Best Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Students

So you’re thinking about studying abroad? That’s awesome! 

If you’re ready to get on this exciting journey, you’re in luck! And hey, did you know that Indian companies often value degrees from international universities more than local ones?

Studying abroad is an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, make lifelong friends, and gain a unique perspective on the world. 

Whether you’re interested in learning a new language, exploring a new country, or just stepping outside of your comfort zone, studying abroad can be an incredibly rewarding experience. 

Of course, it can also be a bit overwhelming – there are so many different programs, destinations, and logistics to consider.

Don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate the process and make the most of your study abroad experience!

Benefits of Studying Abroad

The benefits of studying abroad are truly endless! 

Not only will you get the chance to immerse yourself in a new culture and meet people from all over the world, but you’ll also gain valuable life skills, boost your resume, and have the adventure of a lifetime.

• Imagine exploring a whole new country, trying amazing food, and seeing incredible sights! Studying abroad lets you experience a different culture firsthand, and maybe even travel to nearby countries during breaks.
  
• Many companies look for candidates with international experience. A foreign degree can set you apart and make you more attractive to employers around the world.
  
• Living in another country is the ultimate language immersion course. You’ll pick up the local language skills much faster than you would in a classroom back home.
  
• Studying abroad can be a real confidence booster. You’ll learn to manage your finances, navigate a new city, and solve problems on your own.
  
• You’ll meet people from all over the world while studying abroad. These friendships can last a lifetime and open doors to new opportunities.
  
• Seeing the world from a different perspective can change the way you think about everything. You’ll gain a new appreciation for your own culture and a deeper understanding of the world.
  

 So, why not take the leap and explore all that studying abroad has to offer?

Also Read: Top 20 Most Populous Countries in the World 2024

10 best countries to study abroad for Indian Students 

Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience for Indian students. 

It provides an opportunity to explore new cultures, learn new languages, and gain exposure to diverse academic environments. 

Here is a table of the 10 best countries to study abroad for Indian students: 

Countries	Rankings as per  US News and World Report	Number of Indian students according to TOI (approx)
Switzerland	1	1,850 (approx.)
Canada	2	1,83,310 (approx.)
Australia	4	1,00,009 (approx.)
US	5	4,65,791 (approx.)
Germany	7	34,846 (approx.)
New Zealand	8	30,000 (approx.)
UK	9	55,465 (approx.)
France	12	10,003 (approx.)
Korea	21	592 (approx.)
Ireland	23	5,000 (approx.)

Here’s an overview of the 5 best countries to study abroad: 

Australia 

Australia is a popular study destination for Indian students due to its high standard of education, multicultural society, and welcoming environment. 

The country offers a wide range of courses, including business, engineering, and IT, and provides opportunities for students to work part-time while studying.

Here are the admission criteria in Australia for Indian students: 

• Strong academic background with a minimum percentage score
• English language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL with a score range of 6.0 to 7.5
• Specific standardised tests like GMAT or GRE for some programs
• Well-written Statement of Purpose (SOP) to showcase academic goals and research interests
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from teachers, professors or employers
• Sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses are demonstrated through bank statements or scholarship documentation.

Additional Points:

• Some universities may have specific interview requirements for certain programs.
• Work experience can be an advantage for some PG programs, particularly those with a professional focus.
• Make sure to check the specific requirements for your chosen program and university well in advance of applying.

Here is a detailed overview of the study in Australia:

Parameter	Details
Top 5 Universities	University of Melbourne
	University of Sydney
	University of Queensland
	University of New South Wales
	Australian National University
Scholarships for Indian Students	Melbourne International UG Scholarship
	Endeavour postgraduation Award
	Australia Award Scholarship
	Destination Australia Scholarship
	International Master’s Scholarship
Cost of Studying	UG: INR 16L – INR 23L PG: INR 20L – INR 28L
Top Courses	Informative Technology
	Engineering
	Business and Management
	Health Sciences
	Hospitality and Tourism

Also Read: Affordable Universities in Australia 2024

Canada

Canada is an ideal destination for Indian students looking for top-notch education, a diverse culture, and welcoming people. 

With over 640,000 international students studying in Canada, you’ll be part of a dynamic community of learners. 

Plus, Canada offers post-graduation work permits, making it easier to transition into a career after graduation. 

Here are the admission criteria in Canada for Indian students: 

Academic Background:

• Undergraduate (UG): Strong academic performance in your 12th-grade exams is essential. Each university will likely have a minimum percentage requirement specific to the program you’re applying to.
• Postgraduate (PG): A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from a recognised Indian university is mandatory. The minimum GPA requirement will vary by program and university.

English Language Proficiency:

• English language skills through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. The required score will again vary by program and university but typically ranges from 6.5 overall on the IELTS scale with no bands below a specific score (often 6.0).

