Why and Where to Study Abroad as an Indian?

One of the key reasons why studying abroad is highly popular among Indian students seeking higher education is the improved education system in other countries. International students get the exclusive opportunity to access high-ranked universities with top-class infrastructure and cutting-edge research facilities.  

Some of the top advantages of studying abroad for Indian students are:

1. High-Quality Education 

As stated above, this is one of the top reasons cited by numerous Indian students who go abroad for studies every year. The education system overseas is highly advanced, with international students gaining easy access to universities that rank highly on global ranking systems. This speaks highly of their academic excellence, which is well in par with international standards. 

2. Better Career Opportunities & Global Employability

Students graduating with a foreign degree are on the road to faster career progression. They are better eligible to apply for high-paying career roles in diverse sectors and industries. Additionally, degrees earned from leading international universities are recognised globally, making graduates employable worldwide. 

3. Access to Unique Courses & Specialisations

Several universities abroad offer a diverse range of courses and multiple specialisations to students, enabling them to choose the one that best aligns with their academic interests and career goals. Moreover, specialising in a specific line of study allows students to gain higher-paying senior roles, such as those in management and leadership positions.

4. Research Opportunities & Infrastructure

Studying abroad offers students ample opportunities to conduct advanced research in their preferred fields of study. Many top universities overseas also offer ample scope for research, including infrastructure and advanced facilities for the same.

5. Immigration & Post-Study Work Options

Many countries allow international graduates to opt for post-study work visas, which enable them to stay and work in the country after completing their course. Additionally, many courses abroad serve as potential pathways for permanent residency (PR) options in the country, which particularly attracts Indian students aspiring to settle overseas.

6. Cultural Exposure & Personal Growth

Several Indian students choose to study abroad to experience diverse cultures, embrace diversity, and contribute to their personal growth. Studying overseas is a brilliant opportunity to gain valuable global exposure and interact with diverse cultural communities. This helps build perspective and character, allowing an individual sufficient room for inner growth.      

Some of the key factors to keep in mind before choosing the best place to study abroad for Indian students are the cost of studying and living in that country, top universities and courses provided therein, and visa regulations for international students.

Listed below are some of the other significant considerations to make an informed choice for a study-abroad destination:

• Cost involved: This is the primary consideration when choosing a study-abroad destination. Take into account the total expenses involved, which include the cost of studying (tuition fee) as well as the cost of living (accommodation, food, transport, utilities, etc.) for each country. Compare the cost of studying abroad for Indian students in various countries and select the option that best suits your budget.

• Safety: This is yet another point to consider when deciding on the best study-abroad options for Indian students. Make sure to research well the safety and security measures taken in the specific country, particularly for international students. 

• Scholarships: Explore the top scholarship options available in various countries, including both Government-sponsored and university-specific opportunities. These considerably help ease the financial load of studying abroad for international students, and are hence a key factor.  

• Study visa regulations: Before you decide which country best appeals to you, make sure to check out the specific student visa guidelines for each of them. Every country has its particular requirements of international students applying for student visas. Ensure that you meet those requirements. 

• Post-study work opportunities: Check the career prospects in the country upon completing your course for graduates. Also, ensure that the study program you opt for serves as a pathway for rewarding job roles.   

Students from India generally pursue higher education abroad, primarily in the USA, the UK, and Canada. Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland have also been very popular study-abroad destinations for Indians in recent decades. 

Listed below are the top 6 countries that Indian students prefer to study abroad:

• The USA: Home to numerous top-ranked universities (as per QS World University Rankings) and providing cutting-edge research and learning infrastructure, the USA has long been the top study-abroad preference for international students. Some of its top universities include Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, and California Institute of Technology (Caltech). 

• The UK: Several international students prefer to pursue the one-year Masters programs offered at UK universities. These courses are highly popular because they enable students to enter the workforce more quickly after completing the course. Some of the top UK universities include University of Oxford, University College London (UCL), and University of Cambridge, among others.

• Canada: One of the 3 top study destinations for Indian students worldwide, Canada has gained popularity globally owing to its world-class universities, relatively affordable high-quality learning, and post-study work options for graduates. Some of its top institutions include McGill University (Continuing Education), University of Toronto, and University of British Columbia.

• Australia: The country embraces students from diverse backgrounds and cultures every year to its world-renowned universities and colleges. Graduates have the option to apply for a Post-Study Work Visa after completing their course,, and the cost of studying is relatively less expensive compared to in the USA or the UK. Top Australian universities to consider include the University of Sydney, the University of Melbourne, and the University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney).

• New Zealand: The country’s picturesque landscape and friendly ambience make it ideal for international students to feel at home. The universities focus more on research-based learning and are comparatively more affordable. Some of the popular study institutions are The University of Waikato, Auckland University of Technology, and The University of Otago.

• Ireland: Yet another student-friendly country with a rich cultural heritage, Ireland universities are known for their research and innovation. Some of the top institutions worth considering include University College Dublin, University College Cork, and University of Limerick.  

If you need help with choosing the best country to study abroad, IDP Education consultants can help. We have been leaders in the overseas education industry for over 55 years, helping millions of students secure placements abroad in top study-abroad destinations. IDP partners with over 1,000 universities in 6 countries. We can guide you on how to choose a country to study abroad, that aligns with your academic and career goals.

1. Is studying abroad worth it for Indian students?

Yes, studying abroad can be a highly valuable experience for Indian students in pursuit of top-quality higher education, diverse range of courses and specialisations, and high-paying career prospects.

2. How to decide the best country to study abroad?

Study-abroad consultants, such as IDP Education, can help you make an informed choice among the top overseas destinations. We understand your exact academic requirements and career goals and help you choose the country that best aligns with those objectives.

3. Is studying abroad really beneficial for Indian students?

Yes, studying overseas can be a highly valuable experience for Indian students, boosting their career prospects and contributing to their personal growth as well.

4. How to Compare Foreign and Indian Education Systems Fairly?

It is important to consider factors like teaching methods of the faculty, curriculum design, evaluation/grading methods, and hands-on learning when comparing the two systems of education.

5. Which countries offer scholarships to Indian students abroad?

Many top countries offer scholarships to study abroad for Indian students, such as the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland, and New Zealand.

6. What are the hidden costs of studying abroad for Indian students?

This may vary from one country to another. In addition to the basic tuition fees, international students may need to pay for university and visa applications, healthcare, accommodation, and other living costs.

7. Can Indian students study abroad with low academic scores?

Yes, it is possible to study overseas with low academic scores. Some universities consider other factors beyond scores and grades, such as standardised test scores, extracurricular activities, and personal essays.

8. What are the cheapest countries to study abroad for Indian students to study in?

Some of the most affordable countries for international students are Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland, among others.