Indian women believe that pursuing education abroad can lead to academic advancement, improved job prospects, higher salaries, and better career opportunities. A recent survey indicates that women in India show the highest interest in studying overseas. The survey highlights the United States of America (USA), the United Kingdom (UK), and Canada as the most preferred study destinations for Indian women. However, financial constraints pose a significant challenge for many women seeking higher education opportunities abroad.
To gain insights and identify trends, MSM Unify conducted a detailed survey involving over 1256 students and 250 education consultants. Among the participants, 65% were women, while 35% were men. The survey findings reveal that a substantial number of education consultants have observed a notable increase in female applicants for international study programs from India. This trend underscores the growing recognition among Indian women of the importance of establishing a solid career path for themselves.
A special survey report released on Women’s Day discloses that 71% of the women respondents surveyed have expressed interest in pursuing study abroad opportunities in key domains such as Science (21%), Management (17%), Arts (12%), Technology (7%), and Languages (5%).
The survey underscores that 49% of respondents view enhanced career prospects as the primary motivation for Indian women considering overseas education. They believe that studying abroad can offer superior job prospects compared to those available in India. Additionally, 18% of respondents cited financial considerations, while 15% emphasized the potential for academic advancement as key factors influencing their decision to study abroad.
The inclination towards international education for better employment prospects reflects a strategic approach to advancing careers. Many respondents noted that working overseas could pave the way for permanent residency, further underscoring the value of studying abroad.
Research by Springer suggests that female graduates who pursue education abroad may earn 3% – 4% higher wages than their counterparts who do not opt for international study, one and five years post-graduation, respectively. Education consultants have observed a shift in Indian families’ attitudes towards women studying abroad, with 76% acknowledging a change in perspective. The primary driver behind this shift is the increased awareness of global educational opportunities among women, as noted by education consultants.
Despite the enthusiasm for studying abroad, financial constraints remain a significant hurdle for 67% of female respondents. This challenge includes limited information on scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities. Additionally, 17% of respondents cited the lengthy visa application process and waiting period as a major obstacle. Notably, 11% of women respondents expressed concerns about personal safety while planning to study in another country, highlighting the need for comprehensive measures to address safety issues and reassure both students and parents about studying abroad.