Archive · 30 Jul 2026
Indian Students Shift Away From Western Destinations
Indian students used to go to the US, UK, Canada, and Australia for college.
In 2024, fewer students went to Canada, the UK, and the US because visas got harder, tuition was expensive, and jobs after graduation were uncertain.
Germany and France became more popular because they have lower tuition, English‑taught programs, and good job chances after graduation.
Some students also went to smaller European countries and even Russia or New Zealand.
A big report says that hidden costs like consultant fees and visa charges can raise the total cost by up to two‑thirds.
Many students borrow money or use family savings, and not many take advantage of scholarships.
The report was made by the International Organization for Migration India, the Ministry of External Affairs, and the Indian Council of World Affairs.
Indian student enrolments in Canada fell 41% in 2024, the largest drop among top destinations.
Germany and France saw 34‑42% and ~25% growth in Indian student numbers, becoming new popular destinations.
Hidden consultancy and visa costs can inflate pre‑departure expenses by up to 66% for students heading to Western countries.
Stricter visa rules, higher tuition, and uncertain post‑study work prospects are driving the decline to the US, UK, and Canada.
The IOM India, MEA, and ICWA report highlights financial hurdles, unregulated consultants, and low scholarship uptake among Indian students.
- Who
- Indian students
- What
- Shift in study abroad destinations and influencing factors
- When
- 2024 data, with changes projected for 2025-26
- Where
- From the US, UK, and Canada to Germany, France, and other European countries
- Why
- Stricter immigration rules, higher costs, uncertain post‑study work prospects, and hidden fees
- Total Indian students abroad 2024
- 7.59 lakh
- Drop in Canada enrolments 2024
- 41%
- Growth in Germany enrolments 2024
- 34-42%
- Hidden cost inflation
- up to 66%
- Main report collaborators
- IOM India, MEA, ICWA