The figure of Indian students going to study abroad for their higher education is increasing rapidly. Every year, scores of students cover a long distance to attend overseas education. As the students pursue their overseas education goals, they also come across many challenges.
In January 2022, thousands of Indian students got scammed by the closure of three colleges in Canada namely – M College in Montreal, CCSQ College in Longueuil, and CED College in Sherbrooke. The institutes were run by Rising Phoenix International Inc. and shut down due to bankruptcy. With the abrupt shut down of three colleges in Canada approx. 2000 Indian students’ future is at stake. Most of the students are from Punjab who were engaged either in online learning or campus learning on study visas.
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This incident has put the career of thousands of students at stake. The parents have also lost their hard-earned money as students have paid heavy amounts to pursue their courses. The tuition fee of these colleges were between INR 25 lakhs to around INR 1 crore, depending upon courses. If these students had done proper research before taking admission, they might not have been in such a situation today.
Here are a few points that students should keep in mind before taking admission in an overseas college or university.
Choosing High-Ranked Educational Institutes
Instead of choosing random colleges, students should choose for top colleges and universities of their respective country. They should check global ranking systems like Times Higher Education (THE), Quacquarelli Symonds, or Shanghai Rankings. According to experts, it may be detrimental to a student’s career if he/she chooses to get admitted to a low-ranking college. Also, getting a degree from a high-ranked institute will help students in securing a high-paying job. It has been seen that the majority of students who opt for low-ranked colleges in foreign countries have to return to India after not getting proper placement.
Association of Indian Universities
The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) is an authority recognized by UGC, New Delhi. Students who are seeking to study abroad may approach AIU to get information about the legal validity of a college or university worldwide. AIU is the only authorized body in India that has details of all approved colleges and universities around the world. Apart from this, the Ministry of Education has given authority to AIU to give equivalence to a foreign degree in India.
Indian Embassies in Abroad
Indian Embassies have been established in every country in the world to maintain international relations and help our citizens in different matters. Students should consult the respective Indian Embassy in the nation where they are planning to take admission. Embassies can be helpful in providing important details of the colleges or universities such as education scenario, status, course validity, and legal standing. It is advisable for students to immediately consult the embassies before choosing a college or university overseas.
Indian Students’ Association in Abroad
Indian students who are already pursuing their higher education in a foreign nation often come together and form associations. Aspiring students can also contact them online to seek help. As these students are already studying at international institutes, they can be more helpful in giving ground realities. Students and parents can take help from them for cross-verification of a college or university.
Before choosing any specific overseas college or university for admission, students must do thorough research. Students must not rely on information available on the college’s website because they are designed to attract students. They should prefer to choose a good education counselor instead of any agent. They must know the details and background of the institution in which they are going to take admission. Students are advised to prefer universities or colleges which are well-reputed academically. Students should choose degree programs over certificates or standalone diplomas as institutions offering these programs are typically regulated more stringently by the authorities hence reducing the chances of closure.
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