Top Safest Countries for Indian Students to Study Abroad

According to the Times of India, over 1.3 million Indian students went to study abroad in 2024. Some countries, such as Iceland and Austria, were more popular. 

Safety and security are major reasons behind the inclination towards a few specific countries. As an Indian student, you want to feel secure and welcomed in your chosen country. That’s what this blog will help you with. 

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It will introduce you to the top 10 safest countries for Indian students. With low crime rates and supportive communities, these countries are the perfect choice for you. 

Dive in for details.

Key Highlights

Here is a quick overview of everything you will learn in this blog.

Top 10 Safest Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Students

Did you know that The Global Peace Index (GPI) is a tool that measures the peacefulness of countries worldwide, which is crucial when considering the safest countries for Indian students. 

This index uses 23 qualitative and quantitative measures, each weighted on a scale of 1 to 5. It includes factors like terrorism, crime rates, UN peacekeeping funding, political stability, army and police personnel, and heavy weaponry.

In addition to these measures, GPI evaluates three main domains of peacefulness, as mentioned below.

• Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict: This looks at the extent of conflicts within a country and its involvement in international conflicts.
• Societal Safety and Security: This domain assesses how safe and secure a society is, considering crime rates, violent demonstrations, and levels of trust in law enforcement.
• Militarisation: This evaluates the level of a country’s military expenditure, the number of armed services personnel, and the availability of heavy weaponry.

Understanding the GPI helps you identify the safest countries for Indian students, ensuring you choose a study destination that prioritises peace and security. 

Here is a list of the top 10 safest countries in the world for Indian students, along with their GPI scores.

Here’s another table that rates these countries based on their happiness index and crime rate scores.

1. Iceland

Ranked as the world’s most peaceful nation in the Global Peace Index for 2024, Iceland has held this prestigious position for over 16 years. 

Known for its tranquillity and low crime rates, Iceland offers a safe environment for you to study or work. The country also excels in providing excellent education and welfare mechanisms, making it an ideal destination for you.

Here is a list of the top 3 universities in Iceland.

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2. Ireland

Ireland stands out as one of the top choices when considering the safest countries for Indian students. Its independent status from the UK and neutral military stance make it one of the safest places in the world to live, work, and study.

Every year, over 35,000 international students choose Ireland for their higher education, drawn by its secure environment and excellent educational opportunities. As an Indian student, you’ll find Ireland’s supportive and welcoming atmosphere ideal for focusing on your studies and enjoying your time abroad.

Here is a list of the top 3 universities in Ireland.

Worried about the tuition fees in Ireland? Don’t let the fee damper your dreams of studying in one of the safest countries for Indian students.

3. Austria

Austria is a fantastic choice for Indian students seeking a safe and prosperous study destination. Ranked third in the Global Peace Index, the country offers a high standard of living with great housing, job opportunities, and income levels. With around 390,000 students, including 25% from other countries, Austria welcomes students from all over the world.

Here is a list of the top 3 universities in Austria.

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4. New Zealand

New Zealand is rapidly becoming one of the safest countries for Indian students to study abroad. The country’s natural beauty, good work-life balance, top-notch healthcare, and strong education system make it an attractive destination for students.

In the past year alone, over 69,000 international students chose New Zealand as their study destination. The country has seen a significant increase in its international student population thanks to new programs and opportunities for higher education. 

Here is a list of the top 3 universities in New Zealand.

5. Singapore

Ranked 5th in the Global Peace Index for 2024, Singapore is one of the safest countries for Indian students. The city-state offers high societal security, minimal conflicts, and an excellent quality of life.

Strict law enforcement and a multicultural environment make Singapore a top study destination. Last year, over 34,000 international students chose Singapore for its high-quality education. 

Here is a list of the top 3 universities in Singapore.

6. Switzerland

Switzerland is one of the safest countries for Indian students, offering high security and low political instability. This prosperous nation values religious and linguistic diversity and promotes gender equality. 

With around 78,000 international students, making up about 25% of the student population, Switzerland provides a welcoming environment for Indian students. 

Here is a list of the top 3 universities in Switzerland.

7. Portugal

Portugal is one of the safest countries for Indian students, offering a peaceful environment with low crime rates and political stability. 

Each year, over 50,000 international students choose Portugal as their study-abroad destination, attracted by its affordable education and high academic standards. 

Here is a list of the top 3 universities in Portugal.

8. Denmark

Denmark consistently ranks as one of the safest countries for Indian students. Known for its secure travel routes, respect for human rights and freedoms, and free press, Denmark offers a highly safe environment. 

Currently, around 34,000 international students study in Denmark, drawn by its comforting and inclusive atmosphere. The Danish education system is renowned for its innovative approach, with qualifications recognised globally.

Here is a list of the top 3 universities in Denmark.

9. Slovenia

Slovenia is emerging as one of the safest countries for Indian students, offering a peaceful and secure environment. Although it is not a traditional study destination, it is gradually gaining popularity among international students. 

Currently, around 2,000 international students are studying in Slovenia, attracted by its affordable education and high-quality academic programs.

Here is a list of the top 3 universities in Slovenia.

10. Malaysia

Malaysia is a blend of all things good, making it one of the safest countries for Indian students. With cheaper tuition fees, a lower cost of living, and safe surroundings, Malaysia provides an ideal environment for international students. 

The country has friendly locals who create a welcoming atmosphere. Malaysia hosts more than 200,000 international students, highlighting its popularity as a high-quality study-abroad destination.

Here is a list of the top 3 universities in Malaysia.

Now that you have a list of the 10 safest countries for Indian students, you can focus on learning why it is important to find a safe country to study abroad.

General Tips on How to Be Safe as an Indian Student

Campus crime rates are increasing, making it essential to choose a safe study destination. In the United States alone, campus crime has risen by 8% in the last couple of years. While studying abroad is exciting, your safety should be a top priority. 

This section offers practical advice to help you stay safe in your new home.

• Research Your Destination: Thoroughly research your destination, including safe areas, transportation options, common scams, and accommodation choices.
• Learn Local Laws and Customs: Understand the local laws and customs of your country. Avoid areas and activities that could lead to legal trouble, especially those involving drugs or sensitive topics.
• Prepare for Emergencies: Keep copies of all important documents in printed and digital formats. Learn basic phrases in the local language to help communicate in case of an emergency.
• Protect Your Health: Ensure you have all necessary travel vaccines. Carry a sufficient supply of any required medications, and plan to refill prescriptions once you settle.
• Take Personal Safety Seriously: Stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in public places where pickpocketing and theft are more common.
• Avoid Civil and Political Unrest: Steer clear of social gatherings and mass demonstrations, as these can become violent and involve the police.
• Get Student Travel Insurance: Obtain student travel insurance to cover medical issues, gadget loss, baggage loss, and other potential problems while studying abroad.

Cost of Living in the Safest Countries for Indian Students

When considering studying abroad, it’s important to evaluate the cost of living in the safest countries for Indian students as well. For instance, the average monthly living cost for students in these countries can range from around INR 43K to INR 1.47L, depending on the city and lifestyle.

Here is a quick overview of the cost of living in the safest countries for Indian students.

Also Read: Top 10 Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Students 2024

Conclusion

Choosing the right study destination is crucial, especially when safety is a top priority. This article highlights the top 10 safest countries for Indian students, providing insights into the Global Peace Index (GPI), crime rates, and the happiness index. 

Countries such as Iceland, Austria, and New Zealand will offer you a high-quality education and a secure environment. By choosing one of these safest countries, you can enjoy a secure and enriching journey as an Indian student.

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