Sydney has been named the world’s best destination for overseas students in a new survey.
The study, carried out by Global consultancy firm A.T. Kearneyranked Australia’s largest city ahead of 83 other global cities, including traditional student favourites including London, Paris and New York.
Sydney is estimated to host 50,000 visiting university students, with another 50,000 studying vocational and English courses. About 35,000 study on campuses in the City of Sydney and more than 10,000 live in the local government area.
Lord Mayor Clover Moore said Sydney gains economically, culturally and socially from having a diverse community with such strong links to the rest of the world. “Our community of international students improves the city’s prosperity and liveability,” he said.
“Being the world’s most popular destination for international students helps build Sydney’s cultural diversity and strengthen our regional and global connections. The international student community contributes over AUS$1.6 billion to the city’s economy and generates demand for 10,000 full time equivalent jobs.”
Australia offers a range of visas for overseas students, and operates a route whereby international graduates studying certain subjects and qualifications can stay in Oz after the completion of their course and work towards permanent residency.