India Set to Rival China in Outbound Student Mobility by 2030, Report Predicts

By Henry November 7, 2024
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India and China are projected to lead in global outbound student mobility until 2030, with India potentially closing the gap, according to a report presented at the Australian International Education Conference (AIEC) by Navitas, a global education provider. Despite rising costs and stricter visa rules, both countries are expected to maintain significant student flows to top study destinations like the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia.

The report highlights that global student numbers are projected to increase by 4% annually, reaching over nine million by 2030, with India and China at the forefront. Navitas Senior Manager Ethan Fogarty noted India’s advantage in demographics, with its population of college-age students likely to surpass China’s by 2030, suggesting potential for increased outbound mobility from India. However, when compared with China’s higher tertiary enrolment ratio and GDP per capita, India’s projected volume of outbound students remains lower for now.

Economic factors will also shape student decisions, with affordability and employment prospects playing a crucial role. In countries with limited job opportunities, students may be further incentivised to seek education abroad. Nigeria is expected to follow India and China as a key source of outbound students.

While China currently leads in international student numbers, Navitas suggests that India’s growth trajectory could close the gap if supported by expanded migration pathways in key destination countries, presenting a promising outlook for India’s presence in the international education landscape.

Source: HT

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