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Indian Express
4 days ago
- Business
- Indian Express
Australia hikes student visa fee to AUD 2,000: List of major study abroad destinations and their visa costs
Australia has increased the student visa application fee for Subclass 500, from AUD 1,600 to AUD 2,000, effective 1 July 2025, making it the highest among major English-language study destinations. According to Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Finance Minister Katy Gallagher, the hike is expected to generate AUD 760 million over four years. University of Western Australia to launch its first global campuses in Chennai and Mumbai According to reports, the government emphasised that it is part of a broader strategy to manage the booming international education sector sustainably. Here's a country-wise table of student visa fee hikes since September 2024: –Australia's 25% increase contrasts with smaller or no fee rises elsewhere. –UK student visa fees rose about 7% from £490 to £524 from April 2025. –US non-immigrant student visa (F/M/J) fee increased from $160 to $185 on 17 June 2023. –Notably, Canada, Germany, and France have not significantly changed student visa fees since September 2024. Here's a more in-depth, country-by-country breakdown of visa requirements and financial proof needed. NEET UG 2025 Result: Getting a seat in India seems difficult? Here's how to choose the right medical college abroad Australia With the visa fee now AUD 2,000 (approx Rs 112,000), Australia also requires students to maintain AUD 21,041 in living expenses in a bank account, plus course tuition and travel costs. The fee hike accompanies stricter enrollment caps and sustainability measures, significantly increasing the upfront cost for students. United Kingdom From 9 April 2025, the UK increased its main student visa (Tier 4 / Student Route) fee to £524 (approx Rs 52,400). Additionally, maintenance funds were updated: £1,483/month in London and £1,136/month elsewhere, requiring students to show between £11,360–£17,796 depending on program length. 'Studying abroad opened doors I never imagined,' says student at UK's Manchester Metropolitan University Canada Canada's study permit fee remains C$150 (approximately Rs 9,500), with no recent hikes. Canada also requires demonstrating C$10,000 (or CAD 11,000 in Quebec) in bank balance to cover living costs—notably lower visa costs make Canada more budget‑friendly. 'India is the most exciting place for global higher education': University of York VC on launching Mumbai campus United States The US charges a visa fee of US$185 (approximately Rs 15,355). In addition, all F/M/J visa applicants must pay a SEVIS I‑901 fee: US$350 (approximately Rs 29,050) Funds proof varies by school, but students normally need to show enough to cover one year's tuition (e.g., US$20,000–30,000) plus living expenses (approx US$10,000–12,000). Germany The visa fee for a German student visa is €75, which must be paid in Indian Rupees (Rs 7,537.50) at the current exchange rate determined by the respective German Consulate or Embassy. France France generally charges no visa fee or a modest €50 consular charge. Students must demonstrate €615/month (Rs 52,000), totaling about €7,380 (approximately Rs 6.15 lakh) annually, depending on university requirements. Harvard advises international students to avoid Boston Logan airport amid heightened US border scrutiny: Report These fee increases, especially Australia's steep hike, will place additional financial burdens on international students. Australia's outing now makes it the most expensive major destination; while countries like Canada, Germany, and France remain comparatively affordable, rising costs in the UK and US further narrow options. This trend risks discouraging prospective students, especially from countries like India, potentially affecting global talent mobility, diversity in universities, and long-term soft-power stance.
Yahoo
06-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Not Tonight, Honey... I'm Allergic to Your Spunk
Allergic reactions to semen are, unfortunately, very real. In an essay for The Conversation, reproductive science specialist Michael Carroll of the UK's Manchester Metropolitan University explained that allergic reactions to seminal fluid can manifest as a nasty response to a partner's ejaculate, or even your own. The most common semen allergy is what's known as "seminal plasma hypersensitivity" or SPH, in which women who have sex with men react to proteins in seminal plasma, the goopy stuff that makes up spunk. In other words, it's the seminal fluid that's to blame, not the sperm itself — but the symptoms are very real, ranging from irritating vulvar itching and painful vaginal burning to anaphylactic shock. Bottom line? A lot of people might be suffering from this and not even know it. If you might be, doctors recommend either using condoms, taking antihistamines before sex, taking anti-inflammatory medications after sex, or desensitization therapy involving exposure of diluted semen to the skin. "If sex routinely leaves you itchy, sore or unwell — and condoms help — you might be allergic to semen," Carroll wrote. First documented