US, the most preferred destination for Indian students to study abroad

Indian students from across the country are increasingly choosing to study in America. (Reuters)

The United States has emerged as the most preferred destination for Indian students seeking higher education overseas. Most Indian students prefer overseas education in the United States due to its universities, rich cultural variety, and wealth of academic options. Compared to the previous academic year, Indian student enrollment in U.S. universities surged by 35% in 2022-23.

“With close to 200 US universities amongst the top 1500 in QS world university rankings globally, U.S.A stands for academic excellence and offers opportunities for both learning and employment for international students. M.S and MBA from U.S universities have always been in high demand amongst Indian students which has propelled Indian students to be the largest international cohort studying in U.S currently,” says Sachin Jain, Country Manager – India & South Asia, ETS.

Another attractive feature of US education system is the availability of Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT is temporary employment that is directly related to an F-1 student’s major area of study. Eligible students can apply to receive up to 12 months of OPT employment authorization before completing their academic studies (pre-completion) or after completing their academic studies (post-completion).

“Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows international students to gain practical experience in their field of study for 1 to 3 years. At ETS, we firmly believe that U.S education can be transformative, opening doors to global careers and tests such as TOEFL and GRE act as trusted bridges for Indian students aspiring to take admissions in U.S universities given their unmatched acceptability,” adds Jain.

US remains the first choice for most international students. Manisha Zaveri, Joint Managing Director, Career Mosaic says, “The findings presented in the recent report by Oxford International are commendable. Despite global shifts, the United States maintains its position as a top destination, drawing students seeking quality education and diverse opportunities.”

There is a rising trend among Indian students from across the country choosing to go to America for studies. “Our data and experience at Career Mosaic further underscores this trend, revealing a striking 161% increase in graduate applications from North & West India and a significant 165% rise in undergraduate applications from 2022 to 2024. Such statistics demonstrates the enduring appeal and importance of American Universities, shaping students’ educational trajectories and global perspectives,” adds Manisha.

The interest being shown in studying in US universities seems pan-India. “With higher education going beyond mere academic pursuit for majority of students planning their higher education in foreign offshores, this inclusive learning environment in US empowers students to embrace their dreams and shape a brighter tomorrow for themselves. Despite newer destinations welcoming students in a big way, ‘US Dream’ continues to dominate most Indian students, especially in Gujarat, Maharashtra, AP, Telangana and southern states of India,” says Saurabh Arora, CEO & Founder, University Living.

Although there may be some concerns, the popularity of US as a study-abroad destination continues to fly high. Pallavi Sharma, Regional Advisor – International Admissions, DePaul University says, “The USA remains a dominant force in the international education landscape, with reports like the Open Doors Report 2023 and Oxford International’s SGMI survey highlighting a substantial increase in its international student population, despite concerns over safety, affordability, and housing.”

“The preference for the US stems from its vast academic landscape of over 4500 institutions providing flexible academic structure (combination of majors and minors), scholarship opportunities, strong international student support services, and opportunities like the Optional Practical Training programs that offer valuable post-study work options. These compelling attributes, combined with a transformative multicultural experience, can be life-changing for international students, establishing the USA as the most preferred study abroad destination,” adds Pallavi.

With more and more Indian students looking to go abroad for studies, the volume of busines is certain to go up. “According to University Living’s Indian Student Mobility Report 2023-24, an anticipated 300,000 Indian students will embark on this journey by 2025, investing a projected USD 17.4 billion. With over 1500 public institutions, 2300 private universities, and 1000 community colleges, US offers unparalleled diversity and quality in education in addition to the cultural exchange, innovation, and personal growth,” adds Saurabh.