In a significant shift in global education trends, Europe has become the premier destination for Indian students looking to study abroad[^1]. This change is underscored by a recent upGrad survey, which found that nearly half of the respondents (48.8%) now prefer EU countries over other destinations[^1]. The United States, once a leading choice, now attracts 27.6% of students, while the UK’s popularity has waned to just 9.5%[^1].
Germany has emerged as the most favored nation within Europe, with 32.6% of survey participants selecting it as their dream destination[^1]. This preference is likely influenced by Germany’s policy of not charging high tuition fees to international students, making it an attractive option for the 41.1% of survey respondents who come from middle-class backgrounds and rely on education loans[^1]. Other EU countries such as Ireland and France are also gaining attention, with 3.9% and 3.3% of students choosing them respectively[^1].
The academic fields drawing Indian students to Europe include management, computer science, IT, engineering, and medical sciences[^1]. These disciplines reflect the continent’s strengths in providing quality education and align with the career aspirations of many students.
Canada’s decline in popularity among Indian students can be partly attributed to political tensions, rising living costs, an accommodation crisis, and a challenging job market[^1]. Moreover, Canada’s Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada processed about 60,000 fewer study permits for Indian students from July to October 2023 compared to the previous year[^1].
The European Union’s more favorable visa and immigration policies, when contrasted with Canada’s stringent visa caps and the UK’s restrictive changes, have made it a more appealing choice for students seeking international education opportunities[^1]. The EU’s commitment to affordable education and welcoming post-study work visas further enhances its attractiveness[^1].
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[https://www.universityworldnews.com/post.php?story=20240223100933761](https://www.universityworldnews.com/post.php?story=20240223100933761)
