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Showing posts from July, 2024

How Budget 2024 Impacts Study Abroad: Student Debt or Budget Relief?

The 2024 budget has significant implications for Indian students aspiring to study abroad. Here's a breakdown of key points and their potential impact: TCS Regulations and Education Financing Tax Collected at Source (TCS): For education financed through loans, TCS is 0% up to Rs. 7 lakh and 0.5% beyond that. For self-financed education, TCS is 5% over Rs. 7 lakh, with 0% for amounts below Rs. 7 lakh. These measures aim to ease the tax burden on families while ensuring better tax compliance. Government Support for Domestic Education Loans up to Rs. 10 lakh for higher education in India will receive government support, including a 3% interest subsidy. The Union Budget allocates Rs. 1.48 lakh crore to workforce, education, and skill-building initiatives. Impacts on Study Abroad Aspirations The budget emphasizes reducing student debt and supporting domestic education, potentially leading to a shift in student preferences. Popular destinations such as the US, Canada, and Australia may s...

Decline in Indian Overseas Education Trends: Factors Behind the Shift and Future Outlook

 The landscape of Indian students studying abroad has seen significant changes over the past year. Despite expectations for growth, recent trends indicate a notable shift. Analysis and Statistics Between March 2024 and May 2024, there was a 22% drop in the number of students seeking education loans for studying abroad compared to the same period last year. This decline was even more pronounced in states like Telangana (30% drop) and Gujarat (35% drop). Additionally, interest in standardized tests such as GRE (-13%), IELTS (-24%), and TOEFL (-16%) also decreased, suggesting that the upcoming intakes for Spring 2025 and Fall 2025 might continue to see lower numbers until significant policy changes are implemented. Contributing Factors Several factors contribute to this declining trend: Job Security: Indian students face challenges in securing jobs post-study, particularly in the US. Policy Changes: Canada's caps on international student admissions, Australia's stricter visa eva...

Navigating Visa Challenges: Why Indian Students Should Consider the EB-5 Visa

 In recent years, Indian students aspiring to study in the United States have faced mounting challenges obtaining F-1 visas. This predicament has left many wondering about alternative pathways to achieve their American educational dreams. One such viable option worth exploring is the EB-5 visa program, which not only facilitates obtaining a visa but also offers a pathway to permanent residency in the U.S. Understanding the F-1 Visa Challenges The F-1 visa, traditionally sought after by Indian students for pursuing education in the U.S., has encountered increased scrutiny and stringent approval processes in recent times. Factors such as visa denials and delays due to various reasons including geopolitical tensions and policy changes have added uncertainties to the application process. This has compelled students and their families to seek more reliable alternatives to secure their educational future abroad. Introducing the EB-5 Visa Program Amidst the challenges faced with the F-1 v...