Nigerian students face challenges in pursuing master's degrees abroad, including the high cost of living and difficulties in securing well-paying jobs after graduation. Many students are also affected by the shortage of housing in some countries, leading to skyrocketing rents and displacement. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated these challenges, with developed countries like Japan, the UK, Germany, Canada, and Australia experiencing economic downturns. Additionally, a report by research firm BONARD highlights the intense competition for student housing in cities like Barcelona, Melbourne, Rome, Toronto, and Zurich, with nearly 10 students vying for every available bed. The report also reveals significant rent increases in student residences across Europe, Australia, and Canada since 2018 [5fa8cd3a].
Despite these challenges, Nigerian students continue to pursue their dreams of studying abroad. The University of Oxford in the United Kingdom, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States, University of Toronto in Canada, ETH Zurich in Switzerland, and the University of Melbourne in Australia are among the top foreign universities that attract Nigerian students for their master's degrees. These universities are renowned for their academic excellence, diverse programs, and research opportunities. However, students are advised to thoroughly research admission requirements, scholarships, support services, cost of living, language requirements, and cultural adaptation before making a decision [9e838ca0].
Meanwhile, the Philippines outbound student market has been expanding rapidly over the past several years, with Australia and Canada being the main beneficiaries. However, new policies in those destinations are likely to affect Filipino demand for study abroad in 2024 and beyond. The Philippines has become a top market for many international educators, with significant growth in Filipino students in Canada and Australia. The main reason for Filipino students choosing these destinations is the opportunity to emigrate and create new lives abroad with their families. Recent policy changes in Australia and Canada, such as restrictions on work permits and increased funds requirements, may make it more difficult for institutions in these countries to recruit Filipino students. Cost of living concerns and the importance of social media strategies are key factors to consider when targeting the Filipino market. English-taught programs, the ability to work part-time, and the presence of family and friends in the destination are important considerations for Filipino students. Scholarships and tailored communications to Filipino parents can also be effective strategies for recruiting Filipino students [669cb381].
In addition to the challenges faced by Nigerian students pursuing master's degrees abroad and the Filipino market, a personal account by Nasreen Fathima Assoo Haneef, a PhD student from India, sheds light on the experiences of international students in Australia. Haneef moved to Australia for her research while balancing her roles as a wife and mother. She describes her transition as profound and rewarding, highlighting Australia's excellent research facilities and welcoming attitude towards international students. Haneef is enrolled in a joint doctoral program between Deakin University and VIT. She discusses the differences she noticed between research in Australia and India, emphasizing the emphasis on providing ample time and support for comprehensive research in Australia. Haneef also shares the highlights of her journey so far, including the challenges of being separated from her daughter for six months and the joy of exploring Australian cuisine and tourist spots. She talks about adapting to the Australian communication style and weather patterns. Haneef also discusses coping with homesickness and managing expenses, including finding suitable accommodation and meticulously managing her stipend. The article concludes by mentioning that Haneef is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Deakin Cyber at Deakin University in Australia [1fd4bfde].