Every year, the number of Indian students flying abroad is rising enormously. The globalized world has made accessibility so easy that students from any part of the globe can now settle and study anywhere they choose. There are diverse programs available at top-notch universities under the guidance of expert faculty and excellent facilities. Now, students face issues only related to what program they need to choose and from where.
More than academics, Indian students prefer studying abroad to embrace new cultures, gain a global perspective, and develop cross-cultural communication and adaptability skills. It not only unlocks fresh opportunities but broadens horizons for personal and professional growth.
Let us explore various popular study destinations that Indian students usually love to go to for studying abroad.
- U.S.A.
- Canada
- Germany
- U.K.
- Spain
- Singapore
- Netherlands
- France
- Australia
- Polland
We will delve deeper into the distinct features and details of the top-notch universities every study destination has:
1 . United States of America (U.S.A.)
The U.S.A. offers immense educational opportunities, excellent research facilities, dynamic and vibrant learning environment. There are many premium institutions that are highly ranked and popular among international students.
Why US Universities?
Some of the compelling reasons that make students to choose US universities are :
- The USA has 4,000 top-tier universities offering diverse academic programs and degrees, with 239 programs in the top 10, as per QS world rankings.
- All qualified graduates in the USA have equal opportunities in the job market.
- International students can utilize Optional Practical Training (OPT) for one year of post-graduation work.
- STEM graduates can receive a three-year work visa to extend their job opportunities in the US.
Popular Universities in the USA for Indian Students
University | QS World University Ranking 2024 |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 |
Stanford University | 3 |
Harvard University | 5 |
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | 6 |
University of Chicago | 10 |
University of Pennsylvania | 13 |
Princeton University | 16 |
Yale University | 18 |
Cornell University | 20 |
Columbia University | 22 |
Johns Hopkins University | 24 |
University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 27 |
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) | 44 |
2. Canada
Canada offers a high-quality education regardless of where you settle. Its tolerant and supportive culture makes it one of the safest environments for students worldwide. Over the last decade, the number of international students in Canada has surged by 92%. This growth is mainly due to the University's excellent postgraduate research programs and diverse undergraduate options.
What makes Canadian Institutions Unique?
- Canada has consistently been a top destination for international students, especially from India.
- Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) allow graduates to gain valuable work experience, adding to the necessary points under Canada's Express Entry system to receive PR.
- According to the NFAP report, the number of Indians immigrating to Canada increased from 32,828 to 139,715, a 326% increase.
- Graduates from Canadian institutions benefit from solid job prospects due to its robust economy and favourable immigration policies.
Popular Universities in Canada for International Students
University | QS World University Ranking 2024 |
McGill University | 31 |
University of Toronto | 34 |
University of British Columbia | 47 |
University of Alberta | 110 |
Université de Montréal | 116 |
McMaster University | 152 |
University of Waterloo | 154 |
Western University | 172 |
University of Ottawa | 237 |
University of Calgary | 242 |
Queen’s University at Kingston | 246 |
Dalhousie University | 308 |
Simon Fraser University | 328 |
University of Victoria (UVic) | 359 |
York University | 456 |
University of Saskatchewan | 473 |
3. Germany
According to the DAAD, Germany has approximately 422 higher education institutions. Remarkably, public universities offer around 90% of all study programs in the country. Germany has two main types of institutions: public and private universities. The government funds the Public universities, while private universities depend on tuition fees and donations from alumni and businesses.
Why do Indian Students Prefer German Universities?
- German public universities offer education at low or no tuition fees, making it affordable for Indian students.
- Indian students prefer the country's high-quality education system with top-notch universities.
- It is a hub for research and innovation, offering Indian students the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research and collaborate with renowned scholars.
- Many Indian students see studying in Germany as a pathway to a successful career.
