Indian Students Prioritize Affordability and Career Outcomes in Study Abroad Choices

A transformative ChatGPT effect is reshaping the landscape of international education, with 75% of Indian students now using artificial intelligence to research and apply for study abroad programmes. According to the Beyond Borders report by Leap Scholar, which analysed 3 million student interactions, interest in AI-specific programmes has surged by 186% year-on-year. The report highlights a significant departure from traditional high-cost hubs. Students are increasingly prioritising return on investment (ROI) over university prestige. Notably, Germany recorded a 377% increase in interest, driven by its 18-month post-study work visa. The UAE: Saw a staggering growth in interest due to lower costs and proximity to India. New Zealand: Experienced a rise in demand thanks to its ‘Green List’ for critical skills and affordable tuition ($20,000-30,000). While undergraduate students make up nearly 43% of applicants, the report notes that 36% of AI programme aspirants are working professionals looking to ‘future-proof’ their careers. “ Students are asking a fundamentally different question now,” said Arnav Kumar, co-founder of Leap Scholar. “It’s no longer just about the university name; they are making calculated decisions based on career outcomes and upskilling potential.” For the first time, university rankings did not make the top five priorities for students. Instead, 75% of respondents ranked program affordability as their primary concern, followed by scholarship availability (70%) and career advancement (58%). The gender gap is also narrowing in the tech space, with women representing 42% of applicants, particularly in STEM and data science fields. As global policies shift, Indian students are proving to be strategic actors, pivoting towards markets that offer a clear path to employment and financial stability.