The study abroad industry in India has become increasingly competitive over the past decade. Hundreds of consultancies have entered the market, many backed by significant investor funding and aggressive expansion plans. Yet one company has quietly grown through a different approach.
Founded by entrepreneur Imran Khan, Humstudy has emerged as one of India’s fastest-growing bootstrapped study abroad consultancies, with the company reportedly reaching a valuation of around $3 million.
Unlike many education startups that rely on external funding to scale operations, Humstudy has largely grown through organic growth and referrals. According to Khan, the company has received several investment offers over the years but has chosen to remain independent.
Industry experts believe that one of the reasons behind Humstudy’s growth is its focus on transparency in student counselling. The company openly discusses both partner and non-partner universities with students, helping them understand the advantages, limitations, costs, and visa implications associated with different study options.
Khan says the idea for Humstudy came after observing a recurring issue within the study abroad sector.
“Many students dream of studying overseas but often have limited information about universities, courses, visa requirements, and long-term career outcomes. In some cases, students are guided toward institutions that may not be the best fit for their profile,” he explains.
According to Humstudy, its counselling process focuses on matching students with universities that align with their academic background, career goals, and immigration prospects rather than simply promoting specific institutions.
The company has gradually expanded its presence across India and is now preparing for its next phase of growth. Sources familiar with the company’s plans indicate that Humstudy is expected to launch hybrid counselling centres in Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad by 2028, combining online and in-person student support services.
For Khan, however, growth is only part of the mission.
He believes the study abroad industry needs greater accountability and transparency, particularly when students and parents are making significant financial investments in overseas education.
“Every student has a dream, and every parent makes sacrifices to support that dream. Our responsibility is to provide honest guidance so students can make informed decisions about their future,” he says.
As international education continues to attract increasing numbers of Indian students, companies like Humstudy are attempting to differentiate themselves through trust-based counselling rather than traditional recruitment models.
Whether that approach continues to drive the company’s growth remains to be seen, but for now, Humstudy’s rise highlights how a bootstrapped business can carve out a place in one of India’s most competitive education sectors.
