Category: Nepal

  • why Nepalese students are choosing the UK

    why Nepalese students are choosing the UK

    • Restrictive immigration policy in Australia has boosted numbers coming to UK.
    • 75% of the market is searching for undergraduate options with affordable fees.
    • Medium-of-instruction (MOI) English language waivers are common, and often linked to TNE college partnerships.

    Nepal has been a key recruitment market for both Australia and the UK for many years – but as the number of students applying to the UK rises, many more universities are starting to explore the market.

    In the year ending March 2024, according to ONS data, 9,003 Nepalese students were issued study visas for the UK, with the number undoubtedly larger for the intakes since.

    According to Enroly, the number of CASs issued for the January 2025 intake was up 200% while CAS issuance for its entire UK portfolio was only up 23%. Overall, the total market share of CAS issuance for Nepal grew from 3% to 7% in 2024.

    This impressive growth has come at a time when some British universities have seen falling demand from other international markets, and the government has announced a student visa clamp-down on Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nigeria and Sri Lanka – linked to asylum claims.

    So why are Nepalese students choosing the UK and will it last?

    Over 60,000 Nepalese students previously chose to study in Australia each year, making it the third biggest source market for the country.

    Recent visa restrictions imposed by the Albanese government, however, are now forcing many students to seek an alternative destination.

    While the Australian visa process requires detailed evidence on income, the UK system allows students to show a mature bank account, often supplemented by private student loans.

    Enroly estimates that 78% of Nepalese students are now funded through education loans, or a combination of an education loan and university discount.

    Affordable fees and scholarships

    Despite economic growth, projected to be 4.61% this fiscal year, Nepal is still a price-senstitive market.

    As a consequence, there are 15-20 British universities from the ‘Million Plus’ and ‘Alliance’ groups attracting a large market share in the country.

    Many of these institutions are the same UK universities that are diversifying income through franchise activity, brand campuses and TNE articulations.

    Offering average annual fees of between £11,500 and £13,500 enables them to attract a large number of predominently undergraduate students to supplement their numbers.

    According to HESA statistics, some of the biggest recruiters are BPP, University of Sunderland and Coventry University.

    The latter have validation partnerships with local providers such as ISMT College and Softwarica College of IT and eCommerce, respectively, creating a pipeline of students that can top-up with a final year in the UK or progress easily on to masters degree.

    The UK universities recruiting the most students from Nepal:

    • University of West Scotland, London
    • BPP
    • Coventry University
    • University of Sunderland
    • University of Roehampton
    • York St John University
    • Ravensbourne University London
    • University of East London (UEL)
    • University of West London
    • University of Wolverhampton
    • University of Central Birmingham (UCB)
    • University of Hertfordshire
    • University of Greenwich
    • Ulster University

    The trend for universities to accept Nepalese students directly has significantly reduced the demand for foundation programmes in the region.

    Accpetance of MOI letters as proof of English

    Another key factor is the widespread acceptance of MOI letters as a waiver of additional English language tests.

    These letters are used as proof that the qualification gained by a prosepctive student was both taught and assessed in English to a level acdepted by a university as having met English language requirements. The UK government is currently consulting with the sector on the way universities make English language self-assessment decisions for admissions purposes.

    Agents and immigration consultants use English language waivers as one of the areas to save prospective students money and support partner universities.

    According to Enroly, 82% of course deposits paid by Nepalese students for the UK, come from applications supported by an education agent.

    The PIE News visited Nepal to better understand the challenges education agents face in a competitive market. Read the full report here.

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  • Spirit of adventure – meet the Nepalese study abroad guides

    Spirit of adventure – meet the Nepalese study abroad guides

    Nepal has long been synonymous with the legendary ‘Sherpa’ mountain guides, skilled in helping international travellers explore the Himalayas.

    There is also however, a more recent tradition of local education guides helping their compatriots to seek out adventure and opportunity through study abroad.

    In the past, this demand favoured Australia as a study destination, but since the Albanese government introduced increased visa restrictions, that demand has increasingly turned to alternative destinations like the US, France, Japan and the UK.

    According to ONS data, more than 9,000 study visas were issued to Nepalese students studying in the UK as of March 2024 but the true number is undoubtedly higher in the year since.

    The PIE News visited Franklin International, a leading local agent, to better understand the factors supporting growth.

    Away from the chaotic streets of Kathmandu, where thousands of agent offices operate within a square mile in a district known as ‘Putalisadak’, Franklin International has chosen instead to base its national headquarters in the foothills of peaceful Pokhara.

