India 10 States Report Kerala
Overview
Kerala stands at the forefront of India’s education and economic transformation, offering one of the most promising landscapes for international student recruitment and academic partnerships. With the highest literacy rate in India and a deeply embedded culture of academic excellence, the state has long been a talent powerhouse, producing students who are globally competitive and eager to pursue higher education abroad. This report provides critical insights into Kerala’s evolving higher education landscape, economic growth, and internationalisation trends, offering actionable intelligence for universities looking to engage with this dynamic market.
Why Kerala Should Be on Your Radar
A Highly Educated and Motivated Student Base
> Kerala’s students consistently rank among India’s top academic performers, with an SSLC exam pass rate of 99.69% and a +2 exam pass rate of 78.69%.
> The state has the highest average IELTS score in India (6.8), demonstrating strong English proficiency, a key factor for universities seeking international students.
A Government Committed to Global Engagement
> $2.91 bn was allocated to education, sports, arts, and culture in Kerala’s 2024-25 budget, ensuring continued investment in higher education infrastructure.
> As the first phase towards establishing seven centres of excellence in universities, engineering colleges and higher education councils, the 2025 budget has earmarked $2.8 million.
> Government-led MoUs with the UK, Norway, and Finland are fostering student mobility, academic collaborations, and global workforce pathways.
A Thriving Economy & Emerging Industries
> Kerala’s GDP grew by 11.77% in 2023-24, positioning it as an economic leader in India.
> Key sectors including IT, healthcare, maritime, and space technology are driving demand for specialised postgraduate programmes and research collaborations.
A Strong Pipeline for International Recruitment
> Kerala is home to 18 IB and 20 CAIE schools, ensuring early exposure to international curricula and a seamless transition into global higher education.
> Students from Kerala are actively pursuing opportunities abroad, particularly in STEM healthcare, and management fields, making this an ideal recruitment ground for universities worldwide.
The Opportunity for International Universities
Kerala presents a strategic and high-yield market for international higher education institutions. Whether through undergraduate and postgraduate recruitment, institutional collaborations, or research partnerships, universities that establish a presence in Kerala will tap into a talented, ambitious, and globally minded student population.
The Acumen India 10 States: Kerala Report breaks down the educational hubs, industry trends, and key policy shifts shaping Kerala’s higher education landscape, offering universities the insights you need to develop targeted recruitment strategies and academic partnerships.
01
Addressable Market
Educational Index:
> Literacy rate: 96.2%
> Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER): 41.3/1000
> Performance Grading Index (PGI) score (2021-22): 609.7
Economic Growth (2024-25):
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03
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> 11th in India’s GDP share
> GDP Growth rate: 11.05%
> State GDP: US$157.45 billion) in 2024–2025.
Industrial and Service Sector Infrastructure:
> Established industries: Agriculture and allied sectors, Information Technology (IT), and Telecom
> Emerging industries: Tourism, Fishery, Maritime, and Space
Healthcare Industry:
> High preference for STEM, healthcare, and allied fields
> Premier institutions in Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi
> Strong educational and research ecosystems
Research and Innovation Hubs:
> Thiruvananthapuram: Hub for space science, technology, and biomedicine
> Kochi: Management & Engineering education hub
Vocational Training:
> Emphasis on vocational education at the school level
> Vocational Higher Secondary Education programme
Supportive Government Policies:
> International Higher Education Zones (IHEZ)
> Government collaborations with the UK, Norway, and Finland
College density per 100,000 eligible popultion
Kerala Average: 46 colleges
National Average: 30 colleges
Emerging Educational Hubs in Kerala
Kannur
> Population: 56,823
> Industries: Travel & Tourism, Textiles, Electronics parts
> Institutions:
• Kannur University, Pushpagiri College of Dental Sciences
• Ryan International Montessori School
Kozhikode
> Population: 28.79 million
> Industries: Travel & Tourism
> Institutions:
• IIM with King’s College, London, Yale University (USA), ESSCA School of Management (France)
• National Institute of Technology [NIT] and the Indian Institute of Management [IIM]
• St. Joseph’s Boys’ Higher Secondary School
Thrissur
> Population: 447,000
> Institutions:
