Study Abroad 2025: Which Destinations Are South Asian Students Favouring?

For students from South Asia — India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka — going abroad for education has long meant destinations like the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. But in 2025, the landscape is changing. Rising costs, stricter visa / immigration rules, and intensifying competition are encouraging students and families to look at alternatives. The upshot: new destinations are rising, and traditional favourites are being reassessed.

Below we explore which destinations are being favoured, why the shift is happening, and what South Asian students should focus on when making their choice.

Which destinations are gaining traction?

Here are some of the key emerging patterns among South Asian students in 2025:

1. Europe is increasingly popular

Many students from South Asia are now favouring European countries over the traditional “Anglophone big four”. For example:

• According to recent data, Indian students are increasingly choosing countries like Germany, Ireland, Portugal and Spain, thanks to lower tuition/living costs and more favourable post-study work terms. La Lingua Nostra+3Outlook Money+3India Today+3
• A report indicated European alternatives are being chosen more because of affordability and value. The Economic Times+2The Times of India+2

2. Asian & Middle‐Eastern destinations are rising

• Interest in destinations across Asia and the Middle East has surged among South Asian students. Destinations such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Singapore, Japan, and other Asian hubs are registering growth in student-interest. ICEF Monitor+2ICEF Monitor+2
• One report noted that Asia is “consolidating as the leading destination region” for international students, thanks to English-taught programmes, affordability and strong regional demand. ICEF Monitor

3. Traditional destinations still matter — but with caution

• The US and UK are still in the picture for many students. For example, one study showed Indian student enquiries for US/UK/Germany/Korea rose 37 % in 2025. Business Standard+1
• But constraints like increased cost, tougher visa rules, and post-study work uncertainties are prompting students to weigh them more carefully.

Why the shift? What’s driving it?

Several factors are influencing the change in destination preference among South Asian students:

• Affordability & ROI: Rising tuition and living costs in traditional markets (US, UK, Australia) are prompting students to look where their investment offers better return.
• Post-study work & immigration pathways: Countries with clearer, smoother post-study work options, less restrictive visa rules, and realistic career outcomes are becoming more attractive.
• Programme availability & English-taught courses: Emerging destinations in Europe and Asia have expanded English-language programmes, making them more accessible.
• Regional proximity and ease of travel: Especially for South Asian families, destinations closer to home (Asia, Middle East) offer convenience, lower travel cost, more frequent home visits.
• Perceived value & new destination appeal: The idea of being “one of the first” in a new destination can appeal to students who want to stand out or get better price/value.

What this means for South Asian students in 2025

For students and families from South Asia, the shifting destination landscape means a few things:

• Broaden your shortlist: Don’t restrict to the usual countries only. Explore Europe, Asia, Middle-East options alongside US/UK/Australia/Canada.
• Check work + career pathways: Where will you be able to work post-study? Is the home-tie, visa switching, employer sponsorship environment favourable?
• Understand total cost & living: It’s not just tuition; factor living cost, travel cost, currency fluctuations, and potential earnings after study.
• Language & cultural fit: Some new destinations may have local language or cultural demands. Even if programmes are English-taught, assess comfort with adaptation.
• Be informed & realistic: Research visa rules, living conditions, job market in that destination. The “brand name” of a country/university may not always guarantee outcomes.

Conclusion

In 2025, students from South Asia are increasingly favouring a more diversified set of study destinations. While the US and UK remain strong contenders, the growth in interest for Europe, Asia, and Middle East is notable. For you (as a South Asian student), this is a time of opportunity — but also of decision-complexity. The right choice will depend less on the “big name” of a country and more on the match between destination + programme + cost + career outcomes.
If you’re planning your study-abroad journey, spend time exploring the emerging options as well. You might find a destination that offers better value, smoother transition, and a strong future for your goals.

• UK vs Canada vs Australia vs Germany: Best Study Destinations 2025
• Is Europe Open and Welcoming to International Students in 2025?
• Ireland in 2025: A Top Choice for South Asian Students