6 Best Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Students

According to the requirements, everyone has a different idea of the best countries to study abroad for Indian students. Universities, cost, course selection, and desired career path will influence which countries are the best for studying abroad. Depending on these factors, students may arrive at different universities, which often means different countries. However, the point is that Indian students can choose their desired educational destination.

This blog takes a look at the best countries to study abroad for Indian students and why they earn their spots.

Best Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Students

Picking the right country to study abroad will require careful consideration and assessment of certain factors. Below is the list of the best countries to study abroad for Indian students. Indian students often choose these countries to pursue their higher education.

• USA
• UK
• Australia
• Germany
• Canada
• New Zealand
• Ireland
• Singapore
• The Netherlands
• France

Study in USA for Indian Students

When the words ‘quality education’ are spoken, the USA immediately comes to mind. For decades, the USA has proved to be the best country to study abroad for Indian students. It still is one of the top three destinations for a world-class education.

Here are some widespread reasons to choose the USA.

• Globally Ranked and Recognised Universities

The USA is renowned for its globally ranked universities, which are recognised worldwide. This is the top reason why so many Indian students are studying abroad in this country.
The presence of a globally ranked university will add confidence to international students starting their careers. The reason is that the choice of university is the first thing interviewers look at. Thus, education at a globally reputed university can provide the best platform in life.

• World-Class Faculty and Infrastructure

US universities set the bar high when it comes to campus infrastructure. The sheer size and facilities available to students show the investment universities obtain. American universities are known to set the bar when it comes to building a world-class university campus. This includes modern technology and equipment to ensure students get adequate practical lessons.

This shows that American universities are heavily invested in. The USA is the best place to study abroad for Indian students as it offers modern education with excellent facilities.

• Vast Program Options

Universities in the USA are known to offer just about every undergraduate and graduate program thinkable. The selection is so wide that students may even find a new course they would want to take up.

Students can also gain help from university counsellors to help them chart a path to the best program. With this help, students are bound to find an option or multiple ones to choose from.

The best part about studying abroad for Indian students is that there are scholarship opportunities. This allows Indian students to follow their academic dreams despite financial constraints.

• Work Opportunities

A reading reason why many people consider the USA the best country for international students to study and work. Apart from part-time work opportunities, students are also given a chance at internships and post-study jobs.

Additionally, the large American market is full of opportunities for the right candidate. Work experience in America can be an excellent resume headline for new graduates. This can look very appealing to companies around the world.

• Market Advantage

The USA has an immense market and is considered the best place for Indian students to study an MBA abroad. An MBA is a bright career path to take in the USA, but it is also useful around the world.

Top Universities in the USA

Below is a list of top universities in the USA ranked according to QS World University Rankings 2024.

Study in UK for Indian Students

The UK has long been associated with some of the biggest and best universities in the world. Many people consider it the best country to study abroad for Indian students as it offers excellent education in a country with a large Indian population.

• Advanced Teaching Methods

With the advancement of technology, teaching methods can be adjusted to offer better education. The UK is a leader in pioneering new and better ways to equip students with knowledge and skills. Students looking for modern education can look to the UK to find it.

• Balance Between Study, Work, and Leisure

The UK is a scenic country that offers good education and part-time or full-time work experience to students. But, when free time is available, students can enjoy the local lifestyle.

There are several tourist spots to explore, and students can venture out with friends on the weekends. This ability to take breaks and enjoy puts the UK among the top countries Indian students who are willing to study abroad choose.

• Top Research & Advanced Studies Destination

The UK is a top destination for STEM-based degrees and further studies. Much investment is put into the field of R&D, and students can get a better education because of it. As a result, it goes down as a true contender for the best country for Master’s for Indian students who want to follow a STEM-based career.

Also read: How to Find Accommodation in the UK for Indian Students?

Top Universities in the UK

Below is a list of top universities in the UK ranked according to QS World University Rankings 2024.

Study in Australia for Indian Students

Australia is the most preferred destination for Indian students. This country has seen a rapid increase in Indian students over the last few years. This clearly shows Australia is amongst the most popular study-abroad destinations for Indian students.

• Global Networking Opportunity

With an immense population of international students, there is a unique opportunity to make friends. Also, there is a clear ability to network with students, faculty, and other industry experts.

Networking has numerous benefits for Indian students, and it can be helpful in the future. Having a global network can provide support and help in times of need.

• Streamlined Process to Gain a Student Visa

Understanding that Australia is among the best countries for Indian students to study and work, there is a streamlined process to obtain a visa. Unlike some countries where obtaining a visa is extremely difficult, Australia offers a streamlined process. A clear set of requirements makes it easier for international students to apply for and obtain a student visa.

Students who follow the process and meet the requirements can feel confident about getting a student visa to Australia.

Also read: Genuine student test for Australian student visa

• Post-Study Work Rights

Australia is the best country to study abroad for Indian students looking to get experience straight after graduating. The country offers international students the opportunity to work legally for a few years after degree completion. Students will get to immediately display their newly acquired skills and knowledge in the market.

• Cultural Diversity

If you want to explore as many cultures as possible in one country, Australia offers this and more. The country has a rich cultural heritage and comprises several different cultures worldwide.

