Declining Trends: Why Are Indian Students Studying Abroad Less in Recent Years?
With over 32 years of experience as an international career counselor and immigration lawyer, I’ve seen many changes in how Indian students approach studying abroad.
Recently, there has been a noticeable dip in the number of Indian students going overseas for higher education. Let’s explore the reasons behind this shift and what it means for aspiring students.
Latest Numbers Tell the Story:
Government data shows that in 2024, around 7.6 lakh Indian students pursued studies abroad, down nearly 15% from about 8.95 lakh in 2023. This decline is particularly significant in countries like Canada, the US, and the UK. For example, Canada saw a sharp fall of about 41% in Indian student numbers, from roughly 2,33,000 in 2023 to 1,37,000 last year. The US and UK also experienced reductions, although not as steep.
Interestingly, while traditional popular destinations recorded declines, countries such as Germany, France, Russia, Singapore, UAE, and Uzbekistan have seen growth, reflecting students’ willingness to explore alternative options.
Why Is This Happening?
Financial Challenges:
The cost of studying abroad keeps rising. Tuition fees, living costs, and even travel expenses add up quickly. Many families find it harder to afford these expenses, especially with currency fluctuations and increasing education loan interest rates. While scholarships help some, they are limited and fiercely competitive.
Visa and Immigration Complexities:
Getting a student visa is no longer straightforward. Many countries have become stricter about granting visas and work permits after graduation. Students need to understand that studying abroad doesn’t guarantee a job or easy immigration. This uncertainty causes many to think twice before making the move.
Political and Diplomatic Changes:
Diplomatic relations between India and some destination countries have impacted visa approvals and student numbers. For instance, issues between India and Canada have contributed to the steep drop in applications there. Global political shifts can influence immigration policies, affecting student mobility.
Better Education Options at Home:
India’s education system is improving with new initiatives, better infrastructure, and international collaborations. These improvements encourage some students to pursue higher education within India or consider hybrid programs involving both domestic and international studies.
Lingering Pandemic Effects:
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global mobility and created concerns about safety and quality of education remotely. Though international travel is largely back to normal, many students remain cautious, factoring in the possibility of future disruptions.
Final Thoughts
The decline in Indian students studying abroad is a complex issue influenced by financial, legal, political, and global factors. However, the hunger for international education remains intact. As an expert, I always counsel students and families to plan carefully, stay informed about visa and immigration rules, and explore diverse study destinations.
With realistic expectations and expert guidance, Indian students can still achieve their dreams of studying abroad and settlement successfully—even in a more challenging environment provided they wish to plan, show patience and follow the advise of experts.
— Written by Mr. Prashant Ajmera an international career counselor and immigration lawyer with over three decades of experience helping Indian students. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drYOdGcwJPQ
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