Studying abroad has been the dream of several Indian students. In recent years, an increasing number of Indian students have been embarking on an exciting journey to foreign shores in pursuit of their higher education.
The allure of studying in international universities has captured the imaginations of countless young, ambitious minds in India. But what’s the reason behind students preferring to travel abroad for higher education?
Union Minister of State for Education, Subhas Sarkar, revealed that around 30.13 lakh Indian students pursued overseas higher education since 2017. In 2022, 13 lakh students departed, marking a 198% surge from 2021 and a 125% rise from the 2019 pre-pandemic number.
A 2021 report by Redseer Strategy Consultants forecasts Indian students’ global higher education expenditure to exceed $75 billion by 2024, with preferred destinations including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, and France.
Let’s have a peek into the reasons driving this obsession with studying abroad!
1. Quality Education
A major catalyst for Indian students flocking to universities abroad is the unparalleled quality of education offered by them. Renowned institutions abroad are popular for their cutting-edge curriculum, exceptional faculty, and state-of-the-art research facilities.
The allure of world-class education is undeniably strong, which inspires students to leave their comfort zones and broaden their horizons in pursuit of excellence in their education.
2. Abundance of Work Opportunities
Most Indians with a satisfactory job abroad highlight the plethora of career opportunities awaiting Indian students who wish to travel abroad for higher education. France recently extended post-study work visas for international students, providing excellent post-study work opportunities.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that Indian students pursuing a Master’s will now get a five-year long-term post-study visa. Many countries, such as the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and France, extend study visas post-graduation, granting students an opportunity to gain work experience abroad.
Germany also provides excellent post-study work opportunities for international students, including Indian students allowing them to stay in Germany for up to 18 months to search for employment.
This enthralling prospect holds great appeal, as it allows Indian graduates to learn a wide variety of skills and explore new possibilities in the global job market.
3. The Allure of Permanent Residency
Beyond the academic journey, many nations also open their arms to international students who wish to turn their temporary stay into a permanent one.
Thus, by offering the coveted prize of permanent residency, these countries become a dream destination for Indian students who are seeking a new life abroad. The chance to build a career and call another land their home becomes an irresistible prospect, drawing in a multitude of talented minds from India.
Countries like Canada and Australia offer work visas to international students after graduation, paving the way for them to gain practical work experience.
This invaluable opportunity not only boosts employability but also serves as a stepping stone towards applying for permanent residency. The possibility of a seamless transition from student life to professional success propels many Indians to make the leap across borders.
4. Popular Universities: Hubs of Learning and Innovation
Universities such as Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Oxford, and Cambridge have become beacons of aspiration for Indian students. Their global reputation for delivering unmatched education and research opportunities continues to draw thousands of eager learners each year.
The journey to these esteemed institutions becomes a transformative experience for students, molding them into visionaries who can lead in their chosen fields.
5. Difference between Quality Education: Home vs. Abroad
While India is home to some excellent universities, the appeal for studying abroad lies in their unmatched infrastructure, distinguished faculty, and advanced research facilities.
These resources empower students with the tools to gain a competitive edge in their respective domains, fostering a culture of innovation and critical thinking that permeates all aspects of their future careers.
Conclusion
International education opens doors to boundless opportunities for Indian students, adding immeasurable value to their personal and professional journeys.
The world-class education and research opportunities they encounter inspire them to reach new heights, fueling their passion for knowledge and discovery.
Exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives transforms them into well-rounded individuals who can bridge the gap between nations and create a global impact.
