Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a developmental disorder that affects a person's behavior and ability to focus. Read this article to understand ADHD in women.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has long been stereotyped as a childhood condition, often associated with hyperactive boys. However, for countless women, ADHD remains an invisible force shaping their lives, often misdiagnosed or ignored entirely. Unlike men, women face hormonal fluctuations, societal pressures, and emotional burdens that intensify ADHD’s challenges. These factors not only affect their daily functioning but also contribute to a higher risk of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. By shedding light on the nuances of ADHD in women, we can break the cycle of underdiagnosis and provide the support they desperately need.

To understand ADHD in women, OnlyMyHealth interacted with Dr Sandra Kooij, Professor of Adult ADHD, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Netherlands, and Jo Ostlund, Director, Pearson Clinical.

The Impact of ADHD on Women’s Mental Health

Dr Kooij said, “Women with ADHD are significantly more prone to anxiety and depression.” These conditions may arise as a consequence of ADHD symptoms, or they could co-occur independently. ADHD can magnify everyday challenges, such as organisation, focus, and time management, leading to chronic stress, feelings of inadequacy, and burnout.

Dr Kooij said that women often internalise their struggles, resulting in a mental health landscape where anxiety and depression thrive. Moreover, women with ADHD frequently experience premenstrual mood changes and are more vulnerable to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), particularly in regions with limited daylight. The cyclical nature of hormonal changes intensifies these mood disruptions, making ADHD a deeply layered condition for many women.

Tadepalli: The Andhra Pradesh State Skill Development Corporation (APSSDC) here on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pearson, global leader in educational publishing and assessment.

Executive Director of APSSDC K Raghu said that the collaboration aims at conducting an English skills assessment as part of the skill census pilot project in the Mangalagiri constituency.

Pearson offers a diverse range of products, including digital learning platforms, standardised assessments and professional development resources. Their focus on quality and adaptability ensures that they meet the evolving needs of students, educators, and institutions.

Raghu elaborating on the MoU, said that as part of this partnership, Pearson will provide the Versant (pre-diagnostic), 30-minute English language test for integration into the Naipunyam app, offer technical support and assistance throughout the integration process, supply a comprehensive project plan to APSSDC, and the English assessment scores will be incorporated into the skill cards of citizens, enhancing their profiles for skill development.

Director of Pearson Prabhu Ravindran said that they will provide a total of 200,000 assessments for the pilot project, which is set to run for one year.

The APSSDC was represented by K Raghu and Pearson was represented by Directors Prabhu Ravindran and Bhavya Suri.

About Pearson 

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning is not just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at:  www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs,

Pearson India & MENA - bhavya.Suri@pearson.com

Read More/Hans India

Global learning firm Pearson is looking to double down on growth in India, which is among its  top three focus markets globally, a top executive of the company said.

The UK-headquartered firm is set to launch its AI-enabled online language learning app, Mondly, and its professional counterpart, MondlyWORKS, in India in January next year to offer language learning solutions for individuals and businesses.

“India, being one of the greatest growth engines in the world, is one of our top three focus markets for the future globally. We have always done well in this country and we have been very pleased with the performance of the India business and its growth,” Giovanni Giovannelli, president, English Language Learning at Pearson, told Business Standard.

The company is seeing a huge growth opportunity in English language learning, assessment and testing, and higher education.

“India is where we see a lot of opportunity due to the population dynamics, the need for skilling, room for growth in higher education, and the importance of the English language and other disciplines as well,” he added.

Pearson entered the Indian market 25 years ago, offering textbooks and printed course materials. Cut to today, other than its flagship English language proficiency tests, the company offers courseware across disciplines such as STEM, Engineering, Business, and Social Sciences, among others.

It also provides vocational and skilling courses, and test preparation content for exams like JEE, NEET, UPSC civil services, etc.

According to Giovannelli, most of Pearson’s growth in India has come on the back of partnerships with companies and institutions, and the company is looking to scale these partnerships further.

