From ₹3-4L Savings to a Global Leap
Many young professionals wonder if pursuing higher studies abroad is worth the cost, especially when they are already earning well in India. One techie’s story shows how a master’s degree in the United States can transform finances. Abhishek Singh shared his friend’s experience on X (formerly Twitter). The friend worked in Bengaluru earning around ₹18 lakh per year. After paying rent, family expenses, and flights home, he could only save ₹3-4 lakh annually.
Living Like a Student Abroad
The friend moved to the US for a two-year master’s degree costing about $75,000, including $55,000 tuition and $20,000 for living expenses. He funded most of it through an education loan. “He lived like a student for 18 months,” Singh wrote, sharing a small apartment with roommates and keeping spending minimal. After completing the degree, he secured a job with a base salary of $145,000 plus a $15,000 bonus in a mid-cost-of-living city.
Discipline and Financial Strategy
With a take-home pay of about $8,200 per month after taxes, the friend focused on repaying his loan. He continued living frugally, paying nearly $4,000 monthly and clearing the loan in 20 months. Today, he saves nearly $100,000 yearly while maintaining $4,500 in monthly living expenses. Moreover, he invests in retirement funds and index funds, demonstrating how strategic financial planning can maximize the benefits of studying abroad.
Lessons for Prospective Students
Singh emphasizes that pursuing an MS is not inherently “bad” if approached strategically. “Run the math for your case before rejecting it,” he advised. Social media users responded with mixed opinions. Some highlighted the discipline and planning required, while others cautioned that visa issues or unforeseen expenses could make it risky. Overall, the story serves as a blueprint for turning a costly degree into a high-return financial move through careful budgeting, smart living, and long-term planning.
