By Diwakar Chandiok
Study abroad has had a significant upsurge recently, particularly following the interruptions brought on by the pandemic. Numerous educational and professional advantages are driving up the appeal of studying overseas.
International students seeking the opportunity to make that crucial first step up the employment ladder place a great deal of importance on employability. More than ever, Indian students are choosing to study overseas to fulfil their aspirations of excelling academically and professionally.
According to a survey conducted by INTO in 2022, experience of living in another country, higher quality education and better job prospects at home and overseas with an international degree are the top three motivations for Indian Gen Z students to study abroad.
Further, INTO Global’s Agent 2023 survey reconfirmed that employment options and economic climate are the most consistent barriers to Indian students getting registered in degree programs overseas, highlighting how career considerations are an important criterion with the growing trend of students choosing education abroad.
The prospect of experiencing new cultures, obtaining a world-class education, and global networking opportunities for personal and professional growth are attractive propositions to Indian students.
Let’s explore some factors influencing how students assess their study abroad options:
- Aligning career objectives with academic prospects
It is imperative for students to choose a degree that will help them achieve their long-term professional goals. Being informed about their academic specializations and employability prospects of their degree programme is crucial if they aim to enhance their chances of securing employment opportunities.
- Policies
The laws and policies governing international education and international student mobility are continually changing in host countries. Rules concerning part-time work during term time and post-study work opportunities, for example, play a huge role in influencing Indian students’ decisions in choosing their study abroad destination. Indian students are not only looking for quality international education but also evaluating their options on the basis of employability prospects as an important metric of return on their investment.
- Aligning industry
, growth, and career opportunities
When selecting an international degree programme, one of the most important factors to consider is the industry the student intends to pursue a career in. Considerations should include the characteristics of the industry in the chosen country, the industry’s potential for growth, and employment opportunities in the country after completing the study programme.
- Post-study work visa
The opportunity to gain international work experience after studies through schemes such as post-study work visa progammes has become a key aspect of studying abroad for international students. There is still a lot of effort and investment required in making these progressive schemes truly meaningful by ensuring that international students have equipped and have access to employment that match their skills and qualifications.
- Personal and professional development
Studying overseas, often on campuses based in world class cities, enables international students to experience a new country and learn about its culture, traditions, and practices. They also get the opportunity to engage and work with peers from other nations, gain insights into their varied backgrounds and acquire new skills and perspectives. Destinations and programmes that facilitate networking with professionals and broaden their exposure to professional opportunities are vital for students. These connections can contribute to students’ personal and professional advancement making the study abroad experience truly transformative.
In the evolving landscape of global education, the decision to study abroad now transcends academic pursuits; it has become a strategic investment in international students’ professional future. As Indian students increasingly explore international opportunities, aligning academic goals with career objectives is taking precedence. The interplay of evolving policies, industry dynamics, post-study work options, and the promise of personal and professional development is shaping the narrative of this transformative journey.
(Author is Vice President (Recruitment) for South Asia, INTO University Partnerships)