Courses After BCom in Abroad: 9 Specializations, Eligibility & Top Destinations

Latest update: The UK has retained the Graduate Route visa, allowing BCom graduates from UK universities to stay and work for up to 2 years after completing their master’s, though future policy may shorten this to 18 months.

Choosing the right course after BCom can open doors to global career opportunities. With MBA programs worldwide witnessing a 13% increase in applications in the most recent cycle, it's clear that postgraduate options like the MBA, MFin, and MSc in Business Analytics are in high demand.

The earning potential after studying abroad is significant. While BCom graduates in India typically earn INR 4.3L annually, those who pursue postgraduate courses abroad can earn up to INR 70.1L per year, depending on the course and location. 

If you're considering studying master's abroad, understanding the available courses, their challenges, and long-term career benefits will help you make an informed decision. This guide will provide key insights into popular postgraduate courses after BCom in abroad, helping you choose the best path for your future.

Popular Postgraduate Courses After BCom in Abroad: Overview & Key Insights

Top Courses After B Com to Pursue Abroad in 2024

For B Com graduates, the pursuit of higher education abroad can be a game-changer. Here's a comprehensive look at the best courses after B.Com abroad to consider in 2024, including details about the courses, top universities, and potential salaries after graduation.

1.Master of Business Administration (MBA)

An MBA abroad program hones leadership and management skills, preparing graduates for various sectors with competitive salaries.

• Top Universities: MIT Sloan, University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, Harvard Business School, and Stanford Graduate Business School.
• Average Salary: The median starting salary for MBA graduates at US companies in 2023 was projected to be $115,000.

2. Master of Finance (MFin)

The MFin degree focuses on financial analysis and investment banking, emphasizing quantitative skills and financial decision-making.

• Top Universities: MIT Sloan, University of Oxford, Stanford University, University of Toronto, and University of Cambridge.
• Average Salary: Finance graduates typically earn competitive salaries at around $133,373 per year in roles such as financial analysts and investment bankers.

3. Master of Accounting (MAcc)

A MAcc degree prepares students for careers in accounting and finance, leading to certifications like CPA and CMA.

• Top Universities: Stanford University, University of Cambridge, Yale University, London School of Economics, Schulich School of Business, and University of Central Arkansas.
• Average Salary: Accounting graduates can expect to earn salaries commensurate with their certifications and experience, with an average salary of around $61,000 to $ 97,000 per year.

4. Master of International Business (MIB)

The MIB program equips students to navigate the complexities of global business, focusing on international trade and marketing.

• Top Universities: New York University, Florida International University, University of Pennsylvania, University of Melbourne, and Hult International Business School.
• Average Salary: The estimated total pay for a Data Analyst is $83,695 per year.

5. Master of Economics (MEcon)

A MEcon degree provides an in-depth understanding of economic theories and models, preparing graduates for roles in policy-making and research.

• Top Universities: Stanford University, Columbia University, Harvard University, Australian National University, and University of St. Gallen.
• Average Salary: Economists and economic analysts often have varied salaries depending on their roles and sectors, averaging around $106,721 per year.

6. Master of Management (MM)

The MM program offers a broad perspective on management, preparing students for leadership roles across various industries.

• Top Universities: London Business School, London School of Economics, HEC Paris, Michigan Ross, and Chulalongkorn University.
• Average Salary: Management graduates' salaries can vary widely based on the industry and job function, averaging around $105,660 per year.

7. Master of Marketing (MMkt)

An MMkt degree focuses on marketing strategies and consumer behavior, which is essential for driving business growth.

• Top Universities: Warwick Business School, HEC Paris, ESCP Business School, Schulich School of Business, and Vanderbilt Business School.
• Average Salary: The average salary for marketing roles is around $71,000 annually.

Please note that salaries can vary greatly depending on the country, industry, level of experience, and the individual university's reputation. It's always best to consult the official university or government websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Other Study Options after Completion of BCom 

• Master of Commerce (Professional Accounting)
• Master of Commerce (Marketing)
• Master of Business and Commerce (Accounting)
• Master of Commerce (Advanced) in Applied Finance
• Master of Commerce in Economics
• Master of Commerce in Supply Chain Management
• Master of Commerce (Agricultural) – Agribusiness Management
• Master of Commerce and Management – Rural Finance
• Master of Commerce (Business Law)

How to Study Abroad after BCom

Those in the final year of BCom can start the application process to study abroad as it is a lengthy process. The entire application process to study overseas may take around 12 months. Below are the required steps in detail –

Step 1: Choose the Right Course: 

Commerce is a popular stream in India Getting a master’s degree in commerce from a university abroad can be valuable. The first step toward studying abroad is to pick the right career option. Students can choose any specialization or course from accounting, business management, finance, economics, marketing, and international relations. The scope of these subjects is immense.

