Why more Indian students are choosing Canada over the US in 2025

India Today

8 hours ago

The global map of higher education is shifting once again. While the United States has traditionally remained the most popular destination for Indian students, recent challenges from rising tuition fees and mounting student debt to tightening visa norms and political polarisation are reshaping mobility trends. Canada, long seen as a safe and welcoming alternative, is re-emerging as the country of choice for international students, particularly from India.advertisementAccording to the Ministry of External Affairs, by the end of 2024 there were 427,000 Indian students in Canada compared with 337,630 in the US. A 2025 survey by ApplyBoard underscored this preference: 94% of study-abroad aspirants ranked Canada as their top destination, citing affordability, safety, and immigration-friendly policies as decisive factors.(Figures differ across sources depending on whether they measure visas, permits, or active enrolments.)
At universities such as the University of British Columbia, international enrolments have already risen by 27%--a trend driven in part by the turbulence south of the border. For institutions like Huron University in Ontario, this shift signals both opportunities and responsibilities.(As per university announcements, since it's institution-specific, not sector-wide.)A ROLLER COASTER IN STUDENT MOBILITYReflecting on the past five years, Dr. Barry Craig, President and Vice-Chancellor, Huron University, described the experience as nothing short of turbulent.'We began with COVID, which created so many obstacles to student mobility to almost a complete halt. As we emerged, momentum returned, but then geopolitical turbulence and diplomatic tensions caused another downturn in Canada. Now, we're seeing a re-emergence of interest, and I believe it's directly linked to the situation in the United States.'This pattern has been mirrored in enrolments at Huron. Indian numbers collapsed after the diplomatic row in 2024, with the university going from 'dozens' of Indian students in 2021 to just three last fall. But momentum is returning.'We're already receiving nearly three times as many enquiries and applications for this fall compared to the past two years. Our main recruitment season begins in September, and interest is at least doubling, if not tripling.'AFFORDABILITY EDGEFor many families, affordability remains the biggest differentiator between Canada and the US.'One of my daughters did her undergraduate degree in Canada, and the other in the US. The tuition in Canada was about 25% of what we paid in the US. For an international student, the cost at Huron is probably half of what it would be at a comparable American institution,' Dr Barry explained.Unlike US campuses where costs are inflated by massive administrative spending or athletics, Canadian universities channel resources directly into teaching and academic quality.advertisement'We don't cut corners on academics, but we don't waste money on things that aren't core to education. That's how we keep prices affordable while maintaining world-class standards.'BEYOND GRADUATION: WORK PATHWAYSIn today's competitive market, employability often outweighs the pursuit of pure academics. Dr Barry believes Canada's policies offer a decisive edge.'Canada is already attractive because we offer a three-year Post-Graduation Work Permit. At Huron, we go further,100% of our students receive a paid internship while studying. As a result, 92% are employed within six months of graduation, and importantly, in the field of their choice.'This exposure means graduates are not left adrift in a foreign country but enter the workforce already connected to leading firms and industries.SAFE AND WELCOMING CLIMATEThe perception of Canada as safer and less polarised than the US,also weighs heavily on student and parental decision-making.'Growing up in Canada, I used to think it was boring -clean air, clean water, no wars, very little violence. Now I think, thank God it's so nice to be boring. Parents want to know: will my child be safe? And compared to many countries, Canada has very low crime and none of the gun violence of the US.'advertisementDr Barry highlights how this extends to campus culture.'We believe in free speech and debate, but debate that's respectful. I've seen the difference between Canada and the US, and Canada is a very welcoming country for outsiders.'ATTRACTING TALENT, BUILDING PARTNERSHIPSThe Canadian advantage isn't limited to students, it's drawing researchers too.'Recently, the University of Toronto attracted three leading researchers from Ivy League universities who wanted a place where their research wouldn't be restricted by political pressure. Across the country, all 97 university presidents are lobbying the government because we see this as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring top talent here.'Huron is also investing in partnerships with India through the India Advisory Committee, composed of leading voices from business, diplomacy, policy and education. The inaugural committee brings together eminent leaders from diverse fields, including Paul Abraham (Hinduja Foundation), Renu Basu (IHCL), Ajay Bisaria (former Indian High Commissioner to Canada), Ipsita Dasgupta (HP), Anita Marangoly George (ProsperETE), Sumit Maheshwari (Fairbridge Capital), Hari Marar (Bangalore International Airport), Madhavan Menon (Thomas Cook India), Bobby Parikh (Bobby Parikh Associates), and Dr. Barry Craig (Huron University).advertisement'They will advise us on engaging with India and, equally importantly, reassure Indian parents and students that Huron is serious about opening real doors in corporate, entrepreneurial, and public service careers.''Canada Is Open for Business Again'For Dr Barry, the message to Indian families is clear.'Canada is open for business again, and we are actively welcoming Indian students. Our campus community has been immeasurably enriched by their presence. It's good for India, it's good for Canada, and it's fantastic for our universities.'As global student flows shift, Canada's mix of affordability, employability, and stability appears poised to redefine its role as the top choice for Indian students abroad.- EndsMust Watch