Career Counselling for Students: Importance, Types and More

In India, the higher education landscape is expanding rapidly, with student enrollments projected to reach 92 million by 2035. However, the availability of certified career counsellors remains critically low, with only about 5,000 professionals currently serving this vast student population.

This disparity underscores the urgent need for comprehensive career counselling services to guide students effectively. This article delves into the significance of career counselling for students, exploring various types of career counselling and their benefits.

Career Counselling for Students: Key Details

Career counselling helps you identify the right career path based on your skills, interests, and market trends. 

It plays a crucial role in guiding you toward suitable opportunities by offering expert advice, industry insights, and personalized recommendations. Career guidance differs as it provides information and resources, while career counselling includes professional evaluation and support.

Here are the key benefits of career counselling:

• Personalized Career Pathways: Helps you choose fields like engineering, healthcare, or digital marketing using platforms like CareerGuide and Mindler.
• Skill Assessment & Development: Identifies strengths and weaknesses through psychometric tests, used by tools like Mettl and iDreamCareer.
• Industry Insights & Trends: Keeps you updated on sectors like AI, fintech, and sustainable energy through sources like NASSCOM and LinkedIn Learning.
• Higher Education Planning: Assists in selecting universities, courses, and certifications through platforms like upGrad.
• Job Market Readiness: Prepares you with resume-building, interview skills, and internships via portals like Naukri and Internshala.

With a strong foundation in career counselling, let’s explore the essential roles and responsibilities of a career counsellor.

Key Roles and Responsibilities of a Career Counsellor

A career counsellor is responsible for guiding you toward the most suitable career choices by evaluating your interests, skills, and goals. They use assessments, industry insights, and mentoring to help you make informed decisions.

Below are the key roles and responsibilities of a career counsellor:

• Conducting Career Assessments: Uses psychometric tests like Myers-Briggs and Holland Code to evaluate career suitability.
• Providing Industry-Specific Guidance: Offers insights into booming fields like AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics using platforms like edX.
• Advising on Education and Certifications: Recommends degrees, diplomas, and online courses from institutions like IIMs and IITs.
• Assisting with Job Search & Placement: Guides you on resume writing, networking, and job portals like Monster India and Glassdoor.
• Supporting Career Transitions: Helps professionals switch careers into high-demand fields like product management and UI/UX through specialized bootcamps.

Also Read: Career Development in HRM: Meaning, Stages, Process, Skills

Once you understand the counsellor's role, it’s important to learn about the techniques they use during counselling sessions. Let’s explore some common techniques used in career counselling.

Career Counselling Techniques

Career counselling techniques involve various methods to assess your abilities, interests, and market trends. These approaches help you align your career choices with realistic goals.

Below are the most effective career counselling techniques:

• Psychometric Testing: Uses standardized tests like DISC and Big Five Personality to analyze skills and interests.
• One-on-One Counselling: Provides personalized career advice using platforms like TalktoAngel and YourDOST.
• Career Mapping & Roadmaps: Helps you set short-term and long-term career plans with tools like CareerLabs.
• Mock Interviews & Resume Building: Prepares you for job applications through LinkedIn Resume Builder and InterviewBuddy.
• Industry Networking & Mentorship: Connects you with professionals via platforms like LinkedIn and Meetup.

Career counselling comes in various forms, each offering distinct benefits for different needs and goals. Let’s dive into the different types of career counselling and how they can benefit you.

Different Types of Career Counselling and Their Benefits

Career counselling for students comes in various forms, including individual sessions, online platforms, and independent career transition coaches. 

Each approach offers unique advantages, helping you explore career paths, choose suitable courses, and navigate industry trends effectively. 

To understand how these approaches work, let’s explore different types of career counselling and their benefits.

Individual Career Counselling

Individual career counselling provides personalized guidance tailored to your strengths, interests, and aspirations. It involves in-depth discussions with certified counsellors to help you align your career goals with industry opportunities.

Below are the key benefits of individual career counselling:

• Customized Career Planning: Customized Career Planning: Helps you choose fields like finance, healthcare, or AI through upGrad and its offline centers, along with platforms like CareerGuide and Mindler.
• Psychometric & Skill Assessments: Uses tools like Mettl and iDreamCareer to analyze your strengths and career suitability.
• University & Course Selection: Recommends top universities, professional certifications, and online courses from IIMs, IITs, and upGrad.
• Job Readiness Support: Prepares you with resume writing, mock interviews, and industry networking via LinkedIn and Naukri.
• Career Progression Strategies: Assists in career growth, from entry-level to leadership roles, through mentorship programs.

Also Read: Top 15+ Best Career Options in Future [In-demand highest paying jobs]

For more flexibility, online career counselling offers the convenience of accessing guidance from anywhere. Let’s explore the advantages of online career counselling.

