AS GLOBAL interest in studying abroad reaches new heights, ApplyBoard’s Fall 2024 Student Pulse Survey provides a detailed snapshot of international students’ aspirations, study goals, and financial planning in an evolving educational landscape.
With over 1,500 students from nearly 100 countries responding, this fifth edition of the survey sheds light on how students are navigating their educational journeys amid policy changes, budgeting considerations, and career goals in key global destinations.
Shifting study preferences and career goals aligned with in-demand fields
The survey showed that while business and management remain popular study fields, with over one-third of students still interested, interest in these programs has declined since ApplyBoard’s Spring 2024 survey. This shift may reflect a growing interest in diverse fields as students adapt to changing visa policies or broaden their career options. Notably, fields like engineering, health sciences, and computer science saw a significant uptick in interest, aligning with the projected growth in these sectors in major economies such as the US and UK.
Students’ career aspirations were equally diverse, spanning fields like artificial intelligence, zoology, and even cross-disciplinary ambitions such as “food science or computer programming.” Many respondents cited the importance of work-integrated learning, with nearly one-third planning to gain experience through co-op programs, internships, or placements.
Rising preference for postgraduate studies
In 2024, the appeal of postgraduate studies continues to grow, with almost 90% of survey respondents including at least one postgraduate program in their study plans. Postgraduate degrees offer extended work visas and family sponsorship options in countries like the UK and Canada. Interest in master’s and doctoral programs surged between the Spring and Fall surveys, while shorter programs, such as postgraduate diplomas, saw decreased interest. These trends underscore the importance of specific benefits tied to postgraduate programs, including family sponsorship and spouse work visa eligibility.
Top destinations include the US, Canada, and global alternatives
While 64% of survey participants were aiming for one or more of the “Big Four” study destinations (Australia, Canada, the UK, or the US), Ireland, or Germany, the survey reveals a rising interest in a broader range of countries. The US, in particular, saw a spike in students expressing “extreme interest” in its programs, potentially leading to heightened application competition.
Beyond these countries, international students considered a wide range of alternative destinations, with 36% showing interest in study locations outside the Big Four. Finland, Japan, the Netherlands, and Switzerland emerged among the top 10 alternative destinations, underscoring the global appeal of quality education.
We also asked how recent policy changes in Australia, Canada, and the UK may have shifted student interest. Across the board, around 20% of respondents were less interested in these countries, but between 25% and 34% were actually more interested. This may speak in part to students appreciating transparency from destination governments with things like more accurate cost of living guidelines.
Financial readiness remains a priority amid rising living costs
Budgeting and financial readiness are key concerns for international students, especially as living costs rise worldwide. The ability to work part-time was the fourth most cited factor when selecting a study destination. A striking 98% of survey respondents plan to work while studying, with two-thirds hoping to work more than 20 hours per week if permitted. About 30% plan to limit their work to part-time, less than 20 hours per week.
Scholarships are also top of mind for many students, who hope to alleviate financial pressures through external funding. With over an estimated $100 million in scholarships going unclaimed each year, ApplyBoard encourages students to explore institutional scholarships and regional financial aid options as part of their budget planning.
