𝐁𝐡𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐒𝐡𝐢𝐟𝐭 𝐅𝐨𝐜𝐮𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐆𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐀𝐦𝐢𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐲 𝐀𝐛𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐑𝐮𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐚 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐝𝐚

…𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒊𝒏 𝑮𝒆𝒓𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒅𝒓𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒃𝒚 𝒒𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒆𝒅𝒖𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏, 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌 𝒐𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒆𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒊𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒃𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒇𝒊𝒕𝒔 𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒅 𝒓𝒆𝒈𝒖𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒔

By Kinzang Thinley

Amid tightening regulations in Australia and Canada, an increasing number of Bhutanese students are setting their sights on Germany as their next academic destination. Many are already in the process of applying and preparing to make the transition. In a strategic move, some study abroad consultancies are making a pivotal decision by facilitating Bhutanese students’ access to educational opportunities in Germany. With a significant number of Bhutanese students already registered, the consultancies are gearing up to send their first batch of students to Germany by September, marking a promising start to this new academic journey.

Tashi Kipchu, the Managing Director of Smart Consultancy, explained that recent changes in visa policies in Australia and Canada have influenced Bhutanese students to consider Germany as their preferred study destination. Factors such as the proposed migration strategies in Australia and Canada, along with limitations on work rights for dependents, have made Germany more appealing. Smart Consultancy assists Bhutanese students in navigating the application process for studying in Germany by providing support with university applications, English tests, visa applications, and pre-departure briefings. They also facilitate networking with current students in Germany.

“To meet the increasing interest in studying in Germany, we have adapted our services by offering more online consultations, forming partnerships with German universities, and staying updated on education and immigration policies,” said Tashi Kipchu. Looking ahead, Tashi Kipchu foresees the trend of Bhutanese students choosing Germany to continue. Smart Consultancy plans to expand its services, conduct market research, and strengthen collaborations to address future challenges and opportunities.

Germany offers advantages compared to Australia and Canada, including quality education, ample work opportunities during and after studies, a strong focus on research and innovation, and easier long-term migration pathways. Additionally, Germany doesn’t require high English proficiency scores and offers cheaper fees along with various scholarships.

Yangdon, a 21-year-old high school graduate pursuing studies in Germany, said, “Germany’s affordability and visa advantages are undeniable. Compared to Australia and Canada, the lower tuition fees and relaxed exam requirements make it an attractive choice.” Considering her qualifications, she further emphasized, “The prospect of higher visa acceptance rates due to Germany’s demographic and economic needs adds another layer of appeal.” Despite acknowledging uncertainties about specific courses, Yangdon confidently stated, “I believe in my ability to adapt to language and cultural challenges, viewing them as opportunities to showcase diligence and academic prowess.” Regarding concerns about support networks abroad, she remained resolute, saying, “I am determined to explore opportunities for study and employment, with aspirations to graduate and secure well-paying jobs, addressing both personal and familial needs while setting an example for others back home.”

However, Bikash, a 27-year-old aspiring student, initially considered Germany for its lower college fees compared to other countries like Australia and Canada. However, upon further exploration, he identified several challenges that may deter Bhutanese students from pursuing education in Germany. Bikash highlights concerns regarding college fees and living expenses, expressing uncertainty about how he would manage to cover expenses, especially without the option to bring dependents along.

A major concern for Bikash is the uncertainty about bringing dependents to Germany, citing the stringent rules and potential difficulties in fulfilling them. While acknowledging Germany’s comparatively lower cost of living, Bikash emphasizes the importance of thorough research and firsthand experience rather than relying solely on assumptions. Although Bikash recognizes job opportunities in Germany, particularly in fields like IT, nursing, and electrical, he weighs the risks and benefits carefully. Bikash stresses the need for a balanced consideration of both advantages and disadvantages before making a decision, expressing concern about the potential consequences of hastily committing to studying in Germany without thorough evaluation.

Popular academic programs among Bhutanese students in Germany include business programs like MBA with specializations and various bachelor courses in Business and the Arts. These consultancies support students with pre-departure briefings, accommodation assistance, language support, and networking opportunities in Germany.
The shift in preferences among Bhutanese students towards Germany over Australia and Canada highlights the impact of tightening regulations in the latter countries. Germany’s appeal lies in its quality education, ample work opportunities, and easier migration pathways, coupled with lower tuition fees and relaxed language requirements.

While some students, like Yangdon, are confident in their ability to adapt and seize opportunities, others, like Bikash, raise valid concerns about managing expenses and uncertainties surrounding dependents. Smart Consultancy’s strategic facilitation reflects this evolving trend, aiming to address students’ needs while navigating the complexities of studying abroad. As Bhutanese students continue to explore educational opportunities abroad, a balanced consideration of advantages and challenges remains crucial for informed decision-making.