Indian students pursuing education overseas are navigating a dynamic landscape as major study destinations such as the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Germany introduce new immigration politics. These changes range from stricter visa rules aimed at curbing immigration to flexible policies designed to attract international talent.
Rising numbers of Indian students abroad
According to data from the Indian government, over 13.35 lakh Indian students are studying abroad in 2024, compared to 13.18 lakh in 2003. Despite fluctuations during the pandemic, the number of Indian students studying abroad has been signifying growth, doubling from 6.75 lakhs in 2019. Countries like Canada, the US, Australia, and the UK remain top choices for Indian Students.
Country-specific policy changes
New Zealand
New Zealand has eased its Post-Study Work Visa (PSWW) policy, allowing postgraduate diploma holders transitioning to a Master’s degree to remain eligible for a work visa. This move enhances flexibility for international students and increases their post-graduation work opportunities.
Germany
Germany plans to issue 90,000 visas annually to skilled Indian workers, up from 20,000. Indian students remain a strong presence in Germany’s academic and research sectors, with nearly 49,000 students enrolled at German universities in 2024.
United Kingdom
The UK has seen a 23% decline in Indian student numbers, attributed to stricter rules on bringing dependents. However, Indian students still represent the largest group on the graduate Rout Visa, allowing work rights after graduation. Despite financial challenges for UK universities, tuition fees have increased for the first time in eight years.
Australia
Australia is capping international student enrollments and increased visa requirements. Students must now demonstrate higher financial savings and meet stricter English language standards. However, initiatives like the MATES visa program offer Indian professionals opportunities to work in Australia for up to two years.
Canada
Canada has reduced the cap on study permits and terminated the Student Direct Stream, making the visa process more rigorous. Students now need proof of language proficiency for a post-study work visa. However, Canada has increased the work limit for students to 24 hours per week during classes.
United States
Indian students now outnumber Chinese students in the US, making up 29.4% of the international student population. While popular fields like engineering are declining, computer science and mathematics are gaining traction. Concerns loom over potential policy changes with Donal Trump’s return to the White House, which could affect programs like Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Emerging destinations
Countries like New Zealand and Ireland are seeing a surge in Indian student's interest. New Zealand enrolled 17% of its international students from India, while Ireland recorded a 28% increase in Indian enrollments.
As policies shift across major study destinations, Indian students must stay informed and adapt to new requirements. While challenges persist the evolving global education landscape continues to offer abundant opportunities for higher-caliber students. By aligning academic pursuits with destination-specified advantages, Indian students remain at the forefront of international education trends.