nearly 60 years ago when a woman had to be hospitalized for her "violent allergic reaction" to sex, SPH is still, the reproductive expert wrote, often underdiagnosed. Until the year 1997, the medical establishment thought that fewer than 100 women had ever experienced the allergy, but a seminal — sorry — study that year found that nearly 12 percent of postcoital illnesses could be attributed to SPH. (Regrettably, there does not appear to be any formal inquiry whether men who have sex with men can have SPH, though there does appear to be anecdotal evidence that it does.) About 15 years later, Carroll conducted an informal survey that found the same rate of probable SPH, though he found that the cases had often gone misdiagnosed as sexually transmitted illnesses, yeast infections, or even run-of-the-mill "sensitivity." Given that its symptoms mirror some of those illnesses, it's not hard to see why. Along with being allergic to one's partner's semen, a separate condition known post-orgasmic illness syndrome (POIS) affects men who are allergic to their own skeet. With only 465 documented cases as of 2024, POIS can cause flu-like symptoms like fatigue and muscle aches immediately after ejaculation — and doctors are stumped as to its cause. Like SPH, both antihistamines and desensitization are recommended for POIS, as is hormonal therapy. Speaking about SPH specifically, Carroll noted that more often than not, "sex-related symptoms often go unspoken." "Embarrassment, stigma, and a lack of awareness among doctors mean that many women suffer in silence," the reproductive scientist said. More on weird sex stuff: Hanky Panky With Naughty AI Still Counts as Cheating, Therapist Says
Scottish Sun
25-06-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Itching, swelling and burning after sex may be signs of a surprisingly common allergy
Plus, when to call 999 after an allergic reaction LOVE HURTS Itching, swelling and burning after sex may be signs of a surprisingly common allergy Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) ITCHY genitals, a burning sensation, and feeling breathless are all considered normal after sex. But for a growing number of women, these symptoms could be a sign of seminal plasma hypersensitivity (SPH) - an allergy to semen. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 A growing number of women could suffer with a semen allergy Credit: Getty While it's considered a rare allergy, it's also underdiagnosed. And Michael Carroll, associate professor in reproductive science at Manchester Metropolitan University, explains it isn't triggered by sperm cells, but the fluid that carried the sperm. He said: "First documented in 1967, when a woman was hospitalised after a 'violent allergic reaction' to sex, SPH is now recognised as a type 1 hypersensitivity, the same category as hay fever, peanut allergy and cat dander." Writing for The Conversation, Carroll says symptoms of SPH can range from mild to severe. Read more on sex A DROUGHT The sex position & tips that will keep you cool whilst you're getting heated While some women experience local reactions, such as burning, itching, redness and swelling of the vulva or vagina, others develop full-body symptoms, like hives, wheezing, and even anaphylaxis. He added: "Until 1977, SPH was thought to affect fewer than 100 women globally. "But a study led by allergist Jonathan Bernstein found among women reporting postcoital symptoms, nearly 12 per cent could be classified as having probable SPH. "I conducted a small, unpublished survey in 2013 and found a similar 12 per cent rate. The true figure may be higher still. "Many cases go unreported, misdiagnosed, or dismissed as STIs, yeast infections, or general 'sensitivity'. "One revealing clue: symptoms disappear when condoms are used." Grand Designs' 'most ambitious project EVER' as parents build incredible allergy-proof 'healthy house' to protect kids The main allergen, according to Carroll, is prostate-specific antigen - a protein produced by cells in the prostate gland. And cross-reactivity is a possibility, for example, f5, a protein found in dog dander, is structurally similar to PSA. So a woman allergic to dogs may also be allergic to semen too. Also, woman may not be the only ones affected, said Carroll. It's possible some men be allergic to their own semen too. A paper published in American Journal of Case Reports described a 22-year-old was consumed by sneezing, watery eyes, stomach cramps, muscle pain and deep fatigue in the hours after climaxing. The condition is known as post-orgasmic illness syndrome (POIS). While SPH doesn't cause infertility directly, it can complicate conception. Carroll said: "Avoiding the allergen – usually the most effective treatment for allergies – isn't feasible for couples trying to conceive. Treatments include prophylactic antihistamines (antihistamine medications taken in advance of anticipated exposure to an allergen, or before allergy symptoms are expected to appear to prevent or reduce the severity of allergic reactions), anti-inflammatories and desensitisation using diluted seminal plasma. In more severe cases, couples may choose IVF with washed sperm, bypassing the allergic trigger altogether.
