Last month, we explored how Indian students are increasingly considering study destinations beyond the United States due to concerns around visa delays, rising tuition, and unpredictable immigration policies. Countries like Canada, Germany, and the Netherlands are already gaining popularity— but the global landscape is even wider.
This month, we look at four more destinations that offer strong academic opportunities, cultural diversity, and viable career pathways: Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and CMU’s Qatar campus.
Australia
Australia has been a popular destination for Indian students, particularly for programs in business, engineering, and health sciences. Its transparent post-study work visa system and high acceptance rates make it a practical and appealing option.
Pros:
- Post-study work visas: 2–6 years depending on degree and location
- High acceptance rates and globally ranked universities
- PR pathway available for certain high-demand professions
- Multiple intakes for entry, with some universities having 4 intakes per year
Cons:
- Cost of living can be high in cities like Sydney and Melbourne
- Longer work visas for those willing to study outside Sydney/ Melbourne
- Limited undergraduate scholarship opportunities
Notable universities: University of Melbourne, Australian National University (ANU), University of Sydney, Monash University.
Singapore
For students looking to stay closer to home without compromising on academic quality, Singapore presents an excellent option, if you can get admission. It offers globally ranked universities, strong industry linkages, and a multicultural environment.
An important point for families to note is the Ministry of Education (MOE) Tuition Grant, which subsidises tuition fees for international students at most public universities. However, it comes with strings attached — students must apply for it during admission, and if awarded, they are required to work in Singapore for three years after graduation. Those who fail to meet this obligation must repay the full grant with interest. The grant is competitive and not guaranteed, but for those who receive it, it significantly reduces the financial burden of studying in Singapore.
Pros:
- English is the medium of instruction
- Strong employability outcomes and internships in global firms
- Safe, clean, and efficient city-state
- MOE Tuition Grant can reduce tuition fees substantially (with a work bond)
Cons:
- Very competitive admissions, especially for international students
- Cost of living is high and on-campus housing is limited after first year
- MOE Grant recipients must work in Singapore for 3 years post-graduation or repay the grant
Notable universities: National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore Management University (SMU).
Hong Kong
Despite some geopolitical concerns in recent years, Hong Kong is investing heavily in its education sector and attracting international students. With several universities ranked among the global top 100, and a growing number of English-medium courses, it offers strong potential — particularly for students wanting careers in finance, law, or global business.
Most universities offer entrance scholarships for high-performing international students, which can cover partial or full tuition. These are merit-based and competitive, but they significantly reduce the cost for deserving students.
Pros:
- Scholarships available for high-achieving international students
- Exposure to global business and finance ecosystems
- Dynamic city life with a mix of Eastern and Western influences
Cons:
- Political climate and visa clarity may concern some families
- Mandarin/Cantonese language learning may be beneficial for local internships or jobs
Notable universities: University of Hong Kong (HKU), Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)
Malaysia
Malaysia has quietly emerged as a practical alternative for Indian students seeking a high-quality international education at a more manageable cost. The country is home to branch campuses of globally ranked universities, allowing students to earn internationally recognised degrees while benefiting from significantly lower tuition and living expenses.
Pros:
- Globally recognised degrees through branch campuses of UK and Australian universities
- Significantly lower tuition and cost of living compared to Western countries
- English is widely spoken, both on campus and in everyday life
- Multicultural, student-friendly environment with a strong Indian student presence
- Geographically close to India, making travel easier and more affordable
Cons:
- Limited post-study work opportunities within Malaysia
- May not carry the same global brand recognition as the U.S., UK, or Australia
- Fewer undergraduate program options in some specialised or research-heavy fields
Notable Universities: Monash University Malaysia (branch of Monash University, Australia),
University of Nottingham Malaysia (branch of University of Nottingham, UK), Heriot-Watt University Malaysia (branch of Heriot-Watt University, UK).
CMU Qatar
Carnegie Mellon University’s Qatar campus, based in Education City (Doha), offers a unique Ivy-level experience outside the U.S. It combines CMU’s academic rigor with strong local investment in education. Programs are limited but highly specialized, with a strong focus on computer science, information systems, and business.
Pros:
- U.S. degree and faculty in a Middle East setting
- Smaller class sizes and full scholarships available for top applicants
- Internship opportunities through Education City and regional firms
Cons:
- Limited majors and niche appeal
- Cultural adjustment may be needed, especially for women
Tip: Ideal for students seeking a U.S. degree without U.S. visa complexities.
As the study abroad landscape evolves, Indian families are clearly broadening their perspectives. Instead of defaulting to one or two countries, many are now weighing programs based on long-term outcomes — from post study work visas and global exposure to safety and cost of living.
The writer is Founder and CEO, Inomi Learning, a Gurugram-based career and college guidance firm. info@inomi.in
The original article was first published in ‘The Hindu’, on August 17th, 2025.
With inputs from Kritika Malhotra, Lead Counsellor at Inomi Learning.
Richa Dwivedi Saklani is a certified coach from UCLA and is an accredited MBTI trainer who has worked with over 10,000 people across career planning and as a behavioral trainer in companies. She is the CEO & Founder of Inomi Learning and author of “The Ultimate Guide to 21st Century Careers”.