Indian students studying abroad rose by 52.2%, reaching 892,989 in 2023. The United States, Canada, and the UK are primary destinations, with Canada seeing a 76% increase in enrolment, despite diplomatic tensions. Educational opportunities and post-study work rights are driving this growth. The UK has a 273.9% increase attributed to its Graduate Route Visa. The Minister acknowledges this trend as pivotal in the context of a global workforce and collaboration through the diaspora.
Recent data from the Indian Ministry of Education reveals a significant surge in the number of Indian students pursuing education abroad, with a remarkable increase of 52.2% over the past five years. The total rose from 586,337 in 2019 to 892,989 in 2023. The United States remains the most sought-after destination, hosting 234,473 students, closely followed by Canada with 233,532 and the United Kingdom with 136,921 students.
Despite a temporary decline of 55.7% in 2020 due to travel restrictions imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the trend has rebounded strongly. This resurgence reflects students’ desire to secure quality education, particularly in countries with favorable policies for international students. Notably, Canada has seen a striking 76% increase in Indian student enrolment during this period.
The ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and Canada have not deterred Indian students from choosing Canadian institutions. This is largely attributed to Canada’s attractive post-graduation work opportunities, allowing students to remain in the country for up to three years after completing their studies, facilitating a pathway to permanent residency.
Simultaneously, the United States has experienced a 91% increase in Indian enrollment, attributed in part to its prestigious universities such as MIT, Stanford, and Harvard. The United Kingdom has seen even more impressive growth at 273.9%, driven partly by the introduction of a Graduate Route Visa, which permits international students to work for up to two years post-study.
In light of these developments, Minister of State for Education, Sukanta Majumdar, emphasized that pursuing higher education abroad is a personal choice, underscoring the significance of a global workforce within today’s knowledge economy. He highlighted the importance of the Indian diaspora’s contributions to national growth and knowledge sharing.
In recent years, India has witnessed a substantial increase in students opting to study overseas, reflecting a growing trend in the global education landscape. Factors such as the reputation of foreign institutions, post-graduation work opportunities, and the allure of permanent residency have significantly influenced this choice. The educational policies of host countries play a critical role, particularly concerning the avenues available for international students to transition from education to employment. The COVID-19 pandemic had a notable impact on international student mobility in 2020, which was marked by travel restrictions and the shift to online learning, thereby affecting student numbers. However, the resilience displayed in the subsequent years indicates the persistent demand for global academic experiences by Indian students.
The recent findings highlight a robust increase in Indian students pursuing education abroad, reflecting a growing recognition of international qualifications’ value in the global marketplace. The United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom are emerging as preferred destinations, fueled by supportive policies for international students. Moving forward, the Indian government acknowledges the positive contributions of educated individuals returning to the country, enhancing India’s global standing and fostering development within its economy.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
