The number of Indian students moving abroad to pursue higher studies has significantly dropped over the last three consecutive years, the data shared by the Ministry of Education has revealed.

The data was tabled in the Rajya Sabha by Union Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar in response to a written question.

According to the official data, in 2023, over 9.08 lakh Indian students travelled abroad for their studies. This fell to 7.7 lakh in 2024 and further to 6.26 lakh in 2025.

Over a period of three years, the number has dropped by 31 per cent. The drop comes after the year 2022 saw a dramatic spike to 7.5 lakh from 4.44 lakh in 2021.

The figures are based on information from the Bureau of Immigration under the Union Home Ministry for the period 2021 to 2025.

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What did govt say on drop?

Speaking in the Upper House of the Parliament during the Budget Session, Majumdar said, "Studies abroad are a matter of individual will and choice, which is contingent on a variety of factors such as affordability, access to bank loans, exposure to foreign societies, aptitude for a particular branch of studies etc. The government recognises the reality of a global workplace, especially in an era of knowledge economy"

"A successful, prosperous, and influential diaspora is viewed as an asset for India. The government's efforts are also aimed at harnessing the potential of the diaspora, including the sharing of knowledge and expertise," he added.

Majumdar further lauded the steps taken by the government to strengthen the higher education ecosystem in India, particularly under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

"To offer global-quality education within India, foreign universities have been allowed to set up campuses in the country. So far, 14 foreign institutions have received approval, while five overseas universities have been cleared to operate in GIFT City, Gujarat," Majumdar added.

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Anti-immigration policy in several countries

However, the last three years have also seen policy changes related to immigration in several countries, including the 2024 study permits cap in Canada.

Stringent measures have also been taken by the UK and Australia. These countries remain some of the top destinations opted by students for higher education.