Online Career Counselling

Online career counselling provides virtual career guidance through digital platforms, allowing you to access expert advice anytime, anywhere. It uses AI-driven tools, video consultations, and online assessments to guide you.

Below are the benefits of online career counselling:

• 24/7 Accessibility: Enables you to connect with career experts via platforms like iDreamCareer and Univariety.
• AI-Powered Career Insights: Uses machine learning tools like CareerLabs to suggest career options based on skills and interests.
• Interactive Career Assessments: Provides automated personality tests, industry trends, and resume evaluations using LinkedIn Learning.
• Global Career Opportunities: Helps you explore international education and job markets via platforms like upGrad.
• Cost-Effective Guidance: Offers affordable counselling packages through services like TalktoAngel and YourDOST. upGrad also provides free career guidance services.

Also Read: 12 Must-Have Job Certifications For Career Progression in 2025

Another option is working with independent career transition coaches who specialize in helping professionals change careers. Let's see how independent career transition coaches can help guide you through career shifts.

Independent Career Transition Coaches

Independent career transition coaches help you shift industries, explore new career options, or accelerate professional growth. They provide industry-specific insights, mentoring, and networking opportunities.

Below are the benefits of career transition coaching:

• Industry-Specific Guidance: Assists in moving to high-demand fields like data science, fintech, or UI/UX using mentors from Springboard.
• Personalized Career Roadmaps: Creates step-by-step strategies for career shifts with platforms like CareerLabs.
• Skill Development & Certifications: Recommends upskilling programs from NIIT and upGrad.
• Entrepreneurial & Freelance Support: Guides you in starting a business or freelance career through Upwork and Fiverr.
• Executive & Leadership Coaching: Helps mid-career professionals advance through training programs at ISB and Harvard Online.

Having explored the types of counselling, let’s discuss why career counselling is essential for your future.

Why Career Counselling Matters for Your Future

Career counselling for students plays a crucial role in shaping your long-term success by refining your career goals and skill development. 

With expert guidance, you can navigate industry trends, choose the right career path, and enhance your professional growth effectively.

Below are the key benefits of career counselling for your future:

• Clarity in Career Goals: Helps you identify your strengths and aspirations using platforms like CareerGuide and iDreamCareer.
• Skill Enhancement & Development: Recommends relevant courses, certifications, and bootcamps from upGrad, NIIT, etc.
• Industry Awareness & Job Market Trends: Keeps you informed about booming sectors like AI, blockchain, and cybersecurity through LinkedIn Learning.
• Higher Education & Global Career Planning: Assists in selecting top universities, scholarships, and international opportunities via edX and Univariety.

Also Read: How To Improve Your Career Skills for a Better Job and Employability

To make the most of career counselling, it’s important to know the right time to seek professional guidance. So, let’s have a look!

When Should You Seek Career Counselling? Key Insights

Seeking career counselling at the right stage of your academic or professional journey ensures you make well-informed decisions. Whether you are a student choosing a stream or a professional considering a career change, expert guidance can be highly beneficial.

Let’s explore the key stages where career counselling is most impactful.

Before Choosing a Stream in School

Choosing the right stream in school significantly impacts your future career. Career counselling for students helps you analyze your interests, strengths, and industry trends before making this crucial decision.

Below are the benefits of seeking career counselling before selecting a stream:

• Scientific Career Assessments: Uses psychometric tests like Mettl and Holland Code to determine suitable career options.
• Exposure to Emerging Fields: Introduces you to new-age careers in AI, data science, and digital marketing through platforms like Mindler.
• Guidance on Subject Selection: Helps you align subjects with career goals, whether engineering, medicine, or design.
• Early Skill Development: Suggests coding, communication, or leadership training via online learning platforms.
• Streamlined Career Path Planning: Provides a roadmap for higher education and job opportunities based on industry demands.

Also Read: Best Career Options in India 2025: High, Salary, Future Scops, Jobs

As you progress in your education, career counselling during college becomes essential for exploring job prospects and professional growth.

During College

College is the ideal time to refine your career path, acquire new skills, and prepare for the job market. Career counselling at this stage helps you align your education with industry requirements and future opportunities.

Below are the key benefits of career counselling during college:

• Internship & Job Search Assistance: Connects you with internship opportunities through platforms like Internshala and Glassdoor.
• Industry-Specific Skill Training: Recommends courses in high-demand fields like fintech, UX/UI, and cybersecurity via upGrad.
• Higher Education & Specialization Guidance: Advises on master’s programs, certifications, and global education prospects via Univariety.
• Resume Building & Interview Preparation: Enhances job readiness through LinkedIn Resume Builder and InterviewBuddy.
• Professional Networking & Mentorship: Helps you connect with industry professionals using platforms like LinkedIn and Meetup.

