Indians get nearly twice as many US student visas as Chinese

The number of Indians pursuing postgraduate studies in the United States (US) increased 63 percent to 1.65 lakh in the academic year 2022-23 — surpassing China for the first time in 15 years to become the largest source of international graduate students in America. There were 1.26 lakh Chinese graduate students in the US during the same period. The expectation for 2024 is that more than 1.8 million students may study abroad.

India ranks in the top five countries which source students to study abroad. The UK, the US, Canada, and Australia are favorite destinations for Indian students.

In the past ten years, India's approach to pursuing an overseas education has changed significantly. Study abroad programs have historically been chosen by members of the upper class because of their high cost, prestige associated with attending top universities, and restricted availability.

Recently, this pattern has changed as an increasing number of Indian students from all walks of life have started to pursue their dream of studying abroad. In 2022, more than 1.3 million Indian students studied overseas through a variety of educational programs, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. The amount of education loans disbursed has increased as a result of the spike in Indian students studying abroad. Ultimately, this has strengthened the Indian economy's growth cycle.

Furthermore, it has resulted in a notable surge in the quantity of foreign educational establishments in India, offering a greater array of chances for international schooling without the need to travel outside the nation.

Indian students are becoming more and more interested in continuing their education abroad. This development is dependent on several variables, including as exposure to the world, greater professional opportunities, and higher-quality education.

Global Exposure: Getting global exposure is a major factor in Indian students' decision to continue their education overseas. Studying abroad gives students the chance to engage with academics, mentors, and students from all over the world, broadening their perspectives.

Improved Career Prospects: There are numerous foreign universities that provide top-notch education unavailable in India. Additionally, businesses frequently place a great importance on degrees earned abroad.

Higher Education Quality: Renowned worldwide universities provide state-of-the-art research infrastructure, elite professors, and high caliber academic offerings.

2.68 lakh Indian students studied in the US last year at the undergraduate and graduate levels, including those enrolled in Optional Practical Training programs, which permit foreign graduates with an F-1 or student visa to work for pay or volunteer work for a maximum of three years. These figures are based on the most recent Open Doors Report, which was released on Monday. This is the biggest single-year increase in at least 23 years, accounting for 35% more pupils than the 1.99 lakh students reported in 2021–2022.

Together, China and India make up 52% of all overseas students studying in the United States.