The global COVID-19 pandemic set utter chaos to the world as we knew it, but the study abroad experience is alive and well.
Universities across the world have found a universal solution to preserve education – in the form of online learning. While the solution is far from ideal, it’s not permanent. It was only a quick fix to the chaotic situation.
The concept of the study abroad experience itself isn’t endangered. Actually, now is the best time to have a go at it. Below, you can read about some aspects of studying abroad that have changed for the better during the pandemic.
Virtual Education Abroad: Temporary Solution
Universities across the world have worked to create possibilities for their international students. Many educational institutions have stretched and adapted the academic standards in order to accommodate the ongoing situation.
However, digital learning will not eradicate the quintessential student experience that is centered around the classroom.
While virtual learning may be challenging in its own way, it should definitely not discourage international students from diving into the study abroad experience. In fact, their options and possibilities are now more prospective than ever!
Is Studying Abroad During The Global Pandemic Possible?
Yes, of course it is – not only possible but also highly recommended during these trying times! At first, it might have seemed like a risky option, but global communities around the world found solutions to ease the entire process. The end goal? To make this rewarding experience seamless.
Instead of staying away from the adventures and challenges that await you as an international student, a whole new array of possibilities has been opened.
Universities Still Welcome International Students
Foreign students make up a large demographic of universities. Not only that, but many universities also depend on international students in order to function. Financially, now more than ever, universities rely on welcoming new students.
With a positive outlook on the future post-COVID, universities across the world have devised plans to make their international students feel safe and at home.
There is no reason why international students should shy away from studying abroad. Universities have been implementing safety measures for quite a while now (track and trace programs, mass testing, and vaccination).
Travel Restrictions Change Daily
Travel bans and restrictions come with daily fluctuations. If the situation seems bleak today, it doesn’t necessarily have to mean it’ll stay the same tomorrow.
Many universities offer flexible program start dates, as well as the possibility to incorporate a hybrid option of studying virtually and on campus.
Faster Visa Processing
With circumstances forced out of the scope of normality, visa processing is bound to be different as well.
During the height of the pandemic, many visa centers significantly reduced the time period necessary to obtain a visa. Many universities and embassies are keen to work side by side to facilitate the entire process.
Owing to this fact, university departments that work on this issue are there to support future students during their visa application process, which might as well be significantly reduced!
Campus COVID-19 Procedures Make Classroom Learning Possible & Safe
Many COVID-19 procedures have been adopted, with paramount importance on the students’ health.
Countries all over the world implemented different safety regulations that international students should familiarize themselves with. Classroom learning is done with utmost care and respect for the health of the tutors and the students.
So, students will definitely have an opportunity to engage in face-to-face classes. Alternatively, they can be a part of a hybrid schedule, based on the concept of mixing virtual and classroom classes.
Numerous Incentives & Scholarships Available
Universities worldwide recognized the struggle that international students faced at the beginning of the pandemic. As a response, they offer a myriad of incentives to ameliorate the situation.
The competition for international students is high. Popular study abroad countries such as Canada, Sweden, and the UK brought out the “extra ammo” in the form of numerous scholarships and incentives to lure international students in.
With relaxed qualifications, requirements, and the multitude of scholarships offered, now is the right time to pick and choose the study abroad destination.
Enjoying the Study Abroad Experience
The dream of studying abroad is still intact and even facilitated.
With the “new normal” slowly setting in, educational institutions have taken remarkable steps towards building a stable and safe environment to welcome their international students back. They have offered many incentives in the form of easier and faster visa processing, scholarships, and hybrid schedules to ease the circumstances brought on by the global pandemic.
International students still have the opportunities to immerse themselves in a foreign country and its culture, meet new people, and make lifelong friendships, all while getting high-quality education.
Leaving the worst behind, the new flexible circumstances offer a promising outlook on the future. Students can enjoy their study abroad experience to the fullest!