Indian Students Abroad Decline 31% Since 2023

The number of Indian students pursuing higher education overseas has declined sharply over the past three years, according to government data presented in Parliament. Figures shared by the Ministry of Education indicate a consistent fall from 2023 to 2025, marking a significant shift in outbound student mobility. The data, sourced from the Bureau of Immigration, reflects changing preferences, economic considerations and policy developments within India’s higher education landscape.

Sharp Fall in Outbound Student Numbers

More than 9.08 lakh Indian students travelled abroad for higher studies in 2023. This number dropped to 7.7 lakh in 2024 and further declined to 6.26 lakh in 2025. The cumulative reduction of nearly 2.82 lakh students over two years represents a fall of around 31 per cent. The figures were shared in response to a written question in the Rajya Sabha and are based on Bureau of Immigration records between 2023 and 2025.

Factors Influencing Study Abroad Decisions

The government stated that studying abroad remains an individual choice influenced by affordability, access to education loans, exposure to foreign societies and suitability for specialised courses. Global economic conditions, stricter visa regimes in certain countries, rising tuition fees and currency fluctuations may also have contributed to the decline. Policymakers acknowledge the evolving nature of a global workplace driven by the knowledge economy.

Government Perspective on Indian Diaspora

The Ministry emphasised that successful and prosperous expatriates are viewed as valuable assets for India. The government aims to harness their expertise and professional networks for national development. Knowledge sharing, collaboration in research and investment linkages remain central to this approach.

Important Facts for Exams

• Outbound student data is compiled by the Bureau of Immigration under the Union Home Ministry.
• National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 focuses on internationalisation of higher education.
• Foreign universities are now permitted to establish campuses in India.
• GIFT City in Gujarat has been designated as a hub for global educational institutions.

Domestic Reforms Under NEP 2020

Under the National Education Policy 2020, the government has introduced reforms to strengthen higher education within India. Measures include upgrading infrastructure, improving accreditation systems, promoting research and innovation, and expanding digital education platforms. Fourteen foreign institutions have received approval to establish campuses in India, while five overseas universities have been cleared to operate in GIFT City, Gujarat. These initiatives aim to provide global-quality education domestically and reduce the need for students to seek degrees abroad.