India and China, with their large populations, are the leading source countries for students going abroad for international studies. The United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, and Canada have consistently remained among the top destination countries. Over the past two decades, the number of students studying abroad has nearly tripled.

A study has shown that the destinations chosen by students worldwide for studying abroad have started to shift. With stricter regulations in Canada and Australia—two countries traditionally considered prime destinations for international students—Indian students, who are spreading globally, have begun to change their preferences for international education. The study shows a decline in applications to study in the United States and Canada, while interest in Germany has risen sharply. According to the “Transitional Report” published by UpGrad for the year 2024–25, young people are now approaching international degrees with a new perspective.

The report indicates that due to stricter immigration and student visa policies, the number of students going to the U.S. is decreasing. The U.S., long considered a primary destination for Indian students, is now losing its appeal, with university applications in the U.S. reportedly dropping by 13% compared to previous years. At present, Germany has overtaken the U.S. and Canada to become the top destination for Indian students. In 2022, Germany accounted for 13.2% of Indian students studying abroad, which has risen to 32.6% in 2024–25. Meanwhile, Canada has seen a significant decline—from 17.85% in 2022 to just 9.3% in 2024–25.

Indian students are now choosing alternative destinations over traditional ones, where factors like quality education, lower costs, and ease of obtaining residency permits are influencing their decisions. According to various studies, India—the second most populous country in the world—sends approximately 900,000 students abroad annually for higher education.

India and China, due to their large populations, are major source countries for students studying abroad. The United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, and Canada have remained consistently among the top destination countries. Over the past two decades, the number of students going abroad for international studies has nearly tripled. The United States still remains the first-choice destination for international students around the world. Despite stricter immigration policies, it is noteworthy that students often try for a U.S. visa first, and only if that fails do they explore other countries. The primary reasons English-speaking countries remain at the top include language, reputation, and employment opportunities.