With the latest accession of Romania and Bulgaria to the Schengen Area, there happens to be an increase in the study options for non-EU students. Taking the discussion to the readers’ demographics encompassing Pakistani students, some of the public is unaware of the potential benefits of studying in the recently joined Schengen countries. Let us dissect the article in terms of the core benefits these countries might offer.

Over the years, I have come across people knowing little or nothing about the unexplored Schengen countries, courtesy of the country-of-origin effect or their less travel experiences to these states. Europe is a benchmark in itself that might least bother at times when it comes to the ranking race in studies. There do exist universities in Europe that are single, double, and triple crown accredited – EQUIS, Association of MBAs, and Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business – yet not being explored by students.

Students or counselors must know that for a country to become part of the EU and Schengen requires a specific set of legal and quality protocols that these countries have met, and then they are given accession to these zones. It takes a decade or even more to meet those infrastructural and legal parameters to make it to the Schengen area – depicting that the country meets at least the minimum set standards. Therefore, quality education may not be an exception, and students may opt for modernized education at rather affordable prices. Yes, the affordability plank is one important aspect, especially considering the current economic unrest. Not to have a hole in your guardian’s pocket, the diverse EU countries have a lot to offer, from scholarship options to a low semester fee ranging from a few thousand euros.

This can be the catch for students aiming to make it big out of their limited choices. And above it, scholarship platforms like Erasmus +, Marie Sklodowska Curie, etc., to name a few, are some notable options. This can further be aided by legal working hours for students that also vary from undergraduate to post-graduate degree level. Once the degree is finished, the option of a job search visa can be availed, which might help you secure a job. The political and legal factors should be considered more precisely, given the political shifts in various parts of the world. From the study course perspective, there are plenty of options at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. This further circles all the main fields, i.e., business, medical, engineering, IT, and other related domains.

The next benefit in line could be the diversity and exposure attained during travel. Going with most of the philosophers who affirm that travel teaches a lot, Schengen states provide one with the best of travelling exposures. With interconnected rail networks to inter-Europe economical buses, one might experience the best of European landscapes and renowned destinations within reasonable prices. And don’t forget budget air carriers, which mainly include Ryan Air, Wizz air, Easy Jet, etc. This can further help students make it to academic conferences and workshops across Schengen countries, which can definitely be a value addition in students’ ongoing study protocols.

On a side note, cold weather could be something to deal with, especially in Scandinavian/Nordic and/or Baltic territories, but it is also about getting used to it. In addition, the in-house heating systems tend to keep it normal, at least inside. So, all in all, it is time for students to explore the yet unexplored, less crowded Schengen countries, which may have a lot to offer to contribute to their personal and professional development given the factors discussed above.

Again, this is not to undermine the value of popular study destinations, which have their own unique offerings. Instead, it presents a viewpoint that encourages students to explore other parts of the world that provide rather different offerings. More can be written about the quality of life and possible business opportunities, etc., but the idea is to sum it up for prospective study options.

This could also be a way forward for the Higher Education Commission and universities to explore these Schengen territories for MoUs and collaborations so that students not only have more study options but also bring diverse exposure back home – further passing it on to the academic community.

The author holds a doctorate and works as an instructor in a higher education institution. He can be reached at aabbas724@gmail.com