Tightening US student visa policies are prompting students in Bangalore to turn their attention to European universities. Local education consultancy firms report that Germany has emerged as the top choice.
Experts highlight that Europe’s affordable, and often tuition-free, education programs combined with more accessible post-study work options are key attractions. Many students are even learning European languages before heading to the UK to maximize their study and job prospects.
Traditionally, the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK have been favored by Indian students primarily because English is the common language. However, this trend has shifted in recent years, accelerated by changes in US immigration policies under the Trump administration.
According to StudyNext Overseas in Jayanagar, inquiries about European universities have surged 124%, with Germany accounting for 80–85% of the demand. Students are particularly drawn to mechanical engineering, mechatronics, automotive engineering, data science, and data analytics programs in Germany. France’s aerospace, luxury brand management, and fashion technology courses are gaining popularity as well. Sweden, Italy, and Ireland attract students interested in renewable energy, robotics, molecular biology, and computer science.
StudyNext Overseas director Rakesh S. Malagithi notes that growing EU investments have also boosted management job opportunities, largely driven by the UK market.
Cost Advantage
Malagithi points out that low tuition fees for undergraduate courses are a major appeal. “Top private colleges in Bangalore charge around ₹2 million for three- to four-year programs, whereas in the EU, tuition fees range from ₹150,000 to ₹350,000, with annual living expenses between ₹500,000 and ₹1,000,000,” he explains.
Dilip Rai, head of Overseas Educational Services on MG Road, reports a 20% drop in US study inquiries, while demand for Germany, Ireland, and Australia has risen by 20–25%. He attributes this to changes in US visa policies and a stagnant UK job market.
Scholarships and Multi-Country Access
Jayanagar-based SNY Cosmos reports that 55–65% of applicants choose Schengen countries, which include 25 EU and 4 non-EU nations. One representative explains, “A single visa allows travel across multiple countries, and the availability of scholarships and financial aid is a strong incentive. Additionally, knowing one country’s language can open job opportunities in neighboring countries.”
Their consultancy also sees rising demand for technical courses in Scandinavian countries like Sweden, Finland, and Denmark, while emerging markets such as Malta, Hungary, Portugal, Spain, and Luxembourg are attracting more students for management and science programs.
Vidya Loka Overseas Education in Mattikere reports no US study applications so far this year but has seen inquiries for AI and management programs in France, Germany, Sweden, and the Netherlands.
Swathi Naidu from Hope Consultancy in Vijayanagar notes a 20% rise in interest in France, 25% in Germany, and 60% in Luxembourg, the latter credited to free education and higher visa approval rates. She adds that interest in New Zealand, Australia, and Ireland has increased by 15% compared to last year.
Japan is also becoming popular. Mohammed Faisal, Managing Director of Admit Mentors in Fraser Town, says Japan’s aging population is driving demand for robotics and automation courses.
Australia Remains the Top Alternative to the US
However, Rajesh S, director of KC Overseas Education Bangalore, reassures students wishing to study in the US that current uncertainties are temporary. He advises that for these students, Australia remains the best alternative.
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