Looming end of post-COVID boom of int’l students in UK, influx of Indian students to US, and more in this week’s MSM Reporter

The United States’ Consulate General in Chennai projected that Indian students will continue to represent the largest group of international students in the US, surpassing even Chinese students in the near future. With over 268,000 Indian students enrolled in US higher education institutions in 2022-23, officials anticipate this number to rise further. Efforts to expand educational fairs beyond major cities aim to attract more talented students to pursue education in the US, particularly in fields like computer science and business administration, which have seen high demand in South India.

Immigration Minister Marc Miller aims to reduce Canada’s reliance on temporary foreign labor and international students, introducing a 35% cut in foreign student visas and planning further restrictions on off-campus work hours. Miller acknowledged the economic challenges but emphasizes the need to address labor exploitation and housing affordability concerns fueled by rapid migration. While facing pushback from business groups, Miller asserted the necessity of balanced policies to sustain Canada’s immigration system and economy.

A report by the British Council predicted a decline in international student mobility to British universities in 2024 due to changes in migration policies and rising costs of studying in the United Kingdom. The decline is expected to be accompanied by greater pressure on universities to communicate proactively with Chinese students about graduate routes and career services. The report suggested that a strong pound could make British education unaffordable for many international students, particularly in key markets like Nigeria, Pakistan, and Ghana, while the re-emergence of the US’ education market poses increased competition. Universities were urged to focus on quality-based recruitment metrics, and the government was called upon to support the graduate route and maintain the UK’s competitiveness as a study destination.

An undercover investigation revealed a “back door” route allowing international students with lower grades to gain entry into prestigious universities like those in the Russell Group. The route often involves a year-long foundation course followed by progression to an undergraduate degree. This raises concerns about fairness in university admissions, especially as these courses were initially designed to support underprivileged domestic students and accommodate international students with non-comparable qualifications.

Postgraduate business programs, particularly those with applied focus, are highly sought after by international students at the Australian National University (ANU), according to Amanda Barry, ANU’s director of Future Students. Barry noted increasing interest in computer science courses among international students, reflecting evolving preferences. ANU’s tailored partnerships with international universities, especially in China, facilitate student recruitment across various disciplines, mirroring broader trends in Australian higher education.

Immigration advisers have expressed concern over prolonged visa processing times for overseas students in New Zealand, affecting both applicants and educational institutions reliant on limited intakes. Delays, which have become more frequent, were believed to be particularly impacting students in specialized courses with only one annual intake. Despite efforts by Immigration New Zealand to address the issue, delays persist, potentially driving students to consider alternative study destinations.

Canadian colleges and universities are facing a decline in international student applications due to the government’s two-year cap on student permits. Institutions are urging Immigration Minister Marc Miller to reconsider, warning of risks to Canada’s reputation as a top study destination. The government’s move to cap permits aims to address infrastructure strain and ensure sustainable growth, but institutions argue it could have long-term consequences for both international and domestic students.

International students accused of cheating on English-language tests a decade ago are now seeking to clear their names after new evidence has raised questions about the Home Office’s blanket accusation against over 35,000 students. Despite evidence suggesting wrongful accusations, justice has not been served for many students who have faced financial hardship and emotional distress.  Efforts to challenge the accusations persist, with campaigners urging the Home Office to reconsider its actions.

Fourteen universities in the Netherlands are prioritizing Dutch language skills to reduce international student numbers, focusing on Dutch-language programs over English ones and limiting recruitment of foreign workers, except in critical labor shortage areas. The shift addresses housing shortages and accessibility issues for local students caused by the surge in international enrollments, with universities advocating for a cap on English-language program enrollments as the number of international students from Europe and Asia continues to rise.

Several universities in Australia, including the University of Wollongong, Edith Cowan, and La Trobe, are canceling enrollment offers to international students from India and Nepal due to the government’s visa crackdown, aiming to protect their tier one rating for enrolling high-quality students. The decision follows concerns about the authenticity of visa applications and increased rejection rates, prompting universities to ask students to withdraw or defer their applications to avoid repercussions. Experts worry about fairness and urged a balance between visa scrutiny and supporting quality education providers amid government pressure to manage migration and international student numbers.

South Korea attracted 182,000 international students last year, marking a nearly 9% increase from 2022. The country aims to reach 300,000 international students by 2027, focusing on degree and non-degree courses under the Study Korea 300K Project to boost the economy. Efforts include evaluating universities annually, expanding government scholarships, and increasing quotas for STEM programs and specific countries like Poland, the United Arab Emirates, India, and Pakistan.

Japan has approved a new program to attract more foreign workers, replacing the criticized Technical Intern Training Program. The new system focuses on skills development, offering trainees the opportunity to upgrade to a skilled worker category and stay for up to five years. Despite efforts to create a more inclusive society and attract foreign workers, job options for trainees will still be restricted under the new program.

Founded in 1838, Greensboro College offers undergraduate and graduate students a comprehensive liberal arts education, preparing them for success in academia, career, and life. With a coeducational and independent learning environment, the college accommodates approximately 1,000 undergraduate students from various states, territories, and countries. Greensboro College boasts a dedicated faculty of 45 full-time members, teaching 42 majors and over 1,000 courses directly to students, emphasizing personalized attention and academic excellence. 

The college’s NCAA Division III athletic program is also nationally recognized, and its affiliation with the United Methodist Church provides students with opportunities for spiritual growth. As a Yellow Ribbon school and a Military Friendly School, Greensboro College prioritizes intellectual, personal, and spiritual development, making it an ideal choice for students seeking a holistic education.

Mount Allison University’s Interdisciplinary Health Studies program takes a comprehensive approach to health, encompassing biological, behavioral, social, environmental, ethical, historical, cultural, and population perspectives. The Bachelor of Arts and Science (BASc) in Interdisciplinary Health Studies integrates knowledge from life sciences, social sciences, and humanities to foster critical thinking and communication skills in students. 

With options for a BASc major, BASc honors, and a minor, graduates are equipped for diverse careers and further studies in areas such as medicine, health promotion, public health, health law, advocacy, global health, occupational therapy, social work, and counseling.