Why Filipinos study abroad

For Antoinette, a law graduate, it’s about global competency. “I’ve always wanted to practice law internationally. Australia’s program offerings are very flexible for someone like me who’s a foreign law graduate.”

Indeed, Australia offers a diverse range of study options for international students with more than 1,100 institutions and 22,000 courses to choose from. Students can complete their tertiary education in Australia, which could be vocational education and training (VET), or higher education (universities). English and pathway courses are also available.

Exposure with different cultures is also a common reason why Filipinos study abroad. “I want to know how I could use my talents in a different culture or economy,” says Nicolo, an attendee of IDP’s Australia and New Zealand Education Fair last May. This is not surprising at all as being knowledgeable about other cultures isn’t only insightful – it’s also practical. An Australian study says that increasing globalisation has raised the need for graduates who possess the ability to thrive in culturally diverse environments.

Mara from Cebu put it simply: “I want to gain an advantage when it comes to getting a job.”

For those who are looking for the best quality of education, the institution’s ranking is a big factor when choosing a study destination. “I’m looking for an MBA program from a reputable school abroad,” says Paulo. “I heard that the quality of institutions in Australia is excellent.

What Paulo said is true. Schools in Australia, New Zealand, and UK are some of the world’s best. In fact, 46 universities from UK, 22 from Australia, 16 from Canada, and five (5) from New Zealand are ranked among the top 400 universities in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2019.

Research says that studying in a foreign country also boosts creativity, improves language learning, and increase chances of employability. With these reasons, it looks like the number of Filipino international students will continue to grow in the future.

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