Study abroad trends 2024: Govt data suggests 7.6 lakh Indian students travel overseas for education

New Delhi: In 2024, more than 7.6 lakh Indian students pursued higher education overseas, according to official data revealed by the Bureau of Immigration (BoI). Although this marks a slight dip from the nearly 8.95 lakh students who went abroad in 2023, it underscores the sustained enthusiasm among Indian youth for foreign education.

The figures were shared by Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar in a recent Lok Sabha session. The data shows a consistent upward trend in outbound student numbers over the past few years—from about 2.6 lakh in 2020 to 4.45 lakh in 2021, further rising to 7.52 lakh in 2022, peaking in 2023, before experiencing a minor decline last year.

While the Ministry of Education does not maintain direct records of Indian students overseas, the BoI statistics serve as a reliable indicator of study abroad trends. To facilitate smoother overseas education experiences, the government has rolled out several initiatives, including Mutual Recognition of Qualifications (MRQs) and Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreements with various countries. These efforts aim to simplify visa procedures and foster academic qualifications’ mutual recognition.

Students travelling abroad are also encouraged to register with Indian missions or via the MADAD portal to receive timely assistance during emergencies. The Indian Community Welfare Fund further provides support to nationals facing difficulties abroad.

Despite the slight decrease in numbers from 2023 to 2024, demand for international education in India remains robust. Traditional destinations such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia continue to be popular among Indian students. Meanwhile, newer destinations like Germany, France, Russia, and Uzbekistan are gradually gaining traction, reflecting a broader diversification in study abroad preferences.