Masters in Economics: Top Universities, Courses, Cost, Requirements, Eligibility & Scholarships

Masters in Economics abroad develops analytical, statistical, and policy-focused skills to understand global markets and economic systems. Top destinations like USA, UK, Canada, and Australia typically charge ₹25–55 L per year. Graduates often move into finance, research, consulting, or policy roles within months, earning around ₹40–75 L early in their careers.

Master's in economics is a 1–2 year degree for students who want to understand global markets, public policy, and financial systems through a data-driven lens. If you’ve studied economics, finance, statistics, or mathematics—and are asking, “What’s next?”—this program offers a direct path to roles in research, consulting, policymaking, and international finance. 

With tuition ranging from USD 20,000–40,000 (₹16–33 lakhs), it’s offered at leading institutions across USA, UK, Europe, and Asia. This page explains top universities for master’s in economics abroad, admission requirements, internship opportunities in economics abroad, career scope, and scholarships.

All of the top 15 universities for economics and econometrics are based in the UK or US. The only exception is the National University of Singapore, ranked 16th, leading the rest of the world.

Highlights: What You Study in a Master's in Economics Abroad

Students targeting international economic policy degrees should explore coursework that combines statistics, governance, and global development frameworks.

Top Countries to Study Master's in Economics Abroad

Countries like the USA, UK, Germany, Canada, and Netherlands are leading destinations for an economics master's program overseas. These nations offer research-intensive programs, expert faculty in development and policy economics, and access to global economic institutions.

Top Universities for Master's in Economics Abroad by Country

Many of these universities also offer internship opportunities in economics abroad, supported by public policy centres, think tanks, and multinational research projects.

Best Universities for Master's in Economics Abroad

All of the top 15 universities for economics and econometrics are based in the UK or the USA, making these two countries the most trusted destinations for high-quality economics master's programs overseas. The National University of Singapore (NUS) is the highest-ranked university outside the West, placed 16th globally.

With nearly 700 global universities ranked for economics and econometrics in 2025, Indian students have access to diverse options in theory, policy, finance, and development studies. While Harvard, MIT, Stanford, LSE, and Oxford dominate the top 5, choosing the right program depends on your academic goals, regional interests, and future plans in economic consulting or global research.

Top Universities for Master's in Economics Abroad

Tuition estimates are based on recent master's programs in economics or related fields and may vary depending on the course type, duration, and international student status.

Curriculum Details of Economics Master's Programs

Most economics master's programs overseas include a mix of theory, applied statistics, and global policy electives. Students often customise their path with specialisations such as development economics, financial economics, international trade, or economic policy.

Many universities also allow internship modules, research assistantships, or advanced elective tracks in data science or public policy.

Intakes and Duration for Master's in Economics Abroad

Economics master's programs abroad are mostly offered in full-time formats with Fall (August/September) as the primary intake. Some European or Canadian universities may offer a second intake in January.

Apply 9–12 months in advance to secure admission, funding, and visa approvals.

Eligibility Requirements for Master's in Economics Abroad

To apply for a Master’s in Economics abroad, students need a solid academic foundation in economics or quantitative subjects. Most universities expect prior coursework in calculus, statistics, and micro/macro theory. Strong English language scores are mandatory, and GRE may be needed at top US or research-heavy institutions. Programs in Europe may focus more on GPA and relevant academic training.

Admission Requirements for International Economics Programs

Check university-specific pages for exceptions or foundation requirements if your UG degree isn’t in pure economics.

Master’s in Economics Abroad: Admission Steps

The application process for economics master’s programs overseas usually involves submitting your academic documents, SOP, LORs, and test scores through either a central platform (like SOPHAS or UCAS) or the university portal. Research-based programs often look for evidence of analytical writing or econometric projects. Applying early boosts your chances of scholarship consideration and seat availability.

Step-by-Step Application Process for Master’s in Economics Abroad

How Much Does it Cost to Study Master's in Economics Abroad?

The cost of studying a Master’s in Economics abroad includes tuition fees, accommodation, research-related travel, insurance, and visa costs. Annual budgets range from ₹8 lakhs in public European universities to ₹25–35 lakhs in top-tier US and UK institutions. Indian students should plan their finances by factoring in both academic and living expenses, especially if they aim to study at universities offering development economics postgraduate courses or financial economics programs.

Estimated Annual Cost of Studying Economics Abroad

Figures are indicative and vary by city, university, and lifestyle. Public universities in Europe often have low or no tuition.

Other Annual Expenses for Economics Students Abroad

Scholarships for Master's in Economics Abroad

Many universities offer scholarships for economics master’s students based on academic merit, diversity, or research contribution. Indian students can also apply for government-funded programs like Chevening (UK), DAAD (Germany), or Fulbright (USA). These options significantly reduce the cost of economics master's programs overseas, especially for students pursuing international economic policy degrees or planning to enter global economic studies.

Funding Opportunities for Economics Master’s Students

Salary After Master’s in Economics Abroad

A Master’s in Economics abroad opens doors to careers in public policy, finance, and international development. Graduates work in roles such as economic analysts, policy advisors, consultants, or research economists across banks, consulting firms, government bodies, and global organisations like the UN or IMF. Skills in demand include economic modelling, statistical analysis, and policy research, often using tools like STATA, R, or Python.

Country-Wise Average Salary After Master’s in Economics Abroad

Private sector roles in finance or consulting pay higher, while public sector and research positions offer stability and international mobility. Salaries increase significantly with a PhD or 5+ years of experience.

Work Visa and Stay-Back Rules After Master’s in Economics Abroad

Post-study work visas are a crucial consideration for Indian students pursuing an economics master’s program overseas. Countries like the UK, USA, Canada, and Germany offer favourable stay-back periods for graduates. These pathways help students find roles in policy consulting, data research, and economic strategy, often supported by university career cells.

Work Visa Options After Master's in Economics Abroad

Top universities also offer job fairs, alumni mentoring, and employer connections for roles in economic research and consulting firms.

Is a Master’s in Economics Abroad Worth It for Indian Students?

A Master’s in Economics abroad is ideal for Indian students aiming to work in roles like economic policy advisor, trade analyst, or development economist. You’ll study real-world issues—like inflation control, public spending, or climate economics—using advanced tools such as STATA and R. Countries like the UK and Germany offer thesis tracks for research-focused students, while the US focuses more on policy and analytics. With strong faculty support and paid internships, many grads land roles at institutions like the World Bank, IMF, or EY within a year. For those serious about impact-driven economics, this degree delivers focused, practical value.