Cultural diversity is evident in universities, with students representing many countries worldwide. Indian students who are not accustomed to this follow several cultural adaptation tips to adapt better.

It is also the best country to study abroad for Indian students as the country has a big Indian community. This will help Indian students who like to engage in festivities and cultural activities.

• High-Quality Education

The country has been rising in popularity mainly due to the quality of education the educational institutes offer. Regardless of the prominence of the university, the education level is always high. This makes it the best country for Master’s for Indian students who want to get the best education.

Read this if you need more reasons to consider studying in Australia.

Top Universities in Australia

Below is a list of top universities in Australia ranked according to QS World University Rankings 2024.

Study in Germany for Indian Students

In recent years, Germany has emerged as one of the best countries to study abroad for Indian students. Several factors make Germany an attractive study destination, including low costs, numerous opportunities for professional growth, and exposure to diverse cultures.

• Cost of Education

Germany offers a highly attractive proposition for international students, especially those interested in pursuing a Master’s degree. At public universities in Germany, they can enrol in various Master’s programs taught entirely in English without having to pay any tuition fees. The only costs international students need to cover are semester fees, making their overall expenses for a German Master’s degree quite minimal.

It’s not surprising then that so many international students, including a large number from India, choose Germany as their preferred destination for studying abroad, given the significant financial advantages it provides.

• Indian Community and Culture

One major advantage for Indian students who choose to study in Germany is the presence of a well-established Indian community there. Based on data from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the number of Indian students in Germany has been increasing rapidly, reaching a record high of nearly 45,000 currently enrolled.

Having such a sizable Indian student population in Germany provides a supportive environment and a sense of familiarity for those coming from India to pursue their education.

Top Universities in Germany

Below is a list of top universities in Germany ranked according to QS World University Rankings 2024.

Study in Canada for Indian Students

Canada stands fourth in the list of best countries to study abroad for Indian students as it provides excellent support to international students through its programs related to employment and education. At present, there are thousands of students from India enrolled at some of the top universities in Canada. The availability of these supportive initiatives, along with the presence of a large Indian student community at leading Canadian institutions, greatly benefits those coming from India to study in the country.

• No Language Barrier

While Canada recognises both English and French as official languages, most of the population across most regions primarily communicates in English. This widespread use of the English language presents a favourable situation for foreigners visiting or residing in Canada. It eliminates the potential challenges posed by a language barrier, allowing effortless communication and interaction with locals throughout the country.

• Safe and Progressing Country

Canada enjoys a reputation as one of the world’s most safe countries, offering its residents a superior quality of life. Global News ranks Canada as the second country globally in terms of social and economic progress and development. The nation’s achievements in these crucial areas place it among the top-performing countries, providing a compelling environment for individuals to thrive.

• Multicultural Environment

Upon enrolling in a Canadian university, you’ll quickly experience the country’s rich multicultural environment. The diverse student body will encompass individuals hailing from countless backgrounds. Alongside Americans, you’ll find peers from India, Poland, Spain, Greece, etc. This melting pot of cultures creates an inclusive environment where you’ll feel less like an outsider. Making new friends from various walks of life becomes a natural part of the experience.

Top Universities in Canada

Below is a list of top universities in Canada ranked according to QS World University Rankings 2024.

Study in New Zealand for Indian Students

Here are three compelling reasons why New Zealand stands out among the best countries to study abroad for Indian students:

• World-Class Education and Recognition

New Zealand universities are known for their performance in global education assessments as all eight public universities are included in the QS World University Rankings list. New Zealand’s education system is closely related to the British education system which is highly regarded globally. This is extremely beneficial for Indian students who are looking for qualifications that hold recognition.

• Post-Study Work Opportunities

In New Zealand, students can benefit from post-study work rights after completing their studies. Students can stay for up to three years post graduation. This setup allows students to acquire work experience. Industries such as healthcare and business are actively seeking talents. Starting salaries range from NZ $60k to NZ $120k for beginner roles such, as software developers and engineers based on their expertise and area of focus. Indian students can benefit from this opportunity.

• A Secure and Friendly Setting With a Quality of Life

New Zealand is renowned for its quality of life and safety standards which are crucial for international students. Student assistance programs and vibrant multicultural societies offer a feeling of inclusion. This makes New Zealand an option for individuals who value their well-being and seek a balance between academic pursuits and personal life.

Together, these aspects make study in New Zealand for Indian students an attractive prospect, combining quality education, career prospects, and an enriching living experience.

Top Universities in New Zealand

Below is a list of top universities in New Zealand ranked according to QS World University Rankings 2024.

Study in Ireland for Indian Students

Ireland is considered a choice, for Indian students looking to study abroad for several good reasons.

• Industry Ties and Job Opportunities

Often referred to as the “Silicon Valley of Europe”, Ireland has become a centre for major tech corporations such as Google and Apple as well as pharmaceutical and financial firms. Moreover, Ireland’s stay-back visa policy is another reason. The country permits international students to remain in the country for up to two years after completing their studies. In 2022, Ireland had an employment rate of 75.78 %, one of the highest in Europe. This factor made the country appealing to international students.

