Business Students Turning Away from Traditional Destinations

International business students are beginning to move away from well-known study destinations like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. A new global survey shows they are instead choosing fast-growing education hubs in Asia. The reason? Tougher immigration rules, fewer work opportunities after graduation, and growing uncertainty in traditional countries.

A recent study covering business schools in 27 countries revealed that changes in national policies are having a major effect on student decisions. According to Lily Bi, president of the AACSB (a global business school association), “One of the most surprising findings is how quickly students react to changes in immigration rules and national policies.” She explained that student enrolment increases in countries with welcoming environments and drops where restrictions are rising.

Policy Changes Hurting Enrolment
According to the survey, about 67% of business schools said their country recently changed policies or laws that affect international students. These schools expect an average 16% drop in enrolments in the coming year. Overall, global enrolment could go down by about 10% in 2025–26.

The Americas have been hit the hardest, with 84% of schools there reporting disruptions due to policy changes. In comparison, only 40% of schools in Asia Pacific and 33% in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa faced similar issues.

Schools in affected countries mostly blamed:

• New or stricter visa rules
• Uncertainty about post-study work options
• Unstable political environments

Rise of Asia as a Global Study Destination
As a result of these challenges, more students are choosing to study in emerging Asian destinations. Countries like China, India, Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore are becoming top choices for business education.

Lily Bi pointed out, “Asia is no longer just sending students abroad; it is becoming a popular destination for global learners.” These countries are improving their systems by:

• Making visas easier to get
• Offering more English-taught courses
• Providing scholarships for international students
• Supporting internationalisation through clear strategies

Along with this, the lower cost of living and better value for money in Asia are making these destinations more attractive. Experts say we may be entering the “Asian decade” in higher education.

Business Schools Must Adapt
The report warns that business schools in traditional markets can no longer depend on past advantages. Instead, they need to adjust quickly to the changing landscape.

According to the survey:

• 56% of schools are now focusing more on attracting domestic students
• Many are forming stronger partnerships with foreign institutions
• Schools are also investing more in transnational education (TNE)—which means offering their courses abroad or online to international students

This shift shows that student mobility is no longer a bonus—it’s a strategic need. Bi added that many schools are moving fast to build recruitment systems that are scalable, flexible, and future-ready, especially in Europe.

Germany Leads with Smart Integration
Among all countries, Germany was highlighted as a leading example of smart international student policies. It has:

• Launched the Skilled Labour Initiative and the Campus Initiative for International Talents
• Invested €120 million to help international students move into skilled jobs after graduation
• Increased the number of hours international students are allowed to work

Thanks to these efforts, Germany expects a 7% rise in international enrolments this year.

“These actions show that Germany values the economic, social, and educational benefits that international students bring. It’s not just about tuition fees—it’s about long-term growth,” said Bi.

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