By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
The world of tertiary education is becoming increasingly global, and for many African students, this means seeking academic opportunities abroad.
Every year, thousands leave the continent to study in countries with advanced learning environments, modern facilities, and globally recognised degrees.
In this article, we examine the top African countries with the highest number of students studying abroad, the reasons behind their mobility, and what it means for the continent’s educational and developmental landscape:
1. Nigeria
Nigeria leads Africa in the number of students studying abroad, with tens of thousands enrolled in universities across the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and other countries. Factors driving this trend include limited spaces in domestic universities, frequent academic disruptions, and the desire for globally competitive qualifications.
While this enhances global exposure and networks, Nigeria also faces the challenge of brain drain and the need to retain skilled graduates for national development.
2. Morocco
Morocco ranks high among African nations sending students abroad. A large percentage of Moroccan students study in France and other francophone countries due to linguistic and historical ties.
Many seek better research facilities, cultural exposure, and degrees that boost employability. Although outward mobility strengthens international collaboration, it also puts pressure on Morocco to expand and modernise its higher education system at home.
3. Egypt
Egypt has a long tradition of academic excellence and student exchange. Many Egyptian students travel abroad to pursue advanced degrees in science, engineering, and medicine, particularly in Western and Gulf countries.
The motivation often stems from limited postgraduate opportunities locally and a desire to gain cutting-edge skills. For Egypt, the key is ensuring that returning graduates contribute to national innovation and reform.
4. Cameroon
Cameroon is one of the leading francophone countries sending students overseas. Most Cameroonian students choose France, Canada, or Belgium for their studies, mainly because of the shared language and more developed academic infrastructure.
Domestic capacity limitations in certain specialised fields also contribute to this movement. Cameroon’s challenge lies in expanding its local education system to reduce dependence on foreign institutions.
5. Algeria
Algeria continues to produce a large number of international students, especially in Europe. Historical links with France and a common language encourage many Algerians to study there.
The search for high-quality education, modern research facilities, and better career prospects drives the trend. However, to benefit fully, Algeria must create an environment that encourages graduates abroad to return and invest their skills in local growth.
6. Zimbabwe
Despite economic challenges, Zimbabwe has a strong record of sending students overseas, particularly to South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Many students pursue studies abroad due to limited facilities and job opportunities at home. Zimbabwe’s diaspora community remains vital to its economy through remittances and knowledge transfer, and policies that attract returning professionals could strengthen its workforce.
7. Tunisia
Tunisia is another North African country with a significant number of students abroad. Its geographical proximity to Europe, bilingual education system, and cultural ties have made studying overseas appealing.
Many Tunisian students pursue higher education in France, Italy, and Germany. While this trend supports international exposure, it underscores the need for Tunisia to enhance its domestic universities to reduce academic migration.
8. Kenya
Kenya has seen a steady rise in the number of students studying overseas, particularly in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. The main reasons include a growing middle class, strong academic ambition, and better funding opportunities abroad.
Many Kenyan students focus on science, technology, and business disciplines. The country’s goal is to harness this talent by promoting return programmes and innovation hubs.
9. Ghana
Ghana is becoming a major contributor to Africa’s student diaspora. A strong education culture, rising economic capacity, and international partnerships drive this growth. Ghanaians often pursue degrees in the UK, US, and Canada, motivated by global exposure and enhanced career prospects.
For Ghana, the priority is ensuring that the benefits of overseas education translate into domestic economic and technological advancement.
10. Sudan
Sudan has consistently appeared among Africa’s top countries sending students abroad. Political instability and limited higher education infrastructure encourage students to study overseas, often in Arab and Western nations.
Sudanese students typically pursue health sciences, engineering, and social studies. To maximise the benefits of this migration, Sudan must focus on rebuilding its education system and integrating returning graduates into national rebuilding efforts.
11. Côte d’Ivoire
Côte d’Ivoire is emerging as a growing source of international students, particularly in France and Canada. The movement is driven by a desire for better opportunities, modern academic environments, and stronger job prospects.
The country’s expanding youth population and improved economic capacity are also key factors. Côte d’Ivoire’s long-term challenge is ensuring that its educated diaspora contributes effectively to local development and innovation.
12. South Africa
South Africa, though a top destination for African students, also sends a considerable number of its citizens abroad for advanced studies. Many South African students seek postgraduate qualifications in the US, UK, and Australia.
Their motivation often includes exposure to global research standards and professional experience. The government has been encouraging international collaboration and return migration to boost domestic innovation.