“We will continue to invest in the high stakes testing space – we have 66 (testing) centres in India and are opening more… In the English language space, the corporate opportunity is big. We have a relationship with many Fortune 500 companies in the US, and also companies here. And in the institution space, we are present in many schools and higher education institutions and we want to grow that business,” he added.

Talking about the use of artificial intelligence, Giovanelli said Pearson has been using AI in their products for nearly three decades.

“The way you grade assessment is informed by human raters. For instance, it is informed by a machine that is trained by those human raters. So, there is always human intervention and oversight, but the machine helps us score in a much faster way. That’s the way we started working on AI decades ago,” he explained.

Pearson is now also integrating generative AI into its operations.

“GenAI has the ability to create highly specialised and personalised content at a much faster pace. While we still have our authors and rely on them, at the same time, their generation of content can be made much simpler and more intuitive using AI,” he added.  

Pearson’s bullishness on India comes at a time when the Indian edtech sector is showing signs of recovery, after being battered by the so-called funding winter.

Edtech major Byju’s – once the poster child of the Indian startup world – has recently seen its fortunes dwindle due to a spate of regulatory issues and disputes with many investors, triggering the firm’s insolvency.

Meanwhile, edtech companies with strong business fundamentals are now rekindling investor interest. In September, Noida-based PhysicsWallah (PW) raised a massive $210 million series B funding round, with its post-money valuation increasing 2.5-fold to $2.8 billion. A month later, executive education firm Eruditus raised $150 million in a series F round at a $3.2 billion valuation.

Both companies have since announced plans to roll out initial public offerings (IPO) in the near future, bolstered by the current buoyancy in India’s public markets.

“We have been in business for 185 years, so we have the benefit of not being too worried about the ebbs and flows of the stock market. We are here to stay,” Giovannelli said.

“These cycles often lead to hypes in valuation – some companies project hitting incredible expectations and then have a doom cycle. We don’t worry much about that. We want to do things in a very consistent and scalable way to better serve our customers, because, we believe, this is what drives long term value,” he added.  

About Pearson 

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning is not just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at:  www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs,

Pearson India & MENA - bhavya.Suri@pearson.com

Read More/Business Standard

The demand for English proficiency is only expected to increase as industries become more interconnected. “English is already a mandatory subject in over 150 countries,” Ravindran points out, underscoring its global importance.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the way English is taught and learned. With the advent of Generative AI (GAI), learning is becoming more dynamic, personalised and relevant to real-world scenarios. We spoke with Prabhul Ravindran, Director of English Language Learning at Pearson India, about how these advancements are transforming education, and what they mean for students, educators and professionals worldwide.

AI’s role in language learning

Ravindran believes that Generative AI brings a transformative impact by creating more engaging and contextually relevant learning experiences. While traditional AI applications have focused on grading essays, scoring pronunciation and predicting academic outcomes, “GAI is stepping beyond by simulating real-life conversations. It doesn’t stop at role-playing exercises; AI adapts content to the learner’s proficiency level, offering feedback on aspects like grammar, pronunciation, and fluency,” he explains. 

In a world where businesses are increasingly operating across borders, English has become essential for career growth, particularly in AI-driven industries. “English proficiency is a critical asset,” Ravindran notes, pointing to research indicating that over 51% of learners improve their language skills to enhance career opportunities. Poor communication can have significant financial repercussions, with inefficiencies reportedly costing organisations up to $62.4 million each year.

The tech sector, in particular, relies heavily on English for collaboration and innovation. “English is often the default language for coding, documentation, and technical publications,” Ravindran says. He also points out a new trend: “With Generative AI, we can now write programmes by describing them in English. The better you are at English, the better prompt engineer you can be,” he adds, highlighting the increasing importance of English as a critical skill in AI and programming.

The indispensable role of educators in an AI-enhanced classroom

While AI can streamline tasks like lesson planning and grading, Ravindran emphasises that human educators remain central to the process. “Our approach at Pearson is not about replacing teachers but about enhancing their role,” he says. AI tools are designed to work alongside educators, enabling them to deliver more tailored and meaningful experiences.

“Educators play a crucial role in interpreting and adapting AI-generated materials to the unique needs of their students,” Ravindran explains, emphasising that human guidance fosters critical thinking and provides the emotional support that AI cannot replicate.

