Internationalization of Higher Education: an Answer for the Decrease in the Number of Students

Abstract

The system of higher education in Hungary has changed in the last 15 years. Although structurally it has been adapted to globally observed tendencies, it still has to face the burden of specific Hungarian characteristics, including demographic changes and their effects. Hungarian higher education institutes need to prepare for demographic downturn, as the number of students graduating from high schools will considerably decrease in the upcoming years. Consequently, the total number of students participating in higher education will also be lower. The objective of this study is to elaborate on the progress of this demographic change and its anticipated impact on the higher education system. Based on relevant references it also aims to present a possible solution to manage this problem of the higher education, namely the internationalization of higher education. Our ultimate aim was to summarize the challenges and possibilities of higher education that we have to face and prepare for in the next period.