According to the latest data released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), over 1.33 million Indian students are currently pursuing higher education overseas in 2024. This marks a significant increase from previous years and highlights the growing trend of Indian students studying abroad.
As per the data provided, a total of 1,335,878 Indian students are enrolled in universities and institutions outside India this year, up from 1,318,955 in 2023. This increase follows a notable dip in 2022, when the number of students going abroad fell to 907,404 from 1,158,702 in 2021. In comparison, 675,541 students pursued higher education abroad in 2019, showcasing a remarkable post-pandemic recovery in student mobility.
Top Destinations for Indian Students
The data highlights Canada as the most popular destination for Indian students, with 427,000 students opting for education there. The United States follows closely with 337,630 students. The United Kingdom, Australia, and Germany round out the top five destinations, with 18,500, 122,202, and 42,997 students, respectively. Despite a slight dip from the previous year, Canada’s position as the preferred study destination remains strong.
Changes in Student Preferences
There has been a noticeable decrease in Indian students choosing Russia and Ukraine for their higher studies. This year, 24,940 students chose Russia, and 2,510 chose Ukraine, down from 23,515 students in Ukraine in 2022.
Engagement and Support for Students
The MEA emphasized its efforts to support Indian students studying abroad. Indian Missions and Posts continuously engage with these students, encouraging them to register on the Global Rishta Portal and participate in “Welcome Ceremonies” designed to brief them on security and other issues. These missions also work to gather data on student enrollment through voluntary registrations and coordination with host country authorities.
Minister’s Statement
Kirti Vardhan Singh, Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs, underscored the importance of these initiatives: “Our Indian Missions abroad are dedicated to supporting our students by ensuring they are well-informed and connected. The increase in student numbers highlights the growing international recognition of Indian educational credentials and the demand for global exposure among Indian students.”
The increase in Indian students studying abroad reflects both the growing global education market and the resilience of Indian students in pursuing their academic goals despite global challenges. The MEA continues to monitor and support Indian students to ensure their safety and well-being while they study overseas.
Sources By Agencies
