Amid rising tuition fees and tightened immigration rules in traditional study-abroad hotspots, international students-especially from India-are shifting their global education priorities. A new report, “2026 Trends Report: Building and Rebuilding Global Education” by ApplyBoard, reveals that affordability, stable policies, and strong post-study work opportunities are now more important to students than the prestige of studying in the US, UK, Canada or Australia.

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Big Four Losing Appeal as Costs Rise

According to the report, skyrocketing tuition fees and higher proof-of-funds requirements are pushing students to rethink the “big four” as default destinations.

Canada is projected to see a massive 54% drop in study permit issuances in 2025, with Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) approvals expected to fall by 30%. Australia and the UK, though still receiving steady interest, are now facing decreased demand due to compliance hurdles and rising living expenses.

The US continues to attract large numbers-over 3.6 lakh Indian students currently study there-but recent policy uncertainty and tougher visa screenings are prompting many families to re-evaluate their choices.

Germany & Ireland Rising as Affordable Alternatives

ApplyBoard’s report names Germany and Ireland as two of the most attractive emerging destinations. Students view them as cost-effective options offering:
  • Lower tuition fees
  • Flexible post-study work opportunities
  • Clearer, more stable visa policies

Germany has already crossed 400,000 international students in the winter 2024–25 semester, driven by smooth study-to-work pathways and new dual citizenship reforms. Ireland’s affordable fees and strong tech-driven job market continue to draw South Asian students.

France, Spain, UAE & South Korea Also Gaining Traction

Beyond Europe’s big names, several other non-English-speaking destinations are welcoming more global talent:
  • France aims to host 30,000 Indian students by 2030, supported by simplified housing and visa rules.
  • Spain is experiencing record student enrolments with easier visa processes.
  • South Korea and the UAE are expanding international intakes through longer work rights and streamlined immigration policies.

What Matters Most to Students in 2025?

The report highlights a significant shift toward outcome-focused decision-making. Students are prioritizing:
  • Cost of studying: 91.4% (Q3 2025)
  • Post-study work opportunities: 87.8% (Q3 2025)
  • Opportunities to work while studying: 74.6% (Q3 2025)
  • Cost of living: 76.7% (Q3 2025)
  • How welcoming the destination is: Rising sharply to 48.6% (Q3 2025)

These trends show a clear pattern: students want destinations that provide a strong return on investment-not just prestigious institutions.

A More Strategic Generation of Students

Apply Board CEO Meti Basiri notes that the study-abroad decision “is now, more than ever, a financial calculation.” With fluctuating policies in major destinations, students and families are evaluating affordability, job outcomes, and immigration stability before making choices.

Global Student Mobility Still Growing

Despite challenges, the report projects that global student mobility will continue to rise-possibly reaching 10 million international students by 2030. But instead of following tradition, students are increasingly choosing countries like Germany, Ireland, France, and Spain that offer value, stability, and long-term opportunities.

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Conclusion:

Students in 2025 are choosing Germany and Ireland more than ever-while the US, UK, Canada, and Australia face slower demand. Affordability, work opportunities, and predictable policies are reshaping the global study landscape.

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