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This IIM just topped among Indian Institutes in FT Masters in Management Rankings 2025
IIM Bangalore leads Indian B-schools in the Financial Times Masters in Management Rankings 2025, securing 28th position globally, followed by IIM Ahmedabad at 34th. A total of 11 Indian institutions are featured, highlighting their growing international presence. The University of St Gallen in Switzerland tops the global list.
New TOEFL initiative gives Indian study abroad aspirants a chance to win Rs 10 lakh
ETS, in collaboration with Credila, has launched the TOEFL SUPER 50 program to support Indian students aspiring to study abroad. This initiative offers a prize pool of Rs 10 lakh, along with test preparation resources and financial planning support. Students registering for the TOEFL iBT test by December 15, 2025, and taking it by December 31, 2025, are eligible.
US’ new rule to cap stay periods for F, J, and I visa holders explained
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed ending the practice of admitting foreign students, exchange visitors, and media representatives for the entire length of their programs. If finalised, the system would be replaced with fixed admission periods. Visa holders would then need to apply for extensions with USCIS if they require additional time.
Indian students look beyond US; Germany posts record growth in 2024-25: Report
Indian students are increasingly looking beyond the US for higher education. Applications to US universities have dropped by 13%, while Germany has seen a significant jump of 32.6% in 2024-25. The UAE and the Middle East are also gaining popularity, offering degree programs from global campuses of elite US universities. Canada has also witnessed reduced applications.
India-Germany agree on gratis visas for student exchange programs
India and Germany have agreed to provide gratis visas for short-term school and college visits to boost student exchanges and educational ties. They are also establishing a bilateral consultation mechanism for the Indo-Pacific region. Discussions encompassed trade, investment, defense, technology, and global issues like the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with India expressing gratitude for Germany's support against terrorism.
1 in 3 Indian students now take loans to study abroad: Report
A recent report reveals a growing trend of Indian students relying on education loans to finance overseas studies, with 33% taking loans. Germany's popularity has surged due to its rapid return on investment, while traditional destinations like the US and Canada experience slower growth. Career prospects are now the primary motivation, shifting away from permanent residency.
Canada's increased fund requirement for student visa applicants now in effect
Starting September 1, 2025, Canada is increasing the required proof of funds for international students applying for study permits. The minimum for a single applicant rises to CA $22,895, with higher amounts needed for accompanying family members. These updated requirements aim to ensure students can financially support themselves throughout their studies, with specific rules for those studying in Quebec.
Columbia University admits record number of freshmen amid Trump visa threats
Columbia University's freshman class of 2029 has surged by 20% to 1,806 students, despite concerns about campus turmoil and Trump administration policies. Increased admissions and waitlist acceptances offset potential enrollment declines. Acting President Claire Shipman cited a strong applicant pool, while the university expands resources to accommodate the larger class.
Expenditure on abroad study hits five-year low
The expenditure of Indian students on abroad studies have hit a five-year low in June 2025. This comes amid stricter rules and restriction on Indian students. However, the UK is gaining popularity as a study destination. Further. travel expenditures remain high.
International student enrolments stay steady at Columbia and Princeton
Data from Columbia and Princeton shows steady international student numbers. This is despite concerns about Trump administration policies. Black student enrollment declined after the Supreme Court's affirmative action ban. Princeton saw a drop in Black students. Columbia's Black and Hispanic enrollment remained similar to last year. More students are declining to share their race. This is skewing demographic data.
Run from the USA: Students will have to pack their bags fast
Proposed US visa rule changes, limiting durations to four years, are expected to disproportionately affect Indian students compared to their Chinese counterparts. This is because many Indian students rely on post-study work opportunities like OPT and H-1B visas, while Chinese students often return home or pursue funded PhD programs.
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New US rule bars student visa holders from changing courses in first year
The US Department of Homeland Security proposes new restrictions on F-1 student visas, limiting program changes and prohibiting enrollment in programs at the same or lower levels after completion. A fixed stay period of up to four years would be implemented, requiring extensions and increasing the risk of overstaying.
How the new US visa rule on 'fixed periods of stay' could impact international students
The US plans to replace the “duration of status” system with fixed stay periods for F, J, and I visa holders. Students would get a four-year limit with only a 30-day grace period, reduced from 60 days. The rule adds paperwork, restricts program changes, and removes deference to past approvals, creating uncertainty in higher education.
US to limit visa duration for international students, media professionals & cultural exchange visitors
The Trump administration proposed new rules to limit the duration of visas for international students, cultural exchange visitors, and journalists. F visas for students and J visas for exchange workers would be capped at four years, while I visas for journalists would be limited to 240 days, or 90 days for Chinese nationals.
Taylor Swift beyond the stage: How universities from Harvard to Stanford teach the ‘Swiftie’ lesson
Taylor Swift's influence extends to university classrooms. Courses explore her music and career. Harvard and other universities are using her work to teach various subjects. These include literature, history, and cultural studies. This trend shows pop culture's growing role in academic learning. New courses are planned, indicating continued interest in Swift as a subject of study.
Harvard graduate union requests for academic freedom protections in ongoing contract negotiations
Harvard's graduate student union seeks academic freedom protections for teaching and research assistants in ongoing contract negotiations. The proposal aims to establish a University-wide definition and safeguard student workers' rights to express themselves. This move aligns with a growing trend among graduate unions to broaden protections beyond traditional workplace concerns, addressing issues like doxxing and evaluation-related anxieties.
