USA (Commonwealth Union)_ The allure of higher education in the United States remains robust among Indian students, with a recent survey revealing that 69% of them prefer US educational institutions over other global destinations. This statistic, shared by Gloria Berbena, the US Minister Counsellor for Public Diplomacy, underscores a growing trend in international education and highlights the prominent position of US universities and colleges in the global educational landscape. In a recent discussion, Berbena reported a striking 30% increase in the number of Indian students in the US over the past year.
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This surge has positioned Indian students as the largest group of graduate-level learners in the US, with a significant presence also observed at the undergraduate level. Berbena commented, “We are seeing a huge increase in the number of students going to the US, and we are very pleased.” Additionally, the popularity of US higher education is further evidenced by the record-setting number of Indian students enrolling in US universities and colleges. Last year alone, approximately 200,000 Indian students pursued their academic aspirations in the US, making India the leading country in terms of student origin for American higher education institutions. This development underscores a robust bilateral educational exchange and highlights the US’s appeal as a premier destination for academic excellence.
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To assist prospective students in navigating the complex process of studying abroad, EducationUSA, a US State Department-funded advisory service, has organized a series of education fairs across India. The upcoming fair in Delhi, featuring over 125 US educational institutions, will provide valuable information on application procedures, visa requirements, and associated costs. Berbena stressed the importance of this initiative, noting that students do not need to depend on agents or intermediaries to facilitate their application process. Additionally, EducationUSA is dedicated to guiding students through their higher education journey by offering free services that include evaluating academic scores, interests, and financial resources.
This personalized support helps students identify suitable institutions that align with their academic and professional goals. Berbena emphasized, “There are many lesser-known but excellent state-level colleges that are also more affordable. We have over 4,500 higher education institutions that offer excellent accredited degree programs.” Furthermore, the increase in student visa applications, a challenge exacerbated by the post-COVID surge, has put pressure on the US visa system. However, Berbena assured that student visas are a priority, with wait times now decreasing. Additionally, the recent opening of a new US consulate in Hyderabad, along with plans for additional consulates in Bengaluru and Ahmedabad, is expected to further streamline the visa process.
Furthermore, according to Oxford International’s Student Global Mobility Index (SGMI), the United States continues to be the top choice for Indian students pursuing higher education abroad. Despite concerns about affordability, safety, and security, the US outpaces other destinations, with 69% of Indian students expressing a preference for US educational institutions. This preference is followed by the UK at 54%, Canada at 43%, and Australia at 27%. The survey highlights that the quality of education and the prestigious reputation of US universities are major factors influencing this preference. Additionally, in the US, 45% of students prioritize the quality of education, while 42% value the reputation of its universities. Comparatively, in the UK, 59% focus on educational quality and 61% on institutional reputation. This data reflects the critical role that educational standards and institutional prestige play in attracting international students.
Moreover, the SGMI survey reveals that Indian students’ decisions are significantly influenced by their parents and guardians, with 71% identifying them as the primary decision-makers. This pattern is also consistent with students from other countries, such as Nigeria, Pakistan, and Vietnam. Additionally, 44% of Indian students also consider their closest friends to be influential in their decision-making process. The ongoing preference for US higher education among Indian students highlights the significant impact of US educational standards and institutional reputation on global education trends. As the US continues to attract a diverse student body from around the world, the emphasis on providing comprehensive support and maintaining high educational standards remains crucial to sustaining this global appeal.