The future of English proficiency

The demand for English proficiency is only expected to increase as industries become more interconnected. “English is already a mandatory subject in over 150 countries,” Ravindran points out, underscoring its global importance. In response to this trend, Pearson is expanding its testing infrastructure, including launching one of its largest Pearson VUE testing centres in Chandigarh, with a capacity of 14,000 tests per month.

As the world moves toward a digital-first approach to education, Ravindran is confident that AI, paired with human expertise, will continue to revolutionise English language learning, equipping learners with the skills needed for success in an increasingly globalised job market.

About Pearson 

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning is not just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at:  www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs,

Pearson India & MENA - bhavya.Suri@pearson.com

Read More/Financial Express

Synopsis

The UK is a favored destination for international students, boasting a robust education system and a variety of courses. With 18 universities in the top 100 of the QS World University Rankings 2024, understanding required entrance exams is crucial for admission. Key English proficiency tests include IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE, each with varying score requirements depending on the university and program.

The United Kingdom (UK) is a popular destination for international students, thanks to its strong education system, wide variety of courses, and rich cultural experiences. Notably, 18 UK universities are ranked among the top 100 in the QS World University Rankings 2024.

It is important to know the entrance exams you need to pass to study in the UK, as they are necessary for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate certificates, diplomas, and degree programs.

The minimum score requirements for the exams change depending on the university, course, or program level.

The popular English proficiency tests to attempt for studying in UK are IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL. If you want to study medical courses in UK, then you can take exams such as BMAT, GAMSAT, and HPAT Ulster. To pursue mathematical-related courses in UK, you can take MAT or STEP.

English Language Proficiency Exams

Language proficiency is the first requirement for international students looking to advance their applications to study in the UK. As English is an official language, most universities expect applicants to have a strong command of the language to participate effectively in lectures and discussions. Therefore, achieving good scores in these tests is crucial for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate programs in the UK. Below are various standardized exams to evaluate your English proficiency:

1.  IELTS - International English Language Testing System

2.  TOEFL - Test of English as a Foreign Language

3.  PTE - Pearson Test of English

4.  Cambridge English Language Assessments

The IELTS test has two types - IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. Those who want to study in English-speaking countries like the UK, can take the IELTS test. The IELTS test fee for Indian students is INR 17,000. The minimum IELTS band score for a UK student visa is between 4.0 - 5.5. However, the minimum IELTS score requirements can be higher for each university, for example, top universities like the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge expect between 7.0 - 7.5 band score.

TOEFL

The TOEFL iBT is accepted by all of the UK universities, including the Russell Group of Universities. It has three types: paper-based, computer-based and an internet version. The minimum TOEFL score required for top universities in UK is between 100 - 110. And, the minimum score required for low-ranking universities is lower than 70. The cost of the TOEFL test in UK is $245.

Below are the TOEFL iBT score requirements (section-wise) set by the UK Home Office for immigration purposes:

1.  Total score: 72

2.  Reading: 18

3.  Listening: 17

4.  Writing: 17

5.  Speaking: 20

Note : It is for the University Degree Level Courses - B2 Level.

PTE
PTE is a computer-based English language proficiency test, accepted by 99% of UK universities. A minimum PTE score to get admission to UK universities is between 50-63. If your goal is to pursue a higher education in UK, you can choose the PTE Academic test. The standard PTE Academic test fee is Rs. 15,900/-. It has an automated scoring system which eliminates human biases during evaluation.

Cambridge English Language Assessments
Cambridge English language assessment is one of the few standardized tests that does not expire. However, some UK institutions may regard scores as invalid after two years. The grading system used by Cambridge Assessment English has a minimum cut-off of A, B, or C, aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). To obtain Tier 4 visas, the relevant levels are B2 First (FCE), C1 Advanced (CAE), and C2 Proficiency (CPE).

About Pearson 

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning is not just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at:  www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs,

Pearson India & MENA - bhavya.Suri@pearson.com

Read More/The Economics Times

Generative Ai is transforming India's workforce by enhancing productivity and automating routine tasks. This technology empowers employees to focus on high-value work, driving innovation and business growth.

