Changing Visa Rules Shift International Student Preferences in 2024
A recent survey by IDP Education highlights a notable shift in international student preferences for study destinations, influenced heavily by changing visa policies and financial considerations. The findings show that destinations traditionally popular with international students, including Canada and Australia, are experiencing declining interest, while the US and alternative options are gaining traction.
Survey Overview: Student Preferences in Flux
The IDP Education Emerging Futures Survey, conducted from August 20 to September 16, 2024, gathered responses from over 6,000 students across 114 countries. The survey, now in its sixth edition since 2022, provides insights into the motivations and challenges faced by prospective international students. Key findings indicate that visa policies and post-study work opportunities are pivotal in shaping students’ decisions on where to study.
The survey results show that students are applying to multiple destinations to hedge their bets, with 66% considering more than one destination and nearly half contemplating at least three. This reflects students’ adaptive approach in a complex and shifting landscape of international education options.
Canada Loses Appeal Among Students
Canada, previously a top choice for international students, has seen a significant drop in interest over the past year, falling from third to fourth place among preferred destinations. The survey attributes this trend to ongoing visa delays and policy uncertainties that have caused even students who applied to Canadian institutions to reconsider their options. In particular, new restrictions affecting dependants’ rights and increased proof-of-savings requirements have made Canada less appealing.
In contrast, alternative destinations are becoming more popular. Germany, for instance, is attracting more students despite raising its financial requirements, which remain lower than those in Australia and Canada.
Destination Preferences and Trends
Among surveyed students, Australia retains the top spot, chosen by 24% of respondents, while the US follows closely at 23%, and the UK ranks third at 21%. Canada, now in fourth place with 16%, has weakened significantly, down nine percentage points since the previous year. Other countries, including Germany and emerging destinations, are gaining traction as students explore alternatives outside the traditional English-speaking destinations.
This diversification trend aligns with findings from other recent studies presented at the ICEF Monitor Global Summit, which confirmed that students are expanding their range of potential study destinations.
Key Factors Influencing Destination Choices
The survey identified four main factors driving students’ choices of study destinations:
- Post-Study Work Opportunities – Over 50% of students cited the availability of work opportunities after graduation as their primary consideration.
- Pathways to Permanent Residency – Ranked second, this factor was crucial for 43% of respondents.
- Financial Requirements for Visas – The financial burden of visa-related costs influenced 42% of students.
- Dependants’ Rights – Over a quarter of students stated that the ability to bring dependants was a significant factor in their decision-making process.
With top study destinations frequently altering these policies, students are adapting their choices accordingly. In recent changes, Australia raised its proof-of-savings requirement to $19,535 per student and increased its visa application fee by 125%, while the UK ended dependants’ rights for most students, with exceptions for those in research or on scholarships.
Rising Costs Discourage Some Students from Studying Abroad
For a small portion of surveyed students, the cost of studying abroad is too high, leading them to delay or cancel their plans. Roughly 3% of respondents reported holding off due to the high tuition fees, cost of living, and visa expenses. Despite these challenges, nearly half of these students remain “highly likely” to apply within the next few years, suggesting that while cost is a deterrent, it’s not a permanent barrier.
The United States Gains Favor in 2024
Despite various challenges, the US emerges as the most positively perceived destination, particularly for its quality of education, value for money, and graduate employment opportunities. According to survey results, the US outpaces other popular destinations such as Australia, Canada, the UK, and New Zealand across these criteria.
Dr. Fanta Aw, CEO of NAFSA, noted that students prioritize practical considerations, like quality of education, when selecting study destinations. IDP’s data indicates that only 35% of students see the upcoming US election as having any impact on their choice, underscoring the fact that students remain more focused on post-study work opportunities and overall educational quality.
More Informed Decisions Reflect Evolving Student Perspectives
Today’s international students are increasingly informed, researching various factors such as post-study options, visa requirements, and financial obligations. The survey shows a marked shift from the past, when students automatically preferred destinations like the US, UK, and Australia. With current policies in flux and students placing higher value on adaptability and affordability, destinations are under pressure to meet student expectations if they hope to attract and retain international talent.
The IDP survey ultimately underscores that the global landscape for international students is evolving, and institutions and governments alike need to respond with policies that accommodate these new priorities.