• Affordable Education and Scholarship Opportunities

Tuition fees in Ireland range between €10,000 and €25,000 annually based on the course and institution chosen. This is generally lower than in several other European countries. The availability of scholarship opportunities like the Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship, which covers full tuition and provides a stipend of €10,000. These factors make study in Ireland for Indian students more affordable.

• English-Speaking Environment and Rich Cultural Experience

Ireland stands out as the English-speaking nation within the European Union—a factor that proves advantageous for Indian students. In addition, Ireland’s vibrant cultural heritage and hospitable community promise an enriching experience. Data from surveys conducted in 2023 reveals Ireland’s high rankings in terms of satisfaction among international students with an impressive 85%.

These reasons, combined with Ireland’s world-class universities and diverse course offerings, make it one of the best countries to study abroad for Indian students.

Top Universities in Ireland

Below is a list of top universities in Ireland ranked according to QS World University Rankings 2024.

Study in Singapore for Indian Students

Every year, more and more international students choose to come to Singapore for their higher studies, making it one of the best countries to study abroad for Indian students. The main reasons these students pick Singapore are the affordable tuition fees and the opportunity to attend some of the world’s best-ranked universities with excellent education standards. Hence, Singapore has also joined the list of popular destinated preferred by Indian students for studies.

• Welcoming Community

Singapore has a large and active community of Indian immigrants and students. This community helps create a friendly and welcoming environment, making people feel at home even though they are far away from India.

Around 9 out of every 100 people living in Singapore are Indians. The Tamil language is one of the four official languages recognised and used in Singapore.

• English-medium Education

The main language used for teaching in most university degree programs in Singapore, including doctorate (PhD) degrees, is English.

For Indian students, this use of English as the medium of instruction makes it easier to adjust to the academic system and learn because they don’t have to deal with a language barrier.

• Financial Feasibility

Studying for a Bachelor’s degree in Singapore is less expensive for Indian students compared to pursuing the same degree in countries like the USA or the UK. For instance, the annual fees for a Bachelor’s degree in engineering at top universities such as Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and the National University of Singapore (NUS) are around SGD40,000.

Living expenses in Singapore are lower than in the USA or the UK, making it more financially manageable for Indian students to afford their overall costs of studying and living there.

Top Universities in Singapore

Below is a list of top universities in Singapore ranked according to QS World University Rankings 2024.

Study in The Netherlands for Indian Students

Next on the list of best countries to study for Indian students is The Netherlands. Below are the for its popularity among international students.

• Globally Recognised Quality of Education

The Netherlands boasts some renowned universities such as the University of Amsterdam and the Delft University of Technology. It is recognised for its standings in global university rankings with 12 Dutch institutions among the top 200 worldwide. Dutch universities prioritise hands-on and research-oriented education that fosters innovation and analytical thinking.

• Affordable and Supportive Student Life

When it comes to choosing between popular options such as the UK or the US and the Netherlands, the latter stands out for providing a cost-effective experience while maintaining a high quality of life standard. International students can expect tuition fees at universities to range from around €6 000 to €15 000 with living costs averaging between €800 and € 1,200 monthly. Moreover, there are scholarships and grants for Indian students like the Holland Scholarship and Erasmus+ programs. Students can also benefit from 1 year of post-study work rights.

• International Environment and Cultural Diversity

In the Netherlands where more than 160 nationalities coexist, it creates a comforting environment for international students. The Netherlands is considered one of the countries globally and is known for its high degree of personal freedom and security according to sources, like Jeduka and the IMF.

These factors make studying in the Netherlands for Indian students an attractive option that combines quality education, affordability, and a multicultural, welcoming environment.

Top Universities in The Netherlands

Below is a list of top universities in The Netherlands ranked according to QS World University Rankings 2024.

Study in France for Indian Students

France has quickly become one of the best countries to study abroad for Indian students. Below are three reasons for its strong appeal to international students.

• Strong Indo-French Educational Partnerships

France has set a goal of hosting 30,000 Indian students by 2030 with the help of initiatives such as the Franco-Indian education plan. A commitment that highlights the government’s efforts to attract Indian talent and provide them with a conducive academic setting in France.

• Affordable Tuition and Quality Education

Studying in France is more budget-friendly compared to Western countries such as the USA and UK. Many public universities in France provide tuition fees low as EUR 2​,770 annually for undergraduate courses and EUR 3​,770 for graduate programs.

• Career and Immigration Opportunities

International students can stay up to two years after graduation to seek employment. France’s strong economy and strategic location within the EU provide access to internships and job opportunities across Europe.

These factors make study in France for Indian students not only affordable but also promising in terms of career prospects and a high-quality educational experience.

Top Universities in France

Below is a list of top universities in France ranked according to QS World University Rankings 2024.

Conclusion

All the above mentioned countries are the best countries for Indian students to study abroad. Each one of these countries has its unique benefits, but all provide a high-quality education from globally recognised universities.

Indian students can gain a good education, personal growth, as well as international experience from overseas education. If you want to have a bright career, educating yourself in these best countries to study abroad for Indian students is the first step.

Author: Deepak Shukla