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The landscape of studying abroad is changing at a fast pace. Some of the top countries preferred by international students have implemented stricter visa policies and raised tuition fees. Indian students studying abroad are facing challenges and opportunities amidst shifting global job markets. In an interview with Financial Express Online, Dr. Balakrishna Grandhi, Dean – Global MBA, MGB at SP Jain School of Global Management, discusses how Indian students can navigate these challenges to ensure a strong return on investment, increase employability, and make strategic educational decisions.
With rising tuition fees and stricter visa policies, do you think studying abroad still offers a strong return on investment (ROI) for Indian students?
Absolutely—if approached strategically. With tuition fees increasing and visa rules becoming more complex, students must carefully evaluate their study choices to ensure a strong return on investment.
Countries like Germany and Australia offer robust post-study work programs, while the US and UK provide access to competitive job markets—though visa challenges mean students need to plan.
Fields such as AI, data science, finance, and digital marketing continue to see high demand globally. Choosing a program aligned with industry needs increases job prospects and enhances career growth.
Many students offset costs through scholarships, assistantships, and internships, which not only ease financial burdens but also provide valuable work experience.
A well-thought-out study plan—focusing on employability, work opportunities, and financial planning—can still make studying abroad a smart investment.
Are we witnessing a shift in student preferences toward emerging education hubs like Dubai due to visa restrictions in traditional destinations?
Yes, and it’s a logical shift. As the US, UK, Canada, and Australia impose stricter rules, students are exploring alternatives that offer quality education due to its favourable visa policies, growing economy, and strong industry connections.
Unlike Western countries tightening post-study work rights, Dubai offers long-term residency through initiatives like the Golden Visa, ensuring stability for graduates. The presence of multinational companies and international universities enhances employment prospects, making Dubai a competitive alternative for Indian students.
As visa uncertainties grow, students are making pragmatic choices, focusing on affordability, ease of work permit application, and career growth. While traditional destinations remain popular, emerging hubs are gaining traction as reliable study options.
Frequent policy changes create uncertainty for students and institutions. How to navigate these unpredictable visa regulations?
Frequent visa policy changes can create stress and uncertainty for international students. However, both institutions and students can adopt proactive strategies to navigate these shifts effectively.
For institutions, clear communication and up-to-date guidance are crucial. Universities must provide students with real-time visa updates, legal resources, and dedicated support teams to help with application processes. Partnering with immigration consultants and legal experts can further streamline guidance. Offering flexible course structures, including hybrid learning options, can also help students adapt to unexpected visa delays or restrictions.
For students, staying informed is key. Regularly checking official government immigration websites, engaging with university advisors, and joining student communities can provide valuable insights into the latest visa regulations. Additionally, having backup options—such as applying to multiple countries or considering alternative routes like skilled migration pathways—can reduce risks.
Internships, research opportunities, and networking play a vital role in securing job offers that strengthen visa applications. By actively engaging with alumni networks and industry professionals, students can position themselves as strong candidates for work visas.
While policy changes are beyond students’ control, thorough research, early application planning, and leveraging institutional support can make navigating visa uncertainties much smoother.
How are global economic trends and policy shifts influencing job placements for international graduates?
Global economic trends and shifting policies are reshaping job placements for international graduates in profound ways. Economic slowdowns, evolving visa regulations, and corporate cost-cutting measures mean companies are becoming more selective, prioritizing candidates with specialized expertise and long-term value potential.
Despite these challenges, top-performing graduates continue to secure impressive opportunities. For instance, graduates from our Global MBA and Master of Global Business programs have landed roles with significant packages. This signals that demand for high-caliber talent remains strong, particularly in sectors like finance, consulting, and technology. Leading firms such as Deloitte, KPMG, DP World, and Emirates NBD continue to recruit actively, especially in dynamic markets like the Middle East, Singapore, and Germany.
To maximize job prospects, students must align their skills with evolving industry demands. Expertise in data analytics, supply chain management, AI-driven business solutions, and fintech is increasingly sought after. Moreover, adaptability is key—graduates who leverage internships, strategic networking, and continuous skill development are positioning themselves ahead of the competition.
While economic uncertainties persist, those who proactively navigate these shifts are still finding excellent placements. The future belongs to those who stay ahead of industry trends, develop in-demand skills, and remain flexible in an ever-changing global job market.
Are companies becoming more cautious in hiring international students due to evolving visa policies? What strategies can students use to enhance their employability in such a scenario?
Yes, companies are becoming more cautious in hiring international students due to evolving visa policies and economic uncertainties. Employers now prioritise candidates who not only meet skill requirements but also have clear pathways to secure work authorisation.
However, international students who take strategic steps can still enhance their employability. To stand out, students should focus on building a strong professional network, gaining practical experience through internships, and obtaining certifications in high-demand fields. Many companies prefer hiring candidates who have completed internships with them, as it reduces hiring risks.
Additionally, exploring alternative work visa options—such as employer-sponsored visas, regional job opportunities with friendlier visa policies, or skilled migration routes—can improve employment prospects. Soft skills, such as adaptability, cross-cultural communication, and leadership, also play a crucial role in employer decision-making.
While hiring trends fluctuate, students who proactively develop industry-relevant skills and establish strong professional connections will continue to find rewarding career opportunities despite visa challenges.
Source: https://www.financialexpress.com/business/investing-abroad-is-studying-abroad-still-worth-it-for-indian-students-amid-rising-tuition-fees-and-tougher-visa-rules-3766924/
