India needs to do more to attract international students and retain talent, both from overseas and among its own graduates educated abroad. A report, Talent Beyond Borders, by Studyportals and Cambridge IELTS, finds that 47 % of international graduates who studied in India returned to their home countries, while 63 % of Indian-origin graduates who studied overseas stayed abroad.

The stakes are economic as well as academic. International students who graduated worldwide in 2024 are projected to contribute about $1.7 trillion to their host economies over their working lives, according to the report. The United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia are expected to account for around $1 trillion of that amount.

Retention rates vary across destinations. Canada leads with 66 % of international graduates staying on, followed by Australia at 53 %, Germany at 49 %, Ireland at 45 % and the United States at 44 %.

For host countries, retaining international graduates helps address skilled-labour shortages, foster innovation and support long-term economic growth. India could strengthen its position in the race for talent by expanding access to specialised jobs, offering competitive salaries, investing in research infrastructure and offering clearer pathways for career progression.

As global competition for talent intensifies, India’s ability to attract international students and provide compelling opportunities for graduates- including Indians returning with overseas qualifications – could tip the scales in its favour.