A growing number of Indian students are turning their attention to alternative study destinations as the United States faces increasing concerns over visa delays, safety, and political instability. The once-popular choice for international students, the US, is no longer the top option for many aspiring scholars.
Recent surveys reveal a significant shift in global perceptions. According to one report, 42% of international students stated they are now less likely to consider studying in the United States. Factors such as visa revocations, the potential end of the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, and concerns over student records being deleted from the SEVIS system are fueling this change. Aritra Ghoshal, Founder and Director of OneStep Global, explains, “While the US still attracts top talent, students are now more cautious, evaluating risks carefully before making their decisions.”
With the US becoming less appealing, where are Indian students turning to next? A growing number are opting for countries such as Germany, France, Ireland, New Zealand, and Australia, which offer high-quality education systems, welcoming immigration policies, and strong job markets.
Germany, in particular, stands out as a leading choice for Indian students. Known for its prestigious engineering and applied science programs, Germany also boasts low or even free tuition fees. France continues to attract students for its strong business, design, and healthcare programs, while Ireland is gaining recognition for its expertise in computer technology and life sciences.
“Germany, France, and Ireland are seeing increased interest from Indian students, who are now casting a wider net in their pursuit of higher education,” says Manisha Zaveri, Joint Managing Director of Career Mosaic. “However, the US remains highly aspirational, particularly for students interested in STEM fields, research, and careers in healthcare, design, and technology.”
Germany’s appeal is underscored by its status as the most popular non-English-speaking destination for international students. Data from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) shows that approximately 405,000 international students are enrolled at German universities, with Indian students representing a large portion of this group. In fact, India ranks among the top countries for student enrollment, with over 50,000 Indian students currently studying in Germany.
The trend of diversifying study destinations is also evident in the numbers. Between 2022 and 2024, India saw a 68% increase in student enrollments in Germany, primarily due to its affordable tuition and strong engineering programs. New Zealand has experienced an even more remarkable rise, with a 354% surge in Indian student applications, driven by the country’s post-study work visa changes and robust job opportunities in IT, healthcare, and business.
“New Zealand’s surge is particularly notable, as students increasingly view it as a safer and more welcoming option compared to the US or UK,” Ghoshal adds.
Australia and Ireland also continue to climb in popularity, especially among students pursuing careers in finance, law, and medicine. Although Canada remains a favored destination, recent challenges such as delayed visa processing and housing shortages have prompted many students to consider European countries instead.
As Aritra Ghoshal notes, “Indian students are now more willing to explore non-traditional destinations and make decisions based on a range of factors including visa processes, job prospects, and long-term settlement opportunities.”
The shift in student preferences extends to Russia, which saw a 33.7% increase in Indian students in 2024, bringing the total to 31,444. Other countries such as France, Germany, and New Zealand have also experienced notable growth. Between 2022 and 2024, Germany saw an increase of 68%, France’s student numbers rose by 33%, and New Zealand saw the largest growth, with a 354% increase in student enrollment.
Yatharth Gulati, Co-Founder of Rostrum Education, says that students are increasingly exploring destinations like the UK, Australia, Germany, and Ireland. The UK’s two-year Graduate Route, Australia’s improved visa pathways and job prospects, and Germany and Ireland’s affordability and high-quality education options have made these countries more attractive to Indian students.
Singapore is also becoming a favored destination, particularly for students in business, finance, and technology. With top-ranked institutions like NUS and NTU, Singapore offers a modern and safe environment, strong industry ties, and a good return on investment, making it an appealing choice for Indian students.
In contrast, Canada has seen a decline in interest due to stricter international student permit regulations and housing and financial challenges.
Overall, Indian students are increasingly diversifying their study-abr
