Study Abroad 2025: UK, Australia, Italy drive student visa policy shifts; new study destinations emerge

NEW DELHI: The study abroad landscape will witness significant transformations in 2025, with major study destinations implementing new visa policies and enrollment strategies that could reshape student mobility patterns worldwide.

These shifts come at a time when traditional education hubs are facing new competition from emerging destinations. For prospective international students, particularly from major sending countries like India, these changes represent both challenges and opportunities.

Study in UK, Australia, Italy: Changing visa policy

Italy has emerged as the latest country to modify its visa framework, other than the UK, Australia, US and Canada, introducing mandatory individual fingerprinting appointments for Type D visa applicants from January 10. Batch processing, which has been a convenience for many, will no longer be available.

“Italy’s recent policy change is a step towards ensuring transparency and security,” said Sachin Jain, country manager at ETS India & South Asia. While the move addresses security concerns, Jain highlighted a key drawback: “The process could become cumbersome, discouraging some students from choosing Italy as a destination. However, it aligns with broader efforts to streamline immigration checks.”

Meanwhile, the United Kingdom has increased its financial requirements for international students by 11% since January 2025. Students must now demonstrate monthly funds of £1,483 for London-based courses and £1,136 for programmes outside the capital. Additionally, visa fees are set to rise.

Despite these heightened costs, the UK's appeal remains strong, bolstered by its International Graduate Route offering two-year post-study work opportunities. “The UK is poised for a resurgence,” said Mohit Gambir, Indian managing director of Oxford International Education Services. He pointed to the International Graduate Route to add: “Even with rising expenses, we expect the UK to remain a preferred choice,” he said.

In contrast, Australia is taking a more restrictive approach, implementing a significant reduction in international student enrollments from 4,02,600 in 2023 to 2,70,000 in 2025. This dramatic cut, aimed at addressing housing shortages in major cities, could redirect student flows to alternative destinations.

“This decision is a double-edged sword,” noted Abhijit Zaveri, founder, Career Mosaic. “While it addresses local housing challenges, it may redirect students to other destinations like Europe and Asia. Emerging markets stand to gain from this policy shift.”

Europe is also introducing additional entry requirements, with a new travel authorisation system for visa-exempt travellers from 60 nations, including the US and UK, set to launch in spring 2025. This move adds a layer of checks for students planning to study in EU countries. However, this hasn't dampened the region's growing appeal.

“The rise of Europe as a viable alternative to traditional destinations reflects a more diverse and accessible future for international education, driven by affordability, quality and promising post-study prospects,” said Saurabh Arora, founder of University Living.

"But Germany and France continue to lead the charge with affordable education and strong job markets," says Jain, noting the emergence of countries like Georgia and the Czech Republic as attractive alternatives, particularly for STEM and medical programmes.

Study Abroad: Alternative destinations

Geopolitical shifts and policy changes in traditional hubs like Canada and Australia are pushing students to consider alternative destinations. “Students are becoming more strategic,” said Jain. “They’re asking questions about long-term career prospects, affordability, and quality of life before making decisions.”

Countries like Germany, France, and even lesser-explored regions in Europe are benefiting from this trend.

The United States continues to attract students in technology-focused fields, with programmes in artificial intelligence, data science, and project management seeing increased demand. "In the US, these fields are thriving under the F-1 visa framework, boosted by opportunities like Optional Practical Training (OPT)," says PK Agarwal, dean at UC Santa Cruz Silicon Valley Professional Education.

In the UK, the focus remains on practical outcomes. “Post-study work options are game-changers,” Gambir noted. “These initiatives have made the UK one of the most attractive destinations for international students.”

Study Abroad: Industry demands

Industry alignment remains crucial across destinations. "As we look ahead to 2025, we anticipate a heightened focus on experiential learning, strengthened industry partnerships and expanded job prospects driven by targeted upskilling initiatives," says Anish Srikrishna, CEO of TimesPro.

Education experts emphasise the importance of strategic decision-making. "This is a time of opportunity for students willing to take a strategic approach," concludes Jain, highlighting the need for students to consider long-term career prospects, affordability, and quality of life in their chosen destinations.

Gambir expressed optimism about 2025. “Last year brought significant challenges, from Canada’s stricter policies to Australia’s enrollment caps. Yet, the education sector has shown incredible adaptability,” he said.

Experts agree that students who stay informed and align their academic goals with industry needs will thrive in this changing environment. “This is a time of opportunity for students willing to take a strategic approach,” Jain concluded.