Four in Five Indian Students Plan to Return Home After Studying Abroad

Changing Aspirations of Indian Study-Abroad Aspirants

According to the latest Student Global Mobility Index from Oxford International, a significant majority of Indian students planning to study abroad intend to return home after their studies. The survey indicates that 81% of respondents aim to come back to India upon completing their education, while only 15% expressed interest in applying for jobs, without specifying whether these positions would be in India or abroad.

Self-Motivation on the Rise

The survey, which gathered insights from over 17,900 participants, highlights a notable shift in decision-making among Indian students. The number of students identifying as self-motivated increased from 29% in the 2023/24 academic year to 49% in 2025/26. In contrast, the influence of family on these decisions has decreased, dropping from 59% to just 36% over the same period.

This trend is particularly pronounced among students from northern and southern India, who are more likely to pursue education independently. Interestingly, nearly 90% of those surveyed indicated they would be the first in their families to study overseas, showcasing a growing trend of first-generation international students.

Postgraduate Education Dominates

The survey reveals that postgraduate courses are the most sought after, with 70% of respondents applying for such programmes. Business and management fields are particularly popular, attracting 75% of applicants, followed by health and medicine at 8%, sciences at 2%, and engineering at 1%.

Digital Platforms as Key Information Sources

In today's digital age, students are increasingly relying on online platforms to research their study options. Google emerged as the primary tool for discovering educational institutions, used by 39% of respondents, slightly ahead of education agents at 35%. Moreover, Google is viewed as the most trusted source of information, with 56% of students relying on it, compared to 20% who trust university events and 9% who turn to social media platforms like Instagram.

Concerns About Studying Abroad

Despite the enthusiasm for studying abroad, some students do have concerns. The most common worries include adapting to a new culture (23%), homesickness (26%), and the weather (27%). Interestingly, only 6% cited financial concerns regarding tuition fees, suggesting that while costs are a consideration, they may not be the primary barrier for many students.

Shifting Trends in Global Education

The findings of this survey coincide with a broader shift in Indian students' international mobility. Recent statistics show a decline in the number of Indian students studying abroad, with a decrease of 5.7% noted in 2025. Factors such as rising tuition fees, a weaker rupee, and stricter immigration policies are influencing students to consider their options more carefully.

Moreover, students are exploring educational opportunities beyond traditional destinations like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. Interest in studying in Europe and East Asia is on the rise, with the proportion of students considering multiple countries increasing significantly.

Conclusion

As the landscape of international education evolves, understanding the motivations and concerns of Indian students is essential. The trend towards self-motivation and the desire to return home after studying abroad reflect a new generation of learners who are keen on gaining international exposure while remaining connected to their roots.

For prospective international students, this survey highlights the importance of carefully considering your study options and planning for your future, whether that means returning home or exploring opportunities abroad.