Rising Number of Indian Students Studying Abroad

Nowadays, Indian students are flocking to study abroad in large numbers. In 2021, as travel restrictions began to lift, a significant shift emerged, with more students than ever seeking education in developed countries. The rising number of Indian Students studying abroad can be because of the dreams of millions of students and their parents. Whether it’s the quality of education, or better job opportunities, the allure of foreign degrees is stronger than ever.

Rising Number of Indian Students Studying Abroad: Key Drivers

The rising number of Indian students studying abroad can be attributed to a few primary reasons:

• Quality of Education and Global Recognition: Many Indian students are drawn to the Quality of degrees from universities in the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia.
• Employment Opportunities and Post-Study Work Visas: Most students aspire to work and settle in the countries where they study. Post-study work visas, such as the UK’s Graduate Route visa, Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), and Australia’s Temporary Graduate Visa, have made it easier for students to gain work experience.
• Pathways to Permanent Residency: Countries like Canada and Australia are attractive due to their accessible pathways to permanent residency. The Canadian Express Entry program, for instance, favours applicants with Canadian education and work experience.
• Scholarship and Loan Availability: The growing availability of scholarships, educational loans, and funding options has enabled more Indian students to pursue their aspirations.

Rising Number of Indian Students: Post-Pandemic Surge

After the pandemic restrictions were lifted, the number of Indian students going abroad increased sharply. In 2021, many countries opened their borders, relaxing rules around student visas and reintroducing post-study work permits. The increased demand from Indian students was met by new policies and visa flexibility.

The easing of restrictions also led to a backlog of applications in 2021 and 2022. The result was a substantial surge in student numbers.

United Kingdom

The UK reintroduced its post-study work visa, known as the Graduate Route, which allows students to remain in the country for up to two years after graduation (or three years for PhD graduates). In the UK, Indian students received 133,237 study visas in 2023, representing a 5% increase from the previous year.

United States

The growth of Indian students in the U.S. is notable, particularly in STEM programs. However, the claim of a 46% increase by 2024 is not supported by the latest statistics.

Canada

Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is indeed a significant draw for international students. The Express Entry program often favors those educated in Canada.

Australia

Australia’s borders were closed longer than those of many other countries. After the reopening, there was a significant rise in applications.

It can be said that the Indian students accounted for 42% of Graduate Route visas issued between 2021 and 2023. The total number of Indian students studying abroad rose from 1,318,955 in 2023 to 1,335,878 in 2024.

The Role of Student Visas in the Surge

The student visa plays a central role in enabling this rise in international study. A few reasons behind its importance include:

• Flexibility in Work-Study Balance: Many countries now allow students to work part-time on a student visa, making it easier to manage expenses.
• Pathway to Work Permits and Residency: A student visa is now more than a permit to study; it’s also the first step toward long-term employment and even residency in countries like Canada and Australia.

Why the Sudden Increase in 2023 and 2024?

The leap in student numbers post-2022 can be attributed to several converging factors:

• Post-Pandemic Aspirations: Many students had postponed plans in 2020 and 2021. When borders reopened, there was a rush to fulfil long-held ambitions, causing a surge.
• Improved Economic Support: More students can afford education abroad with expanded scholarship programs and easier access to loans.

What to Expect in the Coming Years

With more Indian students heading abroad every year, 2025 may well see record-breaking numbers. Countries are actively recruiting Indian students, recognizing them as a significant part of their educational ecosystem. Student visas are expected to continue as an essential bridge for students. Many of these countries are likely to further enhance visa policies to attract top talent from India.

Moreover, the rise of new study-abroad destinations like Germany, Ireland, and New Zealand suggests that the options for Indian students to get student visa will continue to diversify. Rising Number of Indian Students and student-friendly policies to meet these demands are increasingly globalized with the help of student bodies.

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