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US Extends Work Eligibility for STEM Students to 3 Years: New OPT Rules Explained

  Introduction Great news for international students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields! The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has recently updated its policy guidelines for Optional Practical Training (OPT). Effective from August 27, 2024, these changes offer exciting opportunities for STEM students aspiring to gain work experience in the United States. In this blog post, we'll decode these new rules and what they mean for you. Extended OPT Duration for STEM Students One of the most significant updates is the extended OPT duration for STEM students. USCIS now allows international students in STEM fields to work in the US for up to three years after graduation. This is a substantial increase from the standard one-year OPT available to students in non-STEM fields. With three years of work eligibility, STEM students have more time to gain valuable industry experience, making them more competitive in the global job market. Distance Learnin

Understanding the New GMAT Exam (Focus Edition) Scores: What You Need to Know

As we move into the application evaluation season, it's crucial for both candidates and admissions professionals to stay informed about the latest updates regarding the GMAT Exam, particularly the newly updated GMAT Exam (Focus Edition) percentiles. These updates, based on five years of testing data (2019-2024), reflect shifts in the test-taking population and broader trends in graduate management education. In this blog post, we'll break down the key changes and what they mean for you. Key Factors Influencing GMAT Percentile Updates The GMAT Exam percentiles are recalibrated periodically to ensure they accurately reflect the performance of the current test-taking population. Several factors influence these updates: Shifts in Population : Changes in the size and composition of the test-taking population, including generational differences, impact how scores are distributed. Trends in Graduate Management Education : As more schools adjust their requirements, the emphasis on spec

The Evolving Diversity of International Student Populations in Top Study Destinations

As international education continues to adapt post-pandemic, the diversity of student populations in leading study destinations like Australia, Canada, the UK, and the US is undergoing notable changes. Australia's Shift Towards Greater Diversity: In 2023, Australia enrolled 786,890 international students across various education sectors. China (166,420), India (126,490), Nepal (62,380), Colombia (39,725), and the Philippines (35,590) were the top contributors. Notably, 55% of international students came from these top five markets, a significant decrease from 70% in 2019. This shift highlights Australia's efforts to diversify its international student base, reducing dependency on a few major source countries. Canada's Growing Reliance on India: Canada's international student population reached 1,040,985 in 2023, with the top five source countries contributing 62% of this total, down from 67% in 2019. India alone accounted for 41% (427,085) of international students, m

Protests Erupt Across Canada as 70,000 International Students Face Deportation Risk

  Introduction Canada, long seen as a beacon of opportunity for international students, is now facing widespread protests as over 70,000 graduates risk deportation due to recent federal immigration policy changes. The government, under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, has implemented measures that limit study permits and reduce permanent residency nominations, causing anxiety and uncertainty among international students. Deportation Risk for International Students in Canada The looming expiration of work permits for more than 70,000 international students at the end of the year has sparked nationwide protests. These students, who have invested heavily in their education and contributed to the Canadian economy, now face the prospect of deportation. The protests, which have erupted in provinces like Prince Edward Island, Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia, highlight the growing desperation among students seeking to secure their futures in Canada. Why Are Students Protesting? Students

Why Indian Students Are Opting Out: Understanding the 23% Drop in UK Higher Education Enrollments

In recent years, the UK has been a leading destination for Indian students pursuing higher education abroad. However, a notable 23% decline in Indian student enrollments at UK universities has been reported. This significant drop raises important questions about the factors driving this trend and what it could mean for the future of Indian students seeking education abroad. Key Factors Contributing to the Decline in Indian Students Studying in the UK 1. Economic Challenges One of the primary concerns for Indian students is the rising cost of education in the UK. With tuition fees and living expenses on the rise, students from middle-class families are finding it increasingly difficult to afford higher education abroad. Additionally, the weakening Indian Rupee against the British Pound has further escalated the cost, making it more expensive for Indian students to study in the UK. 2. Post-Brexit Uncertainties Since the UK’s exit from the European Union, there has been growing uncertaint

The Power of Practical Learning: Why MBA Programs Abroad Are Gaining Popularity

In recent years, there's been a growing trend among students choosing to pursue MBA programs abroad, drawn by the practical components these courses offer. Unlike traditional theoretical approaches, many international MBA programs, such as the one at Essex University, focus on hands-on experience, real-world problem-solving, and direct industry engagement. Students are finding immense value in learning through internships, live projects, and business simulations, which prepare them for the dynamic challenges of the global market. This practical approach not only enhances their skills but also makes them more competitive in the job market. Moreover, studying in a foreign country provides exposure to diverse cultures and business practices, further enriching the learning experience. The combination of practical learning and international exposure is what makes these programs so attractive to aspiring business leaders. For students looking to make a significant impact in the global bu

Indian Students Abroad: Shifts in Destination Preferences

Introduction: With over 13.35 lakh Indian students studying abroad, the global education landscape is witnessing shifts in preferences, particularly in destinations like Canada, China, and Russia. This blog explores the latest trends and factors influencing these changes. The Numbers: Recent data shows that while the overall number of Indian students abroad remains strong, there's a slight decline in those heading to Canada. Meanwhile, China and Russia are seeing a surge in Indian students, largely due to affordable tuition fees and improving academic infrastructure. Canada's Decline: Canada, long a favorite for Indian students, is experiencing a minor dip. This shift could be attributed to tightening immigration policies, rising living costs, and other external factors. Despite this, Canada continues to be a top destination for many. China and Russia's Surge: On the other hand, China and Russia are becoming increasingly popular. China's rapid development in higher