Best Countries to Study Abroad; Due to Strict Visa Rules in UK, Australia and Canada, Germany, Ireland and Japan are Emerging as Major Destinations for Study Abroad.
The UK is still grappling with post-Brexit challenges including economic issues and negative perception of immigrants.
Best Countries to Study Abroad: The leading four countries the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Australia remain the preferred destinations for international students, including those from India. However, prospective students are seeking a wider range of study abroad opportunities for a variety of reasons. Indian student enrolment in these countries has declined significantly due to strict visa regulations.
But what are the reasons behind these best countries to study abroad imposing visa restrictions on international students?
The UK is still grappling with post-Brexit challenges including economic issues and negative perception of immigrants. The rise in tuition fees influenced by university policies and government funding also plays a key role in the potential decline in the UK’s popularity.
The increasing living costs and restrictive visa policies have also made the country less attractive. Canada has traditionally been an immigrant-friendly country. The dataset by NFAP, which is an analysis of international students’ data, showed that between 2016 and 2019, the number of Indian students in Canada grew by 182 per cent. However, the recent worsening of diplomatic relations has created a hindrance for Indian students.
Other factors that add to the trouble are lack of housing and job opportunities and growing hostility towards Indian students. “Canada is facing a crisis on almost every front especially related to housing and jobs. Also, hostility against international students is growing. As a result, student visas granted have reduced significantly this year,” said business director, of a study abroad consultancy company.
Other reports have also projected a similar decline. According to Ed-tech company Apply Board, by the end of 2024, over 2.31 lakh new study permits will be granted, a sharp drop from the 4.36 lakh issued in 2023.
The migration of international students from traditionally preferred (best countries countries to study abroad) to lesser-known destinations presents significant benefits for both students and host countries. This trend is expected to improve the economic condition of smaller countries. According to the director of study abroad consultancy – Scandinavian countries, known for their high standards of living and commitment to values such as equality, are likely to attract a considerable number of Indian students.
In addition, in the list of best countries to study abroad such as Ireland, France, Hungary, Latvia, Poland and Lithuania are expected to see a significant influx of Indian students. In addition, it has been suggested that European countries such as Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Ireland and Malta may also benefit from this change and will be the best countries to study abroad.
Also Read: Over 49,000 Indian Students are Studying in Germany, Most of Whom are in Engineering
Best Countries to Study Abroad: Data from the Ministry of External Affairs
According to data from the Ministry of External Affairs, the countries given in the table below are witnessing a rise in the number of Indian students.
| Countries | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| Germany | 66118 | 24474 | 42997 |
| Irelands | NA | NA | 7000 |
| Finland | 1450 | NA | 2645 |
| Singapore | NA | NA | 2000 |
| Japan | 700 | 700 | 1532 |
| Malta | NA | NA | 600 |
Interestingly, despite the recent hike in tuition fees, Finland continues (In the list of best countries to study abroad) to attract Indian students. Its clean, safe environment, strong job market and high-quality education make it a preferred destination. Singapore and Japan are increasingly appealing destinations for Indian students, and in the coming years, they are expected to be among the best countries for study abroad.
Similarly, in list of best countries to study abroad Ireland experienced a 20 per cent increase in student enrolment in 2021-22, supported by its “welcoming culture, strong economy” and cost-effective education system. The country also offers a two-year stay-back option for graduates, which has been a major attraction for Indian students seeking career opportunities in Europe.
Between 2021 and 2023, the number of international students in Germany grew by almost 13 percent, while Spain saw an impressive increase of over 28 percent. Germany offers an 18-month post-study work visa, giving students a chance to gain valuable experience after completing their degree.
In the list of best countries to study abroad Singapore and Japan are increasingly appealing destinations for Indian students, and in the coming years, they are expected to be among the best countries for study abroad.
It is also observed that many countries are now bringing in government initiatives and employment opportunities to attract more international students. In list of best countries to study abroad like Japan and South Korea, government initiatives like job fairs and targeted internships for international students are helping to bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring that students can easily join the workforce.
Also Read: Canada is Going to Make Changes to the Post Study Work Visa from November
