Q1. Could you start by giving us a brief overview of your professional background, particularly focusing on your expertise in the industry?

I have about 24 years of experience, including over 18 years in the overseas education industry. I have worked with brands such as Oceanic Consultants, Canam Consultants, IDP Education, Study Square, Leap Scholar, and TCY Learning Solution. Although I have always worked in a lead role, my second sales role in counseling has allowed me to interact with many students and help them support their journeys to study in Canada, the UK, the USA, Dubai, Australia, and New Zealand. I specialize in program shortlisting, SOP preparation, Visa filing, and interview preparation. In addition, I specialize in institutional partnerships.

Q2. How is the international student recruitment market evolving, and what major trends are shaping student demand for overseas education?  

Students are shifting from PR to career-specific discussions and decisions around ROI. In 2008-09, the trend was to study in Australia; after that, it shifted toward the UK, and from 2010 to 2022 it shifted toward Canada. The trend has now shifted to Europe, primarily France and Germany.

Q3. How is the growing popularity of destinations beyond the traditional markets such as the US, UK, Canada and Australia changing the competitive landscape?

Students moving from the Big 4 to Germany, France, and New Zealand show that if they get good ROI, they don’t hesitate to learn languages. Market dynamics in immigration-prone states like Punjab, Gujarat, Haryana, and Andhra Pradesh are shifting toward PG specialization. Earlier, these markets were UG & PG, with UG contributing 50-65%; now they're moving toward 75-80% PG.

Q4. What role do AI and digital platforms play in influencing student decision-making, and how are education consultants adapting to these changes?

AI, through its knowledge base on Google, provides access to a lot of factual information, and Kids these days do their research using these platforms. However, challenges arise when websites aren’t updated, and agents don't have the latest information from the institute via email. Besides, as experienced consultants, we can guide students to exceptional choices based on our experience. However, AI can’t do that; it follows the documented requirements exactly. As education consultants, our job is slightly easier because we meet students who have done some research on cost and program details. We also use AI to calculate funds, schedule fee-payment reminders, and send automated communications.

Q5. What is the one key trend in international student mobility that you believe investors should be watching most closely, and why?

The most important trend right now is the shift of students from the Big 4 to Europe, the UAE, NZ, and parts of Asia. Students are now focusing on high ROI instead of chasing permanent residency like they used to. Students previously wanted to go to countries that offered easy, quick settlement options. In contrast, now they prefer countries where they can invest less (like Germany & France, with public universities) and still get good job opportunities. Hence, as an investor, one should look at investing in Language courses (apart from English) and student housing in these countries. If they can find part-time employers for these students in their respective countries, they will have a very healthy revenue cycle.