Canada, Australia gain ground as Indian students eye universities abroad: IELTS survey

As many as 30 per cent of Indian students picked Canada as their top destination. REPRESENTATION PIC/ISTOCK

A recent survey of over 8000 IELTS takers, most of whom were Indians, indicates how Australia and Canada are emerging as the up-and-coming destinations among students who are eyeing foreign varsities. IELTS, or the International English Language Testing System, is a standardised test that students or working professionals often have to take if they wish to move to a primarily English-speaking country.

US at No. 4

The survey gauged the preferences of existing and potential students of 165 nationalities, of which 973 were Indian students. It revealed how Canada, Australia, and the UK were the top three intended destinations, with the US, Germany, and New Zealand following.

[popcorn number="973" desc="No of Indian students taking the IELTS test surveyed" class="Default"]

Keeping options open

As many as 30 per cent of Indian students opted for Canada, while nine per cent opted for Australia. However, the survey also indicated that most students were preparing for universities across multiple countries to keep their options open.

Wish to stay abroad

The Indian students also expressed that they would like to continue living in their study destination even after university years, as compared to students from China who expressed that they were willing to come back sooner.

Expert Speak

Simon Emmett, chief partner officer at IDP Education, a body that conducts IELTS
‘Our research shows that global test takers are ambitious and mobile. They want to keep their options open and invest in a test that gives them the greatest chance of success'

Joyce Issac, expert study-abroad consultant

‘For studying abroad, countries like the UK and Canada, which were once student favourites, are falling in position owing to the current political climate and immigration laws. The housing and other expenses are also on the rise for current students. Entry-level jobs, too, are being affected because of AI. As for Australia, there is a cap on the number of international students. The economy is also doing better, so most students do end up with jobs, and the country remains popular'