In a remarkable trend, over 1.3 million Indian students opted for higher education abroad between 2017 and 2022, according to data from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). This information was disclosed by Subhas Sarkar, the Minister of State for Education, in response to a query in the Rajya Sabha.
The MEA’s data indicates that in the year 2022, approximately 1.3 million Indian students were enrolled in various courses at foreign universities and institutions. However, the Ministry of Education does not maintain records of the expenses incurred by these Indian students while pursuing higher education abroad.
The United States emerged as the top destination for Indian students, with 465,791 students choosing to study there. Canada followed with 183,310 students, while the UAE hosted 164,000, Australia accommodated 100,009, and the UK had 55,465 Indian students. Other countries that attracted Indian students included Saudi Arabia (65,800), Qatar (46,000), Germany (34,864), Georgia (14,000), France (10,003), Bangladesh (9,308), Armenia (8,015), and China (6,436).
The surge in Indian students going abroad for higher education reflects the global appeal of foreign universities and institutions. The quality of education, diverse programs, and career opportunities offered by international destinations continue to draw students from India.
The government is also taking steps to improve the quality of education within the country. Initiatives such as allowing world-class foreign universities and institutions to operate in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) aim to provide specialized courses in financial management, fintech, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These institutions are exempt from domestic regulations, except those imposed by the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA), to facilitate the availability of highly skilled human resources for financial services and technology.
Additionally, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced the UGC (Academic Collaboration between Indian and Foreign Higher Educational Institutions to offer twinning, joint degree, and dual degree programs) Regulations, 2022. These regulations promote collaboration with foreign higher educational institutions, expanding educational opportunities for Indian students and enhancing the overall education landscape in the country.
