Why are students from grandes écoles the most attracted to expatriation?

Why are students from grandes écoles the most attracted to expatriation?
Students from grandes écoles seduced by expatriation
A survey conducted by Harris Interactive confirms the tendency of high school students, especially those in business or engineering, to move abroad. The economic context in France has a considerable influence on this trend, as unemployment particularly affects young people there. In addition, two out of three students who have completed internships or study trips abroad take a liking to this life and wish to settle in their host country.

Internships abroad: a new trend

The international openness of French grandes écoles has encouraged stays and internships abroad. This experience is considered enriching by 81% of the students concerned.

Moreover, 79% of students from grandes écoles have already taken a trip abroad as part of their schooling. 53% of them traveled to at least two countries during their university studies. The duration of these internships was more than six months for 64% of them.

While the proximity, as well as the economic and social context of Germany and other European countries seem attractive, it is especially the English-speaking countries that appeal to students. In fact, 39% say they have spent a professional stay in the United States or the United Kingdom. However, Asia is also a popular destination, particularly China and Singapore.

Expatriation: a wider career opportunity

Although 65% of those polled are optimistic that it is easy to find a job in France, 79% of students might consider starting their career in another country. As with the choice of the internship, they have a certain preference for Anglo-Saxon countries. In fact, 66% of them envision a career in the United States, England or Canada.

There are many reasons for future graduates to move abroad, but most of them, 59%, are looking for better working conditions and career development opportunities. While young people make rather selective choices in relation to the economic environment of the countries, 29% say they want to work abroad only for their personal development.

Generally, they are quite lucid about the difficulties of expatriation, because 44% think that a career abroad is not an easy path.