Global Immigration Curbs Drive Surge in Admissions at Local Colleges

• Apr 15, 2025

Amid tightening immigration rules in popular study-abroad destinations, local colleges are experiencing a noticeable rise in student interest ahead of the upcoming academic session.

Although final admission figures will only be available by September, institutions across the region are already reporting a significant increase in queries and applications. Despite Class 12 results still pending, colleges are receiving a steady stream of calls and emails from students and parents seeking information on seat availability, fee structures, and course offerings.

This growing interest in local education is largely being driven by recent global developments. Canada has capped international student permits, Australia has raised English language proficiency requirements, and the US has seen a rise in student deportations over visa-related issues. These changes have led to growing apprehension among parents, many of whom now see studying abroad as riskier than before.

Geopolitical tensions like the Russia-Ukraine war have further shaped perceptions. The traumatic experience of Indian students caught in the conflict, and their subsequent evacuation, is still fresh in the minds of many families — prompting a shift toward safer, home-based education options.

RS Deol, Director of Lyallpur Khalsa College Technical Campus, noted the trend, stating, “Parents are now prioritizing quality education without the uncertainties tied to foreign systems.” His college, which offers 33 professional and technical programs, expects to grow its student strength from 3,000 to 3,500 this year, citing practical training, corporate exposure, and NEP 2020 alignment as key drivers.

Similarly, CT Group of Institutions Managing Director Manbir Singh reported over 700 additional admissions this year across their Jalandhar and Ludhiana campuses. He attributed the rise to enhanced infrastructure, improved campus safety, and growing trust in local institutions amid visa restrictions abroad.

Prof. Manhar Arora of St Soldier Group of Institutions also highlighted over 15% growth in admissions across the past two academic years. “With shrinking chances of permanent settlement overseas, students are now turning to career-focused fields such as paramedical sciences, IT, pharmacy, law, and hotel management,” he said. Vocational courses offering early certification and job readiness are also in high demand.

Kanya Maha Vidyalaya (KMV) Principal Atima Sharma Dwivedi echoed the sentiment, noting increased enrollment in honours and skill-based programs. “With global uncertainties rising and migration pathways narrowing, Indian colleges are becoming trusted, future-ready alternatives,” she said.

This emerging shift points to a growing confidence in domestic higher education and a re-evaluation of priorities among students and parents alike.