• Government Engineering College, Rajagiri School of Engineering and Technology, MES Medical College
• Government Model Boys Higher Secondary School, Manappuram Geetha Ravy Public School (Mageet)
• The International School, Lemer Public School, Mukundapuram Public School, Chinmaya Vidyalaya
KANNUR
KOZHIKODE
THRISSUR
KOCHI
KOTTAYAM
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM
Kochi
> Population: 30.09 million
> Industries: Travel & Tourism, Manufacturing
> Institutions:
• CUSAT with University of Ruhana, Sri Lanka
• NUALS entered into MOUs with universities in Australia, France, Czech Republic, and Switzerland
• Rajagiri College of Social Sciences
• National Institute of Technology [NIT]
• Indian Institute of Science Education and Research [IISER]
• Cochin University of Science and Technology [CUSAT]
• National University of Advanced Legal Studies
Kottayam
> Population: 780,000
> Industries: Travel & Tourism, Textile, Rubber and Chemical industries, Automobile industries, FMCG industries, Leather industries
> Institutions:
• IIIT with Technische Universität München [TUM], Germany
• University of New Brunswick [UNB], Canada
• Microsoft Research, Redmond, USA
• Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology
• Mahatma Gandhi University
• Indian Institute of Information Technology [IIIT]
• Sacred Heart Public School
Thiruvananthapuram
> Population: 1.68 million
> Industries: Travel & Tourism, Agro-based, Cotton textile, Paper & Paper products, Leather-based, Electrical machinery and transport equipment
> Institutions:
• Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology [IIST] has MOUs with:
• Caltech (USA)
• Jet Propulsion Laboratory (USA)
• TU Delft (The Netherlands)
• University of Colorado, Boulder (USA)
• Technion-Israel
• University of Cambridge (UK)
• Nanyang Technological University (Singapore)
• Central University of Kerala
• Kerala Technological University
• Indian Institute of Science Education and Research
• Sree Chitra Thirunal Institute of Medical Science and Technology
Key Regions in Kerala for International Student Recruitment
Kerala’s strong educational infrastructure, high literacy rates, and globally competitive institutions make it a prime market for universities seeking international students. Here’s why each region stands out for student recruitment:
Thiruvananthapuram: A Hub for Science, Technology & Space Education
> Home to leading institutions in science, technology, and biosciences, including the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), which has MOUs with global institutions such as Caltech, TU Delft, and Cambridge University.
> 2025 CBSE exam clearance rate: 99.91%, demonstrating consistently high academic performance.
> Strong government investment in STEM fields and research, making it an ideal market for universities looking to attract students interested in space, biotechnology, and advanced sciences.
Kochi (Cochin): A Thriving Educational & IT Hub
> A major centre for higher education and entrepreneurship, with institutions focused on technology, management, and legal studies.
> A pivotal part of Kerala’s startup ecosystem, fostering innovation and business acumen.
> Strong IT infrastructure, connected via two submarine cables and satellite gateways, linking it to major tech hubs like Bengaluru—making it an attractive location for students pursuing IT and digital transformation fields.
Kozhikode (Calicut): A Stronghold for Engineering & Management Education
> A premier destination for engineering and management studies, with institutions such as the National Institute of Technology (NIT) and Indian Institute of Management (IIM).
> Strong industry-academic linkages that prepare students for global careers in business, technology, and engineering.
> A growing number of students seeking international degrees to supplement their education, making it an important recruitment market for business and technical universities.
Thrissur: Kerala’s Cultural Capital with Strong Academic Foundations
> A highly regarded schooling system that produces academically strong students.
> Investment opportunities across arts, sciences, law, engineering, and medical education, making it a wellrounded market for institutions across multiple disciplines.
> Home to renowned engineering and medical colleges, with students seeking further study and specialisation abroad.
Kottayam: A High-Literacy Market with Diverse Educational Interests
> 97.21% literacy rate, one of the highest in the state, indicating a well-educated student population.
> Strong institutions in engineering, visual arts, medical sciences, and general studies, making it a key market for universities offering programmes in these disciplines.
> A historically strong English-speaking region, reducing language barriers for students applying to international universities.
Kannur: A Growing Hub for Engineering & Medical Education
> Home to leading institutions specialising in engineering, dental, and medical education.
