Germany Surpasses US and Canada as Top Study Destination for Indian Students
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Germany has overtaken the United States and Canada as the leading choice for Indian students seeking higher education abroad, according to upGrad’s Transnational Education (TNE) Report 2024–25.
Applications to US universities fell by 13% year-on-year, while Canada’s share of Indian students dropped sharply from 17.85% in 2022 to 9.3% in 2024–25. In contrast, Germany saw its share rise from 13.2% to an impressive 32.6%, making it the top destination for Indian students pursuing international degrees.
European nations overall are experiencing growing interest, with Ireland attracting 3.9% of Indian students, France 3.3%, and another 9% choosing other destinations across the continent. The UAE has also emerged as a strong contender, with 42% of its international student body now hailing from India.
The report reveals a shift in student priorities. Permanent residency, once a major driver, has declined in importance, with only 19.9% of respondents citing it as a goal. Instead, 45.7% are motivated by career outcomes. Funding remains crucial, with 33% relying on education loans and 28% on scholarships.
Master’s degrees dominate demand, with 86.5% of Indian students opting for postgraduate studies. Management and MBA programmes have doubled in popularity in the last three years, rising from 30% to 55.6%. STEM courses also remain strong, accounting for nearly 39% of preferences.
Praneet Singh, Associate Vice President of University Partnerships at upGrad Study Abroad, said the findings show a fundamental shift in global education choices. “Indian students today are far more intentional about their education choices – driven by geopolitical awareness, cost consciousness, and the realities of stricter visa regimes and uncertain post-study pathways. The traditional ‘Big Four’ destinations are no longer the default; instead, Europe, the Middle East, and APAC are emerging as smarter, future-ready alternatives.”
Government data shows that over 7.6 lakh Indians went abroad for higher studies in 2024. With Germany leading the charge, the trend suggests a rebalancing of international education flows, as students weigh affordability, career prospects, and global opportunities over conventional preferences.
Source: THE INDIAN EXPRESS
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