World wide web of schools for our young: Indian students' dream to study abroad remains a steady one

Indian students are intent on adding that foreign education experience on their CV. As Canada, Britain and Australia set conditions and caps for foreign students, Indians are looking elsewhere. Barring the US, which continues to dominate the destination wishlist, students are now opting to study in countries that were previously not on their list for reasons such as language barrier, strict work-study norms and higher financial requirements.

As some of the traditional favourite education destinations limit entry, others, particularly non-English-speaking countries, are improving the 'ease of onboarding international students'.

Growing affluence, better prospects, difficulties in admission to top-tier institutions in India and gateway for emigration are among the many reasons driving young Indians abroad - 1.33 mn this year. They represent a huge financial opportunity for host countries, too.

According to RBI, Indians spent $6.3 bn on educational travel. New Zealand, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Ireland and Malta have stepped up their efforts, and are now moving up the list offering language classes to help students adjust while easing up strict language requirements, making working off-campus easier and improving employment opportunities, smoother visa processing, and easing norms for accompanying family members.

Migration may have become a hot button issue in many parts of the world. But the international flow of students continues to rise. Universities and countries are increasingly recognising the value of internationalising higher education.

India, too, should join the ranks, internationalising its campuses more actively, seeking out foreign students, diversifying faculty and stepping up promotion in catchment countries.