In this last decade, more and more Southeast Asian students are seeking education abroad as an alternative to local education systems. In a recent study conducted by Acumen, Southeast Asia has become the third largest region of students studying overseas.

With a young demographic in Southeast Asia, there is a higher demand for education. University enrolment rates have increased and education has emerged as a priority for many families. As more families are aware of the opportunities presented by foreign qualifications, sending their children abroad has become more appealing. Southeast Asia is also experiencing a rise in middle-class households, meaning more families can afford an overseas education for their children.

Moreover, pursuing an education abroad addresses youth concerns of employability and future job prospects. Local education systems are limited in their carrying capacity and quality, further fueling outbound student mobility in Southeast Asia.

Popular destinations for Southeast Asian students include many East Asian countries such as Japan and South Korea, due to its close proximity and top global rankings. These options in Asia are considerably more affordable compared to Western counterparts as well.

In response, these East Asian countries are increasing their efforts in engagement strategies, drawing more foreign students in. In Japan, the Ministry of Education are pushing towards extending its support in funding non-Japanese students’ university education.

Evidently, education has been impacted by the demographic transition in Asia, and we will continue to see a growing trend of Southeast Asian students going abroad. In light of the expanding precedence of education, The Head Foundation, together with the Asian Development Bank, will be looking address concerns of those in search of a higher education.