The global higher education landscape is currently undergoing a profound transformation, and with it, a unique opportunity is emerging for India. For decades, a significant portion of India's talented students have flocked to Western universities, particularly those in the USA, in pursuit of a "superior education." This trend, often fuelled by the allure of global recognition, cutting-edge research, and perceived better career prospects, has contributed to a persistent "brain drain."
However, a combination of escalating educational expenses, increasingly complex immigration policies, and evolving geopolitical sentiments, is beginning to diminish the appeal of the American educational experience for many international students, including those from India. The global demand for superior education is not waning; rather, it is being redirected. This creates an unprecedented strategic opening for other nations, notably India, to emerge as a leading global education hub.
A primary deterrent for prospective international students is the spiralling cost of US higher education. Over the past decade, average tuition and fees for out-of-state students at public four-year institutions in the US have significantly increased. When living expenses are factored in, the total annual cost of undergraduate education can frequently exceed Rs 50 lakh per year for a 4-year programme. At the Masters’ level, the cost of popular courses such as journalism, business, data sciences or public health can be even higher.
As if this is not enough, the current administration’s clampdown on the immigration status of international students at the top Universities seems ominous. In addition, the broader geopolitical climate, marked by nationalism, shifting political landscapes, and anti-immigration rhetoric, is identified as a significant challenge shaping international student recruitment in the US as of now.
For research students, fees are not the issue - but there, too, the current debilitating cuts in research grants, particularly in STEM areas, means that large cutbacks in the numbers of studentships in which Indian students could traditionally have been accommodated.
India's higher education system, which stands as the second or third largest globally after the US, possesses inherent strengths that position it well for global leadership. English is largely the medium of instruction in the top Universities, which are also getting increasingly research-active, with India being the world’s fourth largest producer of academic papers. Even in the private Universities, education is far more affordable compared to overseas programmes. Indian Universities offer a diverse spectrum of courses including liberal arts, professional courses such as law, medicine, business and engineering, and niche courses in Indian culture and tradition.
However, the Indian university system at large is also grappling with significant challenges that must be addressed to fully realize its potential as a premier international education destination. There are significant quality disparities across institutions, with many struggling to maintain high standards in infrastructure, including library and laboratory facilities, leading to unequal learning opportunities. The curriculum and pedagogy are often criticized for being outdated, overemphasizing rote learning, and failing to adequately foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills. A persistent challenge is the shortage of skilled and qualified teachers. The current draft UGC regulation, for instance, allows non-PhD holders or those outside their specialization to teach, risking academic dilution, while undermining the system's ability to attract and retain top talent. Regulatory complexities and bureaucracy also pose a significant hurdle. Thus, for many, studying abroad, especially in the US, remains a status symbol. Indian universities need to actively change this narrative and showcase their value.
To truly ascend as a global education powerhouse, Indian universities must undertake a comprehensive transformation across several critical dimensions, moving beyond mere policy pronouncements to robust and accountable implementation. Achieving global aspiration requires a profound commitment to academic excellence, particularly in research, faculty quality, and curriculum design. Indian universities must evolve from being contributors to academic research to global research leaders, by not just counting papers, but publishing very high-impact publications. Attracting and retaining world-class faculty is, thus, of the essence.
Beyond academic facilities, the physical environment of a university profoundly impacts student experience and retention. India's current infrastructure deficits are a major deterrent for both domestic and international students seeking a "superior education." Transforming traditional campuses into spaces that foster engagement, collaboration, and a sense of belonging, would create a more hospitable environment to attract international students. This includes comprehensive student support services, including counselling for academic and mental health issues, and various disabilities. Career progression, skills training and placements in jobs are essential elements of the modern university which are not found in most Indian campuses. Finally, to truly become a global education powerhouse, Indian universities must adopt proactive internationalization strategies and cultivate a distinct global brand identity.
The current global scenario presents India with an unprecedented opportunity. By committing to these strategic pillars, India can transform its higher education system, not merely as an alternative, but as a truly aspirational destination that rivals the best in the world, attracting and nurturing the next generation of global leaders and innovators. This will not only contribute to India's knowledge economy but also establish it as a significant global education superpower. The time to act is now.
Written by Prof. Somak Raychaudhury, vice chancellor, Ashoka University. Views expressed are personal.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!