    Here we find an operation that feels more like a family than an agency. There aren’t any cut-outs of Big Ben; instead, they favour a comfortable working atmosphere for staff and students.

    There is an office full of people diligently running document checks, taking calls, and running webinars with their prospective students across Nepal.

    I meet a team packing for a 17-day tour of the country to meet applicants face-to-face – giving them a chance to outline important next steps and reassure family members.

    There are entire rooms of people dedicated to supporting universities like the University of Roehampton and the University of East London, for whom they facilitate close operational relationships that deliver hundreds of compliant student enrolments.

    “The UK demand is still in its infancy,” company CMO and co-founder, Deepak Khadka tells me.

    “The number of students applying has grown rapidly, but the knowledge about the UK process is limited among most people,” he continues.”There are too many agents looking for short-cut commission – so we have had to build a system in partnership with British universities to focus on the compliance checks they need.”

    This is a price-sensitive market, with only 15-20 universities offering financially viable course options. This has created a unique bubble where large numbers of students are following each other to the same university in each intake. Word of mouth is a key driver of demand.

    This volume has, in turn, triggered an explosion in Nepalese agent activity as the potential for high commission levels is clear.

    At a higher education event in Kathmandu, The PIE met teams of young friends, often still in their 20s or early 30s, keen to get involved and cash-in on prospective students from their neighbourhoods.

    “We have a choice to make in Nepal,” explains Khadka. “We either compete as agents, or we try and work together to best support the students.”

    Having completed his doctorate in agent supply chains from UWS, his understanding of the Nepalese market is crucial.

    “We try to act as supportive guides for these other guys. They have so much energy and ambition – but we must make sure the professional compliance is water-tight when processing applications,” he tells The PIE. “We have the expertise to do this correctly. We call this the Official University Representative network to convey that message.”

    Khadka is keen to stress that he and his fellow agents care far more about the students they work with than pitting themselves against one another.

    “I care about Nepal’s future. We don’t want to make the same mistakes as other countries or regions,” he says.

    “We want our young people to succeed in their study abroad adventures – and I would rather work together for a better system, than get drawn into a territorial battle. We are proud that this model is being recognised by our UK partners and local officials here.”

    Overseas education agencies must have government approval to operate in Nepal, leading to conflict over online aggregator models trying to undercut this licensing.

    I care about Nepal’s future. We don’t want to make the same mistakes as other countries or regions
    Deepak Khadka, Franklin International

    Local protocol can be complicated as students need to obtain a ‘No Obligation Certificate’ from the government to study abroad, and many turn to government-backed student finance options to prepare their budgets.

    Vidhi Mistry, head of international operations for the University of Roehampton, explains her approach to the market: “In Nepal, when there are thousands of agents, it’s not about being everywhere. A university doesn’t need to work with every agent.

    “A right partnership is about aligning values, intent and quality that prioritises reputation and longevity. Agents can elevate the sector or dilute it. Exclusivity when earned and aligned isn’t a restriction, it is a strategy for sustainable growth [in a chaotic market].”

    The PIE spoke to Sajan, a Nepalese student who has an offer to study at the University of West Scotland London campus. He explained his reasoning for working with an agency.

    “I have friends already at UWS London and they love it. I didn’t need help with choosing which university or course I wanted, but I had to make sure my finances and visa are processed correctly,” he says. “My father and I have been guided to understand my required budget and each step of the process. I am very grateful.”

    With the UK government announcing future plans to tighten visa issuance for countries linked to asylum claims, and to clamp down on universities linked to poor compliance metrics – it is important the Nepal market doesn’t grow too fast, too soon.

    Strong demand will undoubtedly bring greater competition, so only time will tell if universities and agents can get regulate themselves to realise the opportunity.

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  • AAERI seeks visa overhaul for Australia’s student system

    AAERI seeks visa overhaul for Australia’s student system

    The Association of Australian Education Representatives in India (AAERI), in a submission to the Minister for Home Affairs and the Minister for Education, has urged the Labor government to link student visas to the institution of initial enrolment.

    The association, established in October 1996 to uphold the credibility of education agents recruiting students for Australian institutions, proposed that any change in course or institution should require a new visa application, with the existing visa automatically cancelled upon such a change.

    “This proposed reform means that a student’s visa would be directly linked to the education provider (institution) listed in their initial Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) at the time of visa approval. The student would be required to remain enrolled at that institution,” read a statement by AAERI.  

    The association expalined that if a student wishes to change their course or education provider, they must obtain a new CoE from the new institution, apply for a fresh student visa, and once again demonstrate that they meet all Genuine Student requirements.

