Global Higher Education Competition Landscape by Country (2022)

Higher education competition levels varied significantly across the 13 countries analyzed in 2022, reflecting differences in market maturity, institutional density, and government support. Denmark, Sweden, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Indonesia, and Australia were categorized as low-competition (1) markets because enrollment was stable, regulatory systems were strong, and institutional rivalry was limited. Iceland, Norway, the United Kingdom, Mexico, and Brazil were classified as moderate-competition (2) countries, where increasing student demand was driving universities to expand programs and recruitment efforts.
In contrast, Singapore and the UAE were identified as high-competition (3) markets due to rapid sector expansion, aggressive international university collaborations, and rising demand for globally competitive institutions. These differences demonstrated how national strategies and market structures were shaping higher education competitiveness.