Leverage Edu Expands Horizons Amid Visa Challenges, Doubling Revenue and Achieving Profitability

Introduction

In light of recent visa restrictions and diplomatic tensions affecting traditional study-abroad opportunities, India-based Leverage Edu is strategically guiding students toward alternative educational destinations. From Canada to Germany and beyond, the startup is successfully reshaping pathways for students and has seen significant growth as a result.

Navigating Uncertainty in International Education

As students from emerging markets face increasing obstacles with international college admissions, shifting geopolitical landscapes have compelled many to reconsider their options. Recent tensions, such as the diplomatic strife between India and Canada and altered U.S.-India relations regarding tariffs and immigration, have led to disruptions in application processes. Countries like Canada and Australia have also implemented stringent student visa regulations, leaving families unprepared.

Leverage Edu, the driving force behind this innovative educational platform, has stepped in to help students pivot their plans. By presenting alternative study destinations and providing assistance in navigating newly evolving regulations, the startup is empowering students to continue pursuing their academic ambitions.

Strategic Response to Shifting Global Dynamics

In response to the cooling relations between India and Canada, Leverage Edu has been proactive in helping Indian students shift their focus to Germany while also assisting Canadian institutions in recruiting students from Nigeria. This dual approach effectively preserves student engagement across both nations. The company continues to maintain its support for U.S. admissions as well, with a noticeable uptick in interest from students in Brazil and Vietnam, as highlighted by founder and CEO Akshay Chaturvedi.

This adaptability is now a cornerstone of Leverage Edu’s growth strategy. Recently, the startup has ventured into new markets, launching operations in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Vietnam, and Malaysia. These emerging regions are witnessing a surge of students aiming to study abroad but often lack structured support for admissions processes. Currently, Leverage Edu operates in 16 countries, facilitating applications to universities located in 11 different nations.

A Comprehensive Platform for Education Abroad

Headquartered in Noida, near New Delhi, Leverage Edu is striving to be more than just an application service. The startup is transforming into a full-service platform for international students by providing resources for planning, financing, and managing their educational journeys. Among its offerings are a dedicated mobile application, an AI-driven course search engine, and a university matching tool named UniConnect. Recently, Leverage Edu launched its SaaS suite for global universities under the label Univalley.ai.

In addition to its core services, Leverage Edu has diversified into related areas, introducing initiatives like Leverage MBBS for prospective medical students, Fly Finance for education loans, and Fly Homes to assist with student housing. Other offerings under the umbrella of Leverage Careers and Compass are also available, further amplifying its service range.

Significant Growth and Financial Milestones

Leverage Edu has dramatically increased its placements, assisting over 10,000 students annually — a substantial rise from 1,500 just a few years prior. This growth predominantly stems from organic demand, with about 60% of new student acquisitions being accomplished without incurring significant customer acquisition costs.

In a financial landscape where profitability can be rare for edtech startups, Leverage Edu has achieved profitability for the first time this year. Closing the fiscal year 2025 with revenues of over ₹1.8 billion (approximately $20 million), the company has more than doubled its revenue from the previous year’s total of ₹900 million (around $10 million). Between April and September, Leverage generated over ₹2 billion (approximately $23 million) and is on pace to hit ₹3.7-₹3.8 billion (close to $45 million) by the fiscal year’s end.

Profit margins are improving as well, with earnings of ₹120-130 million (around $1.4-1.5 million) expected after tax, projected to exceed ₹250 million ($2.8 million) by fiscal year 2026. This marks a significant turnaround from a loss of ₹800 million in fiscal year 2025.

Market Focus and Future Projections

Approximately 25% of Leverage Edu’s revenue is derived from services beyond student admissions, which include financial aid, housing assistance, and help with job placements. The remaining 75% comes from its core student placement business, with commissions from universities accounting for a substantial portion of this income.

India remains the pivotal market for Leverage Edu, contributing 58% of its student base. The startup particularly targets states like Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Punjab, which have a historic propensity for sending students overseas.

The United Kingdom stands as the largest study destination, claiming 52% of placements. Following closely is Germany, which constitutes 22%. Italy, showcasing the most rapid growth recently, has also caught the interest of students.

Although North America only accounts for less than 5% of placements due to tightened visa regulations and diplomatic challenges, Leverage Edu anticipates this figure will increase as it extends its reach in regions such as Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.

IPO Possibilities on the Horizon

With its ascending revenue trajectory and expanding international presence, Leverage Edu is contemplating an initial public offering (IPO) in India as early as 2026. Investment bankers have begun making initial pitches to the startup. CEO Akshay Chaturvedi acknowledged the prospect of going public, noting that the decision would hinge on achieving a revenue milestone of $100 million, which the company forecasts reaching in 2026.

To date, Leverage Edu has secured less than $50 million in equity financing and operates across 27 countries with over 50 offices, employing around 800 individuals.

Conclusion

As the landscape of international education evolves amidst geopolitical challenges, Leverage Edu is steadfastly committed to ensuring that students find the pathways they need to achieve their academic aspirations. Through its innovative solutions and global strategies, the startup is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of study abroad.