    “Such a measure will strengthen the integrity of Australia’s student visa program, reduce exploitation in the education sector, improve compliance with Genuine Student (GS) criteria, and safeguard Australia’s reputation as a provider of high-quality international education,” it added. 

    “Additionally, this reform will support ethical education agents and reputable institutions by discouraging course-hopping and misuse of the student visa system, thereby enhancing student retention and sector stability.”

    Such a measure will strengthen the integrity of Australia’s student visa program, reduce exploitation in the education sector, improve compliance with Genuine Student (GS) criteria, and safeguard Australia’s reputation as a provider of high-quality international education.
    AAERI

    Based on AAERI’s submission, such a policy would align with Condition 8516, which requires students to remain enrolled in a registered course at the same level or higher than the one for which their visa was originally granted.

    As per reports, education loan applications from India, one of Australia’s biggest student markets, have quadrupled since the Covid pandemic, with the number of loan-seeking students expected to rise further.

    With many students relying on Indian public and private banks for education loans, changes in their courses in Australia have often led to their original loans being considered void, placing many at significant financial risk.

    “Based on our communication with several Indian banks, if a student changes their course or education provider after arriving in Australia, their loan arrangements may need to be reassessed, taking into account new course fees, institution credibility, and repayment ability,” stated AAERI. 

    “The original loan is void and stands suspended. This poses significant financial risks for students and impacts their compliance with visa conditions.”

    According to AAERI, the problem is also prevalent among Nepali students, with nearly 60,000 currently studying in Australia. 

    The association also highlighted examples from other study destinations that Australia can learn from in implementing the proposed framework. 

    While New Zealand allows course or provider changes but may require a variation of conditions or a new visa, especially for pathway visa holders or when moving to lower-level courses, in the UK, the student visa system is closely tied to licensed sponsors through the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies, so changing institutions generally requires a new CAS and immigration permission.

    In Canada, stricter rules have been implemented requiring international students to be enrolled at the Designated Learning Institution named on their study permit, and to change institutions, students must apply for and obtain a new study permit, emphasising the importance of linking visas to specific institutions.

    “Australia’s recent reforms, such as closing the concurrent CoE loophole and requiring CoEs for onshore visa applications, are steps in a similar direction but do not go far enough to address the core issue of unethical student poaching, misuse of student visa and provider switching,” stated AAERI. 

    AAERI’s call for action comes at a time when the return of the Labour government is viewed as “offering little comfort to an international education sector already under-siege”, as highlighted in a recent article by Ian Pratt, managing director of Lexis English, for The PIE News.

    In Anthony Albanese’s second term, the Prime Minister established a new role – assistant minister for international education – and appointed Victorian MP Julian Hill.

    “It’s important that students who come here get a quality education… This sector is complex and Julian Hill is someone who’s been involved as a local member as well, and I think he’ll be a very good appointment,” Albanese stated at a press conference this week. 

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  • Nepali students could shun India amid row over student’s death

    Nepali students could shun India amid row over student’s death

    A 20-year-old technology student was found dead in her hostel room at Odisha’s private deemed university, KIIT, allegedly after facing harassment from a fellow student.

    The incident sparked campus protests, forcing hundreds of students to leave after KIIT closed sine die for all Nepali international students on February 17.

    Though KIIT vice-chancellor Saranjit Singh issued a public apology later and action was taken against security officials and staff accused of abusing and physically harming protesting Nepali students, only a small percentage of students have returned. 

    With Nepali students comprising 28% of India’s international student population, the largest share, the recent incident has raised concerns that many students from Nepal might cancel their plans to study in India.

    “Students might reconsider their decision to study in India, and this incident could drive a policy shift in student recruitment. Obtaining an No Objection Certificate (NOC) might become mandatory for those aspiring to study in India, and a government-level grievance handling system could be introduced to address student concerns,” BK Shrestha, CEO, Study Global, a Kathmandu-based education consultancy, told The PIE News. 

    Though an NOC is mandatory for Nepali students wishing to study abroad, the open border and close ties between Nepal and India allow many Nepali students to study in the country without obtaining one.

    Despite this privilege, the Nepal government could restrict students from obtaining an NOC to study at institutions in Odisha if the KIIT incident is not resolved in a “justifiable and legal way,” according to Nepal’s Ministry of Science, Education, and Technology.

    Though India and Nepal have shared historically deep relations, the past decade has been marked by tensions, including allegations of a blockade on goods to Nepal, border disputes, and Nepal’s efforts to strengthen relations with China. 

    The recent incident at KIIT has only added fuel to the fire, prompting the Nepal Embassy in India to send officials to the campus to meet with agitating Nepali students. 

