India - the land of diverse culture, advanced science, and a long-standing academic tradition - is increasingly asserting its position as an attractive study-abroad destination in the eyes of international students. According to data from the Ministry of Education of India and UNESCO, each year about 45,000 - 47,000 international students study in India. Among them, around 75% choose undergraduate programs - reflecting the strong demand for foundational education and long-term career orientation.

So, what are the fields of study that have attracted the largest number of international students in the past 5 years? Let’s explore with India-immi.org!

Information Technology and Computer Science

In the digital era, it is no surprise that IT and Computer Science top the list of international students’ choices in India.

Image: IT Field, source: Internet

India is renowned as a “software powerhouse” with a vibrant tech ecosystem in Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Pune. As a result, IT programs in India are not only academic but also highly practical, expanding global job opportunities.
International students are usually trained in programming, software development, artificial intelligence, data science, and cybersecurity.
Notable institutions include:

• IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi - top in engineering and technology.

• IIIT Hyderabad - specialized in IT and AI research.

• University of Delhi - multidisciplinary, with a reputable Computer Science department.

With lower costs compared to Europe or the US, but high-quality teaching and full English instruction, IT has become the top choice.

Engineering

Alongside IT, traditional engineering remains India’s historical strength and continues to attract international students.

Image: Engineering Field, source: Internet

From electrical, mechanical, and civil to chemical and aerospace, India’s engineering programs are well-structured with a strong focus on modern lab practices.
Students from South Asia, Africa, and even the Middle East choose India for engineering due to affordable costs and globally recognized degrees.

Top institutions include:

• IIT Madras, IIT Kanpur, IIT Kharagpur - internationally renowned.

• NIT Trichy, NIT Warangal - part of the prestigious National Institute of Technology network.

• Anna University (Chennai), Jadavpur University (Kolkata) - strong in traditional engineering.

• VIT Vellore - a leading private university with many international students.

Graduates gain both theory and practice, making them adaptable in global job markets.

Business Administration and Commerce

If IT and Engineering attract STEM enthusiasts, then Business - Management - Commerce is the magnet for students aiming at careers in management, finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship.

Image: Business Administration Field, source: Internet

Programs such as BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration) and B.Com (Bachelor of Commerce) are taught in English, with internationally updated curricula and corporate internships.
This makes India a preferred choice for students from Asia and Africa.

Top institutions include:

• Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC), Delhi School of Economics - under the University of Delhi.

• University of Mumbai - alma mater of many successful entrepreneurs and managers.

• Symbiosis International University (Pune) - globally oriented, popular among international students.

• Christ University (Bangalore) - dynamic and strong in business education.

Studying business in India enhances management knowledge, English proficiency, and global job opportunities.

Natural Sciences

While many students choose applied fields, basic sciences still hold great importance and attract a niche group of international learners.

Image: Natural Sciences Field, source: Internet

India’s Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology programs are highly regarded thanks to a strong research tradition and quality faculty.
Notable institutions include:

• University of Delhi, University of Calcutta, University of Mumbai, University of Pune - rich in research traditions.

• Banaras Hindu University (BHU) - long-standing reputation, diverse sciences.

• IISc Bangalore and IISERs - dedicated to fundamental sciences, producing top researchers.

International students in these fields often aim for postgraduate studies (master’s, PhD) or research/teaching careers.

Medicine and Healthcare

In healthcare, India is recognized as a trusted training hub in Asia. With diverse medical schools, large teaching hospitals, and English-medium programs, Medicine, Pharmacy, Dentistry, and Nursing attract thousands of international students.

Image: Medicine Field, source: Internet

Students from Nepal, Malaysia, Nigeria, Kenya, and Bangladesh choose India due to tough competition in their home countries.

In India, they benefit from affordable costs and rich clinical exposure thanks to high patient numbers.

Top institutions include:

• AIIMS New Delhi - Asia’s top medical school.

• Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) - attracts students from 50+ countries.

• University of Pune, Gujarat University - strong in pharmacy and dentistry.

• Several private medical schools in Karnataka and Maharashtra - offering dedicated programs for international students.

Medical studies in India provide both academic knowledge and practical experience, giving graduates a competitive edge.

Conclusion

Between 2020-2025, India has proven its strong appeal to international students, particularly in IT, Engineering, Business, Natural Sciences, and Medicine. Each field reflects India’s unique strengths - from its “software powerhouse” status, solid engineering base, to healthcare and scientific prestige.

With affordable costs, English instruction, and an increasingly international academic environment, India truly deserves to be a top destination for those seeking both education and cultural immersion.

👉 Planning to travel (e-tourist visa) or work (e-business visa) in India? Contact us at India-immi.org for free consultation!