Educational Tourism Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Age Group (Less than 15 Years, 16 - 25 Years), By Education (Primary, Secondary), By Occupation (Students, Teachers, Government Officials), By Purpose, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2030

Educational Tourism Market Size & Trends

The global educational tourism market size was estimated at USD 459.76 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.5% from 2025 to 2030. Government initiatives, such as scholarships, student exchange programs, visa facilitation, and partnerships with international educational institutions, play a pivotal role in driving the educational tourism industry. For instance, one of the significant programs mentioned is the U.S.-India Higher Education Collaboration Program, which focuses on enhancing educational exchanges, promoting joint research, and expanding partnerships between U.S. and Indian universities.

This collaboration provides Indian students with increased opportunities for studying in the U.S. while encouraging U.S. institutions to establish campuses and partnerships in India. In addition, initiatives like the U.S.-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) further support student exchanges, scholarships, and cultural programs, helping to deepen academic relations and innovation between the two countries.

As education becomes more interconnected globally, students are increasingly pursuing international learning experiences to enhance their academic credentials and career prospects. The growing recognition of the value of global exposure, coupled with the rise of prestigious institutions offering specialized programs abroad, has made studying in foreign countries a desirable option for many. International learning not only provides access to world-class education but also offers students the opportunity to engage in diverse cultures, develop language skills, and build global networks, which are highly valued in today’s interconnected job market. As a result, educational tourism has seen significant growth, with students seeking to gain a competitive edge through enriched academic experiences and cross-cultural understanding.

Moreover, industry-specific training plays a crucial role in driving the educational tourism industry by offering professionals opportunities to gain specialized knowledge and skills in high-demand sectors such as technology, business, engineering, and healthcare. As industries evolve rapidly, professionals seek international workshops, certification programs, and internships to stay competitive, access cutting-edge practices, and enhance their expertise. These tailored programs abroad provide hands-on experience and direct exposure to global trends, innovative technologies, and best practices, which are often unavailable in their home countries. This demand for advanced, industry-specific education not only helps individuals advance in their careers but also stimulates the growth of educational tourism, as companies and professionals increasingly recognize the value of international training for both personal development and organizational success.

Key players in the educational tourism industry have introduced several innovations to enhance learning experiences and attract a broader range of students. In addition, partnerships between universities and private education agencies have led to the development of customized study-abroad packages that include specialized programs, internships, and cultural immersion activities tailored to students’ academic and professional goals. Furthermore, scholarships and financial aid programs, often backed by governments and private enterprises, are being expanded to make international education more accessible to a diverse range of students, further driving innovation in this rapidly evolving market.

Age Group Insights

Educational tourism among the 16-25 years age group accounted for a market share of around 40% in 2024. This age group, which includes high school graduates, university students, and young professionals, seeks educational experiences abroad to enhance their academic credentials, participate in cultural exchanges, and gain competitive advantages in their career paths. Study-abroad programs, language courses, internships, and short-term academic programs are particularly appealing as they offer opportunities for personal growth, networking, and the acquisition of global skills. The rising importance of international experience in the job market, combined with affordable travel options and accessible scholarships, further propels the demand for educational tourism within this demographic.

The demand for educational tourism among the less than 15 years age group is expected to grow at a CAGR of 15.0% from 2025 to 2030. Parents and educational institutions are recognizing the value of providing younger students with opportunities to explore new cultures, languages, and historical sites, which can enrich their educational development and broaden their perspectives. Programs such as school trips, language immersion camps, and educational tours to museums, science centers, and historical landmarks offer a hands-on approach to learning, sparking curiosity and creativity. This early exposure helps young learners develop a global mindset, enhances their understanding of different cultures, and fosters a passion for lifelong learning, all of which contribute to the rise in educational tourism among this age group.

Education Insights

The college segment accounted for a share of around 36% in 2024. College students, particularly those studying in fields like engineering, business, manufacturing, and environmental science, participate in educational tourism to gain hands-on knowledge of industry processes, innovations, and technologies. Visits to factories, research labs, and production plants allow students to witness the practical application of their academic studies, offering a deeper understanding of manufacturing techniques, supply chains, and sustainability practices. These tours also provide networking opportunities, internships, and potential career pathways by connecting students with industry professionals.

