The study abroad journey appears broken for Indian students and their families. They navigate a maze of misinformation, aggressive selling, and conflicting advice, while choices are often driven by marketing rather than genuine fit. Moreover, hidden costs and unclear ROI create financial risks. Not to forget the visa uncertainties and the danger of scams and fake institutions.
Supporting data underscores the urgency – outbound higher education enrolments abroad declined by 5.7% in 2025 from 2024 owing to stricter visa and immigration policies across major destinations, rising costs of education and living expenses, and families demanding stronger return on investment amid uncertain post-study work opportunities. Visa access also tightened sharply, with US F-1 student visa issuances to Indians falling by 69% in the peak months of June–July 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.
