African Students Abroad: Choosing Programs that Boost Employability and Offer Quality Education

Vavita Marketing Team

• 3 min read
African Students Abroad: Choosing Programs that Boost Employability and Offer Quality Education

African students are pursuing higher education abroad in increasing numbers, seeking not only quality learning but also better career opportunities. Their choices of destination and program are driven by practical factors such as affordability, work opportunities, and visa policies, alongside academic reputation and career outcomes. Many students now look beyond traditional destinations like the US or Australia toward more affordable and accessible options. For example, education agents in Africa report a shift toward universities in countries like Germany, France, Ireland, Türkiye, Cyprus, Hungary, Poland, Malta, and others, attracted by lower fees, reasonable living costs, and higher study visa success rates.

Key Factors in Study Program and Country Choices

Cost and Funding

Financial considerations are paramount for African students. In a recent QS survey, 74% of prospective students from Africa cited cost of living as their top concern for studying in another country, and 63% emphasized the need for affordable tuition with 58% actively seeking scholarships. Given that many come from modest-income households, tuition affordability and access to funding or scholarships can make or break the decision.

Secure tuition payments via platforms like Vavita can help African students and their families mitigate financial risks associated with international study, allowing payment in their local currency at a competitive rate, handling the foreign exchange, and paying out to the university in the required currency. Students also consider the allowance to work part-time during their studies, which can help offset living expenses and the overall tuition affordability of the program and country.

Post-Study Work and Visas

The ability to work after graduation, often through post-study work visas or “stay-back” options, is another major driver. Research shows that future career impact is a top motivation for international students – one global survey found that 96% ranked career prospects as their primary reason for studying abroad. For many African students, a country that offers generous post-study work visas or clear pathways to employment or even residency is highly attractive.

Institutional Reputation and Career Readiness

The university’s reputation, often indicated by global rankings and accreditation, and evidence of strong graduate outcomes are also influential. Students and parents want assurance that the education will be of high quality and respected globally. African students often research universities’ rankings and alumni success. They value when institutions demonstrate high graduate employment rates or offer robust career services.

Along with traditional host countries, several destinations have risen in popularity among African students by aligning with the above priorities:

  • Canada: Canada has become a top choice due to its welcoming immigration policies and emphasis on post-study work. The number of African students (especially from Nigeria) in Canada has surged – Nigerian enrollments quadrupled between 2011 and 2021. Students are drawn by Canada’s quality institutions, relatively affordable tuition, compared to the US, and the opportunity to work during studies and for up to three years after graduation. Many also appreciate Canada’s path to permanent residence for international graduates, which adds a sense of security for their future.

  • United Kingdom: The UK has long been popular for African students, especially from Anglophone countries, due to historical ties and world-renowned universities. Recent improvements, such as the re-introduction of the Graduate Route visa allowing two years of work after graduation, have made the UK even more attractive for those seeking international work experience.

  • Germany: Germany stands out for its tuition-free or low-cost universities and strong engineering, science, and technical programs. Many German institutions offer programs in English and have solid global rankings. Germany’s appeal to African students also comes from its robust economy and an 18-month post-study work visa, giving graduates a chance to seek employment. Students from countries like Cameroon, Nigeria, and Ghana have increasingly looked to Germany as a cost-effective way to get a high-quality degree.

  • France: France remains a major destination, particularly for students from Francophone Africa. It was the single most popular destination country for Sub-Saharan African students as of 2021, accounting for about 14% of all those studying abroad. French universities offer relatively low tuition at public institutions, and the government and organizations like Campus France actively provide scholarships and support for African students. France also allows graduates with a master’s or certain degrees to stay for a period of time to look for work, enhancing its attractiveness for those focused on employment.

  • Malta: Malta has emerged as an unexpected but increasingly favored study destination for some African students. This small English-speaking EU country offers accredited programs in fields like ICT, business, and tourism, often with lower tuition fees and living costs than larger Western nations. Importantly, Maltese institutions and partner colleges have been noted for high student visa approval rates. Malta’s appeal lies in its safe environment, use of English, and the possibility for students to work part-time.