Exploring New Markets: Balkans

When we say global education and mobility, the first thing that comes to mind are those countries that have always been great sources of international students.

Yet, there are so many other talent pools out there offering huge untapped potential to diversify your student body. Get ready to discover and learn, because today we are taking you through exploring a new market: the Balkans.

 Why the Balkan area is the best possible destination for international educators?

Balkan EU Members and Visa Requirements

Many of the Balkan countries have been accepted to the European Union in the recent years. Among these countries are Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Romania, Slovenia. Thanks to the EU’s internal single market and policies, internalisation of students from this area has never been easier, making it possible for the students to travel and study freely abroad in other European Union countries.

Croatia

Balkans are a Top Source of International Students

Due to its favourable geographic position, the Balkan Peninsula has always been on the crossroad of the East and the West. It is estimated to be among the World’s leading sources of students willing to study overseas. According to recent studies on the local economic situation, it is reported that more and more families can afford to send their children for education abroad.

High demand for English Language Learning

Many international companies and investors are now entering the Balkan countries markets, creating a rising interest in learning English. Better career prospects and renumeration opportunities have driven a high desire for studying English in the past few years.

Student mobility

The total number of Balkan students studying abroad has recently risen to 180 000 with an increase of almost 50%. Half of the graduates in Bulgaria choose to pursue their studies abroad. Top preferred destinations for Bulgarian students are UK, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, USA and Canada.

Local educational institutions are searching to explore new partnership opportunities

Many Balkan educators are currently looking for opportunities to work with foreign institutions on student mobility programmes. They are willing to enlarge their circle of connections and are searching for new partners abroad to send to and receive students from on exchange programmes.