🌏 Malaysia’s Student Flows

Hello 👋

Malaysia is consolidating its role as a global study destination, supported by affordability, cultural diversity, and a strong transnational education ecosystem. International student enrolments are projected to rise by 8.5% by 2030, positioning Malaysia among the fastest-growing major destinations. While current demand is driven by access to affordable Western education, future flows will increasingly depend on Malaysia's institutional reputation, as employer and academic recognition remain concentrated among the ‘Big Four’, according to the Global Student Flows Malaysia report.

This Week's Highlights

🔎 Malaysia. Access our latest global student flows report
🎓 Global Student Flows Insight Series. In-depth regional reports and webinars throughout 2026
🌏 In the News. UK enrolments fall, US defends international students, Taiwan expands post-study work rights

🔎 Malaysia set for rapid international student growth

Malaysia is emerging as one of the fastest-growing global study destinations, with international enrolments forecast to increase 8.5% by 2030 as student flows shift away from Western markets. Growth is concentrated in South, East, and Southeast Asia, with rising demand from the Middle East and Africa. As new education hubs emerge, Malaysian institutions must protect their differentiators. Our report outlines expert forecasts and the strategic actions institutions should take now to sustain long-term market share.

Global Student Flows maps 4,000 mobility routes across 80+ countries – combining simulation, policy expertise, and indications of shifting demand.

🎓 Global Student Flows Insight Series

Forecasting thousands of student flows from 2,500 cities, 15 core drivers, 3 scenarios, 1 million simulations – analysed by global experts in policy, economics, and higher education. Throughout 2025, we will release 12 incisive reports and expert-led webinars, featuring forecasts through 2030, market intelligence to inform your TNE strategy, rankings analysis, and much more.

🌏 Europe and Central Asia

🇬🇧 International student numbers in the UK fell for the second straight year in 2024/25, driven by a sharp drop in non-EU and postgraduate taught enrolments linked to visa rules and policy changes

🇮🇹 International enrolments are rising in Italy, but weak post-study work pathways and bureaucracy limit retention of foreign graduates

🌎 North America

🇺🇸 A federal judge in US blocked efforts to deport international students over protected political speech, upholding free-speech rights

🇺🇸 US colleges are reaffirming their commitment to international partnerships and maintaining open doors to global students despite policy uncertainty and enrollment challenges at home

🌏 East Asia and Pacific

🇹🇼 The government of Taiwan has expanded work rights (e.g., two-year open post-study permits) and boosted scholarships to attract and retain international students and talent

Thank you for reading!
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