IDP launched The Emerging Futures research program in March 2022 for international students on study abroad trends around the world. The research focuses on the "Big Four" study abroad markets, including Australia, the UK, the US and Canada.

To date, the study has undergone five surveys, the most recent of which was conducted in March 2024 with more than 11,500 international students, including three main groups: prospective students (who will study abroad), students who have applied to study, and students who are currently studying. The survey participants came from 117 countries and territories worldwide.

The survey found that restrictions on international students in effect in Australia, Canada and the UK are weakening the competitive position of these destinations relative to the US.

The survey found that 54% of prospective and enrolled students are aware of the new, somewhat stricter policies in place in the three countries. As a result, a significant proportion (41%) of prospective students are reconsidering their plans to study abroad.

And more than a third of students (39%) said government policy updates had a high to very high impact on their study abroad decisions.

On the US side, according to research, although this country has always had strict immigration regulations for international students and rejected a record number of student visa applications in 2023, in terms of media, this country's policies are not the center of attention compared to its competitors.

Thanks to that, the US study abroad market has somewhat benefited from the survey of the most popular study abroad markets.

Canada has dropped from first place (tied with Australia in August 2023) to fourth place due to regulations tightening the number of students coming to this country in the next 2 years, as well as limiting overtime hours for international students and accompanying relatives.

Similarly, the UK Government has stopped allowing family members to accompany international students – except those accompanying research-oriented postgraduate students – and is now also reviewing post-study work plans.

UK business schools are reporting weaker non-EU enrolments this year, particularly at postgraduate level.

Australia has lost its top spot and lost 2 percentage points since August 2023. The country’s reputation as a magnet for international students is in jeopardy as visa refusal rates have risen significantly amid tighter immigration rules.

Mr. Simon Emmett, CEO of IDP Connect, commented that the growth of the US market and emerging markets shows that students remain committed to their study abroad dreams, but are also very sensitive to policy changes.

“These results are a reminder that governments in the UK, Australia and Canada need to provide clarity on their policies for international students to maintain their competitive edge in this global industry,” said Simon Emmett.