Language ‘unspoken factor’ in studying abroad: IDP Education’s regional director

By Piyush Kumar

Indian students make up one of the largest groups of international students across the top global study destinations. As of January 2024, nearly 1.33 million students were studying abroad, according to the data from the ministry of external affairs (MEA).

One would assume that with the slew of announcements across these top four nations, students would look elsewhere, especially with many European nations creating more flexible policies to attract Indian students. Yet, when we analyse the queries from the hundreds of thousands of Indian students, an obvious but important pattern appears – it becomes evident that English-speaking nations remain the top choice for Indian students.

The language barrier or the language advantage is non-negotiable for many Indian students. Very few students are willing to risk their years of studying abroad in a non-English-speaking country, trying to struggle with their daily life and communication. Another yardstick is the growing number of institutions globally accepting IELTS scores.

Indian students’ affinity for English-speaking countries is justified by their academic quality, minimal language barriers, multicultural environments, and a plethora of post-study work options.

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When it comes to the top study destinations, whether it’s the quality of education at American universities, the legacy and graduate pathways in the UK, the student-friendly visa policies of Canada, or Australia’s strong connections between education and employment, these factors continue to attract Indian students. Beyond the ease of communication, let’s look at what makes these destinations the preferred option for Indian students.

US: Hub of innovation

The United States serves as a top destination for Indian students who want to study abroad, offering world-class institutions and a wide range of professional choices and research opportunities. Four American institutions rank among the top ten universities in the QS World University Rankings 2026, which provides students with outstanding research facilities and adaptable degree paths.

According to the Open Doors 2024 report, the United States hosted more than 3,31,000 Indian students during the academic year 2023-2024.

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United Kingdom: Academic prestige

The UK maintains its position as a leading destination for Indian students who value globally respected degrees and brief one-year Master's programmes, along with expedited career access. The educational structure decreases education expenses and enhances investment returns (ROI), which enables students to begin their careers faster compared to other study destinations.

The United Kingdom holds four universities in the worldwide top ten rankings, which include Oxford and Cambridge universities that have maintained their status as historic and highly prestigious educational institutions for centuries. The Graduate Route visa stands as a primary reason why Indian students choose to study in the UK because it allows them to remain for up to two years after graduation or three years if they pursue their PhD.

International student visa applications rose by 30% annually during January to May 2025 when 76,400 applications were submitted. Students from India prefer to enrol in Business, Data Science, Finance, Education and Healthcare because these subjects remain highly sought after. The numerous scholarships available through colleges and the government and bodies like Chevening and GREAT Scholarships enable students to pursue a UK education at a reasonable cost.

Canada: Transparent and supportive

Canada has been one of the most attractive study-abroad destinations for Indian students for decades. Its popularity has grown over the years due to its highly regarded education system, multicultural environment and post-study work opportunities. Leading institutions such as the University of Toronto and McGill rank among the top institutions according to Times Higher Education 2025 rankings.

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Canada welcomes Indian students through its multicultural environment, and also offers them up to three years of PGWP work authorisation based on their study programme length.

Australia: Study and work

International students, along with Australian citizens, experience the most complete life experience through studying in Australia. The country provides excellent educational institutions alongside expanding employment needs for skilled professionals in various sectors.

International students on the subclass 500 visa may work 48 hours per fortnight while pursuing their studies, and subclass 485 visa holders can stay and work in Australia for up to six years based on their qualification and location, post completing their studies. Graduates in regional areas (apart from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane) receive extra post-study work authorisation of 1–2 years. Indian students enjoy an additional year under the ETCTA.

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The University of Melbourne, the University of Sydney, University of New South Wales, University of Queensland, Monash, Adelaide University, University of Western Australia and ANU are top ranked institutions that deliver research-driven programs in Business, IT, Biotechnology and Engineering.

For Australia, a lead time of at least 6 months is recommended to apply, especially for high-demand courses and institutions and considering the visa process timelines. Those considering Australia usually seek clarity on visa rules, the admission process, and PSW opportunities. In Australia, some students prioritise admission to specific institutions based on their location, reputation or academic fit, while others explore regional universities that offer more post-study work rights, giving them a chance to gain practical experience and enhance their employability.

New Zealand: Momentum and flexibility

The number of Indian students enrolled in New Zealand has increased by 34% between January–August 2024. New Zealand abolished the qualification assessment requirement for Indian degree-holders in June 2025, which improved access to skilled migration pathways.

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Eight New Zealand universities appear in the top 500 QS World University Rankings 2026, with the University of Auckland ranking at position 65.

Students who pursue master's or doctoral degrees can apply for a three-year post-study work visa. The nation maintains positions among the safest and happiest nations worldwide while providing superior living standards with top-notch educational programmes.

International students from India stand as one of the most desired student cohorts worldwide. The decision-making process for these students involves evaluating each location's advantages and disadvantages to select the option that produces the best returns with minimised risks. While students evaluate additional destinations beyond the top four, they understand that communication with their peers and faculty and service providers in the foreign country remains an essential yet unspoken factor.

Piyush Kumar is the regional director, South Asia, Canada and LATAM, of IDP Education. This piece first appeared in the 200th issue of the Careers360 magazine, published in August 2025.