Additional Tests (For Specific Programs):

• Some postgraduate programs may require additional standardized tests specific to your field. This could include the GMAT for business programs, the GRE for general postgraduate studies, or the MCAT for medicine.

Application Documents:

• Official transcripts: From your previous educational institutions.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
• Resume/CV (for PG applicants): Highlights relevant work experience and skills (if applicable).

Financial Capability:

• You’ll need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses in Canada. This might involve submitting bank statements, scholarship documentation, or proof of sponsorship.

Other Considerations:

• Some universities may conduct interviews for certain programs.
• Work experience can be an advantage for some postgraduate programs, particularly those with a professional focus.
• Canadian universities often practice holistic admissions, considering your entire application package, not just test scores.

Here is a detailed overview of the study in Canada:

Parameter	Details
Top 5 Universities	University of Toronto
	University of British Columbia
	University of Alberta
	McGill University
	University of Montreal
Scholarships for Indian Students	President and International Scholarship of Excellence
	UBC International Leaders of Tomorrow
	President’s International Distinction Scholarship
	Pierre Elliot Trudeau Foundation Scholarship
	Vanier Canada Graduation Scholarship
Cost of Studying	UG: INR 13L – 25L PG: INR 16L – INR 37L
Top Courses	Computer Science and Information Technology
	Business Administration and Management
	Engineering
	Biological Sciences and Health Sciences
	Hospitality and Tourism

Also Read: Cheap Universities in Canada in 2024

United States

Did you know that Indians constitute the second-largest group of international students in the US? With over 4,000 universities to choose from, you can find the perfect fit for your interests and career goals.

Indian students have been choosing to study in the US for several reasons, including the quality of education, a diverse range of programs, and exposure to new cultures.

Here are the admission criteria in the US for Indian students: 

Academic Credentials:

• UG: Strong scores in your 12th-grade exams. Each university may have a minimum percentage requirement.
• PG: A good GPA in your undergraduate degree. The minimum GPA will vary by program and university.

English Language Proficiency:

• Both UG and PG programs require scores from the TOEFL or IELTS exams.
• The minimum score needed varies by institution, but typically ranges from:
  • TOEFL: 600-800
  • IELTS: 6.5-7.0

Standardised Testing:

• UG: The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) or the American College Testing (ACT) is usually required.
• PG: Exams like the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) are often required depending on the field.

Application Materials:

• Official transcripts from your previous educational institutions.
• Essays or a Statement of Purpose (SOP): This showcases your academic goals, research interests, and motivations for choosing the program.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): From teachers, professors, or employers to speak to your abilities and potential.
• Resume (for PG applicants): Highlights relevant work experience and skills.

Financial Capability:

• Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses. This might involve:
  • Bank statements
  • Scholarship letters
  • Financial aid documentation

Here is a detailed overview of the study in the US:

Parameter	Details
Top 5 Universities	Harvard University
	Massachusetts Institute of Technology
	Stanford University
	University of California
	Johns Hopkins University
Scholarships for Indian Students	Inlaks Scholarship
	Tata Scholarship
	Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program
	Central Sector Scheme of National Overseas Scholarship
	University of Cincinnati Scholarship
Cost of Studying	INR 16.5L – INR 49.5L
Top Courses	Business Analytics
	Economics
	Marketing
	Data Science
	Business Administration

Also Read: Average Cost of Living in the USA in 2024

United Kingdom

With world-renowned universities, various cultures, and exciting opportunities, the UK is the perfect destination for ambitious students. 

Indian students are also welcomed by the UK with open arms, with over 20,000 Indian students studying in the UK each year. 

Take your education to the next level and become a part of the vibrant academic community in the UK.

Here are the admission criteria in the UK for Indian students: 

Academic Qualifications:

• Undergraduate (UG): You’ll need a good academic record in your 12th-grade exams (CBSE, ISC, State Boards). Each university might have a minimum percentage requirement specific to the program.
• Postgraduate (PG): A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from a recognised Indian university is mandatory. A minimum GPA requirement will vary by program and university.

English Language Proficiency:

• Most universities require scores from tests like IELTS or PTE. The minimum score needed varies but typically ranges from 6.0 to 7.5 on the IELTS scale.

Additional Tests (For Specific Programs):

• Some postgraduate programs may require additional standardised tests specific to your field. This could include the GMAT for business programs, the GRE for general postgraduate studies, or the LNAT for law programs.

Application Documents:

• Academic transcripts
• Personal statement
• Letters of recommendation
• CV/Resume (for PG applicants)

Other Requirements:

• Passport and visa: A valid passport and a Tier 4 (General) student visa are necessary for studying in the UK.
• Financial documents: Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses in the UK for at least one year.

