ApplyBoard has published its latest top trends report and given the Koala a sneak peek. Full of timely data, references and commentary, it makes informative reading and a catalyst to reset strategy as the global industry heads into the festive season.
The competition to attract students continues to intensify. Not surprisingly, the Big 4 destinations, Canada, UK, Australia and the USA, have suffered reductions in applications this year, mainly due to restrictive policy changes.
Continuing a theme in previous reports from ApplyBoard and other Koala articles, the non-Anglophone study destinations are experiencing growth in applications and enrolments, stealing market share from the Big 4. Germany topped the list in their Pulse Survey as they continued to show commitment to student success during studies and after graduation. Other notable destinations in Europe included France and Finland.
In Asia, the Indian government introduced initiatives to increase the number of students studying domestically which in turn will reduce inflows to receiving countries. China is trying to bolster its appeal among selected European countries via visa-free policies. South Korea and Taiwan have set increased enrolment targets for 2030.
In the Middle East, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 seeks to transform the country into an education hub.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be integrated into everything in international education: matching students with courses, streamlining the application process, language training, in the classroom, entry to the workforce and so on.
This means that institutions will need to become more adept at using AI tools to enhance the whole student experience.
While AI will continue to reshape the way students study and enter the workforce, a LinkedIn report highlighted that interpersonal skills are more important than ever. AI-driven platforms can even help simulate competencies and confidence.
Many international students possess an entrepreneurial spirit and contribute strongly to the local economies they study in. For example, in the US, 143 billion-dollar startups in 2022 had a founder who first came to the country as an international student.
It is becoming increasingly important for education providers, industry and governments to align on their country’s future workforce needs by discipline to attract and retain the required talent. The report highlights opportunities in many markets to unlock this potential.
2025 will be another exciting year of navigating the complex geopolitical shifts to futureproof providers in the industry.
The report can be seen here.
