Australia (Commonwealth Union)_ As global study trends shift, the popularity of traditional destinations for international students, such as the UK, Canada, and Australia, has seen a notable decline in recent years. According to a recent survey conducted by IDP Education, which gathered responses from over 6,000 students across 114 countries in August and September 2024, students are increasingly exploring new opportunities in countries like Germany, Japan, and France.
Also read: New Rules Shake Up Canada’s PGWP Program
Declining popularity of traditional study destinations
Historically, the UK, Canada, and Australia have been the top choices for international students, particularly those from India. However, recent survey findings indicate that these countries have lost some of their appeal. While the US and New Zealand have gained ground, the UK, Australia, and Canada have all seen decreases in the percentage of students choosing them as study destinations. The survey reveals that 24% of students selected Australia in 2024, marking a slight decline of 1% from the previous year. Similarly, 21% chose the UK, experiencing a comparable drop, while Canada saw the most significant decrease, with only 16% of students selecting it, down from 19% in 2023.
Several factors are believed to be contributing to this shift, particularly changes in immigration and visa policies, which have become stricter in these countries in recent years. Particularly, the ongoing diplomatic tensions between Canada and India may contribute to Canada’s decline. Allegations made by the Canadian government have strained relations, which could be influencing the decisions of Indian students. Additionally, stricter visa regulations, designed to accommodate growing domestic demand, may be discouraging international students from choosing Canada as their study destination.
Also read: The South Asian nation that became the UK’s education powerhouse
The rise of emerging destinations
In contrast to the decline in traditional study locations, countries like Germany, Japan, and France are gaining traction among international students. The IDP Education survey highlights that more students are considering these emerging destinations as they search for countries that offer favorable visa policies, post-study work opportunities, and cost-effective living options. Germany, for instance, is becoming an increasingly popular option due to its robust education system, relatively low tuition fees, and strong post-study work options. Likewise, Japan and France are benefiting from their diverse academic offerings, cultural appeal, and international student-friendly policies.
Also read: African School of Governance, a gamechanger for African leadership!
Factors influencing students’ choices
The survey also identifies key factors that influence students’ study destination decisions. Notably, the opportunity to apply for post-study work visas remains the most significant consideration, with 52% of students prioritizing this factor. Other important considerations include pathways to permanent residency (43%), the required savings for student visas (42%), and visa fees (41%). Additionally, students are increasingly seeking flexibility in their options. The report reveals that 66% of students are considering multiple study destinations, compared to only 34% who have one country in mind. This represents a shift from previous years, where students were more likely to focus on a single destination. Furthermore, the option to bring dependents or spouses who can also work is another important factor, with 29% of students listing this as a key consideration. Additionally, government policies and the overall flexibility of visa rules are becoming increasingly important in students’ decision-making processes.
The changing landscape of global education
The survey results underscore a shifting landscape in global education, with students no longer limiting themselves to the traditional study powerhouses of the UK, Canada, and Australia. Emerging destinations are offering new opportunities and attractive incentives for international students, challenging the dominance of these long-established favorites. Global demand for higher education continues to grow, empowering students more than ever to explore a range of study destinations that best align with their academic and professional aspirations. For international students considering studying abroad, this evolving trend presents new possibilities. By expanding their horizons to include emerging destinations like Germany, Japan, and France, they can take advantage of favorable visa regulations, diverse cultural experiences, and vibrant academic environments.