Here is a detailed overview of the study in the UK:

Parameter	Details
Top 5 Universities	University of Oxford
	University of Cambridge
	University College London
	Imperial College London
	University of Edinburgh
Scholarships for Indian Students	British Chevening Scholarship
	Felix Scholarships
	Common Wealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan
	Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarships
	Rhodes Scholarship at the University of Oxford
Cost of Studying	UG: INR 8L – INR 30.5L  PG: INR 12L – INR 35.5L
Top Courses	International Business
	Creative Arts
	Medicine
	Engineering
	Computer Science

Also Read: Top 10 Cheap Universities in the UK for Indian Students 

Ireland

Ireland is a top destination for international students, known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and welcoming culture. 

With world-renowned universities, innovative research opportunities, and an active student community, Ireland offers a unique and unforgettable academic experience. 

Plus, as an Indian student, you’ll be part of a growing community, with over 5,000 Indian students already studying in Ireland. 

Here are the admission criteria in Ireland for Indian students: 

Academic Background:

• Undergraduate (UG): A minimum percentage score in your 12th-grade exams is required. The specific percentage varies by program and university but generally ranges from 60% to 75%.
• Postgraduate (PG): A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from a recognised Indian university is mandatory. The minimum GPA requirement will vary by program and university.

English Language Proficiency:

• Most universities require proof of English language proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. The minimum score needed varies but typically ranges from 6.0 to 7.0 on the IELTS scale.

Additional Documents:

• Academic transcripts
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs) 

Other Requirements:

• Medical certificate: Some universities may require a medical certificate for your student visa application.
• Financial proof
• Visa: A valid student visa is necessary to study in Ireland.

Additional Points:

• Work experience can be beneficial for some postgraduate programs, especially those with a professional focus.
• Always check the specific requirements for your chosen program and university well in advance of applying. Their websites are the most reliable source for the latest information.

Here is a detailed overview of the study in Ireland:

Parameter	Details
Top 5 Universities	University College Dublin
	University College Cork
	Trinity College Dublin
	National University of Ireland
	Dublin City University
Scholarships for Indian Students	India UG Scholarships – Trinity College Dublin
	Centenary Scholarship Programs
	Central Bank of Ireland Scholarships for International Students
	Scholarships for Ontario Graduates
	NVI Galway International Students Scholarships
Cost of Studying	UG: INR 6L – INR 25L  PG: INR 7L – INR 49L
Top Courses	Finance
	Computer Science
	Digital Marketing
	Engineering
	Marketing

Also Read: Average Cost of Living in Ireland 2024 

Application Process to Study Abroad

• Step 1: Choose the country you want to study in and research the eligibility criteria and entry requirements for your desired program.

• Step 2: Pass the required tests such as the English Language Proficiency Test (IELTS/TOEFL), NEET for medical courses, GMAT/GRE for business courses, SAT for undergraduate courses, and MCAT for medical courses in the US and Canada.

• Step 3: Fill out and submit the application form along with the relevant documents before the deadline

• Step 4: Apply for scholarships (if available) and arrange funds to cover your education and living expenses.

• Step 5: Apply for a student visa to study in the country of your choice.

Comparison: Studying Abroad Vs Studying in India

Choosing where to study is a big decision! 

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you chart your academic course:

Feature	Studying in India	Studying Abroad
Experience	Familiar culture Strong support network	Immerse yourself in a new world Expand your perspectives
Education	Focus on theoretical knowledge Competitive environment	More emphasis on practical skills Diverse learning styles
Courses	Wide range of options Focus on traditional subjects	Potential for unique programs  Explore specialised fields
Exposure	Primarily Indian classmates	Make friends from all over the globe Network internationally
Lifestyle	Comfortable surroundings Familiar food	Embrace new customs  Explore different cuisines
Cost	Generally lower tuition fees Living expenses can vary	Higher tuition fees  Scholarships can help bridge the gap
Future	Strong alumni network in India Potential for government jobs	International experience valued by global companies opens doors abroad

Remember, both paths are exciting! 

Consider what increases your curiosity: the familiar’s comfort or the unknown’s thrill. 

There’s no wrong answer, just the perfect adventure waiting for you!

Summing up

Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience that offers unique opportunities to learn and grow. 

While it may come with a higher cost, it also provides exposure to new cultures, diverse learning styles, and international networking opportunities that can benefit future career prospects. 

Studying in India, on the other hand, offers a comfortable and familiar environment, lower tuition fees, and strong alumni networks. 

Ultimately, the decision to study abroad or in India depends on personal preferences, priorities, and goals. 

Regardless of the choice, both paths offer exciting adventures and valuable learning experiences that can shape your future.

Choosing which country to study abroad can be tough, but you don’t have to go it alone. Our app offers expert guidance and support to help you achieve your academic and career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions