International Relations / Studies Abroad for Indian Students 2026
International Relations covers diplomacy, global politics, international law, and security studies. Leads to careers in government, international organizations, and policy.
2+
Universities
$22K
Avg Fee/Year
7+
Min IELTS
$65K
Avg Salary
International Relations / Studies Abroad — Complete Guide for Indian Students (2026)
International Relations / Studies is one of the most sought-after fields of study for Indian students planning to study abroad in 2026. With 2+ partner universities across 2 countries — including Netherlands, Canada — the options have never been more accessible. Average annual tuition ranges from $8,000 in Germany to $65,000 at elite US institutions, with an overall average of $22K/year across all destinations.
A degree in International Relations / Studies from a recognised foreign university opens doors to an average graduate salary of $65K–$91K per year internationally. In India, professionals with an overseas International Relations / Studies qualification earn premium packages from MNCs, tech firms, research institutions, and consulting companies. Key career outcomes include: Diplomat, Policy Analyst, International Affairs Officer, NGO Manager, Journalist.
To be eligible, most universities require a minimum IELTS score of 7(some accept 6.5+ for conditional admission) and a strong academic background. Application deadlines for Netherlands typically fall between October and February for September intake. Working with a trusted study abroad consultant like Jaivik Overseas significantly improves your chances of securing admission and scholarship funding.
UK remains the most popular destination for International Relations / Studies among Indian students, offering world-class faculty, cutting-edge research facilities, and a strong alumni network. USA is the second most popular choice, offering excellent value for money with competitive tuition fees and strong post-study work pathways. France is increasingly popular due to its favourable immigration policies and growing job market for {cat.name} graduates.
Students who complete International Relations / Studies abroad benefit from exposure to international research, diverse classroom discussions, and global professional networks — advantages that are difficult to replicate in a domestic setting. With Jaivik Overseas Consultants, over 5,000 Indian students have successfully enrolled in top International Relations / Studies programmes worldwide, from Tier-1 universities to affordable institutions with strong employment outcomes.
What You Will Study in International Relations / Studies
Core subjects and specialisations typically covered in International Relations / Studies programmes abroad
Popular Specialisations
Which Country is Best for International Relations / Studies?
Ranked by number of partner universities. Click to explore universities in each country.
Entry Requirements for International Relations / Studies
Typical admission criteria across our partner universities
🗣 IELTS Score
7+ overall
6.5+ for conditional / pathway entry. No band below 6.
📝 TOEFL iBT
100+
Accepted instead of IELTS at most universities worldwide.
🎓 Academic GPA
7.0–7.5 / 10 (UG degree)
Equivalent to 3.3+ on a US 4.0 GPA scale. Top universities: 8.0+.
📋 Backlogs
Zero backlogs preferred
Top-50 QS universities typically require a clean academic record.
💼 Work Experience
Not applicable (UG entry)
Direct entry from Class 12 or equivalent.
📎 Documents Required
SOP, LORs (×2–3), Transcripts
Plus CV/résumé, passport copy.
📌 Standardised Test Note
Some universities may require standardised tests (GMAT/GRE/SAT) depending on program level. Jaivik Overseas will confirm exact requirements when preparing your application.
Top Universities Offering International Relations / Studies
Career Outcomes After International Relations / Studies
Typical roles and salaries for International Relations / Studies graduates from overseas universities
Diplomat
International market · Entry–Mid level
$78K/yr
≈ ₹66L/yr in India
Policy Analyst
International market · Entry–Mid level
$70K/yr
≈ ₹59L/yr in India
International Affairs Officer
International market · Entry–Mid level
$65K/yr
≈ ₹55L/yr in India
NGO Manager
International market · Entry–Mid level
$59K/yr
≈ ₹50L/yr in India
Journalist
International market · Entry–Mid level
$53K/yr
≈ ₹45L/yr in India
$65K
Avg Starting Salary (USD)
₹55L
Approx. in Indian Rupees
5+
Career Paths
Why Study International Relations / Studies Abroad Instead of India?
Key advantages that an international International Relations / Studies degree provides for Indian students
Significantly Higher Graduate Salary
International Relations / Studies graduates from overseas universities earn $65K–$81K per year internationally — approximately ₹55L–₹68L per year. This typically represents a 3–5× premium over a comparable Indian degree after 3–5 years of work experience.
Global Brand Recognition & Alumni Network
Degrees from top-ranked universities in UK and USA are recognised by employers worldwide. An international International Relations / Studies credential opens doors at global MNCs, research institutions, and startups that a domestic degree alone may not unlock.
Post-Study Work Rights & Immigration Pathway
Countries like Canada (PGWP up to 3 years → Express Entry PR), Australia (Temporary Graduate Visa 2–4 years), and the UK (Graduate Route 2 years) let you work — and potentially settle — after your International Relations / Studies degree. This immigration advantage is unavailable with an Indian degree.
Better Research Infrastructure & Industry Access
The best global universities for International Relations / Studies are directly embedded in their industries. Internships, paid placements, research labs, and live project collaborations with top employers are built into most programs. This produces a much stronger CV before graduation than most Indian institutions offer.
Scholarships & Positive ROI Within 2–3 Years
While tuition appears high, scholarships, part-time work (20 hrs/week during term), and competitive post-study salaries mean most international International Relations / Studies students recover their full investment within 2–3 years of graduating. Jaivik Overseas helps every student identify and apply for relevant scholarships before committing to a program.
FAQ — International Relations / Studies Abroad
How much does International Relations / Studies cost abroad for Indian students?
Average annual tuition for International Relations / Studies is $22K–$29K USD (₹18.5L–₹24.0L/yr). Germany and Netherlands are more affordable; USA and UK tend to be higher.
What IELTS score is required for International Relations / Studies?
Most universities require IELTS 7+ for International Relations / Studies. Highly-ranked universities may require 7.5+. Pathway programs may accept 6.5+.
Which country is best for International Relations / Studies?
UK is considered the best for International Relations / Studies due to its world-class universities and strong employment opportunities. USA offers strong value, and France provides excellent PR pathways.
Can I get PR after studying International Relations / Studies abroad?
Yes. Canada (PGWP → Express Entry), Australia (485 Temporary Graduate visa), and UK (Graduate Route 2 years) all offer strong post-study immigration pathways after completing a International Relations / Studies degree.
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