Best Courses to Study Abroad for Masters & After 12th for Indian Students

Do you know that over 1.33 million Indian students choose to study abroad each year? The opportunity to experience a world-class education and improve your career prospects is hard to resist. But with so many choices, you might wonder, what is the best course to study abroad that aligns with your goals?

Whether you’re just finishing school or considering a master’s degree, selecting the right course is crucial. Fields like engineering, business, and healthcare are consistently in demand worldwide, but competition can be fierce. But don’t worry!

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This guide will help you discover the top 10 best courses to study abroad for Indian students like you, covering both undergraduate and postgraduate options. Get ready to pick what suits you best. 

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10 Best Courses to Study Abroad

As a student looking to broaden perspectives, studying abroad provides a unique chance to immerse yourself in a new culture. While selecting suitable courses can be overwhelming, certain subjects are especially suited for an international learning experience.

Whether you are looking for the best courses to study abroad after 12th or top master’s programs, here’s an in-depth look at the best courses to study abroad for Indian students like you.

Let’s look at each course in detail.

1. Engineering

Engineering is a popular choice for Indian students like you, with over 1.5 million students graduating annually from various engineering streams. The field offers a broad array of specializations, including computer science, civil, and mechanical engineering, with significant demand globally. 

A report by Statista shows that the global demand for software engineers is expected to grow by 22% by 2029, making engineering one of the best courses to study abroad after 12th.

Here’s an overview.

Career Opportunities

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2. Medicine

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there is a global shortage of 7.2 million healthcare professionals, expected to reach 12.9 million by 2035. This makes medicine a highly demanding and globally respected career. 

You should consider studying medicine abroad for its quality education, advanced facilities, and globally recognized degrees.

Here’s an overview.

Career Opportunities

3. Business and Management

As of 2024, over 22% of global CEOs hold a degree in business or a related field, highlighting the value of a business education. Business courses, which focus on finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship, are among the most sought-after programs for Indian students like you.

What’s more? According to a 2023 GMAC report, 94% of business school graduates report employment within three months of graduation. 

Here’s an overview.

Career Opportunities

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4. Computer Science

According to ET, the global tech industry was valued at USD 4.7 trillion in 2024, with a projected annual growth rate of 5.3%. Computer science graduates are in high demand, and fields like AI, cybersecurity, and software development are driving employment opportunities. 

India’s IT sector alone contributes 7.5% to the country’s GDP, and studying computer science abroad offers you access to cutting-edge technologies and global career prospects.

Here’s an overview.

Career Opportunities

5. Law

Law remains a highly respected and stable career path. According to The Bar Council of India, the country produces 60,000-70,000 law graduates annually. Studying law abroad, especially in countries like the USA and UK, gives you access to global legal systems, advanced research opportunities, and specialised fields such as international law and human rights. 

What’s more? According to Forbes, lawyers are among the top 10 highest-paid professionals globally.

Here’s an overview.

Career Opportunities

6. Data Science

With data becoming the new oil, data science has emerged as one of the fastest-growing fields. A report by LinkedIn noted a 650% increase in demand for data science professionals since 2012, with projections showing continued growth. 

McKinsey further estimates that by 2025, there will be a shortage of nearly 250,000 data science professionals in the USA alone, making this field one of the best courses to study abroad for students looking to thrive in the tech world.

Here’s an overview.

Career Opportunities

7. Architecture

The global architecture industry is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.4% between 2022 and 2027, driven by urbanisation and sustainability trends. If you are passionate about design and infrastructure, architecture provides a blend of creativity and technical expertise.

Here’s an overview.

Career Opportunities

8. Hotel Management

The hospitality industry is booming globally, with the World Travel & Tourism Council projecting a 12.2% growth in global tourism employment by 2025. Hotel management offers a dynamic career, with opportunities in tourism, event management, and food services.

Here’s an overview.

Career Opportunities

9. Psychology

Psychology is a growing field that focuses on understanding human behaviour and mental processes. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment for psychologists is projected to grow by 12% over the next ten years, highlighting a steady demand for professionals in this area. 

Here’s an overview.

