IDP Education’s latest research unveils a growing trend among international students who are rethinking their study plans due to shifting policies and rising costs. The sixth edition of the “Emerging Futures” report, surveying over 6,000 students, paints a picture of uncertainty in traditional study destinations like Australia, Canada, and the UK, as students increasingly explore alternatives.
A key takeaway from the report is that 62 per cent of students would change their chosen study destination if post-study visa opportunities were more accessible. Cost is another significant factor—nearly half of the respondents cited the cost of tuition as a reason for pausing their study ambitions, and over a third pointed to the rising cost of living as a deterrent.
Simon Emmett, Chief Executive Officer of IDP Connect, noted the impact of fluctuating policies on student choices. He highlighted that 66 per cent of students are now considering multiple destinations as they seek stability and certainty in their study journeys. “The long-term drivers for international education are still strong,” Emmett said, “but policy changes are reshuffling the deck, with the US seeing noticeable growth in student interest.”
Interestingly, the report also shows a shift in perceptions of quality, value for money, and job prospects post-graduation, where the US has now edged out other major players like Australia and Canada. Emmett urged governments to create clearer, more stable policy environments if they want to maintain their appeal to international students.
This latest edition of the report also delves into the data of those who have abandoned their study plans altogether. Canada leads in this area, followed closely by Australia, where students are backing out due to rising costs and policy uncertainties.
Tennealle O’Shannessy, CEO of IDP Education, highlighted that while these challenges are daunting, they haven’t snuffed out the desire for global education. She stressed that maintaining strong connections with students and offering transparent, trustworthy advice is key to navigating these turbulent times.
IDP Education continues to leverage its network of counsellors in over 30 countries to ensure students can make informed decisions about their study futures. As O’Shannessy put it, “the spark for transformation through education remains alive, despite the hurdles.”
As governments grapple with policy changes, the race to attract international students is more competitive than ever.
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