Decline in Punjabi Students Going Abroad for Studies: Reasons Behind the Shift

Jalandhar (Punjab) : Punjabi students, once eager to pursue higher education abroad, are now showing reluctance towards studying in countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia. This shift in trends can be attributed to multiple factors, including economic conditions, political tensions, and the growing availability of educational opportunities within Punjab itself.

Canada, traditionally a top destination for Indian students, has seen a significant decrease in the number of study permits granted. According to a report by Canada’s ApplyBoard, the number of new study permits issued by the end of 2024 is expected to reach 231,000, down from 436,000 in 2023. This 50% decline in the number of students heading to Canada is linked to factors such as rising unemployment, inflation, and increased bank interest rates. Additionally, tensions between Canada and India have negatively impacted study visas, further deterring students from pursuing their dreams there.

Similarly, Australia, once a popular choice for students, has also seen a reduction in applications. Indian student applications to Australia dropped from 96,490 in March 2024 to 87,600 in June 2024, with expectations for January 2025 numbers to be even lower. Australian visa experts suggest that the country’s immigration policies and the lower percentage of Punjabi immigrants make it less attractive compared to Canada, where many Punjabis aimed for Permanent Residency (PR).

In the UK, the number of students applying for study visas has decreased by 16% from 2023 to 2024. The government’s new rule restricting students from bringing dependents unless on specific courses has led to a further decline in applications. With job shortages and an increasingly challenging immigration system, the UK is becoming a less favorable destination for many students.

As a result, many young Punjabis are now turning to local educational institutions. Colleges and technical institutes in Punjab are witnessing increased enrollment, with many institutions reporting full seats for the first time in years. As local education continues to grow in quality, the trend of students studying abroad seems to be on the decline.