Germany has overtaken the United States and Canada as the most popular study abroad destination for Indian students, according to a recent survey. The upGrad Transnational Education Report 2024–25 reveals a dramatic rise in preferences moving toward Europe.
Key Insights from the Report:
- Germany’s Rise: Its learner share has nearly tripled—from around 13.2% in 2022 to 32.6% in 2024–25.
- North America Declines: Applications to U.S. universities dropped by 13%, while Canada saw a steep fall—from 17.85% to just 9.3%, reflecting growing financial and bureaucratic barriers.
- Global Shifts: The UAE is emerging as another hotspot, now hosting 42% of its international students from India. Other European contenders like Ireland and France hold modest yet growing shares (3.9% and 3.3%, respectively).
- Student Motives: A striking trend—only 19.9% of students aim for permanent residency, while 45.7% prioritize career opportunities. Financial support also plays a pivotal role: 33% depend on education loans, and 28% on scholarships.
- Academic Preferences: Master’s programs dominate—making up 86.5% of choices. Particularly, interest in management and MBA courses has surged (from 30% to 55.6%), while STEM fields still hold a solid 38.9% share.
These shifts indicate a growing emphasis on careers, affordability, and flexible education models—pushing Indian students toward destinations that deliver value without compromising quality.