> Increasing student interest in healthcare and medical sciences, making it an important market for universities offering medical, life sciences, and research-based programmes.
> A rapidly developing educational infrastructure that aligns with global standards, fostering outbound student mobility.
A Strategic Opportunity for Global Universities
Each of these regions offers a strong pool of academically driven, globally minded students who are already excelling in STEM, business, healthcare, and the arts. Kerala’s focus on international collaboration, high CBSE pass rates, and world-class institutions make it a strategic recruitment market for universities seeking exceptional students with strong English proficiency and academic ambition.
“Kerala is a prime student recruitment hub, with over 90% literacy and a strong global outlook with 40% of graduates studying overseas, primarily in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada. Renowned for Nursing, Physiotherapy, and allied healthcare, the state prioritises academic excellence, affordability, and career prospects. Scholarships support disadvantaged students, while a strong community fosters loyalty, with students often guiding others along the same path. For recruiters, Kerala offers a highly engaged and ambitious student market.”
Sutripti Sengupta Senior Recruitment Advisor supporting The University of Lincoln
Kerala’s Academic Excellence: A Strong Foundation for
International Student Success
Kerala’s high academic standards and strong international curriculum presence make it an attractive student recruitment market for universities seeking well-prepared, globally minded students.
A Growing International Curriculum Landscape
The state is home to a significant number of IB and Cambridge International (CAIE) schools, ensuring that students are already familiar with globally recognised education systems:
> 18 IB schools and 20 CAIE schools, concentrated in key cities like Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kollam, and Thrissur.
> These schools produce students accustomed to international teaching methodologies, making them more adaptable to higher education abroad.
Private Education Dominance & Strong Student Pipeline
> Kerala has a strong culture of private education, with 81.9% of college students enrolled in private institutions (647,607 students), demonstrating a preference for high-quality, fee-based education that aligns well with international study aspirations.
Consistently High Academic Performance
> Kerala’s SSLC exam (equivalent to GCSEs) recorded an overall pass rate of 99.69%, reflecting strong foundational education.
> The +2 exams (A-level equivalent) saw a pass rate of 78.69%, with 63 schools achieving a 100% success rate.
Highest Average IELTS Score in India
6.8 Highest Literacy Rate 96.2%
Why This Matters for International Universities
> Kerala students are academically strong and internationally prepared, making them excellent candidates for undergraduate and postgraduate study abroad.
> A well-established private education system indicates financial readiness and a willingness to invest in quality education—a key factor for international tuition-paying students.
> The presence of IB and CAIE schools means many students already meet international admission criteria, reducing barriers to entry for universities.
For institutions looking to recruit high-achieving, globally competitive students, Kerala presents a strategic opportunity to engage with a motivated, academically capable student population.
Kerala is a leader in higher education, prioritising academic excellence, global partnerships, and innovative reforms. Its institutions consistently rank highly, with the University of Kerala (21st), CUSAT (34th), and Mahatma Gandhi University (37th) in the NIRF 2024 rankings. The state boasts 16 colleges in India’s top 100 and a high Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) of 41.3, with female enrollment surpassing male enrollment, highlighting its commitment to inclusivity. Recent reforms, including the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme, promote flexibility, interdisciplinary learning, and research. Initiatives like the Erudite Scholar-in-Residence Programme and Brain Gain Programme attract global expertise, while the Study in Kerala initiative aims to bring in students from around the world. With a strong foundation, Kerala is set to become a major higher education hub in India.”
Eldho Mathews Programme Officer (Internationalisation of Higher Education)
The Kerala State Higher Education Council
Government-Led Internationalisation: Kerala’s Commitment to Education, Innovation and Global Partnerships
Kerala has established itself as a hub for education and innovation, with the state government actively fostering international collaborations. Through signed MoUs with the UK, Norway, and Finland, Kerala is strengthening partnerships in education, employment, the maritime sector, fisheries, and disaster management. These agreements facilitate student exchange programmes with prestigious UK and Finnish universities, while Finland is set to collaborate across various education sectors. Additionally, Wales has approved the direct recruitment of healthcare professionals from Kerala to the NHS, reinforcing the state’s role in global workforce mobility.