Popular Universities in Germany for International Students
University | QS World University Ranking 2024 |
Technical University of Munich | 49 |
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München | 59 |
Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg | 65 |
RWTH Aachen University | 147 |
KIT, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology | 141 |
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin | 131 |
Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin) | 158 |
Freie Universitaet Berlin | 118 |
Albert-Ludwigs-Universitaet Freiburg | 189 |
Universität Hamburg | 228 |
Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen | 169 |
University of Göttingen | 215 |
Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg | 340 |
4. The United Kingdom
UK universities are renowned for having the best academic standards worldwide. They prioritize practical and utility-based knowledge over textbook learning, promoting critical thinking and creativity among students. UK universities offer various courses tailored to meet industrial and global market needs.
Affinity to British Universities for Indian Students
- Programs in the UK are shorter and more intensive than in many other countries. You can complete an undergraduate program in three years and a graduate program in just one year, saving time and reducing tuition fees and living costs.
- International students can work up to 20 hours per week while studying, gaining practical experience and financial support.
- The UK offers numerous scholarships and financial aid options, including the Chevening Scholarship, GREAT Scholarship, Commonwealth Fellowship and Scholarship, Scotland Saltire Scholarship, and Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarship, making UK education more accessible and affordable for Indian students.
- The UK has a large and welcoming Indian community, helping Indian students feel at home and supported while they study abroad.
Popular British Universities
University | QS World University Ranking 2024 |
University of Cambridge | 2 |
University of Oxford | 4 |
Imperial College London | 6 |
UCL (University College London) | 8 |
The University of Edinburgh | 15 |
The University of Manchester | 28 |
King’s College London | 37 |
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) | 56 |
University of Bristol | 61 |
The University of Warwick | 64 |
University of Glasgow | 81 |
University of Leeds | 86 |
Durham University | 92 |
5. Spain
Due to the adaptation of the Bologna Process, like any other EU nation, Spain's universities offer globally recognized degrees. Studying in Spain provides an excellent opportunity to learn Spanish, the world's second most spoken language, and receive a high-quality education.
Why do Indian students choose Spanish universities?
- Spanish universities offer competitive tuition fees compared with other European universities for both bachelor's and master's programs.
- International students with a student visa can work part-time for up to 20 hours per week. However, officials have the right to deny permission if it hinders academic performance.
- The vibrant lifestyle and the pleasant climate attract Indian students, offering a comfortable and enjoyable living environment.
Popular Universities in Spain
University | QS World University Ranking 2024 |
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona | 178 |
Universitat de Barcelona | 184 |
Universidad Autónoma de Madrid | 215 |
Complutense University of Madrid | 226 |
Universitat Pompeu Fabra (Barcelona) | 233 |
University of Navarra | 253 |
Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) | 320 |
Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya · BarcelonaTech (UPC) | 343 |
IE University | 347 |
Universitat Politècnica de València | 400 |
Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM) | 488 |
University of Granada | 494 |
Universidad de Sevilla | 561-570 |
Universitat de Valencia | 571-580 |
6. Singapore
Singapore is renowned globally for its safe and secure higher education environment, attracting many international students yearly. With the world's best universities, it offers excellent academic programs and a robust educational system.
What makes Singapore universities appealing?
The universities offer high-quality education at affordable tuition fees, making it a budget-friendly option for Indian students.
- The geographical proximity to India makes it a convenient location, reducing travel time and costs.
- Indian students find adapting to the academic environment easier without facing language barriers since English is the medium of instruction.
- The strong economy and ample job opportunities after studies make it an attractive option for students looking to build their careers internationally.
Popular Universities in Singapore
University | QS World University Ranking 2024 |
National University of Singapore (NUS) | 8 |
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) | 26 |
Singapore University of Technology & Design (SUTD) | 429 |
Singapore Management University (SMU) | 545 |
7. The Netherlands
Dutch universities are renowned for their high academic standards and excellent reputation for excellence in various fields. Tuition fees for many of the programs are cheaper when compared with UK education. The universities offer programs in English, providing Indian students with a global perspective and enhancing their career prospects in the globalized world.
What makes Dutch universities a favourite study destination?
- The universities offer quality education and various programs catering to diverse academic interests.
- You can choose between plenty of Bachelor's and Master's degrees at around 70 institutions of higher education.
