For a growing number of Indian students, studying abroad is no longer just about chasing a dream; it’s about securing their future. With global job markets valuing international experience and advanced skills, students are asking an important question before applying: Is studying abroad worth it?
For many, the benefits are clear: better job opportunities, higher salaries, and faster career growth. And with the right support, the return on investment (ROI) is not just possible, it’s measurable.
"Students today are more focused, more analytical," said Sonal Kapoor, Global Chief Business Officer at Prodigy Finance. "They’re comparing tuition costs to salary growth, looking at post-study visa options, and assessing long-term career mobility. Studying abroad is still a bold choice, but now, it’s a calculated one."
According to the Prodigy Finance Impact Report 2022, the percentage of engineering students funded by the company rose from 51% in 2021 to 67% in 2022. Most of these graduates found jobs in the technology sector, one of the fastest-growing industries worldwide.
But beyond the numbers, the real proof lies in the journeys of students who made it happen:
Prachi Mahapatra: From Odisha to the US, Prachi’s journey was driven by a single question: Will this degree pay for itself? By choosing a high-demand field and leveraging Prodigy Finance’s collateral-free loan, she’s now thriving in cybersecurity, a sector known for its high global ROI. "Every international student comes to the US with a dream," says Prachi. "The universities and the community are incredibly supportive. During the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, I witnessed firsthand how universities prioritised student health and well-being, providing access to healthcare and even offering food assistance to those in need.”
Anurag Pant: Anurag's decision to study abroad was a well-thought-out move to access world-class education and global exposure. His academic journey eventually led him to a role as a Machine Learning Engineer at Amazon Web Services, bringing both financial and personal rewards.
Pramendra Kushwaha: For Pramendra, the decision to pursue a global degree wasn’t just about financial ROI; it was also about gaining international exposure, personal growth, and long-term mobility. “I gained insight about how a global degree has shaped their career, lifestyle, and confidence. That moment made me realise what I was missing,” he explains.
Their stories reflect a wider trend: Indian students are now making more thoughtful and value-based decisions about studying abroad. Countries like Germany, the UK, and Canada are attractive not just for education, but also for their post-study work options, quality of life, and career opportunities.
“When you give bright students the right support, the results speak for themselves,” Kapoor added. “Our students aren’t just building careers, they’re changing their lives.”
As more Indian families weigh the cost of studying abroad, stories like those of Prachi, Anurag, and Pramendra serve as a clear reminder that with the right guidance and financing, studying abroad isn’t just worth it; it can be life-changing.
About Author: Sonal Kapoor is the Global Chief Business Officer at Prodigy Finance.
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