Kerala’s educational institutions are experiencing an influx of applications from students abroad. This trend is evident in universities such as the Kerala University (KU), MG University (MGU), Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat), and Calicut University (CU). Over the past four years, the number of international applicants to these institutions has significantly increased.
According to data from KU, there was a 138% increase in foreign applications from 1,100 in 2021-22 to 2,620 in 2025-26. This trend is not unique to KU; other universities have seen similar growth. The surge in foreign applications is primarily driven by courses that offer better job prospects upon completion in their home countries.
The influx of international students could be a response to the quality education provided by these institutions, which are renowned for their academic rigor and research excellence. However, it also presents new challenges, such as language barriers, cultural differences, and accommodation issues.
The Malayali diaspora, which has grown significantly over the years, is a key factor in this trend. Many Malayalis have settled abroad, particularly in Afghanistan and Thailand, where they maintain strong ties with their home state. These connections could be facilitating the increase in foreign applications to Kerala universities.
As the number of international students continues to grow, it remains to be seen how these universities will adapt to meet their unique needs. This trend is not only a testament to Kerala’s reputation as an education hub but also signals a shifting landscape in global education.