    Obtaining an NOC might become mandatory for those aspiring to study in India, and a government-level grievance handling system could be introduced to address student concerns
    BK Shrestha, Study Global

    Meanwhile, Nepal’s opposition and human rights body have urged the Indian government to conduct a “fair investigation” and ensure the safety of Nepali students.

    “The Nepalese government, including the Prime Minister and relevant ministries, took immediate action through the embassy, ensuring the safety of students,” said Mukesh Dhamala, member of education council, Confederation of Nepalese Industries. 

    “However, this incident has created diplomatic tensions, raised questions about the accountability of educational institutions, and sparked broader discussions about student welfare policies in host countries.”

    According to Dhamala, the student’s death has led to Nepali students and parents being more cautious, with a significant increase in inquiries about safety measures at Indian institutions.

    “Future students and parents may hesitate to choose Indian institutions unless there are strong safety measures in place,” stated Dhamala. 

    Moreover, domestic universities in Nepal have stepped up by offering returning students a chance to continue their studies. 

    Purbanchal University has announced that students reluctant to return to KIIT can continue their remaining courses at its affiliated colleges.

    “Any student who has returned to Nepal without completing their studies can continue through credit transfer,” the university stated, adding that students must meet the required criteria.

    Meanwhile, officials at Tribhuvan University, Nepal’s oldest and largest institution, have also expressed readiness to accommodate such students. 

    Many prospective students from Nepal are now rethinking their plans to study in India amid the row at KIIT. 

    “All of this has massively increased safety concerns for Nepalese students, especially female students. In fact, several of my friends have already canceled their upcoming admissions to very reputable Indian institutions because they no longer feel safe,” stated Sandesh Pokhrel, a Kathmandu-based student, who is planning to pursue his post-graduation studies abroad. 

    With many returning students from KIIT alleging that the university failed to take action against the accused despite the deceased student’s prior complaints, academic counsellors like Pragya Karki argue that stakeholders in Nepal should serve as the first point of contact for their students. 

    “KIIT’s initial response to the student’s case has been deeply concerning and raises serious questions about its commitment to student safety and well-being,” said Karki, an academic counsellor at Ullens School. 

    “We must go beyond just listening – we are advocates, allies, and a vital support system for students in distress. Proactive outreach is key: creating safe spaces, educating students on their rights, on how to recognise emotional distress, and ensuring they know where to seek help.”

    According to Dhamala, the recent incident has underscored the need for dedicated student support teams, ideally with Nepali staff, to address the concerns of Nepali students. He also emphasised the importance of Embassy monitoring on campuses to ensure their well-being.

    As part of its recent initiative, Nepal Rising, market entry firm Acumen brought many of its partner institutions from the UK, US, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Malaysia to Nepal. 

    The goal was to better understand and improve the Nepali student experience, a critical move in light of the KIIT incident.

    “A structured pre-departure program is key, equipping students with insights into academics, culture, finances, and well-being. Many of our partner universities already offer culturally tailored orientation programs, mentor-mentee buddy systems, and Nepalese student clubs, ensuring a smoother transition,” stated Ritu Sharma, director, partner success, UK, Ireland, and ANZ, Acumen. 

    “A strong support system, including career workshops and mental health services, is vital for long-term success.”

    As per a report by ICEF, in the past five years, approximately one in every five Nepali students pursuing higher education chose to study abroad.

    Nepal’s outbound mobility ratio was 19% in 2021, compared with less than 2% for China and India, this despite the country being vastly smaller in population compared to its giant Asian neighbours. 

    Pushpa Raj Joshi, a senior scientist and neurobiologist at Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Germany, who writes monthly columns for The Kathmandu Post – a leading publication in Nepal – criticised the country’s lack of a “forward-thinking education policy.” 

    He argued that this drives many Nepali students to study abroad in large numbers, leaving them vulnerable and unprepared due to insufficient information.

    “This unfortunate incident underscores the urgent need for Nepal’s education authorities to reevaluate policies affecting students’ safety, dignity, and future abroad. More importantly, strengthening academic institutions is essential to retaining our students,” stated Joshi. 

    “Lack of seats in universities across Nepal and fewer post graduation courses have been age-old problems in Nepal, which prompts students to go to India or elsewhere.”

    As Nepal grapples with its policies around education, the recent incident is far from being resolved as the investigation into the B.tech student’s death intensifies. 

    The state government of Odisha has summoned four more KIIT officials for questioning, with the institute stating that it is “committed to a safe and uninterrupted learning environment for all students.”

    KIIT has not yet responded to questions from The PIE News.



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