Financial strain remains the biggest barrier to studying abroad | Photo Credit: Getty Images

Amid visa barriers and immigration policy uncertainties, Australia and the UK have emerged as the first and second top choices for overseas education with the US declining to third spot. 31 per cent and 19 per cent of students cite Australia and the UK as their preferred destinations respectively, according to IDP Education’s survey, released on Tuesday. Preference for the US, once the first choice for education abroad, is at third spot at 14 per cent preference, an 8 per cent decline from IDP Education’s survey in February 2025.

With immigration policy uncertainties and visa barriers, students are re-evaluating their study destinations and basing their decisions on long-term return on investment with regard to job opportunities, the report said.

The report compiled survey responses from about 5,800 students globally, including prospective , applied , and current students, those who have declined their offer abroad, and those who have completed their studies abroad.

The survey was conducted between March and April 2026, gathering insights into students’ preferred study destinations, barriers to studying abroad, and their perceptions of return on investment.

Global Destinations

Australia and the UK are strongly considered for their academic quality and skills development, with 42 per cent of students citing Australia’s strong career outcomes after graduation and 29 per cent citing the country’s prioritisation of industry-aligned skills.

Canada and the US are associated with course-related work opportunities (29 per cent) and career connections, networks (34 per cent), and prominent career outcomes (46 per cent).

Financial Strains and Visas

Financial strain remains the biggest barrier to studying abroad, with tuition fees, living expenses, and student visa costs cited by 50 per cent, 35 per cent, and 27 per cent of students, respectively, as the main reasons for dropping their overseas study plans.

Meanwhile, around 26 per cent of students abandoned their overseas study plans because they found the student visa process difficult. Emerging trends indicate that visa requirements have become a key factor in choosing study destinations abroad. In addition, visa policies influence post-study work opportunities and require careful financial planning and savings.

Return on Investment

For Indian students, access to post-study work rights and employment opportunities plays a crucial role, the report notes. Globally, strong career outcomes after graduation emerged as the most important factor influencing educational return on investment, with 32 per cent of students prioritising employability and overseas job opportunities.

(With inputs from BL intern Mahalakshmi G)

Published on May 26, 2026