Indian students are increasingly moving to Germany, New Zealand and other alternatives
INDIAN students are increasingly moving to Germany, New Zealand, and other alternatives like Ireland, France, and UAE, as the US and UK tighten visa rules and reduce post-study work options, making countries with clear, affordable education and easier work pathways more attractive for better ROI and stability.
Germany's tuition-free public universities, English-taught STEM programs, and 18-month job-seeking permits are major draws, while New Zealand offers long work visas, but overall trends show a pragmatic shift towards value-based choices beyond the traditional Anglosphere.
Why the Shift?
Stricter Policies in "Big Four": The US, UK, Canada, and Australia have implemented stricter immigration and visa rules, leading to longer processing times and reduced post-study work flexibility, say Y-Axis Overseas Careers and Business Standard.
Value & ROI Focus: Indian families now prioritise return on investment (ROI), career outcomes, and long-term stability over legacy destinations, notes Y-Axis Overseas Careers.
Clearer Pathways: Europe, particularly Germany, offers predictable rules, quicker enrollment, and easier pathways to skilled work for graduates, according to Y-Axis Overseas Careers and India’s World Magazine.
Germany's Appeal
Low Cost: Public universities are often tuition-free, with only administrative fees.
English Programs: Expanded English-taught courses, especially in STEM.
Work Opportunities: Generous post-study work permits (18 months) to find jobs, notes Times of India.
New Zealand's Attractiveness
Offers long work visas and flexible job rules, making it an attractive alternative, according to Business Standard.
Broader Trend
Indian student numbers are surging in Germany, Ireland, France, and the UAE, even as numbers drop in the US and Australia, highlighting a widening "global classroom" for Indian students seeking opportunity and clarity, say Y-Axis Overseas Careers and ICEF Monitor.
