To study abroad has become a dream for lots of students who wants to get quality education with great exposure & culturally enriched life. Nevertheless, the dream is only true if you have applied for a student visa. Visa requirements processing times and regulations for every country are set properly so it can be sometimes overwhelming.
So, in this article, we will give a thorough understanding of best student visa options for 2024 in the USA, UK Canada and Australia to international students. In this article, we will explain their visa types, application requirements, how to apply and post graduation work option.
1. USA: F-1 Visa
As one of the key nations with best universities in the globe, USA lures students from all around mankind. F-1 Visa: All foreign students in the USA use this visa to study in an American college or university.
Key Features:
Eligible schools: In order to be able to receive an F-1 visa, the student has to have been accepted by a school certified in their Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) database-enabled system as educational institutions. Full-time study requirement
Apply: You must be accepted by a U.S. institution, and complete an application to receive the I-20 form you need for your visa interview. Afterward, you will need to fill out the online DS-160 form and pay your SEVIS fee before participating in a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate (bring I-20/DS2019)
Requirements:
Economic Solvency (to cover tuition and living costs)
A valid passport.
Records of academic qualifications;
Plan to return back home after completing your study.
Employment: F-1 visa allows the student to work 20 hrs a week on campus during working weeks and full-time in vacations. Optional Practical Training (OPT)– allows students to work for 12 months after graduation, with an extension of up to additional 24 months available for STEM Programs.
Post-Graduation: Since you have graduated, you can work on OPT and also apply for an H-1B — which is a long-term U.S. employability visa if eligible.
In conclusion, the F-1 visa is still one of the most classic visas which students can avail to enroll in undergraduate or graduate programs within United States. It makes plenty of potential for the grab in post-education work experience through opportunities like OPT and STEM extension.
2. UK: Visa For Tier 4 (General) Students
With globally recognized universities (Oxford and Cambridge) weaved in a cultural tapestry of history. The Tier 4 (General) Student Visa This visa is the most popular international student visa in the UK and can be used by both students from outside of EU/EEA as well as those who originate from inside this area.
Key Features:
Eligibility: Accepted to study at a UK educational institution that is a licensed Tier 4 sponsor You also must be proficient in English, which is tested by IELTS or TOEFL.
Applying for UK student visa — you must first have a confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a sponsoring institution in the UK then apply online and pay IHS, schedule biometrics appoitment here.
Requirements:
Evidence of funds to entirely pay the 1-year tuition fee and living expenses.
Your institution’s reference number for the CAS
Original Passports, IELTS or other English Language Tests
Work: Tier 4 visa holders can work upto 20 hours per week during the academic term and full time during vacations.
UK graduate Route: UK Introduced a visa policy for call the Graduate Route, with effect to all international students from 2021 onwards making them eligible to live in the country for two years (three-year doctorate holders exempted) after completion of graduation and work or find suitable employment.
In End: The Tier 4 (General) Student Visa is flexible for work and has a good post-study route like the Graduate Route visa that makes UK option desirable.
3. Canada: Study Permit
Canada, on the other hand is known for its top-rated educational systems and reasonable tuition fees as well as a friendly immigration system. Students from all around the world need to apply for a Study Permit in order to study in Canada.
Key Features:
Requirement: An acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institute (DLI) in Canada You need to provide the financial resources (undergraduate tuition and living expenses).
Application: Once the DLI issues an acceptance letter, you can apply for a Study Permit online or at any Canadian visa application center. Additionally, you will need to submit biometrics.
Requirements:
Proof of sufficient funds.
Acceptance Letter from Designated Learning Institute (DLI)
Medical exam (if required).
A statement of purpose detailing your intention to study in Canada and future aspirations after you graduate.
Work: permission to work part-time during the academic session and full time on any scheduled breaks The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) a work permit that allows students who have completed programs of study be eligible to obtain this type of visa which lasts up to three years.
After Graduation: The PGWP is a big game-changer for any student wanting to study in Canada. However, it is an avenue for graduates to amass work experience and often paves a way leading towards permanent residency through the Express Entry system amongst other such programs.
In conclusion, the Study Permit in Canada has wonderful working and residency possibilities for students from international communities. The PGWP specifically is a large one as it allows students to qualify for work experience in Canada after school.
4. Australia — DHA (Online Application Based) Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass / Student Visa:Subclass 500
With excellent education, lifestyle quality and a wide range of post-study work facilities – Australia had to make another cut in the list. Subclass 500 Student Visa: The main option for overseas students
Key Features:
Eligible Base months: You must full-time attend a course at any educational institution in Australia to apply for the loan. You must provide evidence of the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement that you only intend to stay in Australia temporarily.
At A Glance: Apply For This Visa Type Subclass 500 online once you received Confirmation of Enrolment from Australian Institution Application Process Health insurance is also obligatory; students are expected to pass a health examination.
Requirements:
Certificate of Eplettyping from an Australian institution.
Evidence of means to support.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
English language proficiency.
GTE statement.
Hours of Work: 48 hours in any fortnight when the course is running and unlimited number of hours during vacation periods.
Post-Graduation: Graduates can also explore applying for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), which permits the student to remain and work in Australia between eighteen months to four years depending on their qualification earned.
Ukadmission: Conclusion — you can part-time employment and 2 to c years of your stay back option plus a chance for claims post graduation so Australia exists favorite place from rising foreign students. The 485, while introducing applicants to Australian work culture and opportunities thereafter in Australia once they complete their studies.
Final Thoughts
The selection of a proper student visa is an important aspect of your study abroad stratagem. Studying in the USA, UK, Canada or Australia has specific advantages and opportunities for international students. Visa requirements, work option and post study will give you a great insight as to where in 2024 should one go for studies.
Always adhere to the visa processing instructions regarding your selected nation and apply in advance of time or else you may face trouble transitioning into a newbie scholastic experience.
