A significant shift in study abroad preferences is evident among students in Lucknow, with Ireland, Germany, Japan, France, and Australia emerging as top choices for higher education. Students and their families are increasingly moving away from traditional destinations such as the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada, citing safety concerns and recent anti-India protests reported in these countries.
Rise in Applications to New Destinations
Education consultant Suresh Katti noted, “There has been a clear rise in applications to Ireland, Germany, France, Australia, and Asian countries over traditional destinations like the USA, UK, and Canada. Students are choosing destinations that offer stable environments, affordable education, and better post-study opportunities. Courses in engineering, management, hospitality, and technology remain the most preferred among applicants. Due to anti-India protests, parents and students are avoiding risks in the USA, UK, and Canada.”
Student Experiences and Choices
Ritika Bahl, a resident of Gomti Nagar, has secured admission in a bachelor’s program in data science in Ireland. “I chose Ireland after comparing multiple countries. It offers strong academic support and good job prospects after graduation. My family was concerned about safety in the USA due to recent anti-India protests, so we decided to avoid it and focus on safer options,” she said.
Aryaansh Arora, who will pursue mechanical engineering in Germany, explained that his decision was influenced by low tuition fees, strong industry exposure, and the importance his family placed on long-term stability and safety before finalizing the country.
Ananya Kapoor, who will study business analytics in Australia, stated, “Australia offers a balanced mix of quality education, work opportunities, and a structured system for international students. My parents preferred it because they felt it was a more stable and predictable option compared to the USA and Canada in the current situation.”
Neeraj Sharma, whose son Rahul Sharma is going to Japan to study robotics, said that Japan was chosen for its discipline and safety standards, while concerns over recent protests led the family to rule out the UK and Canada.
Pooja Mishra, whose daughter Prithika Sharma will study business management in France, remarked, “Safety and a secure environment were our main priorities. That is why we did not consider the USA, though it is best for business management.”
Additional Information
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About the Author: Anjanaya Singh, associated with TOI for the past two years, is a Media & Communication graduate from Manipal Institute of Communication. He primarily covers the education beat and also crafts special stories on civic and cultural affairs, capturing the city’s pulse with clarity and impact. In his free time, he enjoys watching sports.
