A recent survey by ApplyBoard indicated that Canada remains the first choice of Indian students looking for higher studies abroad despite tightening visa regulations and increasing costs. The Student Pulse Survey Spring 2025 indicates that 94% of the respondents still have a preference for Canada due to its quality of education, extremely good career opportunities, and reasonableness.
However, the survey also shows a shift in overseas student mobility, with countries like Germany, Ireland, Denmark, Finland, Australia, and France as new destinations. Cost is a primary consideration, with 77% of students putting cost as a priority when choosing courses of study.
Increased expenses are leading to a reconsideration of options by students, with 25% considering cheaper Canadian provinces or other new options. Germany, specifically, is being favored because of its well-organised learning setup, good work-life balance, and affordability. Denmark and Finland are being sought out as well because of their English-language courses and focus on sustainability.4
Despite financial problems, most students do not wish to defer their studies, with only 9% willing to do so. As an alternative, 16% are looking for other courses, and 11% are looking for shorter courses. The survey also showed that 26% of students are searching elsewhere due to financial reasons.
The survey results indicate that institutions at leading study destinations need to follow changing student habits and place value for money as a top priority in their services. As a student observed, “Spain, Lithuania, and other lower-fee European countries” are fast emerging as strong alternatives.
