Over 7.6 lakh Indian students went abroad last year, reveals government data: STEM, AI, and ambition driving the exodus
From STEM and AI to business and emerging technologies, Indian students are increasingly seeking opportunities that can propel their careers on a global stage.
With destinations like the US, Canada, the UK, and even Germany gaining popularity, the study-abroad journey is now as much about academic excellence as it is about broadening horizons and building global networks.
Outbound student trends in 2024
The Bureau of Immigration (BoI) data shows that 7.6 lakh Indian students pursued higher studies abroad in 2024, slightly down from 8.95 lakh in 2023. Despite this minor dip, the numbers highlight a steady demand for international education. Over the past five years, outbound student numbers have grown rapidly:
2020:
2.6 lakh
2021:
4.45 lakh
2022:
7.52 lakh
2023:
8.95 lakh
2024:
7.6 lakh
This upward trajectory, interrupted only marginally in 2024, reflects both the allure of global campuses and the growing competitiveness of Indian students in securing admissions abroad.
Popular destinations
Traditional hubs like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia continue to dominate, but emerging destinations are gaining attention. Germany, Russia, and Uzbekistan are increasingly popular, offering affordable tuition, strong STEM programs, and post-study work opportunities.
Canada and the US remain top choices due to established universities, research opportunities, and work-study options.
Germany attracts students for its engineering and technology programs with low tuition fees.
The UK maintains its appeal with scholarships and prestigious institutions.
Courses in demand: STEM, AI, and Business
Indian students continue to focus heavily on STEM fields, with Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Cybersecurity emerging as high-demand disciplines.
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Business programs, especially in finance and management, remain popular, reflecting the global market's appetite for tech-savvy and analytically skilled professionals.
Government initiatives supporting students abroad
The Indian government has implemented several programs to facilitate overseas education:
Mutual Recognition of Qualifications (MRQs):
Agreements with countries like Australia and the UK allow smoother credit transfers and academic recognition.
Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreements:
These facilitate easier visa processing and post-study work opportunities.
Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF):
Set up in Indian missions abroad, ICWF offers on-site support for students, including assistance in emergencies.
Additionally, the Chevening-Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Scholarship has been launched in partnership with the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), sending select students from Uttar Pradesh to study in the UK on full scholarships.
Challenges Indian students face abroad
While the demand remains strong, students encounter multiple challenges:
Visa hurdles:
Stricter policies in countries like Canada and the UK can lead to delays or rejections.
Rising costs:
Tuition fees and living expenses abroad remain significant, putting pressure on families.
Geopolitical uncertainties:
Conflicts and international crises can disrupt study plans and pose safety concerns.
Looking ahead
The study-abroad trend is expected to continue, shaped by:
Policy reforms in destination countries aimed at attracting global talent.
Digital learning opportunities that complement traditional international education.
Economic factors like currency fluctuations and living costs influencing decisions.
As Indian students continue to make their mark globally, the combination of careful planning, government support, and strategic course selection will be key to maximising the benefits of studying abroad.
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