Kerala’s commitment to research-driven education is reflected in its graphene policy, which includes the establishment of the India Innovation Centre for Graphene and a graphene-based industrial park. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has emphasised that these initiatives are part of a broader strategy to develop a research-oriented higher education environment.
Furthering its commitment to academic excellence, Kerala has introduced a state-level ranking system for higher education institutions, assessed on Scientific Temper and Secular Outlook (STSO) through KSHEC. This initiative supports the state’s vision of developing internationalstandard universities while enhancing existing institutions through an integrated study and work model, providing practical experience and industrial collaboration.
To align with global education standards, Kerala has transitioned to a four-year undergraduate degree system from the 2024-25 academic session. Under this model, students can exit after three years with a degree certificate or continue for a fourth year to earn an honours degree with a strong emphasis on internships and research.
This government-led approach underscores Kerala’s ambition to foster a globally competitive higher education landscape, making it a key market for universities seeking academically driven students and international partnerships.
We envision a re-imagined higher education system that places equal emphasis on knowledge, skills, and aptitude. This vision guided Kerala’s implementation of the Four Year Degree Programme, which was not merely about adding an extra year of study but about ensuring that every student gains the essential knowledge, skills, and aptitude needed to succeed. As part of this effort, initiatives such as campus industrial parks and skill parks have been launched in various parts of the state.”
Shri Pinarayi Vijayan Chief Minister of Kerala, 2025
Key Insights and Actionable Recommendations for International Student Recruitment Professionals
Kerala presents a strong market for international student recruitment, offering academically driven students with global aspirations. With exceptional academic performance, increasing international curriculum exposure, and strong government support for global education, universities have a unique opportunity to attract highachieving students who are well-prepared for higher education abroad.
1. A Strong Academic Foundation & High-Calibre Students
Kerala leads India with the highest literacy rate and a strong commitment to academic excellence.
> 99.69% pass rate in SSLC exams (secondary level) and 78.69% pass rate in +2 exams (higher secondary) indicate a disciplined and well-prepared student base.
> Several schools achieved a 100% success rate, highlighting the academic rigor in the state.
> $2.91 bn allocated to education, sports, arts, and culture in the 2024-25 budget, reinforcing Kerala’s focus on academic development.
Actionable Insights:
> Position programmes for high-performing students who seek academic challenges and research opportunities.
> Highlight strong faculty, research infrastructure, and academic excellence in marketing materials for Kerala.
> Develop merit-based scholarships to attract topperforming students from Kerala’s highly competitive school system.
2. International Curriculum Exposure: Students Ready for Global Education
Kerala has a significant number of students educated in internationally recognised curricula, providing them with an early foundation for studying abroad.
> 18 IB schools and 20 CAIE (Cambridge) schools concentrated in key educational hubs including Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kollam, and Thrissur.
> Students from these schools are already accustomed to international education systems, making them ideal candidates for overseas study.
> The increasing preference for international curricula aligns with a rising trend of Kerala students actively seeking higher education abroad.
Actionable Insights:
> Partner with IB and CAIE schools to conduct information sessions, workshops, and career guidance sessions focused on international study options.
> Offer advanced standing or credit transfer options for students from IB and CAIE schools, making the transition smoother.
> Develop early engagement initiatives such as summer programmes, foundation courses, or virtual events tailored for students in Kerala’s international schools.
3. Increasing Demand for International Education
The number of Kerala students choosing to study abroad is rising rapidly, driven by aspirations for global exposure and access to specialised courses.
> A significant proportion of students from STEM, healthcare, and allied fields seek international degrees to enhance career prospects.
> The strong financial commitment to education by families in Kerala indicates a willingness to invest in overseas education.
> Kerala students prefer destinations that provide poststudy work opportunities, research exposure, and high employability prospects.
Actionable Insights:
> Universities should emphasise career outcomes, employability, and post-graduation pathways in marketing and outreach efforts.
> Develop targeted recruitment campaigns highlighting STEM, healthcare, and research-intensive programs, as these align with Kerala students’ preferences.
> Create alumni networks in Kerala that showcase success stories of students who have pursued education abroad and built successful careers.
4. Government Support for International Collaboration
> The Kerala government actively facilitates global education opportunities, making it easier for universities to engage with the market.
