MUMBAI, Dec 20: With the evolving dynamics for those studying abroad, particularly in light of global economic factors and changing visa policies, a report has revealed that affordability and post-study work opportunities are some of the top priorities driving student decisions.
The top priorities driving student decisions today are affordability, post-study work opportunities, and the impact of AI in education, said the report by Leap Scholar, an AI-powered study abroad ecosystem.
The report, based on interactions with over 3 million students, further revealed that Germany recorded a 377 per cent year-on-year increase in Indian student interest for 2024-25, jumping up from 219 per cent from the preceding year.
New Zealand saw a 2,900 per cent year-on-year growth (from 6 per cent), and in the UAE, this percentage was at 5,400 per cent (compared to 7 per cent earlier), it added.
Germany’s 18-month post-study work visa, the UAE’s lower cost than Western universities along with accessibility, and New Zealand’s immigration policies featuring a post-study work visa that allows students to live and work for up to three years are attracting Indian student interests, it stated.
“It’s no longer a question of affordability only; it’s also about what the return is after the degree. The data shows students are making calculated decisions based on Return on Investment (ROI), not just prestige,” Leap Scholar co-founder Arnav Kumar said.
According to the report, there is a distinct preference regarding curriculum specialisation.
While 40.4 per cent of respondents pursue specialised Master’s programmes in AI, machine learning, or data science, a majority of 59.6 per cent opt for broader Master’s degrees that incorporate AI modules, it said.
This trend suggests a strategy of academic diversification, where students are seeking AI proficiency while maintaining versatility across established sectors such as business, engineering, and healthcare, it added.
The report also said that students planning to study AI abroad now prioritise return on investment over university rankings.
Around 75 per cent rank programme cost and affordability as their top factor, the highest ever recorded. This was followed by scholarship availability at 70 per cent, career advancement at 58 per cent, and graduate salary potential at 49 per cent, it stated.
Faculty expertise and research opportunities ranks fifth in students’ preferences at 40 per cent; however, university rankings did not make the top five priorities, it added.
The report also found a gender gap with male students representing 58 per cent of applicants versus 42 per cent female, which is reducing.
Women are increasingly applying for STEM programmes abroad, particularly in AI and data science, added the report. (PTI)
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