Education in 2025 has transformed into a crucial stepping stone for students, shaping their aspirations of studying abroad. No longer a mere status symbol, an international degree is now a sought-after milestone on many students’ bucket lists. With parents working overseas and adapting to global work cultures, the next generation is being primed to receive nothing but the best educational opportunities.
However, does this mean that India’s growing middle class is left behind? Not at all. In fact, international universities are increasingly recognizing the potential of Indian and Southeast Asian students, prompting a surge in foreign institutions establishing campuses in India. Universities are not only setting up physical footprints but are also forging partnerships with Indian institutions for research collaborations and academic exchange programs.
Yashodhara Trivedi, Regional Manager for India and Southeast Asia at Canterbury Christ Church University, describes this phenomenon as a game-changer. “It provides students from financially modest backgrounds an opportunity to earn foreign degrees without incurring high living costs. Additionally, government scholarships—both merit-based and need-based—are making higher education more accessible. With increased internet access, today’s generation is more independent in making their own academic choices.”
A Booming Education Market
India is the second-largest education market in the world, with over 43 million students enrolled across 1,200 universities and more than 58,000 colleges. The country currently has a Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) of 28% and aims to reach nearly 50% by 2035. The post-pandemic era has brought significant shifts, including political changes and stricter student visa policies in some Western countries. As a result, students are now applying to multiple destinations to keep their options open, says Trivedi.
Mohit Aggarwal, an aspiring master’s student in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, highlights key factors influencing his decision to study abroad. “The course structure, research opportunities, and distinguished faculty have drawn me towards UK universities. I’m hopeful that my application will be accepted.”
He also acknowledges the widening accessibility of foreign education. “A generation ago, studying abroad was a privilege reserved for the wealthy. But with more inclusive policies, the middle class in India now sees overseas education as an achievable goal,” he adds.
European Universities: The Rising Alternative
While the US, UK, and Canada have traditionally been top choices for Indian students, European universities are emerging as strong alternatives. Many European countries offer low-cost public university education and high-quality English-taught programs, making them attractive options without compromising academic standards.
Maddalaine Ansell, Director of Education at the British Council, affirms India’s critical role in global education. “India is of great importance to UK higher education, both for student enrollments and academic partnerships.”
A seasoned journalist and mother of an aspiring international student, speaking anonymously, shares her perspective. “The landscape of study abroad opportunities has opened up significantly. Unlike our generation, today’s students have a clear vision of their aspirations. They are aware of their options and are confident in pursuing fields that align with their passions.”
Expanding Academic Horizons
A lack of adequate job opportunities, intense competition, and limited scholarships in India have led Generation Z to seek degrees that blend multiple disciplines. Unconventional combinations such as Psychology with Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology with Business, and Environmental Science with Data Analytics are gaining popularity.
Meera Roy, a study abroad counselor at the Council of International Education in New Delhi, sheds light on a pressing concern. “Despite the growth of private universities in India, students still pay exorbitant fees without guaranteed returns. Research standards at these institutions remain underdeveloped, limiting students’ global competitiveness and career prospects.”
As India takes bold strides in higher education, the country has undoubtedly made significant progress. However, the question remains—are we doing enough to truly match global standards?
