Studying abroad is becoming increasingly popular among Asians, with more and more students from the continent opting to take their education outside of their country’s borders. There are a variety of reasons for this, from desire for a wider social and cultural experience, to the perceived benefit of a higher quality of education. This article will look at some of the main motivations for Asian tertiary and postgraduate students to leave their home shores and seek a higher education abroad.
Growing awareness of international opportunities
The first driving force behind the increasing number of Asian students studying abroad is the growing awareness of international opportunities. In the past, students may have been limited in the choices available in their own countries, simply due to a lack of information or poor career advice.
Now, thanks to the proliferation of the internet and the increasing globalization of the world’s education system, students are rapidly gaining access to far more options. They are discovering that the world has a great deal to offer and that they don’t necessarily have to stay in their home countries to find high-quality education. In addition, the increasing number of international students studying in Asia has also exposed locals to a wider range of foreign cultures.
This has been a two-way street, with universities in Asia becoming increasingly open to international students, and international students finding that their universities are much more open and welcoming than they may have previously assumed. By forging close ties with foreign institutions, Asian universities have provided opportunities to students who would otherwise have been unable to take advantage of them. With increased exposure to other cultures, Asian students today are becoming more aware of educational opportunities that await them abroad.
The appeal of a more multicultural experience
Another common reason for Asian students to pursue their studies abroad is the appeal of a more multicultural experience. Many international students opt for institutions abroad for the unique cultural mix that they can offer. For many, making the move to a foreign country and a foreign culture can be truly liberating and stimulating.
Further, the increasingly competitive nature of Asian higher education institutions has pushed even more to seek alternatives abroad, either because they feel they may be unable to compete with peers in their own country or because they simply want to challenge themselves in a new environment. For these and other reasons, the allure of a multicultural education that can be provided by universities outside of Asia seems to be much more attractive.
Desire for international education and improved career prospects
Finally, a major factor in the wave of Asian students studying abroad is the desire for an international education and improved career prospects. Many international students feel that their chances of finding employment after graduation are vastly improved if they have studied abroad. By taking advantage of the educational opportunities offered abroad, Asian students are able to significantly improve their skills, broaden their minds, and gain valuable international experience that can give them a much-needed edge in the highly competitive job market.
Similarly, postgraduate education abroad is seen by many as a way to provide greater job security and earn more money in the long term.
Conclusion
Overall, it is clear that there are many different reasons why more and more Asians are choosing to study abroad. Growing awareness of international opportunities, the appeal of a more multicultural experience, and the desire for international education and improved career prospects are all contributing to this trend.
While the decision to study abroad can be a difficult and complex one, for many Asians it could be the best decision they make in their academic life.