When it comes to Indians studying abroad, policy changes have defined the international education sector in 2024 and have already had a significant impact on weakening student demand. A recent report ‘ ApplyBoard’s Fall 2024 Student Pulse Survey’ showed that while 64 per cent of survey participants were aiming for one or more of the “Big Four” study destinations (Australia, Canada, the UK, or the US), Ireland, or Germany, the survey reveals a rising interest in a broader range of countries.

This year, the US, in particular, saw a spike in students expressing “extreme interest” in its programmes, potentially leading to heightened application competition. Beyond these countries, international students considered a wide range of alternative destinations, with 36 per cent showing interest in study locations outside the Big Four. Finland, Japan, the Netherlands, and Switzerland emerged among the top 10 alternative destinations, underscoring the global appeal of quality education.

Students were also asked how recent policy changes in Australia, Canada, and the UK may have shifted their interest. In the survey, around 20 per cent of respondents were less interested in these countries, but between 25 and 34 per cent were actually more interested. This may speak in part to students appreciating transparency from destination governments with things like more accurate cost of living guidelines.

In addition to this, budgeting and financial readiness are key concerns for international students, especially as living costs rise worldwide. The ability to work part-time was the fourth most cited factor when selecting a study destination. A striking 98 per cent of survey respondents plan to work while studying, with two-thirds hoping to work more than 20 hours per week if permitted. About 30 per cent plan to limit their work to part-time, less than 20 hours per week. Scholarships are also top of mind for many students, who hope to alleviate financial pressures through external funding.

The survey also shows that interest in all levels of study fell except for master’s degrees, PhDs or other doctoral degrees, and secondary school (high school). In 2024, the appeal of postgraduate studies continues to grow, with almost 90 per cent of survey respondents including at least one postgraduate programme in their study plans. Postgraduate degrees offer extended work visas and family sponsorship options in countries like the UK and Canada. Interest in master’s and doctoral programs surged between the Spring and Fall surveys, while shorter programmes, such as postgraduate diplomas, saw decreased interest. These trends underscore the importance of specific benefits tied to postgraduate programmes, including family sponsorship and spouse work visa eligibility.

However, this increased interest isn’t shared equally across all postgraduate programsme. Interest in postgraduate degrees and certificates actually dropped over the past six months. This decline is likely caused by student awareness of policy changes that decrease access to post-study opportunities — like updates to Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) programme — for non-degree graduates.