International students are increasingly exploring new study destinations as changes in government policies and rising living costs affect their choices, according to new research from IDP Education.
This week, IDP Education released its Emerging Futures report, which shows a growing number of students considering alternative destinations for their studies. The United States has seen a notable increase in popularity year-on-year, as policy uncertainty impacts traditionally popular countries.
The report also highlights that while many students are postponing their study plans due to these challenges, nearly half (47 per cent) are still eager to pursue their international education within the next two years. This indicates that despite the barriers, the dream of studying abroad remains strong.
Based on responses from over 6,000 students, the report revealed that students would consider changing their destination if they could secure a post-study visa (62 per cent), meet lower financial requirements for a student visa (58 per cent), or pay reduced visa fees (57 per cent).
Simon Emmett, CEO of IDP Connect, commented on how these changes are shaping students’ decisions. “With ongoing policy instability, we’re seeing 66 per cent of students considering more than one destination as they search for certainty,” said Emmett. He also noted that the US is now seen more favourably than Australia, Canada, and the UK when it comes to quality of education, value for money, and graduate employment opportunities.
Emmett emphasised the need for governments in these major study destinations to create a clearer, more stable environment to attract international students back. “Failing to do so may give an advantage to emerging markets,” he said.
The report also includes new data on students who have decided not to pursue international study at all. Canada topped the list for students declining their initial study plans, followed by Australia. The most common reasons for this shift were high tuition fees (49 per cent) and rising living costs (35 per cent).
Despite these challenges, Tennealle O’Shannessy, CEO and Managing Director of IDP Education stressed that the desire to study abroad remains strong. “Current challenges have created obstacles, but students are still driven to transform their lives through education,” said O’Shannessy. “As policy shifts continue and living costs rise, staying connected with students and offering trusted advice is more important than ever. We remain committed to improving the international student experience and ensuring their voices are heard.”
For more information on IDP’s Emerging Futures report, click here.
