The latest wave of the International Student Barometer (ISB) has highlighted the increasing significance of employability as a top concern for university students. The survey, conducted by Etio, gathered responses from over 192,000 students across 24 countries, shedding light on the factors influencing students’ satisfaction and likelihood to recommend their institutions.
According to the findings, “future career impact” has emerged as the primary driver of study abroad decision-making since 2018, surpassing considerations such as specific course titles and university reputation. Nannette Ripmeester, director of client services at Etio, emphasized the need for universities to integrate employability initiatives throughout the academic journey, rather than offering isolated workshops.
The research revealed that career readiness concerns are prevalent across all academic years, underscoring the importance of providing comprehensive work-related support, including industry-led lectures, internships, and alumni networks. Despite 80% of final-year students feeling prepared for their career goals, there remains a significant minority who express uncertainty about their post-graduation prospects.
Aside from employability, students also weigh the costs of living and studying when selecting institutions. In an era of economic uncertainty and inflation, affordability plays a pivotal role in students’ enrollment decisions. Safety is another paramount consideration, especially for students from countries like China and Saudi Arabia, who prioritize institutions with robust safety measures and positive track records.
Moreover, the ISB highlighted the prevalence of discrimination experiences among international students, with 20% reporting instances of bias based on race or nationality. This underscores the importance of fostering inclusive and welcoming environments to enhance the overall student experience.
During the webinar, Etio experts discussed the Net Promoter Score (NPS) as a key metric in evaluating institutional advocacy among students. The NPS assesses students’ likelihood to recommend their institution to others, reflecting the institution’s brand advocacy within its student community.
Furthermore, the survey delved into students’ perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI) in education, with 94% acknowledging its positive impact on their learning experiences. Despite potential concerns, students embrace AI technologies as valuable tools for academic advancement.
Overall, the ISB findings underscore the evolving priorities and challenges facing international students, ranging from career readiness and affordability to safety and technological integration. By addressing these key areas, institutions can enhance student satisfaction, foster advocacy, and drive positive educational outcomes for diverse student populations.
📰 Related Articles
- UK’s 2024 Policy Changes Impact International Student Mobility Trends
- UK Universities Concerned Over Proposed International Student Levy Impact
- Labor Proposes Higher International Student Visa Fees for Election Funding
- International Student Detention Crisis: Impact on Alabama Community
- How Electric Scooters Impact Campus Safety: Student Concerns and Incidents