More than 13.35 Lakh Indian Students Pursuing Higher Studies Abroad: Canada Remains the Top Destination
Introduction
In a remarkable display of India’s global academic presence, over 13.35 lakh Indian students are currently pursuing higher studies in countries across the globe. This trend underscores the growing aspiration among Indian youth to gain international education and experience. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) recently disclosed these figures, revealing the preferred destinations, historical trends, and the role of Indian missions abroad in supporting these students.
1. Key Statistics on Indian Students Abroad
- Total Students: As of the latest data, more than 13.35 lakh (1.335 million) Indian students are enrolled in higher education programs abroad. This number reflects the increasing mobility of Indian students seeking education in diverse global environments.
- Top Study Destinations:
- Canada: Leading the list, Canada hosts approximately 427,000 Indian students, although this is a slight decrease from 427,085 in 2023.
- USA: With 337,630 students, the United States remains a highly popular choice for Indian students, offering a wide range of academic programs and research opportunities.
- UK: Around 18,500 Indian students have chosen the United Kingdom, known for its prestigious universities and diverse academic offerings.
- Australia: Attracting 122,202 students, Australia is favored for its high-quality education system and favorable visa policies.
- Germany: With 42,997 students, Germany is becoming increasingly popular due to its affordable education and strong focus on research and innovation.
2. Historical Data and Trends
- 2019: Before the pandemic, 675,541 Indian students were studying abroad, a significant number but far less than in subsequent years.
- 2021: Marked the peak year with 1,158,702 students, reflecting a surge as international travel and study resumed post-pandemic.
- 2022: The number slightly decreased to 907,404, likely due to lingering travel restrictions and uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- 2024: The current figure of over 1.335 million shows a rebound and growth in student mobility, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
- Trends:
- Post-COVID Surge: There has been a noticeable increase in the number of students studying abroad compared to pre-COVID years, indicating a strong recovery and renewed interest in international education.
- Decreased Enrollment in Russia and Ukraine:
- Russia: Despite geopolitical tensions, Russia saw an increase in Indian student enrollment from 23,515 in 2022 to 24,940 in 2024.
- Ukraine: In contrast, the number of students in Ukraine plummeted to 2,510 from 23,515 in 2022, largely due to the ongoing conflict.
3. Role of Indian Missions in Supporting Students
- Engagement and Security: Indian Missions and Posts abroad play a crucial role in engaging with Indian students, encouraging them to register and stay informed about local security and safety issues.
- Registration Initiatives: Students are urged to register with Indian Missions or through the Global Rishta Portal, which helps in maintaining updated records and providing timely assistance.
- Data Collection: These missions also collaborate with host governments and rely on voluntary registrations to gather accurate data on Indian students abroad, ensuring that they can extend necessary support when required.
Conclusion
The data reveals a vibrant trend of Indian students seeking higher education abroad, with Canada, the USA, and Australia being top destinations. The role of Indian Missions is pivotal in ensuring the well-being and security of these students as they navigate their academic journeys in foreign lands. For students aspiring to study abroad, these trends underscore the importance of understanding the global landscape and staying connected with Indian authorities abroad for a secure and successful experience.
