As unpredictable visa outcomes reshape student decisions, the Big Four risk losing high-quality applicants to destinations offering greater certainty.
Navitas Agent Perception Report 2026
Exploring shifting perceptions of study destinations and the key drivers of student choice
Download the reportConducted in May 2026, our tenth global Navitas Agent Perception Survey captures the perspectives of education agents across key global markets. It draws on responses from 870 agents across 64 countries to provide valuable insight into international student decision-making in a rapidly changing global environment – how destinations are perceived, and the choices international students are making with their guidance.
This Summary Report shows a market still shaped by affordability challenges, policy settings, destination reputation and student confidence. The results offer compelling data that both confirms the behaviours we are seeing, and sheds light on how the international education landscape continues to evolve in the current economic and geopolitical environment. We draw on these insights to advocate for the international higher education sector in our discussions with governments, ensuring the agent voice is clearly heard and reflected in the broader conversation.
It is a genuine privilege to share our findings with you.
Dive deeper: Key insights
Cost is forcing students and parents to consider appropriate alternatives closer to home
As affordability pressures reshape student choices, local, transnational and emerging destinations are becoming credible alternatives to traditional study abroad.
Students are building a portfolio of options including TNE and local alternatives
As students spread risk across more destinations, stronger local and transnational options are turning studying closer to home into a credible first choice.
Even with AI, education agents have a critical role in an increasingly complex environment and amidst rising student needs
As AI reshapes student research, trusted agents remain essential for interpreting information, navigating uncertainty and helping students find the right fit.