New findings from IDP Education show that international students are becoming more open to altering their study preferences due to shifts in policies across key destinations. Indeed, the sixth edition of IDP Education’s Emerging Futures report, which gathers insights from over 6,000 students across 114 countries, reveals that 66% of respondents are contemplating studying in or obtaining qualifications from multiple countries, marking the highest percentage in recent years. 

Reasons for changing study location

The research highlighted that 62% of students would alter their preferred study destination if they had the opportunity to apply for a post-study visa. Additionally, the data revealed that a reduced savings requirement to qualify for a student visa (noted by 58% of respondents) or lower visa fees (identified by 57% of respondents) could influence students to select certain destinations over others. The possibility of obtaining permanent residency is also a key priority for international students, with 43% of respondents considering it a crucial factor when deciding where to study, The Pie News reports.

As Canada and Australia restrict the number of international students and impose limitations on post-study work rights, students are, as a result, looking at a broader range of potential destinations. 

Discussing the data release at the 2024 AIEC conference in Melbourne, IDP’s Director of Partnerships and External Relations, Joanna Storti, stressed the significance of this information during such a pivotal period. “Emerging Futures is focused on equipping the sector and policy makers with informed insights to offer exceptional global education experiences that’s aligned with student demand,” she said.

US attraction

Policy changes in Australia, Canada, and the UK are also encouraging more students to consider the US, which is viewed more favourably in terms of quality, value for money, and job opportunities for graduates. Simon Emmett, IDP Connect CEO said: “In an environment of unstable policy settings, we are seeing 66% of students consider more than one destination, indicating they are widening their options as they strive for certainty.” While 24% and 23% of respondents selected Australia and the US as their preferred destinations, only the US has experienced a positive growth of 4% among the big four compared to the previous year. New Zealand is also experiencing steady growth, with 5% of international students selecting it as their top choice for a study destination. Furthermore, 11% of students are exploring alternative destinations, representing a 6% increase from the previous year. 

Family

Another important finding from the research is that the ability to bring dependents or family members and secure work opportunities for them is crucial for international students. While 48% of all surveyed students indicated they would be open to changing their study destinations based on work opportunities for dependents and spouses, more than 55% regard this as a top priority when selecting a study destination.