Exclusive: Leverage Edu Forays Into South America With Acquisition Of Mundus Agency

New Delhi, India Jul 8, 2026 ALN: Study abroad startup Leverage Edu has made a significant move by entering the South American market through the acquisition of the Brazil-based international education company Mundus Agency. This strategic expansion is noteworthy as it marks Leverage Edu's first foray into South America, a region that presents a multitude of opportunities for growth in the education sector. Previously focused on markets in South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, this acquisition is seen as a critical step in diversifying Leverage Edu’s portfolio and establishing a presence in new markets that are increasingly ripe for development.

The timing of this acquisition aligns with Leverage Edu's preparations for an initial public offering (IPO) in India, which aims to raise between ₹2,000-3,000 Crores. The IPO is a significant milestone for the startup and indicates its readiness to scale its operations further. By acquiring Mundus Agency, Leverage Edu is not only expanding its global footprint but also positioning itself strategically in Brazil, which is recognized as one of the fastest-growing outbound student markets worldwide. Industry estimates suggest that nearly 90,000 Brazilian students pursue higher education overseas each year, a figure that has surged by about 50% since 2017. This increase reflects a growing trend among Brazilian students to seek international education opportunities, which Leverage Edu is poised to capitalize on.

Leverage Edu has confirmed the acquisition, stating that Mundus Agency specializes in assisting students with their aspirations to study abroad. Established as a credible player in the Brazilian education market, Mundus Agency offers a range of services that include counseling and application assistance for students looking to further their education internationally. However, the financial details of the acquisition have not been disclosed, which raises questions about the valuation of Mundus Agency and how it fits into Leverage Edu's broader financial strategy. Understanding the financial implications of this acquisition will be essential for stakeholders as they evaluate Leverage Edu's growth trajectory.

Prior to this acquisition, Leverage Edu's revenue distribution was heavily concentrated in India, which accounted for approximately 50-55% of its total earnings. Africa contributed around 25%, while South Asia and the Middle East each accounted for about 10%. This revenue model highlights the importance of the Indian market for Leverage Edu but also underscores the need for diversification to mitigate risks associated with over-reliance on a single region. The acquisition of Mundus Agency is a strategic move to balance this revenue distribution and reduce dependence on the Indian market.

The demographic landscape in Brazil further supports the rationale behind this acquisition. Brazil's overseas diaspora has expanded to nearly 5 million people, encompassing a diverse group of students, skilled professionals, and healthcare workers. This demographic creates an attractive market for study-abroad and talent mobility services. The presence of a significant number of Brazilians living abroad can generate a network effect, potentially facilitating further growth for Leverage Edu in the region. As more students seek international education, the demand for services that assist them in navigating the complexities of studying abroad is expected to rise.

As Leverage Edu gears up for its IPO, it has initiated discussions with investment bankers, targeting a public listing next year. Sources suggest that the IPO could involve both a fresh issue of shares and an offer-for-sale (OFS) component, with the exact breakdown to be determined later. The potential influx of capital from the IPO is anticipated to fuel further expansion efforts, including additional acquisitions and investments in technology aimed at enhancing the user experience. This strategic focus on technology is vital in the edtech sector, where user engagement and satisfaction are critical to success.

Leverage Edu is targeting a valuation exceeding $900 million for its IPO. Investment bankers are positioning the startup alongside established platform companies such as Zomato and ixigo, with expectations of achieving similar valuation multiples. This reflects the growing interest in the edtech sector, particularly in companies that provide services related to international education and student mobility. As the demand for educational services continues to rise, the market is becoming increasingly competitive, and Leverage Edu's ability to differentiate itself will be crucial.

On the financial front, Leverage Edu reported that it turned EBITDA profitable in FY26, with operating revenue skyrocketing by 112% to ₹375 Crores from ₹173 Crores in the previous year. This impressive growth rate underscores the increasing demand for educational services and the effectiveness of Leverage Edu's business model. The startup's horizontal stack, which includes fintech, accommodation, travel, and career support services, now accounts for 25-33% of its total revenue. This diversification not only enhances revenue streams but also positions Leverage Edu as a comprehensive solution for students seeking to study abroad.

Leverage Edu claims to have added over 55,000 students to its user base in the previous fiscal year, bringing its total customer base to over 175,000. This growth in user numbers demonstrates the company's successful marketing strategies and its ability to resonate with students' aspirations for higher education abroad. The startup has raised approximately $73 million in funding from various investors, including Blume Ventures, DSG Consumer Partners, and Kaizenvest. These investments have provided Leverage Edu with the necessary capital to scale its operations and improve its service offerings.

In conclusion, Leverage Edu's acquisition of Mundus Agency not only marks its entry into the South American market but also sets the stage for its ambitious growth plans as it prepares for a public listing in India. The strategic expansion into Brazil aligns with global trends in education, where students are increasingly seeking international opportunities to enhance their academic and professional prospects. As the company navigates this new market, it will be crucial for Leverage Edu to adapt its strategies to meet the unique needs of Brazilian students while maintaining its core values and mission of making education accessible to all. The implications of this acquisition could extend beyond immediate financial gains, potentially influencing the broader landscape of international education services in South America and beyond.