- Fresh graduates can have a 12-month extension for orientation year visas, which allows them to work, intern, start-ups, and do voluntary work without needing a work permit.
- Indian students have options for scholarships in the Netherlands, providing financial help from universities or the government.
Popular Dutch Universities
University | QS World University Ranking 2024 |
Delft University of Technology | 61 |
University of Amsterdam | 58 |
Utrecht University | 112 |
Eindhoven University of Technology | 138 |
Leiden University | 131 |
Wageningen University & Research | 124 |
University of Groningen | 145 |
Erasmus University Rotterdam | 208 |
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam | 214 |
University of Twente | 212 |
Radboud University | 232 |
Maastricht University | 278 |
Tilburg University | 398 |
8. France
France offers students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in art, history, and literature while pursuing their studies. Its vibrant international student community provides a diverse and inclusive environment for students from around the world.
Why do French Universities stand apart?
- It is globally valued for its prestigious education system, with many renowned universities and institutions offering high-quality education across various fields.
- The country offers ample job opportunities for graduates, providing a pathway to a successful career after studies.
- France is known for its high quality of life. Its excellent healthcare, transportation, and cultural amenities ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for students.
- You can learn French and enhance your overall experience as an international student through cultural immersion.
Popular French Universities
University | QS World University Ranking 2024 |
PSL Research University, Paris | 24 |
Institut Polytechnique de Paris | 38 |
Sorbonne University | 59 |
Université Paris-Saclay | 71 |
Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon | 184 |
Ecole des Ponts ParisTech | 192 |
Paris Cité University | 236 |
Grenoble Alpes University | 294 |
Sciences Po, Paris | 319 |
University Panthéon-Sorbonne | 328 |
9. Poland
Poland offers high-quality education, with many universities and institutions renowned for their academic excellence and research opportunities. It is known for its safe and welcoming environment, making it a conducive place for international students to live and study.
Why Polish Universities?
- Compared to other European countries, Poland offers relatively affordable tuition fees.
- They offer a diverse range of programs in English, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, which help Indian students understand lectures more comfortably.
- The country is rich in cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and a dynamic arts and music environment, which makes it a good experience for international students.
- Many Polish universities offer scholarships and financial support options to international students.
Popular Polish universities
University | QS World University Ranking 2024 |
University of Warsaw | 262 |
Jagiellonian University | 304 |
Warsaw University of Technology | 571 |
Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan | 731-740 |
Poznan University of Life Sciences | 801-850 |
Gdańsk University of Technology | 851-900 |
Nicolaus Copernicus University | 901-950 |
AGH University of Science and Technology | 901-950 |
University of Wroclaw | 901-950 |
Wroclaw University of Science and Technology | 901-950 |
10. Australia
Australia ranks as the third most popular study destination globally. International students can work along with their studies to become financially stable. With its exceptional academic programs and premium institutions, the universities provide an excellent experience for students promoting their personal and professional growth.
What attracts Indian students to Australian universities?
- Australia has relaxed visa rules, making it easier for Indian students to pursue higher education with streamlined visa processes and post-study work opportunities.
- With a diverse and multicultural student community, Australian universities provide Indian students with cultural exchange and networking opportunities.
- The strong economy and thriving job market offer numerous employment opportunities for Indian students during and after graduation.
- The universities have state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge research labs, and modern campuses, providing Indian students with a conducive learning environment for academic and professional growth.
University | QS World University Ranking 2024 |
The University of Melbourne | 33 |
The Australian National University | 30 |
The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) | 45 |
The University of Sydney | 41 |
Monash University | 57 |
The University of Queensland | 50 |
The University of Western Australia | 90 |
The University of Adelaide | 109 |
University of Technology Sydney | 137 |
Macquarie University | 195 |
RMIT University | 190 |
University of Wollongong | 185 |
The University of Newcastle, Australia (UON) | 192 |
Curtin University | 193 |
Many fraudsters target students seeking to study abroad. To protect yourself, always consult with an authorized agency or proficient immigration lawyers. They will provide you with reliable guidance and support, ensuring your application process is safe and legitimate.