The number of Indian students studying abroad has surged by 52.2% over the past five years, according to the latest data provided by the Ministry of Education in a report to the Rajya Sabha. The figure rose from 5,86,337 students in 2019 to 8,92,989 in 2023, marking a significant increase despite challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Among the top three destinations for Indian students, the United States remains the leading choice, hosting 2,34,473 Indian students in 2023. Canada follows closely with 2,33,532 students, while the United Kingdom ranks third with 1,36,921 Indian students. Canada saw the largest growth, with a 76% increase in student enrolment, from 132,620 in 2019 to 233,532 in 2023, despite diplomatic tensions between the two nations in recent years.
The United States also saw a remarkable 91% rise in the number of Indian students, increasing from 122,535 in 2019 to 234,473 in 2023. The United Kingdom experienced the most dramatic growth, with Indian student enrolment jumping by 273.9%, from 36,612 in 2019 to 136,921 in 2023. This increase is attributed to the introduction of the Graduate Route Visa in 2021, which allows international students to stay and work in the UK after completing their studies.
The surge in students choosing to study abroad reflects a growing trend, although there was a notable drop of 55.7% in 2020 due to the global travel restrictions during the pandemic. The Education Ministry, however, does not maintain data on the exact number of Indian students going abroad for higher studies but tracks the number of individuals who disclose “study or education” as their purpose for travel, as provided by the Bureau of Immigration (BoI).
In response to concerns about a potential ‘brain drain,’ Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar emphasized that pursuing higher education abroad is an individual choice. He noted that India views a successful and influential diaspora as an asset and efforts are being made to harness their knowledge and expertise for the country’s benefit.
