Indian Students’ Study Abroad Preferences: Canada Leads, But Alternatives Rise

According to the Student Pulse Survey Spring 2025 conducted by ApplyBoard, Canada remains the top study-abroad destination for Indian students. Despite stricter visa policies and increasing financial requirements, a significant number of students continue to favor the North American country. An impressive 94% of survey respondents cited Canada as their preferred destination, attributing their choice to the country’s high-quality education, promising career opportunities, and relative affordability.

However, the landscape of international student mobility is evolving. Countries like Germany, Ireland, Denmark, Finland, Australia, and France are emerging as attractive alternatives for global students, including Indians.

Key Factors Influencing Study Abroad Choices

One of the primary considerations for students when selecting a study destination is affordability. The survey revealed that 77% of students prioritize costs when choosing their academic programs. Rising expenses have prompted over 25% of students to reconsider their study plans, either by opting for more budget-friendly provinces within Canada or by exploring alternative international destinations.

Germany is gaining traction as a favored destination due to its well-structured education system, balanced work-life culture, and affordability. Similarly, Denmark and Finland are becoming increasingly popular, thanks to their English-language programs and strong focus on sustainability.

Decline in Study Visas for North America

Diplomatic tensions between Canada and India in late 2023 resulted in a dramatic 86% decline in study permits for Indian students in the fourth quarter, plunging from 108,940 to just 14,910. In early 2024, Canada further tightened regulations, slashing new study visas by 35% to 364,000 and doubling the financial requirement from CAD 10,000 to CAD 20,635. This shift has made it significantly more challenging for middle-class Indian families to secure student loans and afford higher education in Canada.

The United States has also witnessed a downturn in Indian student enrollments, dropping from 234,500 in 2023 to 204,000 in 2024. Meanwhile, Canada saw a steep decline from 233,500 to 137,600—a loss of 95,900 students. Despite this downturn, Canada and the U.S. continue to host 72% of all Indian students studying abroad.

Diversification in Study Destinations

While traditional destinations like Canada, the U.S., Australia, and the U.K. remain highly sought-after, shifting financial conditions, visa policies, and lifestyle factors are prompting students to explore a wider range of options. The trend indicates a growing diversification in student preferences, with European nations gaining ground as cost-effective and high-quality alternatives for international education.

As policies continue to change, students are advised to stay informed about evolving regulations, tuition costs, and scholarship opportunities to make well-informed decisions about their higher education abroad.

Read Also: 

• The Surge in Indian Students Studying Abroad | A Five-Year Analysis
• India Surpasses China in Australian Student Visa Approvals
• Exploring the New E-Student Visa and Study in India Portal

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Hemesh Choudhary

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