Recent Changes in Abroad Education for Top Countries

The phase of the abroad education system has been evolving continuously. With changes in visa rules, living expenses, and education policies, students must understand and adapt to these changes to secure better opportunities.

In this blog, we will discuss the changes in education abroad across different countries.

Recent Abroad Education Policies Changes in the United States

The U.S. remains a favoured destination for international students, but recent changes are making students rethink their decision. Let's discuss the recent education policies in the United States.

Stricter Visa Application & Interview Rules:

• Earlier, many students got their visas without a personal interview. But with the recent changes, the visa applicant must appear for an in-person visa interview.

• The U.S. has also broadened social media evaluation for visa processing applicants.

• The officers will check visa applicants’ social media accounts for background verification.

Decline in International Student Arrivals:

• Compared to August 2024, the arrivals for international students have declined to 19% by August 2025. 

•  Indian students in STEM courses are not inclining towards Optional Practical Training (OPT), which is dropping from about 95% to 78%.

Policy Uncertainty:

• Universities have raised concerns over proposed visa rules that would set fixed terms while imposing more academic restrictions.

• The changes in the recent visa policy have made immigration even more complicated for international students.

Recent Abroad Education Policies Changes in the United Kingdom

The U.K. consistently draws thousands of students each year for its renowned education and international standing. However, recent updates to visa regulations, language proficiency requirements, and proof of living expenses have made the application process more challenging. Let us see what changes were made in detail.

English Language Requirements Raised:

From January 2026, the visa immigration policy makers are increasing English language proficiency levels from B1 level (The ability to understand the basics of the English language) to  B2 level (The ability to understand English and work independently).

Graduate Route Visa Changes:

• There are suggestions to make changes in the Graduate Route to 18 months after the student has completed an eligible course in the UK.

• Earlier, the Graduate Route Visa used to be two years for bachelor's and master's degrees and three years for PHD graduates.

Rise in Visa Costs and Proof for Living Expenses:

• Student visa application costs have increased. Usually, the visa application cost before is around £490. After the recent changes, the visa application cost is around £524.

• Students need to show more funds towards their living fees now. 

• Before the changes, the students needed to have £1334 per month for their living expenses in London, but after the changes, it is around £1483 per month.

• The same changes go with the living fees outside London. Before the changes, it was £1023 per month. But after the changes, it is around £1136 per month.

Recent Abroad Education Policies Changes in Canada

Canada has been one of the most welcoming countries for international students. With new study permit caps, higher financial limits, and adjustments to the visa process, students must be prepared in terms of time and money before starting a study program in Canada. Let us discuss what are the recent education policies.

Implementing Caps:

• Canada is limiting international student permits to manage some of the pressures, like limited housing and infrastructure.

• The Canadian Government introduced a cap set at 4,37,000 for 2025, which has been decreased by 10% from 2024.

Student Direct Stream (SDS) Discontinued:

• Canada has discontinued its Fast Track Student Direct Stream visa program. 

• This program is for international students from eligible countries, including India, for a shorter processing time and faster approval.

• Since the Student Direct Stream Visa Program has ended, students must go through the standard visa process.

• This takes a longer processing time and lower approval rates.

Proof for Living Expenses Increased:

• Minimum living costs have increased.

• Before the changes, the proof of funds used to be CAD 10,000 per year.

• Now, the student needs to show proof of funds of CAD 20,635 per year.

Recent Abroad Education Policies Changes in Australia

Australia’s abroad education policies have undergone significant changes recently. From hikes in visa fees and living costs to putting a cap on international students, let's discuss the recent education policy changes in Australia.

Visa Fee Hikes 

International student visa charges were more than doubled. Before the changes, the visa fees used to be AUD 710, and now it's been increased to AUD 2,000.

Increased Proof of Funds:

Usually, the living expenses for students used to be a minimum of AUD2000. But now students need to show approximately AUD 29,710 for their living costs requirement.

Cap on International Students:

The Australian education system is planning to put a cap on international students. Earlier it was 2,95,000, but now the Australian government is planning to decrease it to 2,70,000.

Comparison of Changes in Abroad Education (Country-Wise)

Each country introduced different education policies that represented different outcomes for students. In this blog, we will discuss a clear comparison of the latest education policies among different countries.

Conclusion

The global education world is fast evolving, from shifting visa rules and increasing costs to opportunities driven by technology and changes in policy. Although studying abroad has indeed become more expensive and competitive. With smart planning, students can transform these global shifts into lasting advantages.