Despite the coronavirus pandemic, around 200,000 Indian students chose the US as their destination to pursue higher education in the 2019-20 academic year.

As per the Open Doors Report of the Institute of International Education (IIE), released on Monday, Indian students comprised nearly 20 percent of the over one million (10 lakh) students from around the world.

The IIE has been conducting annual statistical survey on international students in the US since its founding in 1919 and in partnership with the US Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs since 1972.

Over the last few decades, the US has seen a steady increase in the number of undergraduate students from India.

"Over the last 10 years, the number of Indians studying in the United States has roughly doubled, and we know why: the United States is the gold standard for higher education, providing practical application and experience that gives our graduates an advantage in the global economy," Minister Counselor for Public Affairs, David Kennedy, said.

To assist Indian students, the US Department of State offers advising services to prospective students through seven EducationUSA advising centers at the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) throughout India -- New Delhi, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai.

(IANS)