Lucknow students prefer Europe to US for higher studies abroad
Lucknow: For Aashika Singh, a postgraduate student from Lucknow, choosing between University of Pennsylvania in the United States and University of Deusto in Spain was not a tough task.
"Studying in the US appeared out of reach because of high fee and strict visa policies. Europe not only fits my budget but also gives me the chance to work after my course, which is a huge advantage," says Aashika.
Like Aashika, many students from Lucknow are choosing European countries like Germany, Spain, Sweden, Ireland, and France for higher education, shifting from traditional destinations like the USA, UK, and Canada.
This trend was revealed by a quick survey conducted by TOI, involving conversations with various student consultants, candidates, and agencies.
According to data collected by Consultifly, a study abroad consultancy, from various agencies, around 7,100 students from Lucknow are expected to go abroad for studies in 2025, up from approximately 6,000 last year, marking an 18% increase overall.
While the total number of outbound students has risen, the count of those choosing the US, UK, and Canada has dropped due to stricter visa rules, limited post-study work opportunities and soaring tuition costs.
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In 2024, nearly 3,800-4,000 students from Lucknow chose these countries. In 2025, the number fell to around 2,500-2,800, primarily due to rising tuition fees and increasingly stringent visa regulations.
In contrast, European destinations like Germany, Spain, Ireland, Sweden, and France are emerging as more appealing alternatives, offering affordable or free education, relaxed visa norms, and strong post-study employment pathways.
About 1,000 students from Lucknow chose Europe in 2024, a number that jumped to 1,400-1,500 this year.
"We've observed a 40% rise in applications to European universities from Lucknow in the last two years," said Suresh Katti, founder and CEO of Consultifly.
"We have seen a 35% rise in applications from students aspiring to study in Sweden, Ireland, and France this year," said Abdul Raza Khan, manager at Visa GlobeMaster.
"I chose Germany because I could study for free with my B1-level German certificate and only pay for food and accommodation," said Prithvi Sharma, who plans to pursue computer science in Germany.
Spain is gaining attraction as well. Programmes in business, creative arts, event management, and sports management are popular.
"Unlike traditional destinations where tuition fees and living expenses are overwhelming, studying in Europe allows me to focus on learning without constant financial stress.
The people are warm, campuses are diverse, and everyday life is budget-friendly. The chance to work after my degree adds real value to the entire experience," said Kushagra Singh, an undergraduate student pursuing event management and marketing in Spain.
Ireland sees an intake mostly in MBA, data science, and public health. Sweden attracts primarily for AI, sustainability, and tech innovation courses.
France is also becoming a preferred destination, with students opting for courses in management, fashion design, and public policy.
"Choosing Ireland was a strategic decision. The universities here are globally ranked, and the two-year stay-back option after graduation gives me ample time to find a job in my field. Moreover, the friendly environment and English-speaking culture made it easier to settle in," said Pranav Sharma, MSc in Data Analytics, University College Dublin.
"Sweden offers a perfect blend of innovation and sustainability in education.
My program emphasises hands-on learning and critical thinking. International students are allowed to stay and look for jobs after graduating which is helpful," said Ritika Mehta, Master's in Sustainable Engineering, Lund University.
"France wasn't my first choice initially, but once I explored the affordable tuition, diverse culture, and generous scholarship options, it became the obvious option. Studying in Mont-Saint-Aignan has exposed me to a truly international community and exciting career prospects in Europe," said Prakhar Bansal, who is set to pursue master's course in international business from NEOMA Business School, France.
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