UK universities that outsource admissions and conversion services to QS Quacquarelli Symonds have seen a 40% increase in Chinese applications for the upcoming intakes compared to the previous year, as universities aim to offset a 48% decline from other markets. Australian universities have experienced a 66% increase in Chinese applications alongside a 6% decline from other international markets.
QS supports all ranked universities in attracting Chinese students. In 2024, QS is enhancing its efforts to support universities engaging with the Chinese market. To this end, QS announces the acquisition of Global Study China, a premier study-abroad counselling business based in Chengdu and Shenzhen. Global Study China develops articulation agreements between Chinese and foreign universities and guides local students in achieving their study abroad and career objectives. Founded in 2013 by William Li, a University of Cambridge graduate, Global Study China brings a wealth of expertise to QS.
“Adding considerable capacity and expertise”
QS is the leading reference point for individuals in China seeking information on overseas universities. The QS World University Rankings received three times more press and online mentions in China than any other international university rankings (Source: Meltwater) and garnered over 100 million readers on Weibo and WeChat in 2023.
In addition to the recent QS China Summit, held in Shanghai on 17-18 April and attended by over 400 university leaders from 150 universities, which showcased QS’s convening power and market influence, QS is investing in new opportunities in China.
Nunzio Quacquarelli, President of QS, said: “I’m delighted that William Li and his current team of 33 staff will be joining QS, adding considerable capacity and expertise to our ability to serve students in China and connect western universities with China-based partners.”
China is a major source of international students, with around 700,000 outbound students annually, the vast majority of whom utilise the services of a study abroad agency. With over 3,000 colleges and universities and a domestic university student population of over 40 million, China has become one of the world’s leading higher education markets.