The international higher education sector is witnessing a trend in the choice of Indian students. According to a recent report by Gradding.com, a study-abroad platform, the number of Indian students opting for study-abroad destinations like Singapore, Ireland, and Dubai has gone up by 38%. This reflects an increasing desire for the above-mentioned country because of the reasons of quality education, job opportunities, and beneficial policies.
Previously, the UK, US, and Australia were the most sought-after study abroad destinations for Indian students, but they are now losing their market. The facts speak for themselves: The total number of abroad-going students came down by nearly 15% in 2024 from what it was a year ago, the Indian government recently announced. Canada recorded the biggest drop at 41%, followed by 27.7% in the UK and 13% in the US. Meanwhile, demand for countries such as Singapore, Ireland, and Dubai increased.
The shifting global landscape, new visa rules, and dynamic policy changes influence students to consider a broader range of study-abroad destinations. This is done not only to align with their educational aspirations but also with the changing dynamics of global academics. A report states that the number of Indian students studying abroad rose from 750,365 in 2022 to 892,989 in 2023. However, the percentage was still maximum in countries like USA, UK and Australia, but as discussed, the proportion of students choosing the unexplored countries raised in these years.
Reasons for decline in traditional study destinations: Major factors affecting the number of aspirants in these nations are the tightening of post-study visa rules and the exploitation of academic resources. Nations such as Australia and Canada have imposed stricter immigration policies that make the process more challenging. Besides, they have restricted the post-study opportunities for work and dependent visas. Thus, these uncertainties discourage students who prioritize long-term career prospects after graduation.
The increasing demand for study destinations such as Singapore, Dubai, and Ireland is fueled by their quality education at relatively lower prices. These nations have globally renowned universities that are among the best institutions, which draw students looking for excellence in education. Moreover, as per a report, there is a year-on-year growth of 25% in Indian student enrollment in Singapore. Taking an example to understand it better, if 10,000 Indian students were enrolled in Singapore, which rose by 25% every year, it became a total of over 12,500 enrollments in 2023. Besides, government policies and partnerships with businesses have raised huge demand for finance, technology, and health professionals, presenting graduates with multiple career options.
“The evolving preferences of Indian students reflect a transformative shift in global education dynamics. With destinations like Singapore, Ireland, and Dubai offering quality education, affordability, and strong career prospects, we’re witnessing a more informed and strategic approach to overseas education,” says Mamta Shekhawat, founder of Gradding.com.
With a 38% increase in Indian students going international for academic exposure, these new destinations will keep gaining prominence. Proper planning and informed decision-making can allow students to take advantage of the exclusive possibilities presented by these nations to improve their educational and career prospects.