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Navigating the Choppy Waters Ahead for 2025

As we look toward 2025, there are five key trends that we believe will shape the direction of global higher education policy. These trends highlight both opportunities and challenges, and understanding their implications will be critical for navigating the uncertain waters ahead.

1. The Growth of International Student Mobility

According to research from Holon IQ, the number of international students seeking overseas education is expected to rise significantly to 7 million by the end of the decade. While the market itself is growing, traditional English-speaking destinations—including Australia, Canada, the UK, and the USA — are experiencing a decline in market share.

Emerging destinations in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East are poised to benefit from this shift. These regions are capitalising on the uncertainty and perceived unwelcoming environments in major English-speaking countries, offering attractive alternatives for international students. As a result, we anticipate a redistribution of international student flows, with increasing numbers choosing these emerging study destinations over traditional ones.

Louise Nicol

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