Canada leads study abroad preferences; Finland, Denmark gaining popularity: Survey

Interest in study abroad in the big four, and emerging choices (Data: ApplyBoard survey)

Impact of India-Canada diplomatic tensions

The diplomatic rift in late 2023, saw immediate repercussions on educational exchanges. Study permits issued to Indian students plummeted by 86% in the fourth quarter of 2023, compared to the previous quarter, dropping from 108,940 to just 14,910.

Subsequently, in early 2024, Canada introduced a cap on international student visas, reducing new study permits by approximately 35% to around 364,000. Additionally, the financial requirements for international students doubled, increasing the minimum funds needed beyond tuition fees from CAD 10,000 to CAD 20,635. These changes posed significant challenges for middle-class Indian families who were already struggling, as obtaining an even larger educational loan became more cumbersome.

Current trends: Indian student mobility to North America (2023-2025)

Data from India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reveals a complex picture of Indian student mobility to North America between 2023 and 2025. In 2023, an estimated 234,500 Indian students were studying in the US, which declined to 204,000 in 2024, a reduction of nearly 30,000 students.

Similarly, Indian student numbers in Canada dropped from 233,500 in 2023 to 137,600 in 2024, a significant decrease of 95,900 students. Despite these declines, the US and Canada still accounted for nearly three-quarters (72%) of Indian students abroad, according to 2024 data.

Resilient interest in Canadian education

The survey, Student Pulse Survey Spring 2025 reaffirms that Canada remains the most desired study destination, with 94% of respondents expressing interest. Affordability is the primary factor influencing program selection, cited by 77% of students. Despite increased financial requirements, Canada’s overall value proposition in terms of education quality relative to cost remains competitive.

The survey also notes that over 25% of students are reconsidering their initial study destinations due to rising costs, exploring more affordable provinces or institutions within Canada, or considering emerging alternatives.

According to data points shown in the survey, interest in postgraduate studies, particularly doctoral programs, has risen by 4 percentage points year-over-year (when compared to Spring 2024 data). Notably, 65% of students expressed interest solely in established destinations (Australia, Canada, Germany, Ireland, UK, US), an increase from previous surveys, indicating that traditional study destinations still command significant interest.

Which are the emerging study destinations, gaining traction in 2025?

While traditional destinations maintain their dominance, the survey highlights several emerging destinations gaining popularity. Denmark has become attractive due to its high-quality education system, English-taught programs, and emphasis on innovation and sustainability.

Finland’s growing reputation for educational excellence, free tuition for EU students, and relatively affordable options for non-EU students have increased its appeal. Nigeria’s emergence as a study destination results from its investment in higher education, English-language instruction, and cultural diversity.

What fuels Germany’s rising appeal among Indian students?

Germany is witnessing a steady rise in preference among Indian students, not only for its academic offerings but also for the quality of life it provides. With increasing awareness around mental well-being and work-life balance, Germany’s structured academic environment, 35–40 hour work weeks, and 30 days of annual leave enable students to maintain balance and reduce stress during their time studying abroad.

Affordability plays a key role in Germany’s growing appeal. Most public universities offer tuition-free education, making the overall cost of studying in Germany significantly lower than in destinations like the US and UK. This cost advantage, combined with the ability to take up part-time jobs and internships, allows students to manage living expenses independently and pursue higher education without heavy financial pressure.