Australia has overtaken the United States to become the top study destination for Indian students, according to a new global survey by international education provider IDP Education conducted in March 2025. The country accounted for 28% of first-choice preferences among Indian students, ahead of the US (22%) and the UK (21%). Canada’s popularity dropped sharply to 13%, a 6% decline from March 2024.
Despite rising tuition fees and visa costs, Australia continues to attract Indian students due to factors such as academic quality, extended post-study work rights under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA), and safety. “Many families see it as a long-term investment,” said Piyush Kumar, Regional Director at IDP Education to Business Standard.
The Emerging Futures Seven report, based on responses from over 6,000 students globally including 1,400 from India, highlights that job prospects are a major driver behind students’ choices. Around 77% of Indian respondents said they pursue international education for career advancement, and 70% ranked access to work placements as the most important academic factor.
While the US remains strong due to its education quality, affordability continues to weigh heavily on Indian students’ minds. Two-thirds (66%) of students identified cost and finances as their top concern, followed by visa issues (47%), housing (43%), and balancing work with studies (39%).
Academic reputation still matters—67% of students cited quality of education as a key reason to go abroad—but graduate employment outcomes have now become the top indicator of an institution’s quality, surpassing rankings and faculty reputation.
Meanwhile, New Zealand saw a modest rise in student preference (5%, up 3%), suggesting evolving trends in global study destinations. Canada’s dip was linked to tighter visa norms and higher living costs.