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Canada has long been the first choice among students from all over the world, including Indians.
Foreign students are moving to countries with easy visa rules.
Studying abroad is like a dream come true for many students. But it is a big investment and one should proceed only after doing thorough research on every aspect related to it. According to the recent tensions with Canada, Indian students are now looking for alternatives to other countries.
According to a recent survey report by IDP Education Emerging Futures, Canada is no longer the top choice for studying among international students. Instead, foreign students prefer to study in the US and Australia.
IDP conducted this survey from August 20 to September 16, 2024. More than 6,000 people from 14 countries participated in it. Out of which 56 percent were postgraduate and 27 percent were graduate-level students. The survey also revealed that 66 per cent of the students are considering more than one destination for studies. This shows that students are looking for clarity in policies along with broadening the destination options for studies.
The survey also revealed that the three main reasons for international students dropping out of school are financial: tuition fees, cost of living and visa fees. 47 per cent of the students who responded to the survey are considering studying abroad again in the next two years.
According to the survey, out of the top 5 destinations for studying abroad—UK, US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand—only two countries are showing increasing attraction among students. These countries are America and New Zealand. The interesting thing is that out of these five, only these two countries have not made strict rules for visas and immigration last year.
The IDP survey says this year, 24 per cent of students chose Australia, which is 1 per cent less than last year. On the other hand, 21 per cent of foreign students chose the UK. The biggest decline in popularity was seen in Canada. Only 16 per cent chose it, nine per cent less than last year.
While the US saw a 4 per cent increase and was chosen by 23 per cent of students, New Zealand saw a one per cent increase and was liked by 5 per cent of students.