Step 2: Choose the Right Study Abroad Destinations: 

Choose the right study-abroad destination depending upon the university and the cost of living. Some top study destinations for commerce graduates are the United Kingdom, the USA, Canada, Australia, and Germany. These countries are home to top-ranked universities with prestigious faculties, research scope, and academic excellence.

Step 3: Shortlist the University: 

It is essential to shortlist the best university out of all the available options—research before finalizing based on scope, cost of study, rank, and opportunities.

Step 4: Take the Entrance Examination: 

Study abroad programs require various entrance examinations. After completing BCom from India, students must appear for standardized entrance exams and English proficiency tests. The universities demand a GMAT or GRE score if you appear for postgraduate courses after BCom. English proficiency test(s) (IELTS and TOEFL/Country-specific language test) is compulsory for Indian students to prove their language proficiency in all areas. After taking the test and receiving scores, arrange all the documents required for the university application.

Step 5: Documentation: 

Foreign universities require a list of documents to process the application. Students should have a statement of purpose, letter of recommendation, academic transcripts, work experience, passport-size photograph, financial proof, and updated resume.

Step 6: Apply Online: 

Apply online by visiting the university’s official website. Fill out the online application form and upload all the documents.

Step 7: Apply for Scholarships and Loans: 

While you wait for university results, you can apply for financial help or scholarships. This is the right time to go for an education loan if needed.

Step 8: Apply for a Student Visa: 

Once you receive the university’s admission letter, you must apply for a student visa. It is essential to go through the immigration rules and policies of the destination you plan to study in. Every country has its own immigration rules and visa requirements for Indian students.

Step 9: Arrange Accommodation: 

After getting the student visa successfully, arranging for your accommodation abroad is essential.

Step 10: Book your Tickets and Start Packing: 

Refer to the packing checklist and things that are permitted/prohibited according to the destination's immigration policy.

Popular Postgraduate Courses After BCom in Abroad By Specializations

After BCom, the demand for specialized postgraduate courses like MBA with a finance focus has grown by 26%. 

Programs such as MBA, MFin, and MSc in Data Science, offered by top universities like Stanford, Oxford, and HEC Paris, equip you with the skills needed to excel in high-paying, competitive careers. 

The average tuition fees for these courses may range from $25,000 to $70,000 (INR 21.3L - INR 60L), depending on the specialization, country, and university.

The table below highlights key courses, ideal profiles, and top institutions to guide your decision.

Having covered the specializations, let's shift our focus to the top destinations and institutions where you can study these popular postgraduate courses after BCom abroad.

Top Countries and Universities Offering Postgraduate Courses for BCom Graduates

Postgraduate courses to study abroad offer BCom graduates a high-quality education and strong career opportunities, with 42.8% of MBA graduates working in finance and accounting. 

The USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, and emerging destinations like Singapore and France stand out for their academic excellence and professional opportunities.

Here is a comparative overview of top countries and universities offering postgraduate courses for BCom graduates, along with key highlights to help guide your decision.

Aside from the well-known options, there are several emerging countries offering attractive opportunities for postgraduate studies.

Emerging Destinations For Courses After BCom in Abroad

Around 8 to 10 countries have become leading destinations for postgraduate education, thanks to their academic excellence, global recognition, and career prospects.

Among them, the following 5 countries stand out as the most preferred choices for international students today:

1. Singapore

With institutions like NUS and NTU, Singapore is a growing hub for Business Analytics and FinTech. Its strategic location as a financial center and growing tech scene make it ideal for students aiming to enter the finance and tech industries.

2. France

Home to prestigious universities like HEC Paris and INSEAD, France offers top programs in MBA and Finance. The country's blend of culture and business education attracts students seeking global careers, particularly in the luxury and finance sectors.

3. Spain

Studying in Spain combines affordable education with top-tier programs at schools like IE Business School and ESADE. It’s an excellent choice for MBA or MSc Finance students seeking strong academics, rich culture, and access to European business networks.

4. Netherlands

With top universities like Erasmus University and the University of Amsterdam, studying in the Netherlands offers quality programs in International Business and Finance. The country is known for affordable education and strong ties to global industries.

5. South Korea

South Korea, with institutions like SNU and Korea University, is gaining attention for programs in Business, Finance, and Technology Management. Its focus on innovation and global business makes it an emerging destination for students.