The demand for educational tourism among postgraduates is expected to grow at a CAGR of 14.7% from 2025 to 2030. Educational tourism among postgraduate students is increasingly popular as individuals pursue specialized knowledge, advanced degrees, and research opportunities at prestigious institutions worldwide. Postgraduates seek international programs that offer expertise in niche fields such as technology, business, medicine, and law, where exposure to global perspectives and diverse academic environments is crucial for career advancement. These students are attracted to institutions that offer advanced research facilities, internships, and networking opportunities with industry leaders, all of which enhance their academic and professional prospects. In addition, the opportunity to engage in cultural exchange and gain international credentials further drives the demand for postgraduate educational tourism, as it allows students to build a competitive edge in an increasingly globalized job market.

Occupation Insights

Educational tourism among students accounted for a share of around 30% in 2024. Prestigious universities such as Harvard University, University of Oxford, and Stanford and specialized programs abroad attract students seeking to enhance their academic credentials, acquire new skills, and broaden their perspectives through cross-cultural experiences. Educational tourism also offers students access to diverse learning environments, cutting-edge research facilities, and internships that provide practical, real-world experiences. In addition, the increasing globalization of the workforce, coupled with government scholarships, student exchange programs, and the ease of international travel, further fuels the demand for educational tourism as students look to expand their academic and professional opportunities.

The demand for educational tourism among government officials is expected to grow at a CAGR of 15.7% from 2025 to 2030. As governments strive to implement best practices, improve efficiency, and address complex global challenges, officials are seeking educational programs abroad that focus on areas like public administration, international relations, sustainability, and digital governance. These international learning experiences allow officials to gain insights into innovative policies, exchange ideas with global counterparts, and stay updated on the latest trends and technologies. Furthermore, cross-border collaborations, development programs, and exposure to diverse political systems contribute to the professional growth of government officials, ultimately benefiting national governance and policy-making processes.

Purpose Insights

The educational tourism for professional purpose segment accounted for a market share of around 34% in 2024. Professionals are increasingly seeking specialized courses, certifications, and workshops abroad to stay competitive in their fields, such as technology, business, medicine, and engineering. These programs often provide exposure to cutting-edge practices, global networks, and the opportunity to learn from industry leaders. The rise of globalized work environments, where cross-cultural competence and international experience are valued, also fuels this demand. Moreover, governments and institutions offering tailored professional development programs, coupled with corporate partnerships and sponsorships, further contribute to the growth of educational tourism for professional purposes. 

The demand for educational tourism for academic purpose is expected to grow at a CAGR of 14.1% from 2025 to 2030. Students seek programs at renowned institutions to enhance their academic credentials and gain expertise in specialized fields. Opportunities to learn from esteemed faculty, access state-of-the-art facilities, and engage in research-intensive environments are significant motivators. In addition, the growing emphasis on international collaboration, cultural exchange, student exchange, and the value of cross-cultural experiences make academic-focused travel appealing. For instance, according to data published by the European Union Student Exchange Program in August 2024, U.S. institutions are the biggest participants in student exchange schemes, sending around 75,000 students a year to destinations such as the UK, China, Argentina, and Italy.

Regional Insights

The educational tourism market in North America accounted for a market share of around 28% in 2024 in the global market. The North America educational tourism industry is dynamic, driven by the presence of globally recognized universities, diverse cultural experiences, and advanced educational infrastructure. The U.S. and Canada lead the region, attracting international students and tourists with study-abroad programs, language courses, and immersive learning experiences. Iconic destinations, such as historical landmarks, museums, and innovation hubs like Silicon Valley, enhance the appeal of educational tours. The market benefits from strong government support for international students, alongside private sector partnerships promoting cultural exchange programs and academic collaboration. The focus on experiential learning and technological innovation positions North America as a premier destination for educational tourism.

