Introduction
India’s EdTech industry has witnessed an unprecedented boom in recent years, driven by increasing internet penetration, affordable smartphones, and the rising demand for quality education. From K-12 learning to upskilling and test preparation, these startups are redefining how students and professionals acquire knowledge. In this blog, we explore the top EdTech startups in India that are making significant contributions to the education sector.
1. BYJU’S
Founded: 2011
Headquarters: Bengaluru
Funding: Over $5.5 billion
Key Offerings: K-12 learning, competitive exam preparation, coding for kids
BYJU’S is the undisputed leader in India’s EdTech space. Founded by Byju Raveendran, it provides engaging video lessons and adaptive learning experiences. The company has expanded internationally and acquired several EdTech firms, including WhiteHat Jr., Aakash Institute, and Great Learning.
Why BYJU’S Stands Out:
- AI-driven personalized learning experience
- Collaboration with Disney for interactive learning
- Strong market presence in the U.S. and Middle East
2. Unacademy
Founded: 2015
Headquarters: Bengaluru
Funding: Over $800 million
Key Offerings: Competitive exam preparation, skill-based learning
Unacademy started as a YouTube channel and later evolved into a comprehensive learning platform. It offers courses for UPSC, JEE, NEET, CAT, and other competitive exams. The company has expanded into new areas like sports education and creator-led learning.
Why Unacademy Stands Out:
- Affordable subscriptions with live and recorded classes
- Collaboration with top educators and celebrities
- Wide range of test preparation courses
3. Vedantu
Founded: 2014
Headquarters: Bengaluru
Funding: Over $290 million
Key Offerings: Live online tutoring for K-12 students and JEE/NEET preparation
Vedantu pioneered the live tutoring model in India. It provides interactive learning experiences with real-time doubt-solving. Its ‘Wave’ platform enhances engagement through AI-powered assessments and interactive quizzes.
Why Vedantu Stands Out:
- AI-based student engagement tracking
- Free learning resources for school students
- Focus on one-on-one tutoring
4. UpGrad
Founded: 2015
Headquarters: Mumbai
Funding: Over $600 million
Key Offerings: Higher education, executive courses, career upskilling
UpGrad focuses on upskilling working professionals through partnerships with top universities like IITs, ISB, and Duke University. The platform offers certifications, diplomas, and degree programs in fields like data science, business, and digital marketing.
Why UpGrad Stands Out:
- University-accredited online degrees
- Career guidance and job placement support
- Industry-relevant skill development
5. Simplilearn
Founded: 2010
Headquarters: Bengaluru
Funding: Over $200 million
Key Offerings: Professional certifications in AI, data science, cloud computing
Simplilearn provides certification-based courses for professionals looking to upskill. It partners with tech giants like IBM, Microsoft, and AWS to deliver industry-recognized training.
Why Simplilearn Stands Out:
- Hands-on learning with real-world projects
- Partnerships with global tech firms
- Self-paced and instructor-led courses
6. Physics Wallah (PW)
Founded: 2020
Headquarters: Noida
Funding: Over $100 million
Key Offerings: Affordable JEE/NEET coaching
Physics Wallah, founded by Alakh Pandey, is a rising star in India’s EdTech sector. It started as a YouTube channel and grew into a full-fledged learning platform for engineering and medical entrance exams.
Why Physics Wallah Stands Out:
- Affordable pricing compared to competitors
- Strong YouTube community of over 10 million subscribers
- Offline coaching centers for hybrid learning
7. Eruditus
Founded: 2010
Headquarters: Mumbai
Funding: Over $1 billion
Key Offerings: Executive education in collaboration with global universities
Eruditus collaborates with institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Wharton to offer high-quality executive education programs. It caters to professionals looking to advance their careers.
Why Eruditus Stands Out:
- Partnerships with Ivy League universities
- Tailored programs for working professionals
- Hybrid learning model (online + offline)
8. WhiteHat Jr. (Now part of BYJU’S)
Founded: 2018
Headquarters: Mumbai
Funding: Acquired by BYJU’S for $300 million
Key Offerings: Coding for kids
WhiteHat Jr. introduced coding to young learners in India, making programming accessible for school students. It gained popularity due to its one-on-one teaching model and global outreach.
Why WhiteHat Jr. Stands Out:
- Personalized coding lessons
- Focus on AI, game development, and app creation
- Integration with BYJU’S ecosystem
9. Toppr (Now part of BYJU’S)
Founded: 2013
Headquarters: Mumbai
Funding: Over $100 million
Key Offerings: K-12 adaptive learning, test preparation
Toppr was known for its AI-driven personalized learning approach before being acquired by BYJU’S. It offered comprehensive K-12 courses and preparation for competitive exams.
Why Toppr Stands Out:
- AI-based personalized study plans
- Extensive test preparation resources
- Strong gamification elements in learning
10. Leverage Edu
Founded: 2017
Headquarters: New Delhi
Funding: Over $40 million
Key Offerings: Study abroad guidance, university admissions consulting
Leverage Edu helps students apply to universities abroad with AI-powered counseling and mentorship. It also provides financing solutions for students.
Why Leverage Edu Stands Out:
- AI-driven university selection process
- End-to-end support for international admissions
- Strong mentor network
Conclusion
India’s EdTech landscape is rapidly evolving, with startups catering to various educational needs, from K-12 learning to executive education. Companies like BYJU’S, Unacademy, and Vedantu have transformed how students prepare for exams, while platforms like UpGrad and Simplilearn focus on professional upskilling. As technology advances, India’s EdTech startups will continue to shape the future of learning, making education more accessible and efficient for millions.
Which EdTech platform do you use? Let us know in the comments!
