International student mobility: Destination trends for Pakistani students in 2025

LAHORE: Pakistan, home to one of the largest youth populations in the region, has long been a significant contributor to international student mobility, consistently ranking as a priority market for prominent study destinations such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Germany, and Australia.

Talking to The News, Syed Abidi, renowned educationist and acclaimed career counsellor, said that each year, in excess of 150,000 Pakistani students venture abroad for higher education, with recent data highlighting a sharp increase in those opting for the United States, driven by attractive scholarship opportunities. This trend underscores the importance of understanding the evolving dynamics of global higher education.

‘When choosing a study destination, several factors collectively influence the decision-making process for students. Key considerations and push factors include the global reputation of universities, the variety of academic programmes offered, the affordability of tuition and living expenses, the recognition and value of degrees in global job markets, student-friendly visa regulations, and the availability of post-graduation settlement and career opportunities,’ he said and added these factors remained dynamic, often shifting due to changes in government policies, fluctuations in currency, visa regulations, and immigration rules.

According to Syed Abidi, in 2025, the preferences of Pakistani students will increasingly align with global trends. While traditional destinations will continue to attract a significant share of students, emerging options are gaining traction. Non-English-speaking countries such as Finland, France, Italy, and the Netherlands are becoming popular due to their range of English-taught programmes. These destinations offer quality education combined with cultural diversity, affordability, and innovative courses tailored to the needs of a knowledge-based economy. Along with these, Germany is expected to rise as another key destination, particularly for its high merit programmes and zero tuition fees. Syed Abidi, a recipient of the prestigious Sitara-i-Imtiaz, said that the recent changes in visa regulations, particularly Canada’s decision to cap international students’ country-wise and abolish the SDS visa scheme, have shifted the landscape.

‘Canada, once a favoured destination, is no longer as accessible, which has prompted Pakistani students to explore other options. While the UK remains one of the most favoured destinations for Pakistani students, the United States has become a more appealing option as well. The relaxation of F1 visa requirements, including more accessible interview time slots for both undergraduate and postgraduate categories, has made US universities increasingly eager to welcome Pakistani students,’ he added.

The digitalisation of education is further transforming how students explore and access international opportunities. Online platforms now enable students to research programmes, compare options, and directly connect with universities, making the process more accessible and transparent. This technological shift expands the scope of possibilities for prospective students.

European countries, particularly those with favourable post-study work opportunities, are becoming increasingly attractive to Pakistani students. The growing demand for skilled professionals in high-tech fields is reshaping the education market, offering students a chance to contribute to knowledge economies while securing their future career paths, Syed Abidi believes. Consequently, more Pakistani students are expected to explore diverse destinations beyond the traditional options.

The rise of flexible learning methods, such as remote education and transnational programs, has opened new pathways for students to pursue quality education without requiring extensive travel. These alternatives are particularly appealing given Pakistan’s current geopolitical and economic challenges. External factors, including domestic political instability, economic pressures, and evolving government policies, also play a key role in shaping student mobility from Pakistan. On the global stage, events such as the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, as well as leadership changes in major host countries like the United States and the United Kingdom, influence international education dynamics. Simultaneously, Pakistan’s government initiatives to stabilise the economy, such as expanding the tax base and introducing Constitutional reforms, will likely impact student choices in the coming years.

Syed Abidi also believes it is essential for students and their families to receive professional, unbiased career counselling from authentic sources to make such a significant, lifelong decision. Education consultants who specialise in career advice can play a crucial role in ensuring that students make well-informed decisions that best align with their academic and career aspirations.

As 2025 progresses, Pakistani students will navigate an increasingly complex yet opportunity-rich global education environment. The availability of innovative programmes, diverse destinations, and flexible learning options will allow them to make more informed decisions. In this changing landscape, it is vital for students, families, and education consultants to stay updated on these trends to adapt effectively to the evolving dynamics.

Syed Abidi, suggested that the government of Pakistan must take serious steps to foster opportunities through Transnational Education (TNE), which provides an alternative mode of international education. TNE comes in various shapes and models, and the Higher Education Commission (HEC) is already providing comprehensive support, landscape guidance, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to help in bringing international degrees to Pakistan. Punjab, in particular, has great potential for TNE, yet there is a noticeable gap in expertise and professional advisory services that could help to establish connections between local students and international universities. With the right support, these initiatives could enable Pakistani students who cannot travel abroad to pursue international degrees without leaving their country.

Equipped with education from globally recognised institutions, Pakistan’s youth will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s future. By embracing the evolving landscape of international education, they can position themselves for success on the global stage.