The pandemic destroyed the hopes of thousands of international students planning to study abroad in the 2019-2020 school year. Things started to improve a little in 2021, but the burden on foreign embassies was so great that very few people could get a visa to travel abroad.
In 2024, many students have successfully obtained visas and moved to their desired countries, reviving the once-thriving study abroad industry. There is no doubt about the growing demand for international education, which was initially attributed to the two-year-old pent-up demand due to the epidemic, but is now mainly driven by rising aspirations and spending.
What can you expect when you study abroad in 2024?
You are probably wondering what to expect when you study abroad in 2024. What will the lessons be like? What’s the culture like? Can I explore the country on weekends?
Do not worry; we are here to help. We’ve gathered all the essential information you need to know about studying abroad in 2024, from what to pack to how to get around the city. Keep reading for everything you need to know about your upcoming study abroad!
Here’s how we can predict the year ahead as students again look for opportunities to study abroad:
Tech and STEM courses in high demand
So what can you expect when you study abroad in 2024? Well, for starters, technology and STEM courses will be in high demand. Universities are increasingly shifting their focus to these disciplines, so if you are interested in any of these areas, now is the time to specialize.
In addition, a growing interest in STEM and IT courses is attributed to flexible curricula that integrate opportunities into the program and develop new courses. More students are choosing STEM programs for two main reasons: high employability and better post-secondary opportunities.
The hybrid study model is here to stay.
The traditional study model is no longer the only one. A growing number of students are looking for alternatives and that is where the hybrid study model comes into play.
In a hybrid study model, students can combine the best of both worlds: the structure and support of a traditional study model with the freedom and flexibility of online learning. This makes it the perfect choice for students who want the best of both worlds.
The great thing about this study model is that it can no longer be ignored. More and more students are looking for alternatives to the traditional study model and the hybrid study model is the perfect option. So if you are considering studying abroad in 2024, you should consider this.
Demand is shifting to unusual study destinations.
The pandemic destroyed the hopes of thousands of international students planning to study abroad in the 2019-2020 school year. Things started to improve a little in 2021, but the pressure on embassies and consulates was so great that very few people could get a visa to travel abroad.
There have been many rejections of Canadian study visas in recent months, which has mainly caused student interest in Canada as a destination to decline. The Canadian government has rejected nearly 60% of visa applications in recent years.
Unconventional locations in Europe such as Germany, France, Poland, Slovakia, Belarus and others have emerged as viable options. East Asian countries South Korea and Japan are also very popular with students.
These unusual countries not only offer unique cultures but also a much more affordable cost of living compared to some traditional study abroad locations. And while they may not be as well known as some other locations, their beauty, culture, and history make them incredibly attractive options for students who want to truly immerse themselves in another culture.
More undergraduate students will move abroad.
Many undergraduate applicants are considering studying abroad for a variety of reasons, including rising income levels, awareness of the benefits of studying abroad, accessibility of financial aid, and practical options for staying behind.
In addition, bachelor aspirants are drawn to international colleges by chance to experience different cultures and early employment opportunities.
Standardized tests for student evaluation
Universities abroad have been forced to waive standardized tests such as the GRE, GMAT, ACT, SAT and others due to the uncertainty created by the pandemic over the past two years. But with conventional admissions procedures back in place, it is likely that standardized tests will once again play an important role in the assessment of candidates in the coming year.
The most common tests are the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System). These tests evaluate language skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Depending on the university’s requirements, you may be required to take additional tests such as SATs or GMATs (Graduate Management Admission Test) if you are applying for a diploma or graduate program.
It is important to prepare for these exams to showcase your knowledge and skills. Research the specific requirements of each program you apply to and give yourself plenty of time to prepare to make sure you pass these tests!
So whether you are a high school student looking to earn college credit or a working adult looking to travel and learn new things, studying abroad in 2024 is something to consider. Keep in mind that the sooner you start planning, the more options you have. And whatever you do, don’t be afraid to ask questions! We are happy to help you.
