BS EDIT: Degrees of opportunity

By Business StandardPublished On Dec 25, 2025

A shifting global map

As traditional study destinations tighten visas and costs, India has a rare opening to emerge as a credible hub for global higher education

The imbalance problem

For every foreign student in India, 19 Indians study abroad—driving brain drain and education remittances of nearly $3.4 billion a year

Promise meets reality

Low research spending, fragmented regulation, weak infrastructure and limited post-study work options undermine India’s global education appeal

Promise meets reality

Low research spending, fragmented regulation, weak infrastructure and limited post-study work options undermine India’s global education appeal

Internationalisation at home

Aligning curricula, enabling joint degrees, expanding research ties and scaling scholarships can globalise Indian campuses without mass outflow

A strategic imperative

Done right, internationalisation can retain talent, boost research excellence and strengthen India’s long-term economic resilience