Studying abroad is more than just earning a degree—it’s about building a future. For Indian students in 2025, this future often includes settling in a new country, starting a global career, and living a better life. With the world more connected than ever, students are choosing countries not only for education but also for work opportunities and long-term residency. But which country is best for Indian students to study and settle? And what makes one destination more attractive than another?
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This blog will guide you through the best country for Indian students, explain why these countries stand out in 2025, and help you understand which country is best for higher studies. It also answers real questions like: Is there a cheapest country to study for Indian students? or Which country offers free education to international students?
From scholarships to post-study work visas, this post covers all essential factors, with detailed info to help you decide your future path.
Why Indian Students Prefer to Study and Settle Abroad
Indian students have strong reasons to study abroad. For many, it’s about gaining global exposure, accessing world-class education, or choosing practical programs that fit industry needs. But in 2025, the trend is shifting. Now, the aim is also to study and work abroad, and eventually settle permanently.
Here’s why students are choosing to study and settle overseas:
- Better Job Prospects: International degrees lead to higher-paying jobs.
- Post-Study Work Visas: Countries now offer clear paths from study to permanent residence.
- Safe & Inclusive Societies: Students want diversity, safety, and cultural acceptance.
- Strong Indian Communities: Most top destinations have established Indian communities, making life easier.
- More Scholarships & Lower Fees: Many countries offer funding, and some even offer free education to international students.
In short, the combination of education + career + immigration is why these destinations attract Indian students year after year.
Key Factors Considered in This List
To decide the best country for Indian students to study and settle, we looked at practical criteria. Not every country checks all the boxes, but the top 10 we list below offer an excellent balance of education, affordability, and settlement options.
| Factor | Why It Matters |
| Post-Study Work Rights | Determines how long you can work after graduation |
| Permanent Residency (PR) Path | Helps you settle after studying |
| Top Universities | Better quality education and recognition worldwide |
| Tuition Fees | Affects affordability and long-term ROI |
| Living Costs | Impacts your daily student life and budget |
| Scholarships | Reduces financial burden |
| Work Opportunities | Supports part-time jobs and career entry |
| Language & Culture | Affects ease of communication and social adjustment |
| Visa Policies | Defines how easy it is to enter, study, work, and stay |
| Indian Student Support | Availability of support services and existing Indian population |
When we say “best country to study abroad for Indian students,” we mean one that balances all of the above—not just prestige.
Top 10 Countries to Study and Settle in 2025
Let’s explore each country in detail—from education quality and scholarships to post-study work rights and settlement opportunities. Each of these destinations is known as a best country for Indian students to study and settle, with different strengths.
1. Canada
Canada remains one of the best country to study abroad for Indian students in 2025. With a student-friendly immigration policy, high employability, and strong Indian communities, it’s a top choice for students who want to study and work abroad and later settle.
Why it stands out
- 3-year post-study work permit (for programs over 2 years)
- Clear path to Permanent Residency through Express Entry & PNP
- Affordable tuition compared to the US
Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Benefits |
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship | Academic excellence in research-based programs | $50,000/year for 3 years |
| Ontario Graduate Scholarship | Masters and doctoral level students in Ontario | $15,000/year |
Key Benefits:
- English-speaking
- Strong job market in IT, healthcare, and engineering
- Safe and multicultural
Verdict: A best country for Indian students who want post-study work rights and PR.
2. Germany
Germany is known for offering free education to international students at public universities. It’s not only affordable but also gives work rights and PR options after studies.
Why it stands out:
- No tuition fees at most public universities
- 18-month post-study job-seeking visa
- EU job market access
Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Benefits |
| DAAD Scholarships | For all international students | Monthly stipend, travel, housing |
Key Benefits:
- Free or very low tuition
- Top-ranked universities in engineering and science
- Easy PR after 5 years of stay
Verdict: The cheapest country to study for Indian students with high academic value.
3. United Kingdom (UK)
The UK is making it easier for international students to study and settle with the Graduate Route visa. It’s one of the most preferred destinations and still a best place to study abroad for Indian students.
Why it stands out:
- 2-year post-study work visa (3 years for PhD)
- World-class institutions like Oxford, Cambridge
- Easier PR via skilled work routes
Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Benefits |
| Chevening Scholarship | Academic merit + leadership | Full tuition, living, airfare |
| Commonwealth Scholarship | Developing countries, including India | Full funding for Master’s/PhD |
Key Benefits:
- Shorter duration of Master’s (1 year)
- High employability
- English-speaking
Verdict: A top best country for Indian students to study and settle for those seeking quick job entry.
4. Australia
Australia offers top education and strong immigration programs. With the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) and regional study incentives, it is another best country for study for Indian students.
Why it stands out:
- 2-6 year post-study work visa
- Points-based PR system
- Regional study benefits
Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Benefits |
| Australia Awards | High-achieving students from developing countries | Full tuition, living, travel |
| Destination Australia Program | Study in regional areas | Up to AUD 15,000/year |
Key Benefits
- Top universities like ANU, Melbourne
- Work during study (up to 48 hours per fortnight)
- High chances of PR
Verdict: A best country for Indian students to study and settle with a strong link between study and PR.
5. Ireland
Ireland is a rising destination in 2025, especially for tech and finance students. It has strong job opportunities, top universities, and simple post-study work rules.
Why it stands out:
- 2-year stay back for Master’s students
- English-speaking and EU access
- Fast-growing job market in tech, pharma
Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Benefits |
| Government of Ireland International Ed. | Academic excellence | €10,000 + full tuition waiver |
| University-specific scholarships | Based on merit | Partial to full tuition support |
Key Benefits:
- Friendly visa process
- Great for IT, business, data science
- High salaries after graduation
Verdict: A hidden gem and best place to study abroad for Indian students in 2025.
