If you're thinking about studying abroad at graduate level, then you probably already have a good idea of the benefits – improved career prospects, international experience and the chance to attend a world class university. But have you ever thought about why universities are interested in recruiting international students to their campuses?
Universities and grad schools in different countries seek to increase their international student numbers for several reasons. First and foremost, they seek diversity in their student populations by recruiting students from as many countries as possible.
Typically, a top institution looking to recruit one hundred students a year will encourage applications from prospective graduate students from thirty or more countries. Who will the successful applicants be for these graduate programs? Those that exhibit both appropriate academic ability and demonstrable diversity – in terms of background and individual experience.
The value of international experience
Secondly, an increasing number of countries are interested in recruiting prospective international students for the purposes of fulfilling the needs of their local labor markets.
As has been the case in Australia, Singapore and the US over many years, and in Scotland and the rest of the UK more recently, graduates - particularly from master's degrees and PhD programs - are keenly sought after by employers.
Such students are regarded as valuable for both their international experience and exemplary academic records. Governments are supportive of this approach, recognising the benefits of encouraging skilled workers to fill the increasing shortages in such areas as engineering, science and medicine, and supporting them through such schemes as guaranteeing work permits for international graduates.
Universities' focus on internationalization
Thirdly, recruiting prospective international students for graduate programs of all kinds helps the overall process of internationalization “at home.”
Although more and more domestic students participate in mobility programs, the majority of students still stay on campus. International graduate students, therefore, provide a valuable opportunity to bring different aspects of the outside world to those that have yet to travel.
Such internationalization also has an impact on the way some academic subjects are taught, particularly when the format of the graduate program allows for small student discussion groups and project work. International students bring with them different views and cultural experiences that help domestic students and academic members of staff alike examine their own opinions and world views.
International student tuition fees
Finally, grad schools in most universities where tuition fees are charged see the recruitment of international students as an important way of raising additional revenue for their budgets.
Although hopefully not the primary motivating factor for the recruitment of overseas students, income from international student tuition fees allows a grad school to invest a far greater amount of money in the appointment of leading academic members of staff, improving the facilities for teaching and learning, providing international student support, careers services and scholarships – all of which add enormous value to your overall graduate school experience.
Knowing and understanding these factors can help you plan your admissions strategy. Emphasising aspects such as your international background and upbringing can help you appeal to admission director's desire to recruit a diverse student body, while also helping you to emphasize your own personal and very individual experiences and strengths.