France, Germany and UK Record Surge in International Student Enrolment as Study Abroad Preferences Shift

August 4 2026

France, Germany and UK Record Surge in International Student Enrolment as Study Abroad Preferences Shift

https://travel.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/education/france-germany-and-uk-see-record-international-student-enrolment-as-study-abroad-preferences-shift/132654946

France, Germany and the United Kingdom are witnessing record growth in international student enrolment as students increasingly look beyond traditional study destinations. According to data cited by education financing platform Prodigy Finance, changing visa policies and evolving student preferences are contributing to this shift.

France Records Highest Number of Student Residence Permits

France issued 118,000 student residence permits in 2025, making them the country's largest category of first-time residence permits. The figures reflect the country's growing appeal among international students seeking higher education opportunities in Europe.

Germany Sees Record International Student Numbers

Germany hosted a record 402,000 international students across 2024 and 2025. Indian students accounted for nearly 59,000 enrolments, representing a 20% year-on-year increase. The country continues to attract students through its expanding higher education sector and growing international student population.

UK Reports Strong Growth in Indian Student Enrolment

The United Kingdom also recorded strong enrolment figures. The number of Indian students accepted through UCAS rose by 28% compared to 2019, highlighting sustained interest in UK higher education among Indian applicants despite changes in the global study abroad landscape.

Key Highlights

France issued 118,000 student residence permits in 2025, the highest among first-time residence permit categories.
Germany hosted a record 402,000 international students across 2024 and 2025.
Nearly 59,000 Indian students enrolled in Germany, marking a 20% year-on-year increase.
The UK recorded a 28% rise in Indian student acceptances through UCAS compared to 2019.
According to Prodigy Finance, international students are increasingly choosing European destinations as study abroad preferences continue to evolve.

Author : Rani Thomas

I’m Rani Thomas, founder and CEO of Berakah Elite Education. With over 30 years in the United States and decades of experience in finance and operations at Lawson Travels, I launched Berakah to guide students in India through the process of studying abroad, combining structured support with a personal commitment to service.