According to the most recent Navitas Agent Perception Research conducted in March 2021, the UK and Canada looked more promising, as well as the US, compared to Australia and New Zealand for a study destination amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The report compiled the views and opinions of almost 900 agents from 73 countries worldwide.
Based on the current status, agents strongly advise all international students to continue online studies for now until international travels abroad become permissible. Due to the pandemic, it is a given that students would have mixed feelings about pursuing their studies abroad. Aside from fears about their health, problems such as visa conditions, learning difficulties, border policies and even changing foreign exchange rates cloud students’ minds in their final decisions. By sticking to online learning, students can continue with their studies until in-person learning is possible.
Part of their suggestion is for students to have backup countries in mind, rather than having multiple institutions in one single country. About 31% of agents recommend having backup applications in the US, 25% in New Zealand, 18% in Canada and Australia, and 16% in the UK.
“At the moment it’s definitely the messaging from destination countries that is driving the decision-making process for both agents and students. Parents and students want to be confident that the receiving country is safe and welcoming, that they will be looked after, that the country has commenced an efficient vaccine rollout plan, and that if they need to quarantine the experience will be a positive one,” said Tony Cullen of EGM Global Engagement.
For students who want to study in Australia or New Zealand, agents advise them to wait before deciding due to the border uncertainty in each country.
Read more:
- Virtual Components of Studying Overseas Go Beyond the Pandemic
- The Silver Lining of Crisis: Advancements in International Education Amidst the Pandemic
- International Students: Australia’s Loss, UK’s Gain
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