For decades, international students have gravitated toward the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia—the traditional “Big 4” study destinations. These countries have long been associated with academic prestige and post-study opportunities. But in recent years, a growing number of students are setting their sights on Asia.

This shift is driven by a mix of evolving visa policies, rising living costs, and a growing recognition of Asia’s role in the global economy. As a result, institutions like ESSEC Asia-Pacific (ESSEC APAC) in Singapore are rising in visibility and appeal.

The Shifting Education Landscape

While the Big 4 hosted 44% of the world’s 6.4 million international students in 2023, destinations in Asia and Europe gained over 600,000 new students between 2020 and 2023—triple the growth seen in traditional markets.

This growth is not coincidental. Many traditional destinations have introduced tighter visa controls, reduced study permit quotas, and higher proof-of-funds requirements. These changes, while aiming to protect domestic interests, have raised barriers for international students.

In contrast, Asian destinations—particularly Singapore—offer a combination of academic excellence, economic opportunity, and quality of life.

Why Singapore?

Ranked the #1 most liveable city in Asia (Mercer Quality of Living 2024), Singapore is a dynamic, safe, and globally connected hub. Key advantages include:

• English-medium instruction and a multicultural society
• Strategic location in Asia—a gateway to fast-growing regional markets
• Home to 7,000+ MNCs and over 80 of the world’s top 100 tech companies
• Demand for talent in finance, consulting, marketing, and tech sectors
• Competitive salaries with lower income tax rates than many Western nations

Singapore’s seamless blend of Eastern and Western influences, safety, and accessibility makes it an ideal launchpad for students seeking meaningful careers in Asia.

ESSEC Asia-Pacific: Your Career Starts Here

Established in 2005 at the invitation of Singapore’s Economic Development Board, ESSEC APAC is more than just a satellite campus—it’s a strategic base for delivering world-class business education in the heart of Asia.
Key highlights:

• #1 Master’s programs in Asia:

o MSc in Marketing Management & Digital (#2 worldwide, QS 2025)
o Master in Management (#3 worldwide, FT 2023)
o Master in Finance (#3 worldwide, FT 2024)
o Master in Strategy & Management of International Business (#3 worldwide, QS 2025)

• Students from over 40 countries, creating a truly global classroom in an Asian context
• Career-focused approach: Personalized career coaching, consulting projects with MNCs, alumni networking, company visits and study trips in Asia

At ESSEC APAC, students engage with real-world business challenges across Singapore and the broader Asia-Pacific region. Partnerships with global firms, regional startups, and local institutions ensure that education goes hand-in-hand with opportunity.

Future-Ready, Regionally Grounded

Unlike one-size-fits-all global programs, ESSEC’s Asia-Pacific campus tailors its approach to Asia’s realities—without compromising global rigor. Students benefit from:

• A campus embedded in one-north, Singapore’s innovation and R&D district
• Exposure to growth sectors like FinTech, AI, luxury, and sustainability
• A vibrant student community with clubs focused on entrepreneurship, consulting, and cultural exchange

With a supportive arrival process (where the campus initiates the student pass application), multicultural environment, and a city that blends tradition with cutting-edge innovation, ESSEC APAC helps students not just adapt to Asia—but thrive in it.

The Choice is Expanding

In today’s evolving landscape, the question for international students is no longer just where to study, but how education connects to career and regional opportunity.

While the Big 4 remain relevant, Asia—and ESSEC APAC—offer a compelling alternative for those ready to build careers in the world’s most dynamic region.