Indian Students Flock To Europe As US Becomes Less Attractive: Report

Europe is on the verge of becoming the new educational hub for Indian students. Based on GyanDhan's recent report, the percentage of Indian students going to the US has dropped by 63 per cent in only two years, but nations like Germany, Ireland and the UK are experiencing an increase in demand.

US Loses Ground

US, previously the most popular study-abroad destination, has witnessed its decline from 54 per cent in 2023 to a mere 20 per cent in 2025 among GyanDhan students. The decline is attributed to visa delays, increasing tuition fees and living expenses, as well as policy indecision regarding post-study work rights. Recent increases in H-1B visa fees and deliberations on the Optional Practical Training program have also deterred numerous students.

Many are now delaying their plans or changing their destinations because of such fears. US continues to pull in international talent, but its image with Indian students has diminished significantly over the last two years.

Europe on the Rise

European nations are capitalising on this trend. UK has seen a 143 per cent increase in Indian student interest, from 16 per cent in 2023 to 39 per cent in 2025. Germany's share increased by 125 per cent, but Ireland experienced the highest growth at 153 per cent.

Germany is emerging as a prime destination for STEM courses with low tuitions and clear post-study work regulations. Ireland is also getting popular in technology and finance backed by the presence of world employers like Google, Meta, Apple and Microsoft. Ireland also provides up to two years of work rights after study, thus being a viable option for students in search of a job after graduation.

Canada, previously a favourite among Indian students, has lost its share from 11 per cent in 2023 to only 2.3 per cent in 2025. 

Shifting Priorities

The study reveals that affordability, employability, policy transparency and long-term value are now major drivers of student choice. Indian students are increasingly prioritising the return on investment of education and not destination attractiveness.

European and Asian governments, such as Germany, Ireland, Japan and South Korea, are aggressively wooing Indian students with attractive visa policies and employment-based models of education.

The change highlights a new era in international education trends. For students in India, pursuing overseas studies is no longer merely a fantasy; it is an acquisition of a quality and secure future.