According to the latest edition of Oxford International's Student Global Mobility Index (SGMI), a significant majority of Indian students aspiring to study abroad, comprising 69%, have a strong preference for the United States. Despite concerns surrounding affordability, safety, and security, the US has surpassed other popular study destinations such as the UK (54%), Canada (43%), and Australia (27%).
Indian students who have a desire to pursue education abroad overwhelmingly favor the United States, with a notable majority of 69% expressing their interest in studying there, according to the second edition of Oxford International's Student Global Mobility Index (SGMI) report. Despite concerns about affordability, safety, and security, the US has outpaced other popular study destinations such as the UK (54%), Canada (43%), and Australia (27%).
The recent report, released on Monday, provides insights into the shifting trends in student migration, specifically among Indian students seeking higher education overseas. The primary motivation behind their choice of the UK, US, Canada, and Australia—the four most preferred destinations—is the esteemed reputation of universities in these countries, aligning with global student trends.
Among the factors considered by students, 45% highlighted the quality of education, while 42% emphasized the reputation of universities as key factors for selecting the US. In comparison, for the UK, 59% of students prioritized educational quality, and 61% focused on university reputation. However, for Canada, the ability to combine work and study emerged as the most frequently mentioned motivating factor. Mohit Gambir, the managing director of Oxford International Education Services, remarked that the evolving narrative of global student mobility reflects a diverse range of motivations and influencers shaping the educational journey as aspirations meet opportunities.
The survey interviewed prospective undergraduate and postgraduate students from India, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Vietnam who were interested in studying abroad. Around 71% of Indian students identified parents or guardians as their primary influencers, mirroring trends observed in Nigeria (72%), Pakistan (71%), and Vietnam (62%). Additionally, 44% of Indian students indicated that their closest friends were the second most influential factor in their decision-making process.