During the last academic year, the United States hosted approximately 710,000 international students, with China and India leading the enrollment numbers. Although the pandemic initially caused a 15% drop in enrollment, American institutions are now employing robust strategies to attract international students once again.
Australia has become increasingly attractive to international students, largely due to its affordable tuition fees and appealing post-study work opportunities. By 2024, more than 570,000 international students were pursuing their education there.
The UK continues to draw strong interest from Indian students, who made up 30% of the 500,000 study visas issued in 2024 to date. The Graduate Immigration Route (GIR) has been key in sustaining this growth, offering students the chance to gain work experience post-graduation.
Madhur Gujar, Co-Founder and Chief Business Officer of Amber highlights that studying abroad can significantly enhance career development by equipping students with critical skills needed for long-term success. A global survey found that 75,000 employers consider international exposure essential for employability, as it fosters skills such as teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving, which are often lacking in graduates without international experience.
Similarly, the Erasmus Impact Study reported that 92% of employers value the intercultural competence gained through international programs, which positively impacts employability.Reports like IIE’s Project Atlas and Open Doors reveal that studying abroad helps students develop vital skills. Over 60% of surveyed students reported improvement in areas like problem-solving, self-confidence, adaptability, and communication, all essential for today's job market. STEM students particularly benefit, with nearly half saying that international experience outside their primary field contributed to job offers.
One standout advantage of studying abroad is its ability to foster entrepreneurial and leadership potential. According to the Erasmus Impact Study, one in ten students who participated in Erasmus programs started their own businesses, and over 70% have future entrepreneurial aspirations. Additionally, LinkedIn's Economic Graph India Report shows that international exposure helps Indian graduates gain competitiveness in leadership roles across industries.
Studying abroad also instills a greater openness to global mobility. The Erasmus Impact Study found that former Erasmus students are twice as likely to relocate for work or study, reflecting their adaptability and global outlook. The QS Global Employer Survey further emphasises that employers value candidates with international experience, seeing them as versatile and capable of handling global business challenges.
The benefits of studying abroad extend beyond immediate job opportunities. The Erasmus Impact Study shows that mobile students, particularly those who undertake international internships or work placements, often receive job offers from their host companies. Over half of mobile students believe their experience abroad significantly boosted their career prospects, with many achieving faster promotions and reporting career advancement.
The evidence is clear: studying abroad plays a pivotal role in shaping future careers. In a world where globalisation continues to reshape industries, students with international experiences position themselves strongly for long-term success.
