A student on his laptop searching for study and work opportunities online. Picture: Unsplash
For South African learners looking to pursue their higher education overseas, there are plenty of destinations around the world offering great opportunities.
Every year, tens of thousands of matriculants pass their National Senior Certificate (NSC), however, as the number continues to grow, universities find it hard to accommodate all these hopeful students.
This results in some students looking for opportunities to study abroad.
According to Study-in-Germany.org, the countries where international students have the highest chances of staying after graduation typically have immigration policies that are student-friendly, offer post-study work visas, and have strong job markets.
The organisation helping students and graduates access study and work opportunities in Germany listed the top five with some of the best opportunities.
Germany
Germany is one of the most popular destinations for students seeking education without high tuition costs. According to Studying-in-Germany.org, after graduating, international students can apply for an 18-month residence permit to search for a job, and once employed, they can pursue permanent residency after working for a few years.
“OECD data shows that Germany excels in retaining international students, with 54% of those who began their studies in 2010 and graduated successfully still residing in the country five years later,” said the organization.
New Zealand
The organisation also noted that New Zealand provides international students with a post-study work visa that ranges from one to three years, depending on their qualifications.
“This visa can lead to permanent residency under the Skilled Migrant Category if they secure a job in a relevant field. Approximately 31% of fee-paying international students in New Zealand transition to work or obtain permanent residency,” said the organisation.
It added that around 20% of these students secure permanent residency in the country.
Canada
Third on the list, is Canada.
“Canada is known for its welcoming immigration policies. International students can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to work for up to three years after graduation. This experience can often lead to permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class,” it said.
It also added that just under 30% of international students in Canada qualify to remain in the country after graduating and completing their Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) period.
United Kingdom
“The UK recently reintroduced its Graduate Route visa, allowing international students to stay and work for up to two years (or three for doctoral graduates) after completing their studies. The UK also offers a pathway to permanent residency through its Tier 2 visa, provided students find employment in a job that meets specific requirements,” it added.
According to the Office for National Statistics, 80% of international students leave within five years, meaning roughly 20% choose to stay in the country.
Australia
Lastly, Study-in-Germany.org revealed that Australia offers generous post-study work visas, allowing international graduates to stay and work for up to four years depending on their qualification level and location.
“The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) provides a pathway to permanent residency via the General Skilled Migration program.
“A notable 16% of international students in Australia choose to stay and work after completing their studies,” it said.