Kerala University Sees 138% Surge in Foreign Student Applications Over Four Years
In an era when many Indian students are heading abroad for higher studies, the University of Kerala has seen a remarkable trend in the opposite direction: a significant surge in international student interest. According to official data, the university has recorded a massive 138% rise in foreign applications over the last four academic years, establishing itself as the leading university in Kerala for global student enrolment.
A Remarkable Growth Trajectory
The academic year 2025–26 has proven exceptional for Kerala University, with 2,620 applications received from students across 81 countries. This marks a sharp jump from 1,100 applications in 2021–22. The steady climb in applications includes:
- 1,400 in 2022–23
- 2,600 in 2024–25
- 2,620 in 2025–26
Sabu Joseph, Director of the Centre for Global Academics (CGA) at the University of Kerala, credits the university's global reputation and cultural inclusivity for the surge. "This year’s applications include 1,265 for undergraduate programmes, 1,020 for postgraduate courses, and 335 for PhD programmes. The applications were processed through the portal of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) under the Ministry of External Affairs for final selection," he said.
Diverse International Presence
Currently, 205 international students are enrolled at the university, representing 52 countries including the USA, UK, Colombia, and Peru. The latest batch of applicants spans continents, with a strong showing from Africa, and notable interest from countries like:
- Iran
- Iraq
- Oman
- Saudi Arabia
- Sri Lanka
- Nepal
- Bangladesh
- Philippines
- Turkmenistan
- Tajikistan
- Indonesia
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- South Africa
- Russia
- France
- United States
Preferred Courses and Academic Interests
Foreign applicants are gravitating towards a broad spectrum of disciplines. Commerce and management studies have emerged as the most popular choices. Other preferred courses include:
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Economics
- Education
- Linguistics
- English Literature
The university is also witnessing growing international interest in science and technology-related fields such as:
- Computer Science
- Biotechnology
- Chemistry
- Environmental Sciences
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Statistics
A Global Learning Environment
The University of Kerala has been proactive in making international students feel at home. Through initiatives run by the Centre for Global Academics, the university ensures that global scholars receive necessary support through:
- Orientation programmes
- Cultural events
- Annual graduation ceremonies
These efforts aim to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for learners from diverse cultural backgrounds.
"The growth in the number of applicants underscores the university’s rising global prominence and unwavering commitment to academic excellence and cultural diversity," added Sabu Joseph.
Pathway Through ICCR
Most of the international applications are processed through the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), which plays a crucial role in selecting deserving candidates. The ICCR portal serves as the main gateway for students seeking admission into Indian universities, ensuring transparency and credibility in the admission process.
Conclusion: A Rising Global Academic Hub
The surge in applications from international students signals Kerala University's growing appeal on the world academic stage. Its ability to attract students from diverse regions, offer a wide variety of programmes, and support them through dedicated structures positions the university as a true global education hub.
In a world increasingly focused on cross-cultural academic exchange and global citizenship, the University of Kerala is proving that quality education knows no borders. With consistent growth, it not only retains its top spot among Kerala institutions for international students but also sets a benchmark for others to follow.
