In comparison with 2023, the number of Indian students studying abroad has dropped significantly everywhere. University World News says the UK is experiencing an even sharper decline in Indian students than the US, with a “28%” drop, going from 136,921 students in 2023 to 98,890 in 2024.
Canada, the UK and US, are still the most popular destinations for Indian, and other international students, despite the dropping numbers. Icef Monitor says, “these destinations still accounted for nearly three-quarters (72%) of Indian students abroad in 2024.”
Australia also experienced a decline in their Indian student enrolment numbers, with University World News confirming numbers decreased from 78,093 in 2023, to 68,572 in 2024.
The UK
The Indian Express reports that before this most recent decline, 2023 was the first year that the UK noticed its first decrease in Indian student numbers since the coronavirus pandemic.
“That year, the number of Indian students receiving visas dropped by 13%”, from 138,980 in 2022 to 119,738 in 2023.
What is causing the decrease?
There are a mixture of reasons that are resulting in Indian students being discouraged to apply abroad. For example, Trump’s inauguration and visa policies are likely to be the concern when applying to study in the US.
In the UK, some remaining confusion about post-study work visas which needs to be addressed in order for students to feel supported when it comes to employability prospects.
But, also for the first time in the UK, safety was mentioned to be a concern. The Hindu.com says that anti-immigration riots that occurred in some cities previous to the 2024 autumn admittance raised unease for the wellbeing of students.
Emerging destinations
Factors like tuition fees, visa applications, cost of living and working opportunities play a large role in deciding factors when students choose where to study. As a result, student applications have increased in some countries that hadn’t previously dominated the university sector.
According to University World News, “Indian student numbers have risen in Russia, France, Germany, and New Zealand.
“In Russia, Indian student enrolment grew from 19,784 in 2022 to 23,503 in 2023, reaching 31,444 in 2024.”
The future of Indian students abroad
Depending on how each country responds to the expectations of students, we may either see an increase or further decrease in Indian students studying abroad.
Founder and director of OneStep Global, Aritra Gosal says, “Clarity in immigration policies, expanded post-study work opportunities, and stronger institutional support will determine their ability to remain at the forefront of global education.”
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