By Mr Gaurav Batra Founder & CEO Infinite Group
For many Indian students, going abroad to study is more than just an academic decision. It’s tied to ambition, hope, and the idea of growing through exposure to something different. But turning that dream into something real isn’t always easy. Most students face delays, insufficient information, and hurdles they didn’t expect. Interest in international education is on the rise, but without a reliable system, the entire process ends up being harder, sometimes even overwhelming. In some cases, it feels less like planning and more like taking a chance.
A major part of the issue lies in how disconnected the system is. The journey involves students, their parents, agents, banks, foreign universities and government departments; but they rarely operate in a coordinated way. Students and families are often left without clear guidance on financial matters or documentation requirements. This lack of information makes it very easy for unregulated agents or consultants to enter the field, often providing “guarantees” in exchange for large fees.
Meanwhile, applying for loans is anything but smooth. The forms, back-and-forth, and uncertain timelines can create serious pressure. And that’s before students even get to their destination. In many cases, foreign universities or embassies change rules without warning- be it about documentation or visa conditions; and students are the ones who have to deal with the fallout.
This fragmented system isn’t just frustrating but it has several consequences. In 2023, when students applied for F-1 visas to the US, many couldn’t even get appointments. The scheduling systems crashed, and some students lost scholarships or had to defer their studies. The following year, a delay in acceptance letters from UK universities meant students were left to book international flights at the last moment, at outrageous prices. Then, in 2025, Canada cut back on post-study work permits, with almost no notice, catching students off guard.
If such issues persist, more students might end up dropping out. Others could find themselves stuck in a country they’re not fully prepared for - financially or otherwise. The confusion creates space for fraud, like using forged documents or fake test scores to fast-track applications. If things don’t improve, India may lose out on capable students who don’t return, or who never get the right start abroad.
Some countries have taken small but effective steps to ease the pressure. In the UK, the UCAS platform lets students apply to several universities through one site, which helps with planning and timelines. In Australia, counsellors must disclose the commissions they earn for greater transparency. Nigeria uses blockchain technology for document verification to prevent fraud. Brazil has made it a rule that banks have to process student loan applications within two weeks. These are small moves, but they make things easier and more predictable for students.
India has made some progress. Agreements with countries like France and Australia have helped open doors. Some fintech lenders now link documents with DigiLocker, which speeds things up. Also, a few Indian universities are starting to help students prepare better before they leave. But a lot is still missing. There’s no single place where students can track visa updates or loan status. In smaller towns, getting an English proficiency test slot still takes too long. More importantly, there’s no national-level policy guiding Indian students who want to go abroad. Most of the support that exists is scattered and only reaches a few.
Meaningful change requires all players to acknowledge their responsibility. Students should give enough time for planning and only use evidence-based, legitimate sources of information. Parents must demand full disclosure of all costs, including living expenses. Consultants and EdTech platforms need to operate in a more accountable manner, clearly publishing their success ratio and charges for service.
Studying abroad shouldn’t feel like a leap in the dark. Today’s students are more ambitious and globally connected than before. But the support around them must catch up. A clear plan that cuts confusion and builds trust is needed. With the right changes, this difficult process can become a more confident and an empowering journey unlocking the real potential of India’s future global citizens.
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