Why Indian students are choosing Italy for higher education but leaving after graduation
Italy is emerging as a popular study abroad destination for Indian students, driven by affordable tuition, expanding English-taught programmes, and improving global university rankings. Indian enrolments have rebounded strongly since the pandemic, reflecting Italy’s broader success in attracting international students. However, low graduate wages, complex immigration rules, and limited post-study work opportunities mean Italy struggles to retain international graduates, including Indians, despite urgent demographic and labour market needs.
Italy is emerging as a popular study abroad destination for Indian students, driven by affordable tuition, expanding English-taught programmes, and improving global university rankings. Indian enrolments have rebounded strongly since the pandemic, reflecting Italy’s broader success in attracting international students. However, low graduate wages, complex immigration rules, and limited post-study work opportunities mean Italy struggles to retain international graduates, including Indians, despite urgent demographic and labour market needs.
