The trend of private schools expanding to welcome more international students has been growing steadily in recent years. There’s no single reason behind this shift—it’s a mix of factors like the increasing globalisation of education, the demand for top-notch schooling, and the financial perks that come with international enrollments.
Why is globalisation a big factor?
One of the main reasons private schools are opening their doors to international students is because education itself is becoming more global. Families today want their kids to be prepared for a world that’s more interconnected than ever before.
With international curricula, diverse student populations, and English-language instruction, private schools are seen as a solid choice. These schools often offer an environment that reflects what parents envision for their children’s future—an education that isn’t just local but truly global.
The quest for quality education
Let’s be real: Parents want the best education possible for their children, and many believe private schools deliver that. The smaller class sizes, personalised attention, and a focus on academic excellence give private schools an edge over public schools. This is true not just in their home countries but also for international students.
The surge in demand for private education—both locally and globally—is a direct result of this belief. A survey from the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) found that 85% of private schools in the U.S. saw a bump in international student enrollment between 2018 and 2019. That says a lot about how sought after these institutions have become.
Financial upsides for private schools
Now, let’s not forget the financial side of things. Private schools benefit quite a bit from enrolling international students. Typically, tuition fees for these students are higher than for local students, which makes international enrollments an attractive revenue stream. Plus, many international students come with their own scholarships or grants, adding even more financial gains for the schools.
How families benefit from this trend
So, what does all this mean for families? For those looking for a global education, the expansion of private schools to include international students brings a lot of advantages. Here’s what they stand to gain:
- Cultural exposure: International students bring a rich variety of cultural perspectives, making the classroom experience more dynamic and diverse for everyone.
- Language mastery: For students learning in a foreign language, especially English, their language skills tend to improve rapidly in these settings.
- Global friendships: The connections students make during their school years—often with peers from around the world—can be life-changing and even benefit their future careers.
- Strong academic prep: Private schools that offer international curricula often better prepare students for university and careers in a global market.
The data speaks for itself
To back up this trend, here are some key stats:
- The number of international students studying abroad grew by 5.9% between 2018 and 2019, according to the International Association for Educational and Vocational Guidance.
- A British Council study revealed that the UK, Australia, and the U.S. are the top destinations for international students.
- As mentioned earlier, NAIS found that 85% of private schools in the U.S. saw an increase in international student enrollment during the same period.
Let Briggate guide your way
The expansion of private schools to accommodate international students is really about the broader globalisation of education and the rising demand for quality schooling. This shift offers significant benefits for families, from cultural exposure to language development and building global connections. With the world becoming more connected, this trend isn’t going anywhere—if anything, it’s just getting started.
If you’re a parent looking to provide your child with a global education or a student seeking guidance on the best private schools abroad, Briggate Educational Consultants can help you navigate the process. With our expertise in international education and personalised consulting services, we’ll ensure you find the perfect fit for your academic journey. Reach out to us today to take the first step toward a world-class education experience!
