Asia is emerging as a top choice for studying abroad.

(NLDO) - The trend of Vietnamese students studying abroad is shifting strongly towards Asia, with many scholarship options, reasonable costs, and attractive job opportunities.

According to Dr. Mark A. Ashwill, CEO of Capstone Vietnam, there are currently around 350,000 Vietnamese students studying abroad. Among them, Asian countries such as South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, China, and the Philippines are gradually becoming prominent destinations, replacing traditional choices in Europe and the United States.

Many Asian universities meet international standards and are included in prestigious rankings such as the QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education. (Photo: Provided by the interviewee)

The appeal of studying abroad in Asia

According to Dr. Mark, approximately 94% of Vietnamese students study in the top 10 countries and territories, in order: South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Australia, the United States, China, Canada, Singapore/Russia (tied), Germany, and France. Notably, 33% of these are studying in South Korea, a significant increase compared to previous years.

The clear shift toward Asia stems from improved academic quality, increasing scholarship opportunities, developing trade relations between Vietnam and host countries, and strong cultural influences from films, music , and languages.

Besides English, the most popular languages ​​today are Chinese, Japanese, and Korean, followed by several European languages. In terms of fields of study, Vietnamese students still prioritize business, STEM, hotel and tourism management, information technology, psychology, and nursing.

" Educational institutions are currently in great need of international students, so this is an opportune time for Vietnamese students to study abroad."

Dr. Mark A. Ashwill - Managing Director of Capstone Vietnam

For many students, studying abroad is not only an opportunity for learning but also a stepping stone to working or settling in immigrant-friendly countries, especially those experiencing shortages of skilled labor.

Although opportunities for permanent residency in Asian countries are generally more limited compared to the West, some countries like South Korea and Singapore have begun to expand their work visa policies, making it easier for highly skilled students to stay and work.

Dr. Mark A. Ashwill (center) emphasized that young people still need to proactively monitor career trends and avoid fields that are easily replaced by AI in the future to make more sustainable choices. Photo: Provided by the interviewee.

Vietnamese students are becoming increasingly proactive.

Study abroad seminars still play an important role in helping students meet directly with representatives from foreign universities. However, the current trend is for more students to apply independently rather than through consulting companies, especially those with good academic records and a thorough understanding of the study abroad process. Applying independently is encouraged if the applicant is well-prepared in terms of language skills, information, and confidence.

Studying abroad offers opportunities for development but also presents many challenges, requiring students to prepare carefully to make the right choice. Photo: Provided by the interviewee.

Over the next 3 to 5 years, the trend of studying abroad in Asia is projected to continue increasing, with emerging destinations such as Thailand – which offers quality programs, reasonable costs, and numerous international scholarships taught in English.

Le Hoang Thien An (21 years old), who plans to pursue a master's degree in Thailand, said her choice stemmed from the reasonable cost, geographical proximity to Vietnam, and dynamic learning environment. Creative media programs in Thailand are diverse and closely linked to the thriving entertainment industry, allowing students to learn while gaining practical experience through business activities, F&B, and local culture.

Dr. Mark advises that students shouldn't choose a major simply because it's "hot," but rather find the intersection between their abilities, passions, earning potential, and the value they can contribute to society. This is considered the path to building a sustainable career and long-term happiness.

According to statistics from Bartra Wealth Advisors Vietnam, the cost of studying in Asia varies depending on the country and field of study, averaging from $8,000 to $25,000 per year (approximately 200-630 million VND).

Countries like the Philippines, Thailand, and Malaysia have lower costs (US$8,000-15,000/year, equivalent to VND 200-380 million), while Singapore, South Korea, and Japan have higher costs (US$15,000-25,000/year, approximately VND 380-630 million).

Many countries allow students to work part-time, such as South Korea (up to 28 hours per week during the academic term) and Singapore and Malaysia with similar regulations.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/chau-a-tro-thanh-diem-den-du-hoc-so-mot-toan-cau-196251015092059571.htm