Now that you know where to study, let's examine how these popular postgraduate courses after BCom abroad translate into rewarding career paths and top employers.

Courses After BCom in Abroad: Career Prospects and Recruiters Worldwide

Specialized programs like MBA, MFin, and MSc in Business Analytics help BCom graduates enhance their skills and stand out in the global job market. These courses open doors to high-paying roles in finance, management, technology, and marketing.

Here's a table that summarizes some popular job roles post-BCom with their descriptions and average salaries:

Source: Glassdoor

Now that you know the potential career paths, let's look at the top employers seeking postgraduate talent in these fields.

Global Recruiters and Top Employers

Postgraduate commerce graduates are highly sought after by global employers. For example, London Business School’s MBA graduates have a 92% employment rate, with job offers typically received within three months. This shows the strong demand for professionals in finance, consulting, technology, and FMCG.

Below is a table showcasing major recruiters and the roles they offer to postgraduate graduates.

Now that you are aware of the career prospects, let's look at the challenges that you may encounter while studying PG courses after BCom in abroad.

Challenges Faced by Indian Students Pursuing Postgraduate Courses After Bcom in Abroad

Pursuing postgraduate studies abroad offers Indian students immense opportunities but also presents challenges, such as financial burdens, cultural adjustments, and academic transitions. With over 1.33 million Indian students studying abroad, these hurdles require careful planning and resilience. 

This section provides a comprehensive look at these challenges, backed by recent data and insights.

1. Financial Constraints

The high cost of tuition and living expenses is one of the biggest challenges. For instance, the cost of studying in the USA, UK, and Canada ranges from INR 25–50L annually. Many students rely on loans or family support, with only 27.6% securing scholarships.

Solution: Scholarships like the Fulbright and DAAD can help reduce costs.

2. Cultural and Social Adaptation

Adapting to new cultural norms can lead to isolation and homesickness. In countries like the US and UK, where individualism prevails, many Indian students report cultural challenges. Discrimination also remains a concern.

Solution: Cultural orientation programs and joining university clubs can help students adapt socially.

3. Academic Differences and Pressure

Indian students often struggle with the shift from India's exam-focused system to independent learning abroad. Indians studying in the UK face academic stress, particularly adjusting to different grading systems.

Solution: Universities provide academic counseling and mentorship programs to ease the transition.

4. Visa and Immigration Complications

Student visa-related challenges, including reduced student visa allotments, have become more complex in countries like Canada and Australia. 40% of Indian students faced visa issues due to stricter policies.

Solution: Early preparation and consulting with visa experts can help simplify the application process.

5. Mental Health and Emotional Well-being

Studying abroad can cause emotional stress, with many Indian students in the US experiencing anxiety or depression. Cultural taboos prevent many from seeking mental health support.

Solution: Universities offer 24/7 counseling and peer support groups to help students cope.

6. Housing and Cost of Living

High accommodation costs and the general cost of living in countries like Germany and the USA strain students' budgets. Housing can cost up to INR 30K/month in some cities.

Solution: University dormitories and shared housing can reduce living expenses.

7. Post-Study Employment Challenges

Securing employment after graduation is tough, with only 22% of students returning to India finding jobs due to degree recognition issues. Visa restrictions further limit job opportunities.

Solution: Networking, internships, and leveraging career services during studies can enhance job prospects.

Also Read: Tips to Beat 6 Common Challenges For Indian Students Who Plan To Study Abroad

While the challenges are real, upGrad's tailored support can ease your journey and ensure you are well-prepared for postgraduate study.

How Can upGrad Help You Pursue Postgraduate Courses After BCom in Abroad?

Pursuing postgraduate courses abroad after a BCom can be overwhelming due to factors like high competition, complex application processes, and the need for proper guidance. upGrad offers tailored services to ease these challenges, ensuring you are well-prepared and confident when applying to top universities abroad.

• Personalized Coaching: Get one-on-one mentorship for exams like the GRE, GMAT, and IELTS, with strategies and resources to excel.
• Industry-Recognized Programs: Offers study abroad programs designed in partnership with top universities and employers to ensure a relevant and up-to-date curriculum.
• Application Support: Receive guidance on crafting standout applications, including personal statements and forms.
• Networking Opportunities: Access upGrad's network of over 1,400 partners for valuable connections and internships.
• Placement Assistance: With access to a network of 22,000 hiring partners, upGrad helps with resume building, interview prep, and job placements.

Need help with your postgraduate applications? Book a free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad's experts today to get personalized advice on exam strategies, course selection, and career guidance to ensure your success.