Projections from the US Embassy in New Delhi suggest that this trend is only set to escalate, with expectations that the number of Indian students in the US will surpass a million by 2030
In the realm of international education, Indian students continue to make significant strides, with their enrollment in US universities reaching new heights. According to data from the 2022-23 academic year, nearly 267,000 Indian students were enrolled in US institutions, comprising more than a quarter of the 1 million international students in the country. Projections from the US Embassy in New Delhi suggest that this trend is only set to escalate, with expectations that the number of Indian students in the US will surpass a million by 2030.
The surge in Indian enrollment in the US coincides with a notable shift away from Canada as a preferred study destination. While Canada had long been a top choice for Indian students, recent data indicates a significant downturn in student visas issued to Indian nationals. Between October and December 2023, an 86% decline was observed in the issuance of study permits to Indian students, with only 14,910 students choosing Canadian institutions in the most recent intake cycle compared to 108,940 in 2022.
Several factors contribute to this decline, including diplomatic tensions between India and Canada impacting visa processing and the imposition of a two-year cap on international student permits by the Canadian government. These challenges are expected to dampen the influx of Indian students to Canadian universities in the short term.
As Indian students recalibrate their international education plans amidst shifting dynamics, the US remains a frontrunner, while Germany emerges as a compelling contender, offering both academic excellence and promising career prospects. While Canada navigates its own challenges in attracting Indian talent, the global landscape of higher education continues to evolve, presenting students with a diverse array of opportunities and choices
However, while Canada faces a dip in Indian student enrollment, Germany emerges as a promising alternative. Presently, a record 43,000 Indian students are enrolled in various German colleges and universities, marking a remarkable 100% increase over the past five years. This surge is further supported by Germany’s new Skilled Immigration Act, which provides Indian students with a smoother pathway into the German labor market.
Under the provisions of the Skilled Immigration Act, international students from outside the European Union are now permitted to work up to 20 hours per week, doubling the previous limit of 10 hours. This policy change not only enhances the attractiveness of Germany as a study destination but also positions it as a viable option for Indian students seeking to kickstart their careers in Europe.
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