U.S. Educational Tourism Market Trends

The educational tourism market in U.S. accounted for a market share of around 70% in 2024 in the North American market. The world-renowned universities, diverse cultural experiences, and cutting-edge research opportunities drive the market growth in the country. Factors such as the appeal of prestigious institutions like Ivy League universities, diverse program offerings, and strong infrastructure attract international students and professionals seeking quality education and cultural enrichment. The U.S. also benefits from its status as a global innovation leader, with educational tourism often incorporating visits to technology hubs, historical landmarks, and cultural centers. Government initiatives, such as the Open Doors program and cultural exchange policies, further support the sector by fostering international collaboration and easing access for students and scholars.

Europe Educational Tourism Market Trends

The educational tourism market in Europe accounted for a revenue share of around 20% of global revenue in 2024. Key destinations like the UK, Germany, France, and Italy attract students and professionals seeking academic excellence, language proficiency, and cultural immersion. Programs range from study-abroad opportunities and summer schools to historical and art-focused tours, drawing tourists from around the world. Government policies supporting international students, such as scholarships and visa facilitation, enhance the region's appeal. In addition, Europe's seamless connectivity and emphasis on experiential learning, including visits to museums, historical landmarks, and innovation hubs, drive sustained growth in the educational tourism industry.

Asia Pacific Educational Tourism Market Trends

The Asia Pacific educational tourism market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 14.6% from 2025 to 2030. The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the region's diverse cultural heritage, advanced educational institutions, and increasing popularity as a hub for international students. Countries like China, Japan, South Korea, and Australia attract students with specialized programs in technology, business, and language studies, while cultural and heritage experiences add significant value. The increasing focus on international collaboration, expanding study-abroad programs, and enhanced infrastructure cater to both domestic and international tourists. Governments in the region, such as China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Australia's New Colombo Plan, actively promote educational exchanges and scholarships, further boosting the market’s growth.

Key Educational Tourism Company Insights

The education tourism industry is characterized by a competitive landscape driven by a mix of established institutions, specialized travel agencies, and online platforms. Leading players include universities offering short-term courses, study-abroad programs, and immersive learning experiences, alongside private companies focusing on cultural exchange and language learning trips. Emerging competitors leverage technology, offering virtual educational tours and hybrid learning experiences, which have gained popularity post-pandemic. Regional players cater to niche markets, focusing on destinations known for specific fields like technology, history, or art. The market witnesses high demand in regions like North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, with competition intensifying due to factors such as cost, destination appeal, and program quality.

Recent Developments

• In October 2023, the Global Education Forum, organized by the UNWTO, highlighted the pivotal role of education in shaping the future of tourism. The event emphasized equipping tourism professionals with skills aligned with industry trends such as sustainability, innovation, and digital transformation. Discussions focused on fostering partnerships between educational institutions and the tourism sector to bridge skill gaps and prepare the workforce for evolving challenges. The forum also underscored the need for inclusive and accessible tourism education to empower communities and promote sustainable practices globally, positioning education as a cornerstone for the tourism sector's resilience and long-term growth.

• In August 2023, the Egyptian Initiative for Scholarships and Educational Tourism (EGYAID) launched Egypt’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Ayman Ashour, aims to position Egypt as a regional hub for education tourism. The initiative seeks to attract international students by offering scholarships, enhancing educational infrastructure, and promoting the country's universities globally. EGYAID integrates educational opportunities with cultural experiences, leveraging Egypt's rich history and heritage to appeal to students worldwide. This move aligns with Egypt’s broader strategy to boost its global standing in higher education and create a vibrant, knowledge-based economy.

Educational Tourism Market Report Scope

Global Educational Tourism Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at the regional and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends and opportunities in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global educational tourism market report based on age group, education, occupation, purpose, and region:

• Age Group Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

  • Less than 15 Years

  • 16 - 25 Years

  • 26 - 40 Years

  • 41 - 55 Years

• Education Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

  • Primary

  • Secondary

  • College

  • Post-Graduation

• Occupation Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

  • Students

  • Teachers

  • Government Officials

  • Corporate Managers

  • Enterprise Owners

  • Workers

  • Others

• Purpose Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

  • Academic

  • Professional

  • History and Cultural

  • Others

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • UK

    • Germany

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

  • Asia Pacific

    • China

    • Japan

    • India

    • Australia

    • South Korea

  • Central & South America

    • Brazil

  • Middle East & Africa

    • South Africa