Career Prospects Drive Indian Students to Study Abroad -

Career prospects are now the leading motivation for Indian students choosing to pursue higher education abroad, according to new research. No longer just focused on academic rankings or cultural exploration, students from India are prioritising their future employability and income potential when selecting study destinations.

A recent global survey conducted by IDP Education in March 2025—part of its Emerging Futures Seven – Voice of the International Student report—found that 77% of Indian students view international education as a pathway to career advancement. The study included over 6,000 students from 106 countries, with nearly 1,400 participants from India. The findings reflect a shift towards a more pragmatic and goal-oriented approach to global education.

Work Placements and Job Outcomes Top the List

One of the strongest indicators of this trend is that 70% of Indian students said access to work placements was their top academic consideration. Internships, co-op programs, and hands-on experience with industry partners are becoming deal-breakers for students weighing their options.

Job outcomes also carry serious weight. Around 69% of Indian respondents stated that career opportunities after graduation were their top non-academic concern. This is notably higher than the global average, suggesting that Indian students are especially focused on long-term returns from their education investments.

For universities aiming to attract Indian talent, this means going beyond classroom learning—offering real support for career development and job placement is crucial.

Money Matters: Scholarships and Work Rights

While ambition runs high, financial pressures remain a key factor. Over half of Indian students (55%) said that their choice of study destination would depend on the availability of scholarships. Another 54% cited part-time work opportunities as essential.

These numbers underline the importance of affordability and financial flexibility. Countries and institutions that offer support in the form of tuition aid, on-campus jobs, or relaxed work visa regulations are more likely to appeal to Indian students.

Post-Graduation Plans: Staying and Working

The idea of staying on after graduation is gaining traction. The survey found that 45% of current Indian international students and 43% of prospective applicants intend to remain in the country where they study to gain work experience. For many, studying abroad is not just a temporary phase—it’s part of a bigger life plan that includes settling into a career in a foreign country.

Australia Now the Top Choice

Australia has now surpassed the United States as the most preferred destination for Indian students. This change is likely due to Australia’s clearer pathways for post-study work, lower overall cost of living, and active efforts to align educational outcomes with national skill shortages. The United Kingdom remains the second most popular choice.

These trends show that students are carefully weighing factors such as immigration policy, employment chances, and affordability before making a decision.

More Than Just Degrees: A Broader Impact

Sunny Singh, an Indian student-turned-engineer in Australia, spoke about the transformative power of international education. “Indian students come to countries like Australia to invest in their future,” he said. “We want to make a positive impact on both our communities and the workforce during our time abroad.”

His story highlights how global education is not just about personal achievement—it also plays a role in solving workforce gaps and building international goodwill.

Final Thoughts

With career prospects leading the way, Indian students are approaching international education with clarity and purpose. Their decisions are guided by practical concerns—job outcomes, affordability, and long-term goals—making them not only ideal students but also valuable global contributors.