‘Students From Nigeria, Cameroon, Zimbabwe, Lead in Search of Education Abroad,’ Report Says

A new report by ‘Campus France,’ which highlights trends among African students looking to study abroad has determined that Nigeria, Cameroon, and Zimbabwe have the highest number of students studying abroad.

Many African students are leaving their home countries due to several reasons, ranging from exposure to the search for opportunities. 

The college-age population in Africa is projected to double by 2050, but only 9% are currently enrolled in college. This could limit economic growth and exacerbate security issues.

France is a popular destination for African students, with around a sixth of new students enrolling. Europe, including France, Germany and Portugal, has the highest proportion of African students. 

The report found that Europe accounts for the largest proportion (27%) of sub-Saharan African students studying abroad, with France being the main host (14%), followed by Germany and Portugal.

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In terms of destination popularity, the report reveals that Nigeria, Cameroon and Zimbabwe have the highest student representation, with Nigeria ranking first. However, the number of Nigerian students studying abroad has declined by 24% since 2015. 

In Ghana and Ivory Coast, the number of students wanting to study abroad has increased significantly.

Over the past five years, France, the United States, Turkey, Canada and Morocco have seen the largest increases in African students. 

Meanwhile, South Africa and the UK both posted declines. African students typically study undergraduate and STEM programs in France, while the most popular destinations for Nigerians are the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. 

Cameroonians prefer France and Germany, and Zimbabweans prefer South Africa.