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Singapore, Canada top destinations for Nigerian, other international students

Australia proposes reduction of international student quotas

Many countries are consciously positioning themselves to capture the attention of aspiring international students across the globe to maximise the inherent foreign exchange benefits.

In a recent research finding, Singapore tops the list of countries with the happiest international student population with an impressive 53.3 percent, a recent Cryptorush 2024 study reveals.

According to findings analysed by Cryptorush, 50 countries including Singapore, Canada, Netherlands, France, China, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Hungary, Australia, and Denmark lead the pack when it comes to attractiveness to international students.

Factors considered include the percentage of international students, monthly living costs, safety, and human development indices.

Singapore with 53.3 percent of international students, a $2, 740 monthly living cost, 0.949 human development index value, and 76.5 safety index is placed above others.

Read also: Australia new students visa policy aims to end “visa hopping”  from July 1

The country ensures a secure and welcoming setting for overseas students, and it is known for its top-notch education system and the highest safety index of 76.

Singapore offers a smooth transition for these students with various on-campus accommodations, simplifying the challenges of living abroad.

Canada comes second with 36.7 percent of students coming from abroad. With 388 universities, a monthly living cost of $450-$2000, a 0.935 human development index value, and a 54.8 safety index, Canada is a preferred destination for international scholars.

Most universities and colleges have housing facilities available right on the campus grounds, offering a practical solution that significantly cuts transportation costs.

The Netherlands is placed third with 36.0 percent of its students being international and stands out in Europe. The monthly living cost is at $1800 – $3300.

Known for its open and tolerant society, it combines a safety index of 73.7 and the second-highest HDI of 0.946. With 128 universities, the country is a hub for students seeking high-quality education in a safe and progressive environment.

France comes in fourth with 27.0 percent international students. It hosts 636 universities and offers the lowest tuition fee costs for international students in Europe at about $3000, being highly appealing to students from across the globe.

China, hosting 25.0 percent international students is the fifth, and features the largest number of universities at 2,585. With the second-highest HDI of 0.956 and the second-highest safety index of 75.1, China is becoming an increasingly popular destination for international students.

Switzerland holds the sixth place with 24.4 percent of its students coming from overseas. It scores the highest HDI of 0.967 among the ranked countries.

Many Swiss universities have housing offices that provide discounted rooms to international students in university dormitories, allowing students to make savings in the estimated $1400-$1800 living costs.

The United Kingdom, with 23.8 percent of its student population internationally holds the seventh place. The UK remains a significant draw for students due to its extensive academic programmes, and wide range of on-campus student accommodation options.

Hungary takes the eighth spot, with 20.5 percent of its students from overseas. With more than an average safety index of 66.3, and the lowest living expenses ranging from $450 to $650 per month,

The country is a great destination for students looking for an affordable European educational experience.

Following Hungary, Australia is in ninth place, featuring 19.0 percent of its students from abroad, supported by 185 universities. It provides a high-quality life and education, reflected in its HDI of 0.946 which ties it with the Netherlands.

However, when it comes to affordability for students, Australia stands out. With living expenses ranging from $920 to $1650, it is notably more budget-friendly compared to the higher costs in the Netherlands.

Denmark rounds up the list with 17.9 percent of its student population coming from abroad. It scores high on the safety index at 73.7 and an HDI of 0.952, making it appealing for its safe and high-quality educational offerings.

Charles Ogwo, Head, Education Desk at BusinessDay Media is a seasoned proactive journalist with over a decade of reportage experience.

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