Over a third of UK tertiary-aged students are considering studying overseas, up 17% from last year according to an annual British Council survey of more than 2,500 students.
Results show that 88% of students believe study abroad enhances their career prospects and reveal that the most popular overseas study destination by a large margin is the USA, followed by Australia, France and Germany.
“It is essential for the UK’s global competiveness that our next generation gain more international skills and understanding”
The British Council’s Director of Education & Society Dr Jo Beall said it’s encouraging to see more UK students are considering study abroad. “It is essential for the UK’s global competiveness that our next generation gain more international skills and understanding,” she said.
“The internationalisation of the UK’s education sector cannot be a one way process. More of our young people need to be prepared to travel if we’re to catch up with countries like France and Germany,” Beall added.
The survey of 2,630 students found that a thirst for travel and adventure and experiencing other cultures were the most common reasons for contemplating a university, college or summer school education abroad.
Most respondents believed overseas study would help them stand out in the job application process and the greatest academic benefits of studying overseas were seen as gaining credit for the students’ field of study, improving language skills, and responding to limited options at home.
High university tuition fees in the UK were also a reason for 57% of respondents to look at higher education options in other countries where fees can be much lower.
The biggest perceived barriers to studying overseas were worries about fitting in with another culture, lack of confidence in foreign language skills, and concerns about cost and foreign travel.
However, not enough information available about overseas study opportunities was also a roadblock for 79% of students not considering overseas study as well as a third of students who are.
A parallel poll of 4,680 US students found the UK was the preferred international study option for a fifth of respondents and perceived cost is the greatest deterrent for overseas study among.
The findings of the two surveys will be debated at the British Council’s Going Global conference in Miami on April 29 to May 1.
