Core Insights - The global study abroad landscape is undergoing significant changes, with traditional destinations like the US and UK facing increased scrutiny and policy shifts that deter international students [1][3][6] - The study abroad market is entering a phase of stagnation, with a noticeable decline in the number of students choosing traditional destinations, prompting a shift towards more stable regions like Hong Kong and Singapore [1][11] Group 1: Market Trends - The US has seen a tightening of immigration policies, which has created anxiety among international students and shifted their focus to more stable study destinations [1][6] - The number of international students in the US is projected to decline significantly, with estimates suggesting a potential drop of 10% (approximately 100,000 students), leading to an economic loss of around $4.4 billion [6] - Hong Kong has emerged as a popular alternative, with its universities actively recruiting students affected by US visa issues, resulting in a significant increase in non-local student admissions [7][8] Group 2: Changing Preferences - The interest in studying in countries like France, Austria, Ireland, and Spain has surged by 20%-30%, indicating a shift in student preferences towards non-traditional destinations [9] - The motivations for studying abroad are evolving, with a growing emphasis on employment outcomes rather than merely obtaining a degree [9][10] - There is a notable increase in students pursuing interdisciplinary studies, reflecting a broader trend in education that values diverse knowledge and skills [10] Group 3: Industry Dynamics - The study abroad industry is experiencing increased competition, with both large educational groups and small agencies entering the market, leading to a fragmented landscape [11][12] - New Oriental's recent financial reports indicate a slowdown in growth for traditional study abroad services, with a projected revenue increase of only 8% in the upcoming fiscal quarter [11] - The company is diversifying its offerings to include services for older demographics and exploring opportunities in attracting international students to China, which is seen as a potential growth area [13][14]

Group 1 - The study abroad industry is facing challenges due to changes in the global economic environment and educational competition, leading to a cautious approach from families regarding overseas education, resulting in a slowdown in the growth of outbound students [2] - New Oriental's revenue from overseas exam preparation and consulting services grew by approximately 7.1% and 21.4% year-on-year for Q3 of FY2025, but both business segments experienced a decline in growth rate compared to previous periods [2][5] - The report indicates a shift in study abroad destinations, with the UK surpassing the US in popularity among Chinese students due to its shorter academic programs and stable political environment [3] Group 2 - The demand for study abroad is diversifying, with students increasingly focusing on employment outcomes rather than merely enhancing their resumes, particularly among master's and doctoral candidates [4] - Engineering, economics, and management are the top three preferred fields of study for prospective international students, with a slight increase in the proportion of students choosing engineering disciplines [4] - The study abroad market is entering a period of slow growth, with a noticeable decrease in the total number of international students being admitted to traditional destinations like the US, UK, Australia, and Canada [5] Group 3 - New Oriental is expanding its study abroad services to cater to different age groups, including the growing market for "silver-haired" students, who are retirees seeking short-term study opportunities abroad [6] - The company is also exploring the potential for inbound international students, as the quality of Chinese education continues to rise, attracting students from Southeast Asia [6] - The value of studying abroad remains significant, with returnees playing a crucial role in the Chinese job market, particularly in enterprises that require professionals with a global perspective [6]