Career Opportunities

10. Pharmacy

Pharmacy offers excellent career prospects, especially as global healthcare expands. According to a report by the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), the global demand for pharmacists is expected to grow by 40% by 2030. Pursuing pharmacy courses abroad gives you access to advanced research opportunities, preparing you for a successful career in the healthcare industry.

Here’s an overview.

Career Opportunities

How to Apply for The Best Courses to Study Abroad?

Applying for the best course to study abroad can seem overwhelming, but breaking it down step-by-step simplifies the process. Here’s a guide to help you efficiently apply for your dream course abroad.

1. Research Courses and Universities

Identify the course you want to pursue and shortlist the universities offering it. If you’re interested in studying computer science, universities like Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Carnegie Mellon University are top choices based on their QS rankings.

2. Check Eligibility Criteria

Each university has specific eligibility requirements. Make sure you meet these criteria before proceeding.

For instance, you’ll need the following scores to apply for an MBA at Harvard Business School.

3. Prepare Required Documents

Universities typically require several supporting documents along with your application. Below are what you’ll need.

• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• 2-3 Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
• Transcripts
• Resume/CV

4. Submit Your Application

Most universities now use online application portals. Fill out the forms, attach the necessary documents, and submit your application before the deadline. Be mindful of deadlines, as missing them could mean waiting another year.

5. Apply for Scholarships and Financial Aid

Studying abroad can be costly, so it’s important to explore scholarship opportunities offered by universities and external organizations. For example, The Rhodes Scholarship covers all expenses for students studying at the University of Oxford.

6. Prepare for Visa Application

Once you receive an offer of admission, you need to apply for a student visa for your chosen country. This involves filling out a visa application, submitting your acceptance letter and financial proof, and attending an interview if required.

7. Submit Health and Medical Documents

Certain countries require you to submit health reports or proof of medical insurance before you start your studies. Ensure you meet these requirements to avoid delays.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Courses to Study Abroad After 12th

When selecting a course to pursue after 12th, it’s essential to consider multiple aspects that will impact your academic journey and future career. Here are key factors to guide your decision, with specific examples for better understanding.

1. Interest and Passion

Your interests should be at the forefront when choosing a course. If you’re passionate about technology, pursuing computer science or engineering might be the best fit. Similarly, if you are interested in global issues, you should choose international relations or environmental science.

2. Career Opportunities

Consider the career prospects tied to your chosen course. For instance, data science and artificial intelligence are in rapid demand worldwide. According to a report, data science jobs are expected to grow by 36% between 2021 and 2031, making it a high-demand field. 

3. Global Job Market

When you’re deciding on a field of study, it’s smart to consider ones with strong global job prospects. For example, a finance degree or MBA offers career opportunities in sectors like investment banking and consultancy in countries such as the USA and UK. According to the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), 89% of employers globally intend to hire MBA graduates.

4. Top Universities for the Course

Enrolling in a top-ranked university boosts your chances of success. For instance, if you’re interested in engineering, institutions like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) or Stanford University are highly recommended. The QS World University Rankings provide an excellent resource for identifying top universities.

5. Scholarships and Financial Aid

Studying abroad can be expensive, so you need to explore scholarship opportunities. For instance, the Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships provide funding for those pursuing master’s programs in the USA.

6. Visa Regulations and Work Permits

Different countries have varying post-study work visa policies. For example, Canada’s PGWP allows you to work for up to 3 years after graduation, while the UK’s Tier 2 visa lets you stay and work for up to 5 years, ideal for fields like business, law, or medicine.

7. Cost of Living

Don’t forget to factor in living costs alongside your tuition fees. For example, monthly expenses range from  INR 1.5L to 2L (USD 1.6K to 6K) in cities like London or New York, while cities like Berlin or Lisbon offer a more affordable cost of living at INR 80K to 1L (USD 1K to USD 3.3K) per month.

By considering these factors, you can make a more informed decision when choosing the best course to study abroad after 12th. 

Ready to start your study abroad journey? Leap Scholar is here to help with your applications, visa, and scholarships. Get in touch and take the first step toward your global education!

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