A transformative ChatGPT effect is reshaping the landscape of international education, with 75% of Indian students now using artificial intelligence to research and apply for study abroad programmes. According to the Beyond Borders report by Leap Scholar, which analysed 3 million student interactions, interest in AI-specific programmes has surged by 186% year-on-year.
The report highlights a significant departure from traditional high-cost hubs. Students are increasingly prioritising return on investment (ROI) over university prestige. Notably, Germany recorded a 377% increase in interest, driven by its 18-month post-study work visa.
Other emerging destinations include:
The UAE: Saw a staggering growth in interest due to lower costs and proximity to India.
New Zealand: Experienced a rise in demand thanks to its ‘Green List’ for critical skills and affordable tuition ($20,000-30,000).
While undergraduate students make up nearly 43% of applicants, the report notes that 36% of AI programme aspirants are working professionals looking to ‘future-proof’ their careers. “Students are asking a fundamentally different question now,” said Arnav Kumar, co-founder of Leap Scholar. “It’s no longer just about the university name; they are making calculated decisions based on career outcomes and upskilling potential.”
ROI Over Reputation
For the first time, university rankings did not make the top five priorities for students. Instead, 75% of respondents ranked program affordability as their primary concern, followed by scholarship availability (70%) and career advancement (58%).
The gender gap is also narrowing in the tech space, with women representing 42% of applicants, particularly in STEM and data science fields. As global policies shift, Indian students are proving to be strategic actors, pivoting towards markets that offer a clear path to employment and financial stability.