Why Indian Students are Eyeing New Destinations As Global Education Policies Shift

India has long been a leading source of global students, with lakhs heading to the ‘Big Four’ destinations every year. But 2024 saw a sharp drop amid visa curbs and rising costs

This decline stems largely from a drop in study permits as destination countries move to manage the growing volume of international applicants.

For instance, the Trump administration’s shifting visa policies have led to uncertainty among students. In Canada, study permits were capped. Entry requirements, such as the cost-of-living threshold, were raised

The Australian government has raised the student visa fee and tightened visa rules. Similar suggestions have been proposed by the UK, deterring Indian students from applying to universities

While the traditional study-abroad destinations remain popular, many Indian applicants are shifting to emerging alternatives where the entry barriers are not as stringent

What do the newer study destinations offer? Primarily affordability, simplified visa processes and better post-study work opportunities

Research: Harshita Bansal | Graphics: Nikita Chawla