Dive Brief:
- Australian universities offer a college education that is about $8,000 to $20,000 cheaper than institutions in the United States, which means they're not only better serving Australian students, but are becoming a competitive option for international students.
- Student visa access is easier to get in Australia and affords students more years for post-graduate residency and work than current U.S. rules.
- Despite these advantages, the U.S. still attracts far more students — 80% — from China and India than does Australia.
Dive Insight:
Growing international interest in college access is drawing more countries to invest in international options for students. Nations in Africa, the Middle East and Asia are increasing government spending to send students to schools in the United States to earn degrees in areas which will help to improve national infrastructure when they return.
For now, the U.S. continues to enjoy the world's most recognizable branding in pop and academic culture, but if costs continue to increase and other global institutions can better communicate their value in international circles, U.S. schools may start to see an enrollment drop from key international groups.