According to a new study conducted by CareerCast.me and employment information provider Going Global, a majority of new college graduates in the U.S. aim to begin their careers in New York City. However, for some, the appeal of working abroad is even greater. CareerCast.me and Going Global surveyed college placement offices representing both American and international students to determine the most desirable global destinations for launching a career.
Interestingly, while the percentage of U.S.-born students seeking to move abroad after graduation has declined, the United States itself does not top the list of preferred job markets. Instead, the United Kingdom ranks as the most sought-after destination, leading runner-up China by a 16% margin. The UK’s dynamic economy and cultural diversity make it a prime location for young professionals. China, despite the global economic downturn, remains a land of rapid opportunities, attracting graduates looking for quick career progression. Completing the top five most desirable countries for U.S. students are the United States, France, and Australia—each known for its robust economy, major urban centers, and vibrant culture.
On the other hand, some traditional business hubs ranked surprisingly low. Singapore, South Korea, and Ireland all tied for last place, each garnering interest from only 10% of respondents. These findings indicate that economic power alone does not always equate to job market appeal.
Top 10 Countries Where American Students Want to Work:
- United Kingdom
- China
- United States
- France
- Australia
- Japan
- Germany
- Hong Kong
- Spain
- Italy
When examining preferences among foreign-born students, the rankings show some variation. The top three choices—United Kingdom, United States, and China—remain unchanged. However, Hong Kong and India emerge as more attractive job markets for international students, rounding out the top five. This shift highlights India’s rising influence as an economic powerhouse and Hong Kong’s continued importance as a global financial hub. Additionally, Canada makes it into the international top 10, a country that American students only rank at 13th. Conversely, Spain and Italy, popular among U.S. graduates, do not make the cut for international students.
Top 10 Countries Among Foreign-Born Students Seeking Employment:
- United Kingdom
- China
- United States
- Hong Kong
- India
- Japan
- Australia
- Germany
- Canada
- France
While the United States ranks third for both American and international students, Going Global president Mary Anne Thompson notes that foreign graduates are increasingly likely to migrate elsewhere rather than remain in the U.S. This trend, combined with fewer American graduates seeking overseas opportunities, suggests that global job markets may become less diverse in the future.
For new graduates, deciding where to launch a career can be daunting. Many professionals relocate multiple times before finding the right fit. However, whether you choose New York, Boston, or Beijing, you will likely find a strong network of like-minded peers pursuing similar ambitions.
Beyond choosing a destination, selecting the right career path is essential. If you are uncertain about which profession suits you best, CareerCast.me offers a comprehensive ranking of 200 different jobs based on stress levels, physical demands, income potential, and job satisfaction. Their analysis also highlights the 10 best and 10 worst jobs available in today’s job market, providing valuable guidance for new graduates navigating the professional world.
