Due to high tuition fees, rising living costs, and stringent visa regulations, 43% of Indian students have abandoned their dream of studying abroad. Let’s delve into the full details.
Until just a few years ago, studying abroad was considered the ultimate dream for millions of Indian students. Families would save diligently to send their children overseas; agents’ offices would be bustling with activity, and every year, thousands of students would fly off to Australia, Canada, the UK, and the USA. However, the landscape is now gradually shifting. Exorbitant fees, escalating expenses, and complicated visa rules have deterred many students from pursuing this path.
A recent report by IDP titled “Emerging Futures” presents a comprehensive picture of this evolving mindset. The report indicates that Indian students are no longer merely dreaming of going abroad; instead, they are making highly calculated and well-considered decisions.
43% of Students Abandon Dream Due to Fees
According to the report, 43% of Indian students who decided against their plans to study abroad cited tuition fees as the primary reason, stating that the costs have now become unaffordable for them. Meanwhile, 32% of students identified the rising cost of living—including accommodation and food expenses—as a major deterrent. Furthermore, 28% of students acknowledged that obtaining a student visa has become significantly more difficult than in the past. This concern is not limited to India alone; similar anxieties were observed among students worldwide. Approximately 50% of students globally stated that tuition fees have risen to such an extent that studying abroad is no longer an easily attainable goal.
Now Seeking Careers, Not Just Degrees
The report reveals that the mindset of Indian students has undergone a significant transformation. They are no longer chasing merely a foreign degree; rather, they are prioritizing whether or not they will secure employment upon the completion of their studies.
Approximately 41% of Indian students stated that the greatest benefit of studying abroad is the prospect of a promising career and robust job opportunities. Conversely, 31% of students emphasized the importance of superior academic standards and a high-quality education system. Additionally, 27% of students expressed a preference for courses that are directly aligned with industry requirements and employment prospects.
Business and Engineering Remain the Top Choices
The report also highlights that, for students intending to study abroad, courses related to business continue to be the most preferred choice. Approximately 24 percent of students opted for Business and Administration Studies. This was followed by Engineering and Technology, which ranked second, chosen by 20 percent of students. Health and Medicine were selected by 18 percent of students, while significant interest was also observed in courses related to Computer Science and Mathematics.
Trust in Large and Renowned Universities
Today’s students prioritize brand reputation and rankings over simply enrolling in just any college. Approximately 65 percent of students stated that they wish to study at globally ranked universities. Fewer students expressed interest in polytechnics, community colleges, or smaller institutions. This clearly indicates that students now view the university’s identity—alongside the degree itself—as an integral part of their career trajectory.
Which Country Earns the Most Trust?
The UK has emerged as the most trusted destination for students seeking to study abroad. Approximately 85 percent of students acknowledged that the UK can equip them with superior skills and prepare them for a better career. Canada and Australia followed closely, garnering trust levels of 84 percent and 83 percent, respectively. The USA and New Zealand also featured among the students’ preferred choices. However, student confidence appeared lower regarding certain newer destinations. Trust levels remained quite low for countries such as Germany, China, and France. The UAE ranked at the very bottom, with only 47 percent of students expressing confidence in it.
Why Has Australia Become the Top Choice?
Australia is currently the most preferred destination among Indian students. According to the report, 41 percent of students identified Australia as their first choice. The primary reasons for this preference are the job opportunities available there, the academic environment, and the international education system. Meanwhile, the UK was favored for its high-quality education and robust academic framework. Students are also choosing Canada and the USA due to the superior opportunities they offer for employment and professional networking. New Zealand is being favored for its post-study work permit options and excellent job prospects.
