The universal demand for a foreign degree is never on the wane despite uncertainties like the pandemic, geo-political tensions, etc., raging around the world.
As of 2020, more than 6.3 million students were mobile internationally, pursuing their international education dreams, reported UNESCO. However, the way students study worldwide is undergoing a sea change owing to a massive transformation in the global education landscape.
Education has become more interactive and flexible owing to the increased integration of advanced technology to personalize learning. The focus is on building skills and competencies that fit specific industry trends. Worldwide, HEIs are collaborating with agencies to eliminate the constraints of physical classrooms and empower students to learn from anywhere. Student mobility is changing patterns, with less-popular study-abroad destinations fast rising the charts.
We discuss all these emerging trends and more in this article to apprise you of the education overseas scenario so you can take advantage of the diverse academic, professional and personal growth opportunities such changes present.
Web-based classrooms are here to stay:
Online or remote learning was tip-toeing into the education world even before the pandemic, making education accessible to a large number of students dispersed geographically. Used as desperate measure during COVID times, remote learning has become a formidable alternative to traditional face-to-face classroom programs.The remote teaching models becoming the norm nowadays are hybrid learning, blended learning, and Hyflex learning.
Hybrid Learning Model :
In the Hybrid model, traditional classroom interaction is replaced with video lectures, synchronized/asynchronized online activities, etc., with short in-person sessions.
Blended Learning :
In Blended learning, classroom interaction in person is complemented with digital educational components.
HyFlex Learning:
Hybrid-flexible or HyFlex learning integrates traditional in-person classes with an online learning interface. In HyFlex programs, students can choose between in-person or remote learning models and even have the liberty to switch back and forth through the program duration.
Massive Open Online Course (MOOC):
Last but not least, the Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) platforms like, EdEx, Coursera, etc., offer a varied range of programs best suited for participants who wish to take up diverse modules of their choice. With zero entry restrictions, learning is self-paced, and the courses are typically not eligible for credit. However, the best part of MOOCs is that participants can test out subjects before committing to a full-fledged degree program or simply upskill themselves.
AI is Catalyzing International Education:
AI ensures academic success through enhanced educational experience using smart algorithms and automation.
It helps you find the right-fit HEI and program that suits your priorities in a jiffy. Thanks to AI, bridging language barriers and cultural differences will no longer be a big deal for you while on foreign shores for the first time. Moreover, AI helps achieve greater personalization in learning by adapting how you engage with your courseware and perform in exams to tailor course content that suits your learning style and capacity.
University admission committees are using AI to review applications for selecting a diverse group of students every intake. AI-powered chatbots are deployed by universities to answer student queries and resolve issues in minimal response time. AI also eases the process of analyzing student performance data to identify areas needing heightened focus besides providing real-time feedback.
AI complements the contribution of faculty members in the academic and personal growth of students, making it possible for a single educator to support a large number of students with less effort and time spent.
Learning Covered with Augmented and Virtual Reality:
HEIs are progressively experimenting with the use of AR and VR in their courseware to create a contemporary learning environment that fosters student engagement and is cost-effective at the same time. The technologies can kindle a deeper interest in the subject matter, providing newer opportunities for experiential learning. Further, practicing and perfecting skills becomes easier in a simulated environment, allowing effective application of knowledge and thus stoking up confidence for career success.
Rising Popularity of Work Integrated Learning:
Universities in the USA have had the concept of curricular practical training (CPT) and optional practical training (OPT) for specific programs. In CPT, students participate in compulsory on-job training related to their field of study while for OPT, they may or may not take part in hands-on training before or after course completion. In Germany, besides many other studies abroad destinations, you can combine a degree program with related vocational training, thus equipping you with relevant exposure to actual work that you will have to do post-qualification. Such work-integrated learning programs not only allow you to apply your theoretical knowledge practically in a real-world scenario but also increase your employability. Besides, such traineeship also gives you a first-hand taste of organizational culture, teamwork, problem-solving and such transferrable skills.
High Demand for STEM Programs and Career Skills:
A raging demand for high-level STEM skills for employment is driving up the demand for related programs. With rapidly evolving technologies ruling business and commerce worldwide, a constant skill gap exists that recruiters try to fill. Besides, the pandemic has exposed the endless scope for skilled professionals in medicine, nursing and allied healthcare leading to an upsurge in enrollment into such programs across the world. All these skill-based programs enhance the employability of participants, thus ensuring better career prospects.
Universities are also collaborating with industry partners to develop specialized programs that address the skills gap arising out of fast-paced technological changes, besides training participants in comprehensive soft skill sets crucial for a long-haul career in a dynamic work environment.
Growing Popularity of non-English Speaking Study-Abroad Destinations:
Although the USA, UK and Australia remain the top three favorite destinations among study abroad aspirants, the not-so-popular non-English speaking countries like Germany, France, Netherlands, Switzerland, etc., are progressively drawing international students into their diverse HEIs. The high cost of attendance and living at the top destinations is driving these students to the more affordable nations for education of equitable quality. The increasing availability of English-taught programs in these nations is further boosting the inflow of international students.
Changing Demographics of International Education:
Conventionally, university students were found in the age bracket of 18 – 24 years. However, with changing times, individuals juggling multiple responsibilities professionally and socially are leaning towards opportunities to reskill or upskill themselves. As a result, there is a rise in so-called non-traditional students aged above 29 years participating in university programs, prompting HEIs to adopt policies and learning models that support such students and their commitments. So, if you are in the higher age bracket and feel that a university education overseas is probably not meant for you, think again and take the leap of faith to skill up.
A lot of HEIs are turning test-optional, implying that you do not need to submit standardized test scores like the SAT/ACT for undergraduate programs or GMAT/GRE for postgraduate programs. This is in acceptance of the fact that diverse skills and qualities can contribute towards academic success rather than proven test scores. However, even if HEIs do not list these tests as a mandatory application requirement, submitting your test scores can be good for your prospects of getting accepted for the program of your choice. So, even if the lure is formidable, do not skip taking the tests to let your application stand out in the crowd.
Addressing Mental Health Issues in Higher Education:
The need to preserve mental health is creating quite a buzz all around the world and international education is also not left behind. Universities are adopting special measures to take care of the mental health of their students, addressing anxieties related to employment opportunities, financial insecurities, and more.
Do you need help in navigating the changing overseas education scene? Want more information about exciting study-abroad destinations and programs in demand? The dependable mentors at UniApplica armed with their extensive knowledge about the globally trending programs and diverse study destinations can help you with all the information and guidance you need to fulfil your dream of acquiring a foreign qualification. Call today!
As the demand for international education continues to grow, many prospective students are considering not just their studies but also taking their families along with them. For international students planning to study abroad, the ability to bring their loved ones is a crucial factor when choosing a destination.
A Statement of Purpose or SOP is integral to your university application. It is your only chance to communicate everything about yourself, your choices and the reasons for such choices to the university admission team.
Pursuing an education abroad can be a life-altering experience, packed with opportunities for professional and personal growth. But it comes at a hefty cost that can break the bank.
