Central Europe Study Abroad Trends: The New Destination for Indian Students
Central Europe study abroad trends reveal that these Indian students now prefer countries from the region, such as Italy, Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, Austria, and Malta rather than the traditional Anglosphere destinations of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. According to insights revealed by University Living at the Global Education Conclave 2024, the inflow of Indian students into those countries has increased significantly toward the respective nations in the last few years because they provide high-quality education and lower tuition costs along with adequate post-study options.
This reflects the attractiveness of Central European countries as the first destination for the Indian student population seeking foreign studies. The Indian student population at European institutions would grow by more than 200%, outpacing the growth perceived in the U.S., UK, Australia, and Canada by up to 150%. This is because the current base of Indian students in European countries is small, thus offering large room for growth in the study abroad sector.
Saurabh Arora, founder & CEO of University Living, said Central European countries are now more prepared to teach in English, hence more accessible to international students. Also, more Indian families can now afford sending their children abroad for higher studies, thus expanding the market for universities in Europe.
Drivers of Preference towards Central Europe
According to the University Living report, European Student Landscape: Beyond Beds and Benches, the factors contributing to the trend of an increase in Central Europe as an overseas destination for Indian students are:
Quality of Education and Low Fee Costs
Central Europe can offer high-caliber education to students, mostly on relatively lower tuition fees. Public universities have experienced these in most of their institutions. Courses such as in the fields of engineering, design, and cultural studies attract so many students, mainly into countries like Germany and Italy. Value walks together with the ability to ensure the quality of financial access.
What happens after study ? Can there be mobility within Europe for students ?
There is vast scope post-graduation in Europe for international graduates. There are adequate schemes that provide opportunities for students to stay after graduation or intern in an organization, so it is very alluring to many Indians wishing to seek international exposure. Additionally, the degree offered by Schengen countries facilitates excellent mobility throughout Schengen countries; for example, one is allowed to visit and be permitted to work within other countries that are also members of Schengen Area.
Staying in Europe is a great experience for Indian students, as it helps them to experience a diverse culture, language, and lifestyle. Berlin, Barcelona, and Vienna are such cities where the student communities are quite active, allowing Indian students to build networks all over the world and make their international experience rich.
Popular Courses and Universities for Indian Students in Central Europe
Along with this trend of student choices for Central Europe come particular preferences in courses as well as institutions that complement the needs of the contemporary global job market. Of the top courses and their respective institutions, according to the report from University Living, this includes:
1. India Students prefer engineering, research, and natural sciences’ courses at German institutions. This includes institutions like the TU Munich and Heidelberg University.
2. Spain: The most popular and followed disciplines in Spain are in medicine, architecture, social sciences, and the biggest establishments such as the University of Barcelona and the University of Madrid.
3. Italy: Indian students interested in art, design, or cultural studies often opt for the University of Bologna and Sapienza University in Italy.
4. France and Portugal: Both Sorbonne University from France and the University of Lisbon and NOVA University in Portugal are favorites with Indians as well.
Economic Impact of International Students in Central Europe
International students, along with Indian students, amount to a significant proportion in the economies of Central European countries. For example, as of 2023, international students in Europe collected over €16 billion on their behalf in rental incomes, real estate development, and demand for student apartments. University Living has taken shape as a global market place for student housing with the help of a community-based approach and has successfully aided more than 2 million beds across 515 cities worldwide, including several famous European cities in the UK and North America.
Conclusion: Why Central Europe Is the Next Big Destination for Indian Students
As academic options are increasing in Europe, Central Europe has started becoming a destination for most Indian students. Cost-effectiveness and a multicultural atmosphere combined with an extensive pathway post-study attract international students from India to the region’s universities. Such a shift in student mobility to Europe reflects an emerging landscape where Indian students opt for countries like Germany, Spain, Italy, and France rather than the traditional destination as it is affordable, with quality education and a great cultural experience.
By 2030, Central Europe is also expected to further maintain its position, which would boost inter-exchanges among different educational institutions and strengthen the worldwide academic community.
