According to a LeapScholar poll, 37% of Indian students studying abroad said they would want to launch their own businesses after graduation, indicating a substantial change in their future goals. According to the report, students increasingly see overseas education as a launching pad for business ventures rather than just a means of finding work.

This shift highlights a more general shift in how people see international education. Universities that provide strong industry contacts, practical experiences, and settings that support innovation and startup incubation are increasingly sought after by students. As per the poll, 68% of participants give preference to universities with close industry contacts, acknowledging their significance in obtaining internships, establishing connections, and beginning international careers.

In response to this trend, Arnav Kumar, co-founder of LeapScholar, said, “What we’re seeing is a mindset transformation.” Students now perceive global education as a chance to lead, develop, and create rather than just a means of landing a job.

But the poll also reveals a significant gender gap in the aspirations of entrepreneurs. Just 24.2% of female students said they were interested in launching their own businesses, compared to 43.1% of male students. This disparity highlights the need for more welcoming settings that uplift and assist would-be female business owners.

With more than 53% of students indicating a significant interest in research internships, the poll also shows a move towards inquiry-led learning and creativity. Additionally, an increasing focus on research and development in students’ academic endeavors is seen in the fact that 21% of respondents listed research opportunities as their top academic priority.