New research has shown that the perception of Australia as a safe place to study is driving the interest of international students.
Australia is “bouncing back” after the pandemic, becoming the world’s most attractive study destination after Canada.
The survey, which combined the views of more than 11,000 prospective students, applicants and current students, found that Canada remains the most popular destination for 27% of respondents.
While the US is the most popular destination, down from 20% of respondents in March to 18% in the latest August survey, Australia has risen among international students.
In the six months between surveys, Australia rose as the most popular choice from 20% to 25% of students surveyed.
“When Australia welcomes students, it’s an opportunity for industry to listen to what students want, which is clear career and job opportunities during their studies, and ensure those expectations are met on arrival.
The study also compared the experiences of newly enrolled students with the expectations of future students.
It noted that the main concerns for potential students were balancing part-time work and studies, lack of funds and adapting to new culture and customs.
While 22% of current students said that their expectations of financial support were not met, the Australian experience was generally “positive”,
Some 92% said the academic support they received met or exceeded expectations, and 87% said the same. because of the lifestyle they experienced.
“The results highlight, in particular, the pressures faced by students while studying and working part-time, and the feeling of isolation.”
Australia recently declared it might place a cap back on the number of hours international students are allowable to figure from July next year, once it removed the limitations in 2021.
Stakeholders had feared that uncrowned work hours may lead to students to specialise in work over studies and injury Australia’s name as a “quality-focused” study destination.
Researchers additionally pointed to a correlation between poor psychological state and students operating either fewer than ten hours per week or over forty hours per fortnight. Those students living alone or off field were additional possible to report poor mental health, as were those not attending orientation sessions.
Some 77% of respondents same that they had feelings of depression, unhappiness and anxiety the week before the survey was taken.
With open borders and enticing post-study work policies, destinations are going head-to-head to draw in international students. However, at constant time, several countries face socioeconomic instability, and students are navigating new rising challenges,”
