A transnational survey conducted in August 2021 by INTO University Partnerships involving over 1,200 Gen Z students (those born 1995-2012) from 93 countries shows that the catastrophic impact of COVID-19 on lives and economies has failed to dent the hopes and aspirations of Gen Z as they are more optimistic than ever about their future. India leads the way in this regard, with an overwhelming 94% of Gen Z students saying they have a positive outlook on their future after a year and a half disrupted by the pandemic.
The survey shows studying abroad to be inextricably linked to career goals in the minds of Gen-Z students. Acquiring knowledge and skills needed to succeed in life came out as the top reason to pursue an international degree, with 90% of students surveyed globally agreeing that this motivated them to study abroad. In India, 86% believe an international degree offers them the best chance to realise their dreams.
The COVID-19 pandemic has led more than half of Gen Z to consider a different career path. The survey shows a strong trend among young people wanting to start their own business as a preferred career option. The majority also consider an international degree as the gateway to realising their career dreams in the new normal.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has radically altered the attitudes and career aspirations of Gen Z. This change will come to define the world of higher education and work. It is absolutely critical that governments, universities and the industry are primed for this shift among young people to support a whole generation that is eager to learn and work differently,” said Olivia Streatfeild, CEO of INTO University Partnerships.
The majority of India Gen Z students – 84% – also agree that training for a specific career is an important reason to go overseas for higher education.
“INTO’s survey shows Gen Z students in India see international education as a major route to enhancing their career prospects and despite the impact of COVID-19 their interest in studying abroad has only risen further. It is clearly evidenced by a record number of over 55,000 student and exchange visitor visas issued by the US this year. Although UK figures haven’t been released yet, the market trends suggest a strong interest among Gen Z for UK academic institutions,” said Diwakar Chandiok, INTO’s Recruitment Director for South Asia.
Highlights from the survey:
- 55% of Gen Z students worldwide report that their career aspirations have changed in light of the pandemic; 29% indicate their aspirations have changed a little, and 26% indicate they have changed a lot.
- 91% of Gen Z students have a positive outlook on the future despite the COVID-19 setback; 43% report they feel optimistic and excited about their future, and 48% indicate they feel hopeful but sometimes anxious.
- Indian Gen Z students are the most optimistic in the wake of COVID-19 – 94 % indicate they have a positive outlook on about their future.
- 88% of Gen Z students have the goal of making it to the top of their profession one day.
- 90% of Gen Z students believe an international degree will help them get the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in life.
- 84% of Gen Z students seek an international degree to train for a specific career.
- 83% of Gen Z students agree that overseas study gives people a competitive advantage towards a career.
- 64% of Gen Z students from India want to work overseas one day.
