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Indian students are increasingly pursuing global education opportunities, but their ambitions are met with rising barriers as key study destinations impose stricter restrictions and higher costs read more
In recent years, there has been a marked increase in the number of Indian students choosing to pursue higher education abroad. According to the Bureau of Immigration of the Ministry of Home Affairs, by October 2023, approximately 765,000 Indian students had studied abroad, a figure expected to surpass 900,000 by 2024. This surge in outbound student mobility is driven by a range of factors, from a quest for global education to enhanced career prospects and exposure to diverse cultures. However, this growing trend is juxtaposed against increasing barriers imposed by key study destinations—Australia, Canada and the UK—creating a complex landscape for aspiring students.
Reasons behind the surge
The rising trend of Indian students seeking education overseas can be attributed to several key factors:
Pursuit of quality education: Many Indian students are attracted to the high academic standards and global recognition of universities abroad. Institutions in countries like the USA, UK, Canada and Australia often feature in global rankings, offering cutting-edge research facilities, diverse academic programmes and renowned faculty. This quality of education is a significant draw for students aiming to gain a competitive edge in their careers.
Career opportunities: Studying abroad often provides students with better career opportunities. Graduates from prestigious international institutions frequently benefit from expansive professional networks, internship opportunities and exposure to global job markets. Many students view international education as a gateway to lucrative career paths and higher earning potential.
Cultural exposure and global perspectives: Exposure to different cultures and perspectives is another compelling reason for studying abroad. Indian students seek to broaden their horizons, develop a global mindset and experience diverse ways of life. This cultural enrichment not only enhances personal growth but also adds value to their professional profiles.
Advanced research and innovation: Students pursuing higher education in foreign universities often have access to advanced research facilities and innovative methodologies. This access is particularly appealing to those interested in fields such as technology, science and engineering, where cutting-edge research can significantly impact their future careers.
Language and communication skills: Studying in English-speaking countries helps students improve their language proficiency and communication skills. This linguistic advantage is highly valued in the global job market and can be crucial for career advancement.
Challenges and policy shifts in major destinations
Despite the rising number of Indian students opting for education abroad, several countries have recently implemented measures that complicate this pursuit. These policy shifts reflect a broader trend of tightening immigration controls and adjusting to domestic challenges.
Australia’s reduced intake
Australia has traditionally been a favoured destination for Indian students, with over 122,000 currently enrolled. However, the Australian government’s recent decision to cap international student numbers at 270,000 by 2025 represents a significant reduction from previous years. This policy aims to address Australia’s housing crisis and high living costs, which have been exacerbated by a surge in migration. The new cap, along with a near-doubling of the visa fee from AUD 710 to AUD 1,600, creates significant hurdles for prospective Indian students. Punjab, a major contributor of students to Australia, faces particularly severe implications, with limited opportunities and increased financial burdens now on the horizon. According to an NDTV report, this move is part of a broader strategy to address the country’s housing crisis and manage record levels of migration.
Canada’s shifting immigration policies
Canada has long been perceived as a welcoming destination for Indian students, offering a combination of high-quality education and favourable post-graduation work opportunities. However, recent changes in immigration policies are beginning to cast a shadow over this reputation. The introduction of new restrictions on the temporary foreign workers’ programme and a reduction in permanent residency nominations have sparked protests among international students, particularly those from India. These measures are part of Canada’s broader strategy to address rising unemployment rates and prioritise local employment. The rollback of the temporary foreign workers’ programme, which saw a dramatic increase in permits from 183,820 in 2023 (an 88 percent rise from 2019), reflects a shift towards mitigating employment concerns and reducing the reliance on foreign labour.
UK’s stricter visa policies
The UK has historically been one of the top destinations for Indian students, known for its prestigious universities and the Graduate Route visa (GRV), which allows work post-graduation. However, recent policy changes are beginning to discourage Indian students from applying to UK universities. According to the Hindustan Times, the UK Home Office data indicates a 23 per cent drop in Indian students pursuing higher studies in the UK. This decline is attributed to stricter visa restrictions, including a ban on bringing dependent family members and increased scrutiny on visa applications. Additionally, the uncertainty surrounding the GRV and potential future restrictions, such as those suggested by former prime minister Rishi Sunak, add to the unpredictability, further diminishing the appeal of UK universities for Indian students. The financial impact on UK universities, which rely heavily on international student fees, is also significant, potentially leading to a reevaluation of their dependence on foreign student revenues.
New reality of global education
The evolving landscape of global education presents a stark contrast between the increasing aspiration of Indian students to study abroad and the rising barriers in host countries. These policy changes—driven by domestic economic concerns and a desire to manage immigration—create a more competitive, costly and uncertain environment for international students.
Indian students, who have traditionally viewed countries like Australia, Canada and the UK as gateways to superior education and career advancement, now face a challenging reality. The combination of rising costs, stricter immigration controls and policy shifts in these countries reflects a broader shift in the global education landscape. As Indian students navigate this complex terrain, they must adapt to new realities that challenge their aspirations and require careful consideration of their educational and professional goals.
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