According to a recent poll performed by study abroad consultancy Fateh Education, 78 percent of Indian students interested in studying abroad believe university rankings to be an important element affecting their selections. The poll emphasizes the critical role of institutional rankings, revealing a strong preference among students for colleges with prominent standings.

The overwhelming desire for highly rated universities among Indian students wishing to study abroad may indicate a lack of knowledge of the local education systems in their selected countries. The use of rankings as a key guide means that students may use them as a proxy for evaluating the quality and reputation of international colleges.

The poll looked at the diverse decision-making process for Indian students contemplating studying abroad. The findings found that tuition costs were the second most important characteristic, with 71% of students voting. Job possibilities were rated as a key consideration by 65% of students. This is consistent with the idea that India is a market that prioritizes affordability and is price-conscious.

The fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth characteristics taken into account were the cost of living (53%), the availability of post-study work visas (51%), course rankings (49%), university location (41%), and part-time employment prospects (31%).

The findings of this poll show the intricate interaction between academic

“Despite shifting immigration regulations and the influence of geopolitics on transnational education, one thing is clear: excellent Indian students continue to choose academic achievement.” Suneet Singh Kochar, CEO and Co-Founder of Fateh Education said “The major goal for Indian students wishing to study abroad is still to attend better colleges and further their careers.”

“Students need assistance in making choices that are consistent with their own strengths and professional goals while also analyzing the status of the global market. While university rankings remain a useful indicator, more extensive support mechanisms from counselors are required so that students may assess how the institution will help them achieve their professional goals,” Kochar remarked.

As of January 2023, around 1.5 million Indian students were studying abroad. 

According to research from 2023, the most popular destinations for Indian students are the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. As of 2023, around 850,000 Indian students were enrolled in these four nations.