6. United States (USA)
Still a top destination, the USA is ideal for students who want high-impact careers in research, tech, or management. It offers Optional Practical Training (OPT) and H1B routes.
Why it stands out:
- 1 to 3 years OPT depending on course
- H1B visa transition to PR possible
- Best universities and research centers
Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Benefits |
| Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship | Master’s degree for Indian citizens | Full tuition, living, airfare |
| Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation | Master’s at top global universities | Up to USD 100,000 |
Key Benefits:
- High salaries after graduation
- Global tech hub
- Large Indian student base
Verdict: For students aiming big, the best country for study for Indian students.
7. France
France offers affordable education, strong hospitality/business programs and one of the most generous student visa systems in Europe
Why it stands out:
- Low tuition (around €300–€400 per year)
- 2-year post-study stay for Master’s
- PR after 5 years with work
Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Benefits |
| Eiffel Excellence Scholarship | Engineering, law, political science, etc | Monthly grant, travel, insurance |
Key Benefits:
- Cultural capital of Europe
- Great for fashion, design, business
- Offers courses in English
Verdict: Among the cheapest country to study for Indian students, with a rich global experience
8. Netherlands
Netherlands is ideal for tech and design programs, with 2-year post-study work rights and PR pathways.
Why it stands out:
- High employability in Europe
- English-taught programs in every field
- Startup visa route for PR
Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Benefits |
| Holland Scholarship | Bachelor’s/Master’s students | €5,000 tuition waiver |
| Erasmus+ | Joint programs across Europe | Full support including living cost |
Key Benefits:
- Tech and AI-focused economy
- Affordable compared to UK/US
- Culturally liberal society
Verdict: The best place to study abroad for Indian students looking at tech + EU access.
9. New Zealand
With a simple visa structure, 3-year post-study work visa, and points-based PR, NZ is great for students looking for balance and safety.
Why it stands out:
- 3-year post-study work visa for higher studies
- PR based on employment and points
- English-speaking and Indian-friendly
Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Benefits |
| New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarship | Indian Master’s/PhD students | Full tuition + allowance |
Key Benefits:
- High quality of life
- Growing industries in healthcare, IT, education
- Safe, peaceful lifestyle
Verdict: A best country for Indian students to study and settle if you seek stability and nature.
10. Norway
Norway offers world-class education that is free for international students at public universities. Though PR takes longer, it’s still a top choice in 2025.
Why it stands out:
- No tuition at public universities
- Work 20 hrs/week during study
- PR after 3 years of work post-study
Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Benefits |
| Quota Scheme (now phased) | Currently through individual universities | Partial funding |
Key Benefits:
- Beautiful landscapes, safe society
- High wages to balance cost of living
- Courses in English
Increase Chances of Settling Abroad
For many international students, studying abroad is just the beginning. Behind the semester plans, orientation guides, and hostel roommates, there’s a quiet hope: What if I could stay here permanently? This thought starts to grow stronger when life feels more stable, friendships deepen, and you finally feel like you belong.
Let’s face it: The job market is tough — no matter where you are. But if you’ve studied abroad, you’re already equipped with rare, in-demand skills that employers want. This increases your chances of settling in your favourite country.
You can also take the help of experts from Transglobal Overseas to understand how Graduate Route Visas, Post-Study Work Permits, or PR pathways work in your destination country. Our experts will make the PR process easier for you.
Final Thoughts
Studying abroad is not just about university rankings or degrees on your wall. It’s about the life you build while chasing that degree.
It’s the friendships you forge under campus lights, the small victories of everyday independence, the unspoken confidence that grows when you survive winters, midterms, and identity crises all at once. It’s about discovering new dreams, questioning old beliefs, and finding out who you are when no one’s watching.
And perhaps, most importantly, it’s about becoming someone who can live anywhere in the world — because you’ve learned to belong to yourself first.
These lessons are invisible on your transcripts. But they shine through when you walk into your future.
So, if you’re currently packing your bags to study abroad, don’t forget to get an expert opinion from Transglobal Overseas’ counsellors. They will make sure everything is seamless, and you begin your experience beyond the classroom lies a world full of lessons.
The more open you are to learning, the better your chances of turning your study abroad journey into a permanent home.
And who knows? One day, you’ll look back and realise — you didn’t just study abroad.
You grew. You thrived. You became.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which countries offer post-study work visas or PR options after graduation?
Countries like Canada, Australia, the UK, New Zealand, Germany, and the USA offer post-study work visas. Canada and Australia also provide clear paths to permanent residency for international graduates.
2. Is it easy to get permanent residency after studying abroad?
It depends on the country and your profile. Canada and Australia make it easier with points-based PR systems, especially if you gain local work experience after graduation.
3. Which countries have high job opportunities for international graduates?
Canada, the USA, Germany, Australia, and the UK offer strong job markets. These countries value international graduates, especially in tech, healthcare, and business fields.
4. What are the top courses to study abroad for better settlement prospects?
Courses in computer science, engineering, healthcare, data science, and business management often lead to better jobs and long-term stay options in most countries.
5. Which countries offer scholarships to Indian students for higher education?
The USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, and New Zealand offer scholarships to Indian students. Many are funded by governments, universities, and private organizations.
6. Are there any entrance exams required to study in top foreign universities?
Yes, some universities ask for IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT, or SAT depending on the course and country. English-speaking countries often require proof of language skills.
7. What is the average processing time for student visas in different countries?
Visa processing usually takes 2 to 8 weeks. Canada and the UK are faster, while the USA and Australia may take longer during peak periods.
8. How does studying abroad improve chances of settling permanently in a foreign country?
Studying abroad gives you a local degree and work experience. Many countries offer PR paths for graduates who work in in-demand fields or meet point-based systems.
