Germany overtakes US, Canada in study abroad applications: Report

In a departure from traditional trends, Indian students are reshaping their global education choices with declining study abroad applications from the US and Canada and an increasing trend for Germany. A report from upGrad titled Transnational Education (TNE) Report 2024–25, reveals a shift in how young Indians approach international degrees.

The United States, long considered the default destination for Indian students, is witnessing a decline. Applications to US universities dropped by 13 per cent



year-on-year.

Meanwhile, Germany has emerged as the top choice, with student share rising from 13.2 per cent in 2022 to a staggering 32.6 per cent in 2024–25. Canada, too, saw a sharp fall — from 17.85 per cent to 9.3 per cent.

According to upGrad’s 2024–25 report, European countries are witnessing a surge in interest from Indian students, with Germany leading at 32.6%, followed by Ireland (3.9%), France (3.3%), and a collective 9 per cent opting for other European destinations.