Looking beyond the U.S. for college

Indian students have always viewed the U.S. as a top study destination. However, the ongoing visa challenges, growing concerns around job opportunities after graduation, rising costs, and shifting immigration policies are causing anxiety among applicants and parents. With this looming fear of “what next”, let’s explore destinations beyond the U.S.

Canada

Pros:

• Appointment of a new Foreign Minister, Anita Anand, and three other Indian-origin leaders: Maninder Sidhu as Minister of International Trade, and Ruby Sahota and Randeep Sarai as Secretaries of State

• Recent improvements in India-Canada diplomatic relations

• Postgraduate work permit for up to three years and an easier pathway to permanent residence than most other countries. There is even an express entry route.

• Diversity, inclusion and a supportive environment for Indian students in the campuses

Cons

• Increased financial documentation requirements and tighter visa rules. Since January 2024, there has been a significant increase in the required proof of funds amount to be shown for the Canadian study permit.

• Increase in the number of visa application rejections due to policy fluctuations

• Rising living costs and competition in large cities

Germany

Pros

• Approximately 2,300 English-taught programmes

• Public universities are tuition-free.

• Up to 18 months post study visa to look for a job.

• Geographically at the centre of Europe and well connected

• A strong economy and job market

Cons

• Studienkolleg requirement: Indian high school qualifications (Class 12) are not directly eligible for most public Bachelor’s programmes. Students must complete a one-year Studienkolleg foundation programme and pass the Feststellungsprüfung (FSP) before they can begin undergraduate studies.

• Some Studienkollegs accept B1 for entry, but this is rare and usually for private institutions. Public Studienkollegs often require B2 German.

• At the Master’s level, no German language proficiency is required for admission. While courses are taught in English, German has to be learnt for daily life and work opportunities.

• Coursework is known to be demanding.

Netherlands

Pros

• Many English programmes available in top universities

• Acceptance rates are higher as compared to other countries.

• One year post-study work visa

• High quality of life

Cons

• Coursework is demanding

• High living costs, especially in Amsterdam

• For citizenship A2 level of Dutch is required. It’s beneficial to demonstrate an even higher level

Ireland

Pros

• Only English-speaking country in the European Union (post Brexit)

• Several major international companies have their European or EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) headquarters in Dublin

• Supportive multicultural environment in Dublin

Cons

• Cost of living in Dublin

• Weather can be rainy, dark, and very cold in the winter

• Food can also be tough for Indians though more options keep opening up.

New Zealand

Pros

• Safe, student-friendly, and supportive environment

• English-speaking environment makes adjustment easier

• Pathway programme options allow you to study your dream subject even if you don’t initially meet the entry criteria.

Cons

• Far from India and a bit disconnected from the rest of the world.

• Can be slightly “boring”, as the cities are smaller and quieter.

Dubai

Pros

• Globally recognised Indian as well as international universities have campuses here

• Easy work permit availability for internships/part-time roles

• Safe, multicultural environment with a strong Indian presence

Cons

• Weather can be harsh, especially in summer

• Restrictions around free speech and modest culture expectations

• Some institutions lack strong global rankings or focus on research

Japan

Pros

• High-quality education, strong global ranking, and a growing Indian student population

• Universities offering scholarships, English-taught programmes and favourable part-time work policies

• Recent growth in English-medium liberal arts programmes

• Safe, low-crime country

• Unique cultural immersion alongside technological advancement

Cons

• Major language barrier; even in a city like Tokyo, getting by without Japanese can be an issue.

• Cultural norms may feel restrictive.

• Cold winters and high-pressure academic environment

• High living costs, especially in Tokyo

With inputs from Kritika Malhotra

The writer is Founder and CEO, Inomi Learning, a Gurugram-based career and college guidance firm. [email protected]