APPLYBOARD’S latest Student Pulse Survey provides fresh insights into the evolving priorities of international students as they navigate their study-abroad journeys. Nearly 850 students from diverse backgrounds shared their perspectives on study destination preferences, affordability considerations, and career aspirations. The findings reveal that while demand for international education remains strong, affordability is playing an increasingly central role in decision-making.
Affordability Shapes Study Abroad Plans
Rising tuition fees are reshaping student decisions, with 77% of surveyed students citing cost as the most important factor in choosing a study program—well ahead of graduate employability (57%). Financial constraints are prompting 26% of students to reconsider their study destinations, with affordability concerns driving interest in alternatives such as Denmark, Finland, Nigeria, Italy, and the Netherlands.
Despite these challenges, only 9% of students plan to defer their studies. Instead, many are seeking cost-effective solutions: 16% are considering different programs, while 11% are exploring shorter study options. Institutions that offer accelerated pathways or three-year bachelor’s degrees may benefit, as students prioritize high-quality education at a lower cost.
Affordability also influences where students choose to study. While Canada remains the most popular choice, 94% of surveyed students expressed some level of interest—more students are now open to less conventional yet budget-friendly destinations. Over a quarter of respondents said they were exploring countries beyond their initial plans due to financial reasons.
This cost-conscious mindset extends to other aspects of the study abroad decision-making process. When asked about alternative destinations outside the “Big Four” (the US, UK, Canada, and Australia), Germany, and Ireland, one student simply responded: “Spain, Lithuania, and other European countries with lower tuition.” Similarly, when ranking factors that matter most in program selection, affordable tuition was the clear leader at 77%, followed by graduate employability (57%), career alignment (49%), high-quality teaching (47%), and program reputation (45%).
With rising living costs and tuition fees, students are seeking options that offer a balance between quality education and affordability. The study abroad landscape is evolving, and students who focus on programs that offer the best value for their investment will be well-positioned to achieve their academic and career aspirations.
Engineering and Technology Fields Dominate Career Aspirations Career outcomes remain a key factor in students’ study decisions. Engineering emerged as the most in-demand field, with software and civil engineering leading the way. Healthcare also saw strong interest, with nursing ranking as the second-most popular career choice. Other trending fields include IT, cybersecurity, data analysis, and artificial intelligence, underscoring students’ focus on future job market demands.
Postgraduate Studies Gain Traction Interest in postgraduate education continues to rise, particularly in master’s and doctoral programs. Over half of surveyed students expressed interest in pursuing a master’s degree, and PhD interest increased by four percentage points year-over-year. This reflects the growing appeal of advanced degrees, which often provide better post-study work opportunities and long-term career benefits.
Interest in Alternative Destinations Expands While Australia, Canada, Germany, Ireland, the UK, and the US remain top study destinations, 35% of students are exploring alternatives. African countries, particularly Nigeria, have gained traction as study destinations, reflecting increased investment in post-secondary education across the region. European countries such as Spain, Lithuania, and the Netherlands are also drawing student interest due to lower tuition costs.
Resilience Amid Policy Changes Despite shifts in government policies across major study destinations, student interest remains largely positive. Canada and the US saw the greatest impact—both positive and negative—on student preferences, while Australia remained the most stable in terms of interest levels.
What This Means for Institutions Offering flexible study options, clearly communicating work-while-studying policies, and tailoring support services to meet financial needs will be critical in 2025 and beyond.
The full Spring 2025 Student Pulse Survey offers deeper insights into these trends, providing valuable data for students planning to study abroad.
