A significant shift is emerging in the study-abroad preferences of Indian students. The latest data reveals a 13% decline in applications to the United States, a trend that has sparked concern among American universities and policymakers. Meanwhile, Russia, Germany, and France have recorded a substantial increase in Indian student enrolments.
Christopher Clary, an associate professor at the University at Albany, highlighted the 13% decline in Indian student enrollment in the US between 2023 and 2024. He attributed this trend to multiple factors, including:
Indian government data suggests that the total number of Indian students studying abroad fell by nearly 15% in 2024 compared to 2023. The biggest decline was recorded in Canada, which saw a staggering 41% drop in Indian student enrolments.
Canada experienced the most significant fall, with Indian student numbers plunging by 41%, from 2,33,532 in 2023 to 1,37,608 in 2024.
This sharp decline follows:
Apart from the US and Canada, major destinations such as the UK, Australia, and China also witnessed a fall in Indian student numbers.
Country | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | Change (%) |
United States | 234473 | 204058 | -12.9% | |
Canada | 233532 | 137608 | -41% | |
United Kingdom | 136921 | 98890 | -27.7% | |
Australia | 78093 | 68572 | -12% | |
China | 7279 | 7279 | 4978 | -31.6% |
Russia | 19784 | 23503 | 31444 | +33.7% |
France | 6406 | 7484 | 8536 | +14% |
Germany | 20684 | 23296 | 34702 | +49% |
New Zealand | 1605 | 4298 | 7297 | +69.7% |
UK: The drop in Indian students is linked to stricter visa rules and changes in post-study work policies.
Australia: Higher visa fees, stricter entry requirements, and housing affordability concerns have contributed to the decline.
China: A reduction in Indian students was recorded, potentially due to post-pandemic geopolitical considerations.
Despite the overall decline, some destinations have recorded a significant rise in Indian student enrolments.
The shifting preferences of Indian students highlight the importance of cost considerations, visa policies, and diplomatic relations in their decision-making. While the US and UK have long been top choices, emerging destinations like Russia and Germany are becoming increasingly attractive due to affordability and favourable study conditions.
As nations compete for international students, it remains to be seen how these trends evolve in the coming years and whether traditional study destinations will adapt to regain their appeal among Indian students.
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Published on: Mar 12, 2025, 2:43 PM IST
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