In a significant shift, the number of Indian students going abroad for higher studies dropped from 8.92 lakh in 2023 to 7.59 lakh in 2024. The figures, revealed by the Ministry of External Affairs in Parliament, mark a notable decline in global education trends for Indian youth.
Canada Witnesses a Massive 41 Percent Fall
The steepest decline was recorded in Canada, where the number of Indian students fell from 2,33,532 in 2023 to 1,37,608 in 2024 — a 41 percent drop. Experts attribute this to ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, along with uncertainties around visa processing.
US and UK Also See Decline
The United States, once the most sought-after destination, saw Indian student numbers fall from over 2.34 lakh in 2023 to about 2.04 lakh this year. Similarly, the United Kingdom saw a drop from 1.36 lakh students last year to only 98,000 in 2024. Factors such as visa delays, tuition hikes, and job uncertainties may be contributing to this trend.
Rise of Non-Traditional Destinations
Interestingly, countries like Bangladesh, Uzbekistan, Russia, and Singapore are seeing a rise in Indian student enrollment. Bangladesh’s numbers rose from 20,368 to 29,232 in just a year. Uzbekistan attracted 9,915 students, up from 6,601. Russia, a long-time favorite for medical education, increased its count from 25,503 to 31,444. Singapore too showed growth, from 12,000 to over 14,000 students.
Why This Shift is Happening
Analysts suggest that the decline in Western destinations is driven by long visa wait times, increasing tuition fees, and global geopolitical concerns. On the other hand, emerging destinations offer cost-effective education, easier admission processes, and career-focused programs, particularly in fields like medicine.
The Bigger Picture
While the total number of Indian students heading abroad remains high, this year’s data highlights a major shift in preference. With affordability and accessibility becoming key concerns, the global education map for Indian students may be undergoing a permanent transformation.
