New Delhi: In the realm of global education, Indian students are increasingly setting their sights on international shores, with a notable inclination towards the United States. A comprehensive study conducted by Oxford International’s Student Global Mobility Index (SGMI) delved into the preferences and motivations of Indian students aspiring to pursue education abroad, revealing intriguing trends.
Released recently, the report spotlighted the dominance of the US as the preferred destination for Indian students, garnering a resounding 69% majority among respondents. This preference eclipsed other renowned options such as the UK (54%), Canada (43%), and Australia (27%), despite lingering concerns regarding affordability, safety, and security.
What propels this overwhelming preference towards the US? According to the findings, Indian students are drawn by the esteemed reputation of American universities, a sentiment echoed by counterparts from various nations. Factors such as the quality of education and the illustrious standing of universities play pivotal roles in shaping decisions. Notably, 45% of Indian students highlighted the quality of education, while 42% emphasized the university’s reputation as decisive factors for choosing the US.
A nuanced examination of motivations reveals distinct patterns across different destinations. While the UK attracts students with its educational quality (50%) and university reputation (61%), Canada stands out for its appeal in combining work and study, cited by a significant portion of respondents.
Mohit Gambir, managing director of Oxford International Education Services, aptly encapsulated this dynamic landscape, stating, “As aspirations intertwine with opportunity, the narrative of global student mobility continues to evolve, reflecting a mosaic of motivations and influencers shaping the educational journey.”
Delving deeper into the influencing factors, the survey underscored the significant role played by familial guidance, with approximately 71% of Indian students citing parents or guardians as primary influencers. This trend resonated across other nations such as Nigeria (72%), Pakistan (71%), and Vieznem (62%). Additionally, close friends emerged as influential figures, with 44% of Indian students acknowledging their impact on decision-making.
In essence, the pursuit of education abroad among Indian students is a multifaceted journey, influenced by a complex interplay of factors ranging from academic reputation to familial guidance. As the educational landscape continues to evolve, these insights offer valuable perspectives on the evolving dynamics of global student mobility.