Impact of Policy on International Enrolments

Recent research highlights significant challenges faced by post-secondary institutions worldwide regarding international enrolments, largely attributed to policy restrictions. The inaugural Global Enrolment Benchmark Survey, conducted by NAFSA, Oxford Test of English, and Studyportals, surveyed 365 institutions across 66 countries and revealed concerning trends in international student enrolment.

International Enrolments Decline

• Postgraduate Enrolments: 41% of institutions reported a decline in master’s and postgraduate enrolments compared to the previous year.
• Undergraduate Enrolments: 31% reported declines in undergraduate enrolments, while 38% noted an increase.
• Regional Variations:
  • Canadian institutions faced the steepest declines: -30% for undergraduate and -27% for postgraduate enrolments.
  • UK universities reported an 18% drop in postgraduate enrolments and a 4% drop in undergraduate enrolments.
  • Asian and American institutions showed slight decreases in postgraduate enrolments but welcomed more undergraduate students.

Challenges Faced by Institutions

• Over 93% of Canadian universities cited government policies and visa issues as significant barriers to enrolment.
• In contrast, about 60% of institutions in the UK and US reported similar challenges, with a global average of 51%.
• The survey indicated that many discouraged students are not merely shifting destinations but are delaying or canceling their study plans altogether, particularly affecting postgraduate demand from countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia.

Operational Implications: Budget Cuts Anticipated

• Globally, 22% of institutions expect budget cuts over the next year; this figure rises dramatically to 60% among Canadian institutions.
• Additionally, 40% of Canadian institutions foresee significant changes to their programs compared to a global average of just 17%.
• UK universities also anticipate budget cuts, with about one-third expecting financial reductions within the next year.

Student Challenges

Barriers to Study Abroad

The survey highlighted several barriers impacting students:

• Policy Restrictions: Many students face difficulties due to stringent visa policies.
• Costs: The financial burden associated with studying abroad remains a major concern.
• Housing Issues: Finding suitable accommodation is also a significant challenge for many prospective international students.
• Academic Requirements: Meeting academic or English language proficiency requirements was noted as a minor issue for some students.

The findings underscore the critical role that government policies play in shaping international student mobility. With many institutions struggling to maintain enrolment levels amidst changing immigration rules and increasing operational challenges, there is an urgent need for policymakers to consider the implications of these restrictions on educational institutions and prospective students alike.As institutions look towards future recruitment strategies, understanding these trends will be crucial for adapting to the evolving landscape of international education.