Half of study-abroad aspirants now come from Tier 2, 3 cities: upGrad report

Study abroad 2026 sees surge in Tier 2, 3 city aspirants with 70% targeting budgets under Rs 30 lakh. Germany leads destination choices at 51%, while US holds 21%. Cost and job prospects drive Europe’s rise as affordable alternative.

Nearly 70 per cent of aspirants targeted study-abroad budgets below Rs 30 lakh in 2025-26, the report reveals