Study Abroad: As the number of Indian students heading abroad for higher education continues to rise, visa delays and high application costs in popular destinations such as US, UK, Canada, and Australia are prompting many to explore alternative options. Students are now turning to countries that not only offer affordable education but also have quicker and more accessible student visa processes.
Here's the list of five countries where obtaining a student visa is relatively easier and faster:
Poland
Poland is gaining popularity due to its affordable education, safe environment, and globally recognised universities. The visa process is simple and transparent, attracting more international applications. With a student visa acceptance rate of approximately 95 per cent, Poland stands out as one of the most accessible study destinations for Indian students.
Germany
Germany among the most sought-after destinations due to its high-quality education system and tuition-free policies at public universities. The country boasts a student visa acceptance rate of over 90 per cent. Students applying for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) programmes often find it even easier to secure a visa. Additionally, Germany offers an 18-month post-study work visa, allowing graduates to seek employment after completing their studies.
France
While not as widely chosen yet by Indian students, France is emerging as an attractive destination due to its streamlined visa process and high acceptance rate of around 85 per cent. The documentation required is minimal, and visa processing is relatively quicker. Popular study areas in France include business, hospitality, and fashion.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
For students interested in management and business programmes, the UAE is becoming a preferred choice. The country usually processes student visas in under 30 days and offers long-term visas of up to five years for meritorious students. With an acceptance rate between 70 per cent and 80 per cent, and lower overall education costs, the UAE is gaining traction among Indian students.
Philippines
Ranked 11th among the most preferred study destinations for Indian students, the Philippines is especially known for its medical and healthcare-related programmes. In 2023 alone, nearly 9,700 Indian students enrolled in its institutions. The visa application process is simple, and tuition fees are significantly lower than those in Western countries. The visa acceptance rate ranges between 75 per cent and 80 per cent.
These countries offer promising opportunities for Indian students seeking a hassle-free and affordable way to foreign education.