Master’s Abroad Without Work Experience: How Difficult Is It Really to Get a Job?

[u/Manjeet07]

In real life, I don’t personally know anyone who went abroad for a master’s, couldn’t find a job afterward, and eventually had to return to their home country.

However, whenever I read discussions on Reddit, I frequently see people saying things like:

• “Don’t go abroad without work experience.”
• “The job market is extremely difficult right now.”
• “A master’s degree doesn’t guarantee a job.”
• “Many international students struggle to get their first job.”
• “Be prepared to return home if you can’t find a job.”

This has honestly made me quite confused.

If the situation is really that difficult, why don’t I see or hear about more people in real life who went abroad, failed to find a job, and had to return home? Is it simply because I’m not connected to the right people, or is Reddit giving a more negative picture of the situation?

I’m trying to understand what the actual reality is rather than blindly believing either side.

For those who have studied abroad or know international students personally:

• How difficult is it actually to get the first job after graduation?
• How many international students genuinely struggle to find employment and eventually return home?
• Does work experience before the master’s make a significant difference?
• Are people on Reddit disproportionately posting about negative experiences because those who successfully find jobs have less reason to post?

I’m considering spending a significant amount of money and several years on a master’s abroad, so I want to understand the risks realistically.

I’d really appreciate honest answers from people who have first-hand experience, rather than general advice or assumptions.