15 Percent Drop in Indians Studying Abroad; Canada, UK & US See Decline as Germany, Russia, France Rise in Popularity

The number of Indian students going abroad for higher education has decreased by 15% in 2024, according to recent data released by the Union Education Ministry and Bureau of Immigration. While 892,989 Indian students traveled abroad to study in 2023, this figure fell to 759,064 in 2024, reversing the upward trend seen in previous years. Students planning to study overseas are now re-evaluating their options due to visa rejections, stricter immigration policies, and financial challenges in top study destinations.

Which Study Abroad Destinations Are Seeing Fewer Indian Students?

The decline is most visible in traditionally preferred countries for Indian students:

Collectively, these countries saw a 27% year-over-year drop, with Indian student numbers falling from 604,926 to 440,556 in just one year.

Check: Best Countries for Studying Abroad

What’s Behind the Fall in Indian Students Going Abroad?

Several factors are causing this downturn:

1. Stricter Visa Rules & Rejections

Countries like Canada, the UK, and the US have tightened visa processes, leading to higher rejection rates for Indian students.

2. Higher Financial Requirements

Increased proof of funds and higher tuition fees are making foreign education expensive and out of reach for many Indian families.

3. Diplomatic Tensions

The India-Canada diplomatic standoff, triggered by allegations made by Canadian PM Justin Trudeau in 2023, has worsened the situation. Canada also recalled 41 Indian diplomats, further straining relations and impacting student visa approvals.

4. Policy Changes in the UK and Australia

• The UK now restricts international students from bringing dependents, except for specific programs.
• Australia has increased visa fees and imposed stricter visa and work policies, discouraging many prospective students.

Countries Gaining Popularity Among Indian Students in 2024

While traditional destinations saw a decline, other countries have emerged as new study abroad hotspots for Indian students:

• Germany: Student numbers rose to 34,702 in 2024 from 23,296 in 2023.
• Russia: Increased to 31,444 from 23,503 in 2023.
• Uzbekistan: Now hosts 9,915 Indian students.
• Bangladesh: Up to 8,864 students in 2024.
• France: Growing steadily to 8,536 in 2024, up from 7,484 in 2023.
• New Zealand: A sharp rise from 1,605 in 2022 to 7,297 in 2024.

Other countries seeing a rise in Indian student enrollments include Malaysia, Singapore, Kazakhstan, Ireland, and the Philippines.

Read More: Eligibility to study abroad

Key Documents for Studying Abroad in 2024

Students planning to study abroad should prepare the following essential documents:

• Valid Passport
• University Admission/Offer Letter
• Financial Proof (Bank Statements, Scholarships)
• Academic Records (Transcripts, Degree Certificates)
• English Language Proficiency Test Scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Student Visa Application and Fee Receipts
• Medical and Travel Insurance

Check: Best Universities Abroad

What Should Study Abroad Aspirants Expect in 2025?

With immigration policies tightening and diplomatic relations evolving, Indian students should:

• Stay updated on the latest visa guidelines and student policies.
• Explore emerging study destinations like Germany, France, and Russia.
• Evaluate financial aspects, including cost of living and scholarships.
• Consider courses with strong post-study work prospects.

As Canada, the US, UK, and Australia implement stricter rules, Indian students are shifting focus to affordable and welcoming countries like Germany, Russia, and France for their higher education dreams. Students planning to study abroad should plan early, stay informed, and explore alternative destinations that offer better visa access and career opportunities.