RISING TREND OF INDIANS STUDYING ABROAD

Introduction:

In recent years, the number of Indian students pursuing higher education abroad has skyrocketed, fueled by a desire for world-class education, better career opportunities, and personal growth. With countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia becoming prime destinations for higher studies, more Indian students are looking beyond domestic boundaries to further their academic careers.

As of 2024, over 1.7 million Indian students are studying abroad, a significant jump from previous years. This rise can be attributed to various factors like the globalization of education, increased scholarship opportunities, and the growing recognition of international degrees in the job market. This blog will explore the benefits of studying abroad, the skills Indian students acquire, and a salary comparison for those holding a Master's degree from a foreign university.

The Statistics: Number of Indians Studying Abroad in 2024

The number of Indian students heading abroad for higher studies has been climbing steadily each year. According to data from the Ministry of External Affairs and various global education agencies:

• In 2024, around 1.7 million Indian students are enrolled in universities across the globe, marking an increase of over 15% from 2023.
• The United States continues to be the top destination, with over 230,000 Indian students, followed by the United Kingdom with around 150,000 students.
• Canada is another popular choice, with over 200,000 Indian students, attracted by its robust post-graduate work options and immigration pathways.
• Australia and Germany also host a significant number of Indian students, with more than 100,000 and 40,000 students, respectively, in 2024.

This upward trend reflects the growing appeal of studying abroad, as students seek better educational resources, global exposure, and more comprehensive career opportunities.
 

Benefits of Pursuing Studies Abroad

1. Access to High-Quality Education
   One of the biggest reasons students opt to study abroad is the quality of education offered by leading international universities. Countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom host universities that consistently rank in the top 100 globally, providing students with access to cutting-edge research, advanced technologies, and diverse academic programs.
2. Global Networking Opportunities
   Studying abroad offers Indian students the chance to build international networks that can significantly impact their careers. By interacting with peers from diverse backgrounds, attending conferences, and participating in internships, students gain connections that can open doors to opportunities across the world.
3. Cultural Exposure and Personal Growth
   The experience of living and studying in a foreign country exposes students to new cultures, languages, and ways of life. This fosters adaptability, tolerance, and open-mindedness, skills that are invaluable in a globalized workforce. Students return home with a broadened worldview, enhanced communication skills, and greater emotional intelligence.
4. Improved Career Prospects
   Graduating from a well-known international university often gives students an edge in the competitive job market. Employers value the skills gained abroad, such as independence, cross-cultural communication, and global awareness. Many countries also offer post-study work visas, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in their field before returning home or finding work abroad.
5. Higher Earning Potential
   A major attraction of studying abroad is the long-term financial benefit. International degrees, particularly in fields like business, technology, and healthcare, significantly enhance earning potential. The knowledge and skills gained abroad can lead to higher salaries and better job positions in India and abroad.

Salary Comparison: Master’s Degree Abroad vs. India

One of the most compelling reasons for Indian students to pursue education abroad is the higher earning potential associated with degrees from foreign universities. Let’s take a look at the salary comparison for individuals with a Master’s degree from international universities versus Indian institutions:

• Master’s Degree in the U.S.: Graduates from U.S. universities earn an average salary of $80,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on the field of study (source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
• Master’s Degree in the UK: In the UK, the average salary for Master’s graduates ranges from £35,000 to £60,000 per year (source: Graduate Outcomes Survey).
• Master’s Degree in Canada: In Canada, salaries for Master’s graduates can range from CAD 60,000 to CAD 100,000, with higher earnings for those in tech or finance (source: Statistics Canada).
• Master’s Degree in Australia: Graduates in Australia typically earn between AUD 60,000 to AUD 90,000 annually, depending on their field (source: Graduate Careers Australia).

Comparison with Salaries in India:

Master’s Degree in India: The average salary for someone holding a Master’s degree in India typically ranges from Rs. 6,00,000 to Rs. 15,00,000 annually, depending on the industry and role. However, highly specialized fields like management or technology can see higher salaries.

It is clear that pursuing a Master’s degree abroad can significantly enhance earning potential. For instance, a graduate from a U.S. university with a degree in business or technology could earn up to 5–6 times more than a similar graduate from India.

Conclusion:

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