It’s been months since the novel coronavirus found its way into humanity and the world is still grappling with its toll on health and the economy. The education system is not left out as the pandemic has transformed how international studies operate. Students are left in a haze of whether to pursue their dream of studying abroad or hold on till life returns to normalcy. Universities abroad are also coming up with innovative ways to adapt to the situation by adopting virtual learning and restructuring their programs. The pandemic no doubt has reshaped the educational system at all fonts with the full extent still obscure and more yet to unfold. However, if you are undeterred by the current situation and still willing to take the plunge, it is important to know the effect of the Covid 19 on studies abroad and what lies ahead. Here, Royal Migration, your one-stop- shop for all kinds of visa and immigration services takes an inside look into the impact of covid 19 on overseas education. Before diving in, stop by the Royal Migration Review to see how many have successfully migrated abroad without hassle. Read on to see the effects of the pandemic that has surfaced over the months and other things to be expected.
Travel restrictions
As part of curbing the spread of the coronavirus, traveling has only be limited to essential travels including permanent residents and citizens which are allowed in. Limited flight operations, restricted entry, and general unease about traveling have discouraged many students planning on studying overseas. However, with the lockdown being eased, universities are working towards opening their doors to welcome international students.
Online learning
Indoor settings for learning seem to be left out as universities are wary of risks and dangers associated with dealing with large numbers. What seems to be the way out is virtual learning which allows students to access educational courses from anywhere across the globe. However, these have posed a challenge for students as many complained about missing campus experiences or having to sit behind the screen for hours attending lectures. Or even having to deal with the hassles that come with differences in time zone. Besides,
Extracurricular activities may also be altered given safety reasons and being together as a group may not be allowed.
Tight visa applications and procedures
With countries imposing travel bans in the wake of the pandemic, traveling abroad for anything other than for important reasons seem to be far-fetched. Many embassies have closed in some countries while some are opening up as they are returning to some sort of normality. It is important for intending students to check with the embassy to find out how to get the visa. The good thing is most of them have extended the deadlines and relax their requirements to make visa application an easy one.
Can you still pursue overseas study at this time?
Yes, you can still apply for studies abroad and the good news is most universities are seeking out international students more than ever to enroll with teaching arrangements put in place if you are not able to travel. However, if you will prefer to travel down to your study destination and this seems not to be happening with the travel restrictions, consider deferring admission till 2021. Contact your university to confirm if this is something that can be done.
Planning to forge ahead with your study abroad plans amid the pandemic, Royal Migration is here to help. Go through the Royal Migration Review for information and to see how many have successfully scaled through this time of uncertainties when it comes to visa-related issues
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