The number of students who have chosen to pursue their higher education abroad has been rising over the years. As study abroad consultants with a long legacy of service, we frequently come across the question, “Is studying abroad really worth it for an Indian student?” There is no clear “yes” or “no” answer, as it depends on multiple aspects, such as what you want for a career, whether you can afford it, and your personal ambitions. But one thing is true: for many Indian students, studying abroad can be transformative and life-changing - in terms of personality development, professional excellence and worldwide networking opportunities.
Let's take a look at why studying abroad remains a popular option for Indian students and what makes studying abroad more than just an academic experience.
Why Do Indian Students Choose to Study Abroad?
Indian students choose to pursue higher education abroad due to a mix of academic, career, and lifestyle reasons. Here are some of the top reasons for studying abroad:
- Quality Education: International universities have quality curricula, world-class research, and international faculty, which generally rank higher than an equivalent institution in India.
- Post-Study Work Opportunities: Many countries offer generous post-study work visas for students to gain international work experience. Canada, Australia, and even the UK welcome foreign students wishing to learn within their borders.
- Global Accessibility: A foreign school or university exposes students to the extremes of cultures, points of view, and practices that are indispensable in the present workplace.
- Specialisation: Some of the best international institutes offer niche courses like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, sustainable energy, and International business studies that Indian institutions generally do not have or offer at advanced levels.
Beyond Better Education: Unexpected Benefits of Studying Abroad
While better education is often the initial driver, several unexpected benefits make the experience truly worth it:
-
Personal Development and Autonomy
Autonomy brings life lessons about caring for one's own finances, preparing meals, and adapting culturally. It also develops a sense of confidence and resilience that may not be achieved otherwise.
-
Building Better Communication and Soft Skills
Language barriers, engaging with international colleagues, and experiencing work within diverse teams enhance employability skills, such as communication, collaboration, and adaptability, that are greatly sought out by global employers.
-
Global Networking Opportunities
Exposure to international experiences creates a wide network for students. This network can open important doors to their careers across different continents. Often, the global connections will continue to improve life long after school is finished.
-
Cultural Intelligence
Being successful in diverse cultural conditions serves to further help students work successfully within cross-cultural groups, which is a pre-requisite for great success in large, multinational organisations.
Scholarship Opportunities: Making Study Abroad More Accessible
Higher cost is often the biggest worry for Indian families when looking at overseas education. However, scholarships and financial aid offer many options to help lower these costs. Most colleges provide merit scholarships that can cover up to 100% of the fees without any conditions. In addition to merit scholarships or financial aid from international universities, countries like Germany, Ireland, and Canada offer funds to international students. Indian organisations such as the Inlaks Foundation, Tata Trusts, and JN Tata Endowment provide scholarships for students who want to pursue higher education abroad. As consultants, we help students find the right scholarships that fit their academic profiles and chosen destinations.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Study Abroad Destination
Before making the leap, students should evaluate a few important factors:
- Tuition Fees and Living Costs: Budget planning is indispensable. Some countries, like Germany, are affordable or have no tuition charges, while the UK and Australia can be expensive.
- Medium of Instruction: English is the medium of instruction in most major study abroad destinations, such UK, Germany, France and so on, which makes academic adaptation easier.
- Job Prospects After Studies: Research the industries in demand and the post-study work visa policies of the destination country.
- Public Safety and Quality of Life: Health care, accommodation, weather, and generally living conditions are very important aspects of consideration for a first-time international student.
- Recognition of the Degree in India or Globally: Make sure that both the university and course are recognised by the relevant Indian authorities (like UGC or AICTE), if you plan to return and work in India.
Countries That Attract The Most Indian Students
Indian students are very diverse in terms of where they plan to study abroad. Here are the most popular ones according to the latest trends:
UK
The PSW visa is available for up to 2 years, making this country an obvious choice for students preferring to study in the UK at some of the world's most prestigious universities.
Canada
Canada is known for its excellent quality of life and its welcoming immigration policies, and it remains one of the most popular destinations. Aside from this, Canadian universities grant very practical and career-focused degree programmes and allow an average of up to 3 years of post-study work for eligible graduates.
You can also read: Scholarships in Canada: A Comprehensive Guide for International Students
Ireland
Primarily English-speaking and with a booming tech industry, Ireland is quickly becoming a top contender in the study abroad world. With such top global players as Google, Facebook, and Pfizer having major presences in its borders, Ireland is a natural choice for STEM and business aspirants.
Germany
At present, study in Germany stands out as one of the most cost-effective choices for pursuing higher education abroad. Their public universities charge little to no tuition fees. Even private universities have relatively low tuition, making Germany a wonderful choice for students studying engineering, IT, and design.
Australia
Australia is synonymous with its high-ranking institutions, such as the University of Melbourne and ANU. The academic standards are extremely high, with a strong emphasis on research. Work visa policies are generous, and the environment is multicultural and student-friendly.
You can also read: A Checklist for Indian Students to Study in Australia
So, Is Studying Abroad Worth It for Indian Students?
From an academic, personal, and professional perspective, yes, studying abroad is absolutely worth it for many Indian students. The global exposure, world-class education, and career opportunities far outweigh the initial challenges. It’s an investment not just in a degree, but in a richer, more expansive future.
That said, every student’s journey is unique. As experienced study abroad consultants, Edroots International guides Indian students in making informed decisions that align with their academic goals, financial capability, and career aspirations. Need expert guidance on your study abroad journey? Edroots is here to help and feel free to reach out.
Enquiry Form