Global Study Aspirations Shift : Student enquiries down 46% for US in a year, 75% for Canada in 2 yrs

Interest in studying abroad has shifted significantly, with US enquiries falling 46% and Canada down 75% due to geopolitical tensions and restrictive policies. IDP Education, a global leader in international education services, highlights steady demand for the UK and Australia's expanding intake. Meanwhile, Canada’s reduced post-study work options and economic challenges deter students. IDP is enhancing its technology to streamline guidance, ensuring students can still achieve their overseas education dreams.

Over the past year, interest in studying abroad has witnessed a significant shift, with student enquiries to the United States dropping by over 46%, while interest in Canada has plummeted by approximately 75% over the past two years. These trends, as shared by senior officials at IDP Education, highlight the dynamic interplay of geopolitics and policy changes affecting international education.

IDP Education, a prominent player in global education services, was established in 1969 by the Australian government. The organization aids students in achieving their dream of studying abroad by providing free expert guidance on university and course selection, application processes, visa assistance, and pre-departure planning. It also administers the IELTS English proficiency test, a key requirement for many study destinations, including the US, the UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland, and New Zealand.

Geopolitical Challenges Impacting the US and Canada

Piyush Kumar, Regional Director for South Asia, Canada, and Latin America at IDP Education, attributes the decline in interest in the US to evolving geopolitical conditions. "The geopolitical situation, particularly concerning the US, has significantly influenced students' plans over the last 6 to 12 months," Kumar noted in an interview. He also highlighted that fluctuations in visa approval rates during election years are common, creating additional uncertainty for prospective students.

Kumar pointed out that the challenges in the US began even before Donald Trump’s presidency. However, policy discussions during his administration, including potential changes to immigration and visa norms, have further dampened student confidence. Official data reveals a 46.4% drop in enquiries for US institutions in May 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.

Canada, too, has seen a steep decline in student interest due to policy changes and broader economic concerns. Kumar explained that tensions between the Indian and Canadian governments, coupled with the economic impact of US tariffs on Canadian exports, have created a less favorable environment for international students. Additionally, Canada’s restrictions on post-study work opportunities for all but six academic streams have deterred many students from considering the country as a viable destination. These measures are expected to remain in place until 2027, further softening demand for Canadian education.

The Resilience of Other Study Destinations

While the US and Canada face challenges, other major destinations like the UK and Australia continue to maintain strong interest from prospective students. According to Kumar, demand for UK institutions remains steady, and Australia has even announced plans to expand its intake by 9% this year. This managed growth strategy reflects the country’s commitment to accommodating more international students while maintaining quality standards.

IDP Education plays a pivotal role in connecting students with over 800 universities worldwide, including top institutions in Australia, the UK, the US, Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand. Each year, nearly 100,000 students benefit from IDP’s services, which are delivered through a robust network of 73 offices across 63 cities in India.

Embracing Technology to Enhance Student Support

Recognizing the evolving needs of students, IDP Education is investing heavily in technology to streamline its operations and improve service delivery. "We are working on strengthening our technology stack and developing AI-powered tools to better assist students and our counsellors," Kumar shared. These innovations aim to provide personalized guidance, making the complex process of studying abroad more accessible and efficient.

The shifting landscape of international education underscores the importance of adapting to global trends and policy changes. While the US and Canada face challenges, destinations like Australia and the UK offer promising opportunities for students seeking to pursue higher education abroad. With organizations like IDP Education leading efforts to support students through expert guidance and technological advancements, the dream of studying overseas remains within reach for many aspiring learners.