Japan’s study abroad numbers rebounded in 2024, with a notable increase in students heading to Australia and Asia as interest in the US waned.
The Japan Association of Overseas Students (JAOS) recently unveiled data from 2024, indicating a recovery in outbound study abroad to nearly pre-pandemic levels. The survey encompassed 39 member organizations and showcased a total of 70,253 students sent abroad in 2024, marking a significant rise from the previous year.
For the first time, the survey included study tours organized by junior and senior high schools or local governments, constituting 22% of the total participants. This shift reflects a growing emphasis on global education promotion by schools and municipalities.
Japan’s pursuit of an internationalization strategy is evidenced by the government’s aim to have 500,000 students studying abroad by 2033. JAOS executive secretary, Tatsu Hoshino, highlighted the significance of expanding study tours to achieve this goal, pointing to the Ministry of Education’s efforts in this domain.
Interestingly, the data revealed a decline in study abroad to the US, which was surpassed by Australia as the top destination for Japanese students. Canada and the UK followed closely in third and fourth place, respectively.
Asian countries like the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, and South Korea have exceeded their 2019 levels, while Oceania and North America are yet to fully recover in terms of study abroad numbers.
Hoshino emphasized the growing trend of Japanese students opting for study abroad programs in Asian countries, with a particular mention of English language study tours in the Philippines. This shift has seen a substantial rise in student numbers over the past decade.
Moreover, there is a rising interest among students in pursuing undergraduate degrees overseas, with the US remaining a popular choice despite a slight decrease in interest. Australia emerged as the second most favored destination for undergraduate studies.
Hoshino pointed out that Malaysia and Taiwan are gaining attention as destinations for Japanese high school students seeking university education abroad due to cost considerations and active recruitment policies in these countries.
This shift in study abroad preferences reflects a broader trend in the global education landscape, with countries strategically positioning themselves to attract international students and offering more affordable education options amidst economic fluctuations.
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