The Thriving Higher Education Industry in East Asia

East Asia, home to top-ranking universities and diverse cultures, offers a wealth of academic and social opportunities for students of all backgrounds. Studying in Asia is a great choice for many families due to its dedication to academic excellence, connection globally, affordability and its offering of unique cultural experiences. Here are six reasons why more young people are seeking the higher education landscape that universities in East Asia provide.

1. Academic excellence: East Asian universities rank among the world’s top institutions, known for their rigorous academics and groundbreaking research. They use a blend of teaching philosophies from the East and the West and offer interactive learning experiences that foster academic strength and a well-rounded education. In fact, 14 of the top 50 spots in the QS World University Rankings for 2022 belong to Asian universities, with a remarkable 82 in the top 300 globally.
   
   
2. Globally recognised dual degrees: East Asian universities have established strong partnerships with prestigious institutions worldwide, providing students with access to diverse courses and globally recognised and accredited degrees. For US awarding degrees, you might consider New York University, Shanghai and George Mason, Korea. If you’re interested in UK degrees, the University of Nottingham, Ningbo and De Montfort University, Cambodia are worth considering. For Australian degrees, Monash Malaysia, RMIT Vietnam and James Cook Singapore are highly regarded options. These are just a few examples, and there are many more to explore!
   
   
3. Affordability: Compared to popular study destinations like the USA and the UK, higher education in Asia is often more affordable. Asian countries offer lower tuition fees, and generous scholarships to international students. Additionally, the cost of living in Asia is generally lower, making education financially accessible for students and their families. For instance, students in South Korea can spend as little as $680 per month on living expenses, including rent, while students in the UK may spend over $1000.
   
   
4. Diverse cultural experiences: East Asia offers diverse cultural experiences that contribute to a unique and enriching educational journey. With a multitude of traditions, languages and lifestyles, students can broaden their horizons and establish international connections whether they choose to stay in the country or partake in the various study abroad programs. These experiences are highly regarded by employers, showcasing international exposure and adaptability. Even studying within (or near) their home country, students can still benefit from cultural diversity while also enjoying familiar cuisines and a convenient time zone, which facilitates a seamless transition into higher education.
   
   
5. Employability and networking: Asian universities are highly regarded for producing highly employable graduates. The rapid growth of sectors like technology and finance in Asia has created a thriving job market for young people fresh out of college. Asian universities are finding themselves on the top of QS’s global Graduate Employability Rankings (2022) such as Tsinghua University, China (ranked 6th) and The University of Hong Kong (ranked 9th) demonstrating the career preparation students are receiving.