex and competitive." The current job market, combined with the work authorization process and adapting to a different professional culture, often means that international students must go beyond what is considered normal in their job search.

Conclusion

While studying in the US offers international students with many opportunities, there are several challenges involved. Academic pressure, cultural adjustment, financial burdens, visa uncertainties, and mental health struggles all become part of their problems. It is understood that these challenges while studying abroad can be surmounted when support is sought whenever required. Given the problems above, universities should continue to provide the required resources, support, and an environment for international students in which they can solve problems and achieve their learning and career aspirations.

SOURCE: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com...tudents-in-the-u-s-/articleshow/115458530.cms

Indian students keen on their higher education in the US may want to keep a close watch on American politics where Donald Trump is likely to return to the White House by next year. Many already faced hardline immigration policies and rule changes triggered during his first term. What will "Trump 2.0" signify for those dreams?

Throughout his first term, especially international students coming from India remained bewildered about US visa policies. The government took several steps to add strength to immigration. There were proposed restrictions on OPT, which was a very popular training program, and also the strengthening of scrutiny of student visa applications. That is precisely when it is in 2020 when the pandemic hit that even Trump's administration threatened to revoke visas for those students enrolled in universities who decided to go fully into online classes.

While the Biden administration rolled back some of these policies, Indian students who are one of the largest contingents of international students on U.S. campuses now grapple with whether a second term for Trump would revive some of these restrictions or bring into the fray a new approach.

The Trump Legacy: An Observably Challenging Era for International Students
Under President Trump, U.S. immigration policies appear to represent an obstacle for foreign students who want to come to pursue education in the country. The administration seemed bent on issues of controlling illegal immigration and especially on ensuring that American jobs did not result in easing the restriction measures against foreign nationals, including students.

One of the major policies of this kind was to try to cap foreign workers entering the United States on the H-1B visa program. Although this policy hurt skilled workers more, in the long term, it affected international students from India since they use the H-1B visa to stay in the United States and work there after graduating.

As was the case with his stance on the OPT programme- the allowance wherein international students are allowed to work in the US after graduation-the same issue surrounding the decision also brought concern. There was no all-out ban, but the discussions still were on limiting or imposing stricter conditions on participants of the programme, especially when it came to non-STEM majors.

Ever-increasing competition for places in American universities casts a dark shadow on the long-term sustainability of higher education for many Indian students given such policies.

What's at Stake for Indian Students in Trump 2.0?

Chances are that he will take on another presidential campaign. Hence, very likely that the same immigration and international student visa policies will remain during his next term as they did when he started his first term.

1. Toughen Visa Policies
Trump's "America First" call may again hint that his government would continue to push for decreasing the flow of foreign nationals into the US both for educational and professional purposes. Although Trump is a declared proponent of a merit-based immigration policy, what this entrenches is unclear. If his administration makes visa vetting processes difficult or raises the eligibility threshold for students for a student visa, then it becomes all the more arduous for Indian students to travel to the United States, especially outside the STEM fields.

2. OPT and opportunities after graduation
The biggest concern is over the future of the OPT program. Many Indian students depend entirely on OPT for gainful experience in the United States after they obtain their U.S. degrees. If Trump makes the overall work permits stricter, or any other move toward capping the duration of OPT for non-STEM graduates is made, then it will force Indian students to rethink their options for studying in the U.S. or make way for countries like Canada or the UK.

3. Bilateral Relations between India and the U.S.
On the positive side, the Trump administration has continued to maintain close ties with India, especially in trade, defense, and technology domains. In case Trump is re-elected, this relationship may be sustained to continue the exchange of students and professionals between both countries. However, based on economic nationalism, there might be more stringent restrictions on international students, though there may be continued diplomatic engagement.

4. The Global Attraction of US Universities remains unrelenting
The uncertainty cloud of visas notwithstanding, Indian students do not appear to exercise restraint while filing applications to universities in the United States, which boast world-class education and research facilities besides opportunities after graduation. Any new policy for securing a visa under Trump would only complicate the entire process; still, the possibility of financial aid and scholarships would unfurl an open book for the U.S. universities to great talent from India: Institutes such as MIT, Stanford University, and Harvard remain at the top of any wish list of Indian students.

Expert's Insights: Finding One's Feet Amidst a Changing World.

According to an education consultant and US immigration policy specialist, Dr. Priya Sharma, Indian students "have, by all counts, been an integral part of U.S. higher education, and while Trump's policies may have their challenges, they are less likely to keep motivated students away." The key here will remain to be adaptable and ahead of the curve of changes in visa rules and immigration laws; however, the growing demand for quality education is unlikely to ever be deterred by the political climate.

But if Trump demands greater protectionism, many students will view alternative options for the pursuit of education, particularly to such destinations as Canada, which increasingly is attracting them through student-friendly immigration policies.

Conclusion: What's the Future?

It raises a host of important questions in the minds of those Indian students who would like to go the U.S. way for higher studies given Donald Trump's potential return to the presidency. Impossible to predict what a second term would look like with Donald Trump in the White House, but one thing appears possible international students will face similar challenges in his second term as they do with him in his first term.

Indian students will need to be in the know of all the updates on US visa policies and make the most out of whatever opportunity exists to not let their study-abroad goals get derailed. Chances are, it is unlikely that the demand for US degrees declines at any point with even the ripple effects of changing immigration policies likely keeping people confused.

