Study Abroad: US, Germany more popular among foreign students; Canada, UK lose appeal, shows IDP survey

NEW DELHI: A recent survey by IDP Education reveals that while the UK, Australia, and especially Canada are losing their share of interest among international students, alternative destinations like the United States and Germany are gaining popularity.

The sixth edition of IDP’s Emerging Futures report shows that foreign students are increasingly considering more accessible and affordable study destinations. The report is based on a survey conducted over August and September 2024 with over 6,000 students from 114 countries.

Tighter visa rules in countries like Canada and Australia are leading students to look at other study options. The survey found that stricter immigration policies and visa regulations have made countries like the US and Germany more attractive as they offer favourable post-study work opportunities and more flexible visa arrangements.

Study abroad: Canada loses steam

Canada's position as a premier destination for international students has significantly weakened, with student interest plummeting from 25% to 16% since 2023. Currently hosting 4,27,000 Indian students, as per ministry of external affairs data, Canada's attractiveness has diminished due to recent policy changes and visa complications.

The Canadian government's new restrictions on temporary residents, including international students and work permit holders, marks a significant shift in immigration policy. This decision particularly affects Indian students, who represent a substantial portion of Canada's international student population. The impact is notable considering that India, with 1.3 million students studying abroad, had traditionally viewed Canada as a preferred destination.

Multiple factors have contributed to this decline, including extended visa processing times and stricter financial requirements for prospective students. The new limitations on study permit issuance are expected to create additional barriers for international students seeking educational opportunities in Canada, potentially altering their academic and career prospects.

US, Germany alternative destinations

The US has emerged as a leading choice, attracting 23% of surveyed students with its competitive education costs and robust post-study work opportunities.

Germany continues to maintain its appeal among international students despite increased financial proof requirements, primarily due to its cost-effective education system and favourable visa policies. The country's position strengthens as students seek alternatives to traditional study destinations.

The survey reveals a notable trend toward diversification in study destinations, with 11% of respondents considering countries beyond the traditional big four – the US, UK, Australia, and Canada. These emerging destinations are spread across Europe and Asia.

Also read Germany launches programmes to draw international students to its workforce

UK, Australia, Canada: Visa policy changes

Major study destinations are implementing stricter visa policies and higher financial requirements, significantly impacting international student choices. Australia has introduced a dramatic 125% increase in visa application fees, while also requiring students to demonstrate savings of USD 19,535. Similarly, Canada has set a mandatory proof of funds at USD 14,945 for prospective students.

The United Kingdom has introduced family-related restrictions, limiting accompaniment rights exclusively to research postgraduate students and scholarship recipients. In a parallel move, Canada has discontinued work permit privileges for partners of undergraduate students and those pursuing short-term master's programmes.

These policy changes are creating substantial barriers for international students, particularly those planning to study abroad with their families. The increased financial burden, coupled with restrictions on family accompaniment and partner work rights, is prompting students to reconsider their choice of study destinations.

Also read Study Abroad: UK student visa applications dropped 14.79%, dependent visas by 80% in Q1 of 2024

Foreign students go for multiple destinations

The IDP survey shows that international students are now taking a more strategic approach to selecting their study abroad destinations, with 66% considering multiple countries for their education. Nearly half of the surveyed students are exploring at least three different countries.

The survey highlights that students are carefully evaluating a number of factors, such as cost, visa flexibility, and chances for work after graduation, before making their final choice. Many students said that they would be willing to change their preferred destination if better post-study work opportunities were available elsewhere.

Also read India-Canada row hits admissions; students, study-abroad consultants fret.

Study abroad: Rising costs

Rising educational costs are significantly influencing international students' choices, though only 3% have completely abandoned their study abroad plans, according to recent data. While financial challenges have forced some students to postpone their international education, approximately half of these students intend to reapply within the next two years.

The combination of tuition fees, living expenses, and visa costs emerges as the primary obstacle for students reconsidering their international education plans. However, the data suggests that these financial barriers are more likely to redirect students to alternative destinations rather than deter them entirely from studying abroad.

The trend reflects a more sophisticated approach among international students, who are increasingly prioritising value for money and long-term career prospects in their decision-making. Education experts predict this pattern will continue, with alternative study destinations gaining prominence as students seek the best combinations of educational quality, affordability, and career opportunities.