The arrival of Generative AI has seen all companies exploring how they can make the best use of this technology - from boosting workplace productivity, to supporting workers with routine and repetitive tasks that often fill their day. There is a real opportunity to harness technology to free up time for employees and empower them to focus on more productive tasks.

About Pearson 

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning is not just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at:  www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs,

Pearson India & MENA - bhavya.Suri@pearson.com

Read More/India Today

Canada’s New PGWP Rules: Stricter Language Requirements and Labour Shortage Fields

Canada’s updated Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) rules, effective from 1st November 2024, introduce stricter language proficiency requirements and mandate graduates from certain fields of study to qualify for work permits. Applicants must now meet specific Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels, depending on their field of study. Additionally, graduates from key sectors like healthcare, STEM, and agriculture will have a clearer path to securing a PGWP. These changes aim to address Canada’s labour shortages while creating new opportunities for skilled international workers.

In a significant development for international students, Canada’s updated Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) rules, effective from 1st November 2024, introduce new eligibility criteria. These changes are aimed at addressing labour shortages in key industries while ensuring students meet certain language proficiency requirements. International students planning to stay and work in Canada post-graduation must now carefully navigate these updated guidelines to secure a PGWP, as the changes come with stricter criteria.

Field of Study Requirements

Canada’s new PGWP rules are also targeted towards graduates in certain fields linked to long-term labour shortages. The updated regulations mandate that graduates from specific programmes must align their studies with key areas where Canada needs skilled workers. These include sectors such as

• Agriculture and agri-food
• Healthcare
• Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)
• Trade
• Transport

Students graduating from fields that fall within these categories will have a clearer path to obtaining a PGWP. However, for those from other fields, especially non-university programmes, meeting the new field-of-study requirement is essential for work permit eligibility. Importantly, university graduates with bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees will not be subjected to additional field-of-study restrictions.

How to Apply for a PGWP under the New Rules

Graduates have up to 180 days after completing their studies to apply for a PGWP. However, to be eligible to work while waiting for a decision on their application, students must apply with a valid study permit. Applicants are required to provide documents such as their degree or diploma, official transcripts, or a letter of completion from their institution to confirm their educational qualifications.

The updated rules also state that graduates can no longer apply for a PGWP at a port of entry. Applications must now be submitted online, either from within Canada or from abroad. Additionally, those seeking to work in fields requiring medical exams can opt for an upfront medical exam, no more than 90 days before applying for their PGWP.

Restoring Your Status as a Student

If a student’s study permit expires before applying for the PGWP, they have up to 90 days to restore their status. This requires submitting both the PGWP application and a fee to restore their student status. During this period, however, they are not permitted to work until both their study and work permits have been approved.

The New Landscape for International Graduates

Canada’s updated PGWP rules reflect the country’s changing economic landscape and its ongoing efforts to match skilled workers with labour shortages in key sectors. While the stricter language and field-of-study requirements may pose challenges for some students, they also present new opportunities for graduates in high-demand industries. For those planning to study in Canada, understanding and meeting these new requirements will be crucial for post-graduation work opportunities.

Key PGWP Changes Effective from 1st November 2024

Bangalore : Pearson (FTSE: PSON.L), the world’s learning company, and Niniskillup Training Institutes, a leading provider of training, testing, and placement services, have joined hands to offer Pearson’s BTEC Higher National undergraduate qualifications in Health and Social Care. Pearson BTECs are Vocational Skill Qualification programs, developed and validated in partnership with industry, universities, and professional bodies, offering a diverse range of qualifications, enabling learners a pathway to UK universities.

The Pearson BTEC Higher National undergraduate qualification is widely regarded as equivalent to the first two years of a three-year honours degree in the UK. It provides students with a distinctive learning experience through assessments and assignments rooted in real-world scenarios. These qualifications have achieved significant global success, benefiting over 1.05 million learners across more than 50 countries.

