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In 2024, a significant shift has been observed in the destination choices of Indian students pursuing higher education. For over a decade, the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada topped the list of preferred destinations. However, recent data indicates a decline in interest in these countries, with alternative destinations like Bangladesh, Russia, Singapore, and Uzbekistan gaining prominence.
According to updated figures from India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the number of Indian students pursuing higher education abroad dropped from 892,000 in 2023 to 759,000 in 2024—a sharp decline of over 130,000 students
Amid this decline, an intriguing trend has emerged: countries previously not among the top choices for Indian students are seeing a surge in enrollment. Bangladesh stands out as a prime example. In 2023, 20,368 Indian students pursued higher education in Bangladesh, which increased to 29,232 in 2024, marking a remarkable 44% rise
Experts attribute this shift to multiple factors. Visa processes in Western countries have become more stringent, coupled with stricter immigration policies, rising tuition fees, and geopolitical uncertainties, compelling Indian students to explore alternative options.
Countries like Bangladesh, Russia, and Uzbekistan are establishing themselves as viable alternatives, offering affordable education in fields like medicine and engineering, simpler visa processes, and safer environments. In Bangladesh, students from India’s border states particularly benefit from linguistic, cultural, and accommodation similarities, facilitating easier adaptation.
Educationists and international relations analysts suggest that this trend signals a transformation in the Indian international education market. Students are moving away from the traditional ‘Westward’ inclination, showing growing interest in new, cost-effective, and promising destinations.
