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The top study destinations for Indian students by 2030
24 August 2026
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The top study destinations for Indian students by 2030
What the forecast shows
QS Global Student Flows data points to a gradual reshaping of Indian student mobility by 2030. The traditional 'Big Four' destinations remain central, but the balance between them is expected to change. The United Kingdom is forecast to overtake Canada and the United States to become the leading destination for Indian students, growing from 146,500 students in 2025 to 184,300 by 2030. Canada, currently ranked first, is projected to fall to second, with flows declining from 232,900 to 176,400, while the United States is forecast to move from second to third. Australia – the last 'Big Four' destination - is set to be overtaken by Germany, which is forecast to experience a 14% CAGR through to 2030, the highest of any nation except France.
With transnational education and international branch campuses set to expand and mature in India, we could see further mobility changes. By 2030, significant volumes of Indian students may study at the branch campuses of international institutions, rather than travelling overseas.
Europe gains momentum
Europe, then, is clearly growing in appeal. Germany is forecast to nearly double its Indian student population, rising from 58,800 to 113,300. France shows strong momentum, more than doubling from 9,100 to 19,300 students, while Ireland, Italy and New Zealand are all expected to record notable growth from smaller bases.
Regional and emerging options broaden the map
The forecast also suggests that Indian students will continue to consider a wider mix of destinations beyond the largest English-speaking markets. The United Arab Emirates is projected to grow from 12,700 to 22,100 students, while destinations such as Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and South Korea are all forecast to expand. Although these markets remain much smaller in absolute terms, their growth points to a more diversified outbound mobility landscape by 2030.
What it means for universities
Demand from Indian students looking to study in the 'Big Four' is expected to remain substantial, but students’ choices are likely to be shaped by affordability, visa policy, post-study work opportunities and perceptions of long-term value. Institutions in established destinations will need to work harder to defend their position, while universities in fast-growing markets have an opportunity to build visibility with Indian students looking for credible alternatives.
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