Nepal’s High Student Mobility Attracts Global Universities

By Kai March 16, 2025
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Nepal’s increasing outbound student mobility is drawing attention from top international universities. With an outbound mobility ratio of 19%—nearly ten times that of India and China—Nepal has become a major source of international students.

Recently, representatives from 16 universities across the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, and New Zealand visited Nepal under the Nepal Rising initiative by Acumen. UK universities such as the University of Leeds, Cardiff University, and Glasgow Caledonian University participated, alongside US institutions like Fordham University and Wayne State University.

Japan has also emerged as a key study destination, with over 45,000 Nepali students choosing it in 2023. Universities like the University of Tokyo and Kyoto University of Advanced Sciences joined the initiative to explore Nepal’s education sector.

Experts highlighted Nepal’s growing importance in global education. Karan Shokeen from the University of Central Lancashire stated, “The UK is becoming a preferred destination for Nepali students due to favourable visa conditions.” Nepal is now the UK’s sixth-largest student source, with a 63% increase in student numbers in 2024.

Similarly, the US saw a 27.9% rise in Nepali students in 2022/23. “Nepal is one of Wayne State University’s most sought-out markets,” said Fareed Shalhout, highlighting the country’s appeal.

However, changing global immigration policies and rising living costs are influencing student choices. Experts predict a steady demand for study destinations like the UK, US, and Australia, but also a shift towards more affordable options like the UAE, South Korea, and Europe.

Despite Nepal’s growing interest in overseas education, challenges remain, including brain drain and the need for better higher education opportunities within the country. The government is considering opening 30+ transnational education campuses to retain students and attract international learners.

As Nepal continues to rise as a global student hub, its role in international education is set to expand further.

Source: THE PIE NEWS

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