Indian students are going overseas in record numbers this year, with about 1.8 million studying abroad in 2025—an all-time high. Outbound student mobility has been steadily rising, and Indian families are starting to place a higher value on international education, according to data provided by Y-Axis from the Ministry of External Affairs.

Preferred destination

Canada and the United Kingdom continue to lead the list of preferred destinations, drawing students with their high-quality academic offerings, post-study work rights, and clear paths to permanent residency. Australia is not far behind, with supportive visa rules and job-ready degrees.

In recent years, European countries like Germany and Ireland have also gained a lot of popularity. Their success has been attributed to English-language instruction, reduced tuition fees, and curricula that are adapted to the changing needs of industry.

The traditional English-speaking nations are now attracting students who would have otherwise only looked at them. The United States is still the single largest host of Indian students, in spite of changing immigration policies. Its universities continue to attract students seeking high-end research opportunities and international recognition. Yet, a perception of uncertainty regarding visa rules has pushed many Indian families to diversify their choices.

How much Indian families are willing to invest?

It is equally astonishing how much Indian families are willing to invest. An incredible $70 billion is anticipated to be spent on overseas education this year. This figure reflects both the growing expectations and the desire for degrees from other countries. A foreign degree is now more and more considered a launching pad to global careers and long-term migration.

Experts opine the trend will not ease anytime soon. With Indian students seeking exposure to new cultures, better job prospects, and newer education, learning abroad is no longer a dream but a well-thought-out, calculated decision.