Pearson BTEC courses are available at over 30 partner institutions in India, including universities, colleges, international schools, and private training centres such as Solitaire Business School (Hyderabad), Jetking Institutes (Mumbai), and Buddha Group of Institutes (Karnal), among others.

“India is experiencing a significant shift towards vocational and skill-based education, with a strong focus on developing skills and enhancing employability. Health and social care are critical needs in India today and through our partnership with NiniSkillip, learners will have access to Pearson BTEC programs that will equip them with practical, industry-relevant skills they need to succeed in a competitive job market.” said, Siddharth Parnerkar, Senior Director, Pearson Workforce Skills

On the announcement of the partnership, Vishesh Chandrashekar, CEO, NiniSkillup, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Pearson to bring their esteemed BTEC Higher Nationals Health and Social Care courses to our institution. This partnership underscores our commitment to providing our students with internationally recognized qualifications that meet industry standards and prepare them for successful careers in healthcare and social services.”

Pearson is working with the National Skill Development Corporation International (NSDCI) to promote Pearson BTEC qualifications across India. Globally, Pearson BTEC has collaborated with industry leaders such as Amazon Web Services, BMW Group, and Schneider Electric to design industry-specific customized qualifications for learners across sectors. Pearson BTEC offers courses in 24 subject areas with more than 2000 qualifications ranging from business to digital technology to art and design to healthcare, EVs, and Semiconductors among others, enabling learners with skills relevant to the global workplace.

About Pearson 

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning is not just what we do. It’s who we are. Visit us at pearsonplc.com.  

Visit us at:  www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs,

Pearson India & MENA -  bhavya.Suri@pearson.com

Read More/India Education Diary

During the event, Infosys founder Narayana Murthy called for the widely acclaimed Conceptual Physics by Professor Hewitt to be translated into Hindi, Kannada, and other regional languages.

Physics is not just for the best and brightest—it is for everyone, and it is time to make every student feel that way, Professor Paul G. Hewitt.

BENGALURU: Physics is not just for the best and brightest—it is for everyone, and it is time to make every student feel that way, Professor Paul G. Hewitt, internationally acclaimed author and physicist, said, urging teachers to transform their classrooms into vibrant spaces where physics becomes subject to dive into, not just get through.

Professor Hewitt was speaking during the launch of Conceptual Physics at the Infosys Science Foundation, during which Pearson India launched the 13th edition of the book for the first time in India.

During the event, Infosys founder Narayana Murthy called for the widely acclaimed Conceptual Physics by Professor Hewitt to be translated into Hindi, Kannada, and other regional languages, highlighting its potential to inspire India’s next generation of scientists. Murthy emphasised that making the book accessible in Indian languages would empower more students to grasp the fundamentals of physics, a critical pillar in achieving the nation’s goal of ‘Viksit Bharat’—a developed India by 2047.

Murthy highlighted the importance of the book Conceptual Physics by Professor Hewitt, calling it an essential resource for every high school student in India. Quoting the author, Murthy noted, "You cannot enjoy a game unless you know its rules. Likewise, you cannot fully appreciate your surroundings until you understand the rules of nature." He stressed that understanding these rules not only enhances one's view of the physical world but also equips students to contribute innovative solutions to global challenges.

Murthy underscored that the Prime Minister's vision for a developed India heavily relies on the scientific and technological capabilities of today's youth, aged 12 to 16. He stated that a deep understanding of physics is vital for nurturing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and curiosity in students. Drawing parallels with historical scientific pioneers like Aryabhatta, Newton, and Einstein, Murthy said that developing these skills is crucial for India’s progress and technological advancement.

Conceptual Physics introduces students to the scientific method in a simple, engaging way, breaking down complex ideas into relatable examples from everyday life, such as measuring the size of the Earth, Moon, and Sun or understanding how magnetically levitated trains work. The book encourages students to think, discuss, and solve, promoting a hands-on approach to learning physics that goes beyond memorisation, Narayana Murthy said.

Highlighting the importance of making physics accessible and enjoyable for every student and not just the top achievers, Professor Hewitt emphasised that teaching physics should be about lifting students, helping them feel included, and making the subject relevant to their everyday lives. He urged teachers to create an inclusive environment where even the most hesitant students feel capable and valued—from the brightest to those struggling to find their way.