> MoUs with the UK, Norway, and Finland promote student exchanges and institutional partnerships.
> The transition to a four-year undergraduate degree system with an optional exit at three years aligns Kerala’s higher education structure with international models.
> The government encourages collaborative research and innovation initiatives, particularly in STEM and healthcare sectors.
Actionable Insights:
> Leverage existing government agreements to establish formal collaborations, student exchanges, and articulation agreements.
> Adapt admissions policies to accommodate Kerala’s evolving higher education structure, ensuring a smooth transition for students.
> Explore joint research and dual-degree programmes, particularly in fields like engineering, healthcare, and environmental sciences, where Kerala has a strong academic presence.
5. Kerala’s Educational Hubs: Specialised Talent Pools for Targeted Recruitment
> Each of Kerala’s major cities offers a distinct academic and professional specialisation, allowing universities to tailor their recruitment approach.
Final Takeaway: Why Kerala Should Be a Priority for International Student Recruitment
Kerala offers a high-achieving student base, strong financial investment in education, and a government actively fostering international collaboration.
> High literacy rates and strong academic performance make Kerala students well-suited for higher education abroad.
Thiruvananthapuram
A hub for science, technology, space research, and biosciences, with a 99.91% CBSE pass rate (2023). Ideal for universities offering STEM, research-led, and innovation-focused programmes.
Thriving IT and startup ecosystem, connected to global tech hubs via submarine cables and satellite gateways. Strong market for computer science, business, and digital transformation degrees.
India’s first fully literate district, specialising in engineering, visual arts, and medical studies. A highpotential market for creative industries, healthcare, and interdisciplinary education.
Actionable Insights:
> Develop customized messaging and engagement strategies tailored to each city’s educational strengths.
> Build partnerships with local institutions and academic hubs to create targeted outreach programmes.
> Conduct city-specific recruitment events, ensuring program offerings align with student career aspirations in that region.
> Growing demand for international degrees presents a strong recruitment opportunity.
> Students are already familiar with global curricula, easing transition and admissions.
> Government support for global collaborations ensures smooth student mobility.
Actionable Next Steps for Universities:
> Develop tailored recruitment strategies based on Kerala’s diverse educational hubs.
> Build early engagement programmes with IB and CAIE schools.
> Establish formal partnerships leveraging Kerala’s global education policies.
Kerala is not just a student recruitment market, it’s a strategic opportunity to engage with some of India’s most ambitious and academically driven students.
City Specialisation & Student Opportunities
Kochi
Kottayam
References
“Kerala State Report” by IBEF October 2024 https://www.ibef.org/states/kerala#:~:text=Kerala%20 Economy,%2D16%20and%202022%2D23.
”Demography-Kottayam District” 28 December 2024 https://kottayam.nic.in/en/demography/
Sannam S4 Acumen, “India’s Study Abroad Market
Top 10 States for Recruitment and Partnerships: Kerala,” Sep. 2023 + https://connectedtot.com/find-a-cambridge-school/
”Kerala SSLC exam registers pass percentage at 99.69%” 8 May 2024 https://www.deccanherald.com/india/kerala/kerala-sslcexam-registers-pass-percentage-at-9969-3013925
”Kerala Board 12th Result 2024 Toppers” List May 9, 2024 https://www.fastresult.in/post/kerala-board12th-result-2024-toppers-list-toppers-namemarks-pass-percentage-district-wise-result-fullstatistics#:~:text=Among%20all%20the%20districts%2C%20 Malappuram,5%2C659%20students%20with%20full%20A+.
“Scientific temper, secularism among key parameters of Kerala’s new higher education ranking system,”
The Indian Express, May 03, 2023. https://indianexpress.com/article/education/scientifictemper-secularism-parameters-keralas-new-highereducation-ranking-system-8588620/
“Kerala varsities ready to roll out 4-year UG courses,”
The New Indian Express, May 08, 2024. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/2024/ May/08/kerala-varsities-ready-to-roll-out-4-year-ugcourses
”Impact of changing migration patterns on Kerala economy” July 13 2024
https://www.policycircle.org/opinion/migration-trendsfrom-kerala/#:~:text=Economic%20impact%20of%20 migration,and%2010%25%20for%20educational%20purposes.
