CONFERENCEFrom studies to employment: international students in the Baltic region
Elina Apsite-Berina 0000-0001-5537-5879
University of Latvia
Ieva Jegermane
University of Latvia
Eero Loonurm
Estonian Education and Youth Board
Zaiga Krisjane 0000-0002-3422-1958
University of Latvia
Kristine Lece
University of Latvia
Email: elina.apsite-berina@lu.lv
DOI: 10.22364/fg.21.5
Keywords: international students, employment, ISM, Baltic states
Abstract
International students in Europe contribute to the local economy through fees, living costs, and taxes. Moreover, they also significantly impact the economy, society and culture of the countries they study. The research concerning the employability of international students in their host countries suggests that international students represents a vital source of income for higher education institutions and local economies.
The aim of the study is to comparatively describe the numbers of international students in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania specifically looking at the employed proportion of international students. Analysis is performed in a comparative manner by analysing the available statistical data for three different academic years. The analysis reveals that international students in these countries have experienced varying levels of success in finding employment. While Estonia consistently demonstrates the highest employment rates for international students among the three countries, Latvia and Lithuania show promising trends. The study highlights the factors influencing employment outcomes, such as students’ country of origin, field of study, and language proficiency.