Source:

What Is An Ayushman Card?​

The Ayushman Card is an integral part of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), one of the world’s largest government-funded healthcare schemes. Launched in September 2018, this scheme aims to provide affordable healthcare services to the economically weaker sections of society, covering millions of Indian citizens under its health insurance plan. Beneficiaries of PMJAY can access cashless treatment services of up to ₹5 lakh per year at empanelled hospitals across India. The Ayushman Card, also referred to as the PM-JAY card, acts as proof of eligibility and allows beneficiaries to access the scheme's benefits.

India recently launched the Ayushman identification cards to aid the beneficiaries of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana. Known as the Ayushman Card, it aims to create a comprehensive digital health infrastructure. The government scheme offers benefits to Indian citizens by providing access to public hospitals and schemes.

This government health insurance scheme covers most medical expenses, medications, and diagnostic costs, extending the free treatment services up to 5 lakh per year.

Read below this article to learn about the Ayushman card, its benefits, eligibility, application process, and more.

The Ayushman Card ensures that citizens who cannot afford expensive healthcare can still receive quality treatment without the burden of financial constraints. This card covers a wide range of medical expenses, including hospitalisation costs, diagnostic tests, pre-hospitalisation, and post-hospitalisation care.

Toronto, Canada – A recent confrontation in Canada has spotlighted issues of racism and cultural tolerance after a woman reportedly told an Indian-origin man to "go back to India." The incident, which has rapidly circulated on social media, has stirred discussions across communities and attracted strong reactions from both the public and officials.

Amid the ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, an Indian-origin man faced a hateful encounter while walking in the Kitchener-Waterloo region in Ontario.
The man was subjected to hate speech by an elderly woman who told him to 'return to India' because of his Indian heritage.

The altercation, captured on video and widely shared, took place in a busy Canadian city. The video depicts a Canadian woman making the insensitive remark to the Indian man in the middle of a public area. The footage has since triggered waves of condemnation on social media, with many Canadians and members of the Indian diaspora expressing disappointment and outrage.

Community leaders in Canada and India have condemned the remark, emphasizing that the incident runs counter to Canada’s multicultural values. “Incidents like these serve as a reminder of the work we still have to do in ensuring that Canada remains a place of welcome and acceptance,” remarked a spokesperson for the South Asian community in Toronto.

A History of Inclusion Tested​

This incident arrives at a time when Canada has worked extensively to reinforce its stance as a welcoming, multicultural society. Known for its policies promoting diversity and inclusion, Canada remains a popular destination for immigrants from around the world, including many from India who have made significant contributions to the nation’s economy, culture, and public life. Yet, recent years have seen increased calls to address underlying racial biases, as tensions occasionally surface despite official anti-racism efforts.

Government and Community Response​

Several Canadian officials and local organizations quickly responded to the incident. A statement released by the Canadian Ministry of Diversity and Inclusion emphasized, “Racism and intolerance have no place in Canada, and we stand firmly with those who experience discrimination. We encourage all Canadians to uphold the principles of respect and understanding that define us as a nation.”

Additionally, support has poured in from social groups and advocacy organizations across Canada, calling for greater awareness and education efforts to prevent such confrontations in the future. Community centers in Toronto and Vancouver have initiated dialogues and programs to promote cross-cultural understanding and inclusivity further, aiming to reinforce Canada’s commitment to multiculturalism.

Public Support and Solidarity​

Following the incident, Canadians from all backgrounds have taken to social media to voice their support for the Indian-origin man and denounce the discriminatory remark. Many have shared their own experiences with racism, highlighting that while Canada’s diversity is celebrated, there remain challenges to address.

The widespread reaction also speaks to the resilience of Canada’s multicultural society, where the majority of the public stands against discrimination and works toward a more inclusive future. The incident has opened discussions about practical ways to foster understanding and mutual respect, from educational reforms to community events that bridge cultural divides.

As Canada continues to strive toward building a society rooted in respect and tolerance, the collective response to this incident stands as a testament to the strength of its commitment to inclusivity.

Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/trend...nters-have-been-happening-11729443861201.html

Fewer study permits were issued by Canada to Indian students in the final three months of 2023. In total, there was an 86% drop from 108,940 to 14,910 between October and December. Apparently, the sharp fall was attributed to rising diplomatic tensions over the killing of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, with India subsequently expelling 41 Canadian diplomats-most of whom handled student visas-in what left the approval process of the visas critically slowed.

For many Indian students, studying in Canada has been one of the most probable destinations after completing higher education in various fields, both for postgraduate studies and work opportunities. This diplomatic rift continues by asking questions regarding plans for studying in other countries, including the UK, Australia, and the US.

Student applicants are being informed of other options as the number of permits issued is unlikely to rebound shortly, says Canadian Immigration Minister Marc Miller. The sudden stop in processing visas has brought fear among students: some are worried about missing deadlines for applications, delaying the admission process, and losing scholarships.

In one way, the current scenario is against the future Indian students, who are forced to think over their entire education plan once more and tend to be more precise with the stability of academics and the stability of their visa before choosing a destination for further studies.

Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/us-ne...y-diplomatic-tension-news-11729041904515.html

In a world where uncertainties abound, life insurance acts as a protective shield for your family.

What is Life Insurance?

It's a financial contract where you pay regular premiums to an insurance company. In return, they provide a lump sum payment to your loved ones in case of your untimely demise.

Types of Life Insurance:

• Term Insurance: Coverage for a specific period.
• Permanent Life Insurance: Coverage for your entire life.

Benefits of Life Insurance:

• Tax benefits
• Financial security for family
• Collateral for loans

Key Points to Remember:

• Coverage: Understand the events covered and excluded.
• Claim Process: Familiarize yourself with the steps involved in claiming insurance.
• Choose Wisely: Select a policy that aligns with your needs and budget.

Want to know more about life insurance? Read this here on Jaagruk Bharat