The Sun
25-06-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Itching, swelling and burning after sex may be signs of a surprisingly common allergy
ITCHY genitals, a burning sensation, and feeling breathless are all considered normal after sex. But for a growing number of women, these symptoms could be a sign of seminal plasma hypersensitivity (SPH) - an allergy to semen. While it's considered a rare allergy, it's also underdiagnosed. And Michael Carroll, associate professor in reproductive science at Manchester Metropolitan University, explains it isn't triggered by sperm cells, but the fluid that carried the sperm. He said: "First documented in 1967, when a woman was hospitalised after a 'violent allergic reaction' to sex, SPH is now recognised as a type 1 hypersensitivity, the same category as hay fever, peanut allergy and cat dander." Writing for The Conversation, Carroll says symptoms of SPH can range from mild to severe. While some women experience local reactions, such as burning, itching, redness and swelling of the vulva or vagina, others develop full-body symptoms, like hives, wheezing, and even anaphylaxis. He added: "Until 1977, SPH was thought to affect fewer than 100 women globally. "But a study led by allergist Jonathan Bernstein found among women reporting postcoital symptoms, nearly 12 per cent could be classified as having probable SPH. "I conducted a small, unpublished survey in 2013 and found a similar 12 per cent rate. The true figure may be higher still. "Many cases go unreported, misdiagnosed, or dismissed as STIs, yeast infections, or general 'sensitivity'. "One revealing clue: symptoms disappear when condoms are used." Grand Designs' 'most ambitious project EVER' as parents build incredible allergy-proof 'healthy house' to protect kids The main allergen, according to Carroll, is prostate-specific antigen - a protein produced by cells in the prostate gland. And cross-reactivity is a possibility, for example, f5, a protein found in dog dander, is structurally similar to PSA. So a woman allergic to dogs may also be allergic to semen too. Also, woman may not be the only ones affected, said Carroll. It's possible some men be allergic to their own semen too. A paper published in American Journal of Case Reports described a 22-year-old was consumed by sneezing, watery eyes, stomach cramps, muscle pain and deep fatigue in the hours after climaxing. The condition is known as post-orgasmic illness syndrome (POIS). While SPH doesn't cause infertility directly, it can complicate conception. Carroll said: "Avoiding the allergen – usually the most effective treatment for allergies – isn't feasible for couples trying to conceive. Treatments include prophylactic antihistamines (antihistamine medications taken in advance of anticipated exposure to an allergen, or before allergy symptoms are expected to appear to prevent or reduce the severity of allergic reactions), anti-inflammatories and desensitisation using diluted seminal plasma. In more severe cases, couples may choose IVF with washed sperm, bypassing the allergic trigger altogether. When to call 999 after an allergic reaction Call 999 if: your lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly become swollen you're breathing very fast or struggling to breathe (you may become very wheezy or feel like you're choking or gasping for air) your throat feels tight or you're struggling to swallow your skin, tongue or lips turn blue, grey or pale (if you have black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet) you suddenly become very confused, drowsy or dizzy someone faints and cannot be woken up a child is limp, floppy or not responding like they normally do (their head may fall to the side, backwards or forwards, or they may find it difficult to lift their head or focus on your face) You or the person who's unwell may also have a rash that's swollen, raised or itchy. These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.
BBC News
24-06-2025
- Business
- BBC News
Hotspur Press building left a smoking ruin after major Manchester fire
A building on the site of what was believed to be Manchester's oldest mill is now a smouldering ruin after a major Hotspur Press building on Cambridge Street, close to Manchester Oxford Road railway station, was destroyed by a fire on Monday, leading to its partial collapse. The Victorian structure had fallen into a dilapidated state since the printing press closed down in 1996, and stood in contrast with some of the modern city blocks surrounding it. However, despite a number of delays, it had been earmarked for a major development scheme. Opened in the 1800s on the banks of the River Medlock, the building started life as a cotton mill, known as Medlock Mill. It was later repurposed as a printing press in 1902, and remained in business for 94 years. After years of failed attempts to redevelop the site, London-based developer Manner took on the building in 2020, and began working on new plans. Last May, the firm was given planning permission from Manchester City Council to turn the building into a 37 storey, 595 bed block of student flats. But the scheme was delayed after Manner twice changed its designs, and earlier this month said it was planning to submit fresh proposals to the council. The firm had vowed to "draw on the historical roots of the site" for the project, which would have involved some of the original building being demolished. While the original application for planning permission was granted, it attracted opposition from Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) over the lack of affordable units. MMU had told councillors it had concerns that less than 20% of units would have been available at a discounted rent and also "the predominance of studio units which are less affordable than cluster units". But in a report to the planning committee, council officials also wrote it was estimated the development would add £3.6m to the local economy. The report, in May 2024, added: "This proposal would redevelop a derelict and vacant, low quality brownfield site close to the Oxford Road Corridor." The proposed student tower was initially intended to be clad in redbrick panels, but that was changed earlier this year to be anodised metal, appearing to be had since revised its plans for the building to include a bronze finish on the firm denied the change was related to its profit margins, with Manner boss Richard James telling the BBC in June that the firm "wanted to listen and take on board feedback".Manner has confirmed it is aware of the fire but has yet to comment further. GMFRS said on Monday evening it had deployed 20 fire engines to the fire, including two aerial units. It said the fire spread to a neighbouring apartment building,1 Cambridge Street, which was evacuated. An investigation into the cause of the fire was expected to begin on Tuesday. Listen to the best of BBC Radio Manchester on BBC Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram, and watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer.
