A new report by upGrad Abroad paints a dynamic picture of India’s evolving study abroad scene. Key findings include:
Destination diversification: Europe’s stock is soaring, driven by factors such as affordability, diverse cultural experiences, and relaxed immigration policies. Germany leads the charge, with 32.6 per cent of respondents favouring it, followed by Ireland and France. Canada, plagued by rising living costs and policy changes, sees a significant decline (9.3 per cent).
Affordability reigns supreme: The rising middle class, budget-conscious yet value-driven, seeks cost-effective options. Blended learning models and mid-range budgets (16-25 lakh) dominate. 66.5 per cent opt for education loans, often non-collateral, indicating limited access to other funding sources.
Master’s degrees lead the pack: 86.5 per cent of aspirants explore master’s programs, driven by career prospects and shorter program durations. This trend aligns with global preferences for specialised postgraduate studies.
Management degrees most sought after: Over half (55.6 per cent) desire MBA or other management degrees to hone leadership skills and access managerial roles. Computer Science and IT follow (28.7 per cent), reflecting the tech talent demand.
State board students take the lead: Contrary to popular belief, 56 per cent of aspiring international students come from state boards, challenging the perception that only English or IB boards pave the way for study abroad. Tier 2 & 3 cities fuel this aspiration, demonstrating wider accessibility.
Beyond migration: While ‘Permanent Residency’ motivates 19.9 per cent, ‘Better Jobs’ reigns supreme (45.7 per cent), highlighting the focus on career advancement through international education.
