Cost of study remains a key driver for student decisions

​Earlier this year we launched our ninth round of our Navitas Agent Perception Survey (NAPS) to shine a spotlight on the voices of our valuable agent partners. Take a look at one of our key insights below.

Results from the latest NAPS survey reveal the new number one deciding factor when students are choosing their study destination: cost of study.

‘Cost of study’ has continued to be the most important factor driving student decision-making. We now see that ‘quality of education’ has dropped to fifth place. Other top factors include ‘post-study work rights’ and ‘opportunities to work while studying’ – both of which feed into the affordability driver, as well as students’ broader expectations of their return on investment.

We are also seeing behavioural changes that affect student decisions. Today, students are more likely to:

• switch destination country
• consider less expensive institutions
• stay in their home country.

Sharla Reid, Vice President, Students and Academic Success shares:

Students and their families invest a great deal to study in Canada, often stretching themselves in meaningful ways to create new opportunities. As living costs continue to rise alongside policy and visa changes, we need to be intentional in helping students understand and plan for the financial realities of studying abroad so they feel informed and supported.

Universities and colleges must demonstrate they understand the financial pressures that concern students and be proactive in offering tools to help. This might include scholarships, flexible payment options or cost-of-living comparisons alongside employability outcomes.

Where can you learn more?

Visit Navitas Insights for more detailed commentary and analysis, including a series of upcoming articles based on our latest round of research