Also Read: Career Options after 12th: What to do after 12th? [2025]

For those considering a career shift, career counselling before transitioning to a new field ensures a smooth and successful change.

Before a Career Change

Switching careers can be challenging, but career counselling helps you make a seamless transition. Below are the benefits of career counselling before a career change:

• Career Transition Strategy: Guides you in shifting to growing industries like product management, data analytics, or blockchain via Springboard.
• Industry-Specific Career Roadmaps: Provides structured transition plans tailored to your new career goals.
• Freelancing & Entrepreneurship Guidance: Supports career shifts into self-employment or freelancing through Upwork and Fiverr.
• Executive & Leadership Coaching: Helps mid-career professionals move into managerial roles with training from ISB and Harvard Online.

While career counselling offers immense value, it’s also important to understand the associated fees. Let’s explore what you can expect when it comes to career counselling fees in India.

Career Counselling Fees in India: What to Expect

Career counselling fees in India vary based on factors like counsellor experience, session format, and services offered. While some platforms provide free career assessments, professional guidance usually comes at a cost. 

Now, let’s look at the factors that influence career counselling fees.

Factors Affecting Career Counselling Fees

Several factors determine the cost of career counselling for students. Below are the key aspects influencing fees:

• Mode of Counselling: Online sessions via platforms like iDreamCareer are generally cheaper than in-person consultations.
• Counsellor’s Expertise & Experience: Certified professionals with extensive industry experience, like those at CareerGuide, charge higher fees.
• Type of Services Offered: Basic counselling is affordable, but premium services like career mapping, skill assessments, and job placement guidance cost more.
• Number of Sessions: One-time consultations are cheaper, whereas long-term career guidance programs come at a higher price.
• Additional Resources & Tools: Platforms like upGrad and Univariety offer career assessments, resume reviews, and mentorship, affecting the overall cost.

Also Read: How to Build a Resume For Your Dream Job: A Comprehensive Guide

Now that you know the factors, let’s look at the average cost of career counselling services in India.

Average Cost of Career Counselling in India

In India, fees vary based on factors such as the counsellor's experience, session duration, and services offered. 

Career counsellors typically charge between INR 1,500 and INR 10,000 per session, depending on their expertise and the comprehensiveness of the services provided.

In New Delhi, the average cost of career coaching sessions is approximately INR 997 per hour, offering personalized guidance to suit individual needs. When considering career counselling services, it's important to evaluate the value offered relative to the cost. 

Some platforms, like upGrad, provide free resources and sessions, making career guidance more accessible.

Also Read: Top Employability Skills for a Successful Career in 2025

While the cost is important, it’s equally essential to consider the value of career counselling. Let’s discuss whether career counselling is worth the investment.

Cost vs. Value: Is Career Counselling Worth It?

Investing in career counselling ensures you receive professional guidance tailored to your goals. Below are the reasons why it’s a valuable investment:

Facing challenges in articulating ideas clearly? upGrad’s Business Communication Masterclass teaches structured communication techniques to improve clarity and impact.

Now that you understand the costs and value, it’s time to learn how to choose the right career counsellor for your needs. Let’s explore how you can choose the perfect career counsellor to guide you.

How to Choose the Right Career Counsellor?

Selecting the right career counsellor is essential for making informed career decisions. A qualified expert helps you identify strengths, explore career options, and develop a strategic career plan. 

The right choice ensures you receive reliable advice tailored to your goals.

Below are key factors to consider when choosing a career counsellor:

• Certifications & Credentials: Look for professionals with certifications from organizations like NCDA or CDA India.
• Industry Experience: A counsellor with experience in fields like IT, finance, or healthcare provides practical career insights.
• Student Success Stories: Platforms like upGrad showcase testimonials from students who secured top university admissions or job placements.
• Personalized Career Planning: Ensure they offer customized guidance based on psychometric tests like those provided by Mettl.
• Additional Support Services: Opt for counsellors who provide resume building, skill assessments, and interview training through platforms like upGrad.

Also Read: Achieving Career Growth: 14 Essential People Skills for Workplace Success

How upGrad Helps You with Career Guidance?

The right career guidance ensures you make informed decisions, avoid career missteps, and secure high-growth opportunities. If you're unsure about your next career move, upGrad’s career counselling services provide expert support, ensuring you achieve your career goals. For more details, visit the nearest upGrad offline center.

Here are some upGrad courses that can help you stand out.

• PMP Certification Training Course
• Post Graduate Certificate in Data Science & AI (Executive)
• Professional Certificate Program in AI and Data Science
• AI-Powered Full Stack Development Course by IIITB
• Advanced General Management Program
• Data Structures & Algorithms Free Course
• Java Object-oriented Programming Free Course