Professor Hewitt highlighted that the latest edition of the textbook emphasises this approach, with more “check questions” after each section to ensure students grasp key concepts as they go. This method aims to replace traditional lecturing with active, student-centred learning, making physics a subject that excites and engages all students, he said.

About Pearson 

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning is not just what we do. It’s who we are. Visit us at pearsonplc.com.  

Visit us at:  www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs,

Pearson India & MENA - bhavya.Suri@pearson.com

Read More/ The New Indian Express

The Australian government has made changes to its visa rules to enhance the efficiency of the student influx.

Australia boasts one of the best education systems in the world, encompassing world-class universities and institutions. This is the key reason why it attracts students in millions from across the globe to secure a place in its academic institutions. 

In fact, out of the 3,000 PTE test takers surveyed for Pearson’s Australian Dreams White Paper, 90% of respondents feel welcome in Australia and 7 in 10 want to stay. Eight in 10 of all respondents say that Australia has met or exceeded their expectations.

So it’s not surprising studying in Australia is a popular option for young Indians preparing for a successful career. To secure a spot it is important to be prepared when applying for an Australian student visa and understanding what has changed.

The Australian government has recently modified its visa rules to better optimise the influx of students aspiring to study in the country. The attempt to enhance the quality of living for international students reflects the government’s good intentions. However, the amendments have made it tougher for international students to get visas. 

This will have a significant impact on students from across the globe, particularly Indians who have a special inclination towards this country. Indian students are the second-largest group of international students in Australia. In 2022, 100,009 Indian students were enrolled in various universities in Australia. This number jumped to 122,000 by September 2023. This growing trend shows Indian students’ interest in Australian institutions.

In this scenario, it’s critical for Indian students and parents to understand the changes made to the visa rules and adhere to them to get the necessary approvals.

Major Modifications

The government has made it mandatory to stay abroad while applying for an Australian student visa, aimed to combat visa hopping and promote applicants who show a genuine intention to pursue a program in Australia. 

Furthermore, the government has increased the student visa application fee substantially, from AUD 710 ($473) to AUD 1,600 ($1,068). Applicants aged 18 or above accompanying the main applicant will have to pay AUD $1,445 and AUD $390 if their age is under 18. This is a measure to address high migration. 

The financial requirements have also been increased for students and their guardians. They now need to show their sound financial standing with at least AUD $29,710 under their possession, up from AUD $24,505 previously. The government aims to ensure that the applicants have adequate finance to bear various expenses throughout the course, including airfare, living costs, course fees, etc. 

Additionally, the government has reduced the age limit for Temporary Graduate Visa applications from 50 to 35. It has also shortened post-study work rights.

Most importantly, the government has placed special emphasis on English proficiency. It has enforced fresh English language requirements for visa applications. Focus on English fluency will ensure that the students have the requisite level of competency to complete their academic requirements without any difficulty.

Navigating Challenges 

Though the government has made norms stricter, it has not curtailed opportunities for genuine and talented students. They must prepare in advance to meet eligibility requirements and get visa approval easily. 

Early Application: Students must submit visa applications as early as possible to successfully navigate through the stringent security measures. They will have enough time to collect necessary documents and resolve any unexpected issues. 

Financial Proof: Given the recent changes in the financial requirements, it’s important for students to collect and produce all the necessary documents to show that their financial standing is sound enough to support their studies and stay in Australia.

Focus on English Proficiency: The government’s increased emphasis on English proficiency demands students’ serious attention on honing English language skills. They must allocate appropriate time to reading, writing, listening, and speaking practices to gain the requisite competency. Moreover, they must choose the right English proficiency test, such as the Pearson Test of English, which is a popular test among Indian students aspiring to study in Australia.

About Pearson 

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning is not just what we do. It’s who we are. Visit us at pearsonplc.com.  

Visit us at:  www.pearsonplc.com.

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs,

Pearson India & MENA -  Bhavya.Suri@pearson.com

Read More/ Financial Express