A new report, published today by QS, explores the key factors influencing US students’ decisions about where to study abroad. Based on a series of focus groups with prospective students in the US, alongside global survey data, the report highlights US students’ strong concern with return on investment (ROI) and value for money. Other key factors explored include the importance of networking opportunities, location and lifestyle, and flexible study pathways.
Assessing ROI
When choosing a university abroad, the report suggests, US students typically start by assessing the costs involved, and the value they can expect in return. This may seem surprising given their relatively high spending power compared to prospective students in other locations, but makes sense in the context of high study costs within the US, and widespread awareness of record-breaking levels of US student debt.
The report argues that these concerns remain at the fore of US students’ minds when considering study options abroad. Even more than other groups, they’re keen to assess the financial investment required, and the value added to their résumé as a result. When evaluating ROI, they typically consider a range of factors, including networking opportunities, graduate employment rates and outcomes, and support for students planning to stay and work locally.
Location, location, location
The report also explores the importance of location and lifestyle for US students, who tend to place a higher value on these factors when compared to their counterparts in other parts of the world. Whether intending to stay within the US or study abroad, US students want substantial reassurance that they will be happy in the local environment. If unable to visit in person, they’re keen to explore the campus and surrounding area from afar using virtual tours – though often find these are lacking.
Independence & flexibility
Throughout the process of choosing a university abroad, the report suggests that US students tend to adopt a more independent and confident attitude, compared to their peers elsewhere in the world. They are more likely to want to access information for themselves, rather than relying on advice from others. This independent streak also extends into their expectations about course structure; they often place a high value on opportunities to choose their own course options, rather than following a single pathway.
Titled “What Matters to International Students? Focus on the United States”, this new report is part of a series exploring the motivations and priorities of prospective international students in different parts of the world. The series has already covered Latin America and India, with upcoming reports to focus on China and South East Asia.
