According to the OECD, the UK is second only to the US as a destination for tertiary students studying abroad (as of 2008, 10% of all students studying in foreign countries were enrolled in UK institutions of higher learning).

FORBES: Declining Prospects for Higher Ed in the UK?

The United States attracts the most international students, according to the Institute of International Education, with 691, 000 students studying abroad in the US during the 2009 to 2010 school year.

BBC: The statistics of studying abroad

These days, record numbers of students are studying abroad all over the world.

BBC: The statistics of studying abroad

For students considering studying abroad, this roundup of advice from higher education experts may provide some guidance.

BBC: The statistics of studying abroad

For the students themselves, studying abroad can present opportunities for learning new languages, travelling, career development, experiencing new cultures and forming new friendships.

BBC: The statistics of studying abroad

The report also calls for a government-led strategy to encourage UK students to spend time studying abroad.

BBC: News | Education | 'End the language barrier'

But the deeper question was also asked: why are Japanese students not interested in studying abroad?

FORBES: Fewer Japanese Students Studying Abroad

Contemplate the millions of families who have gone from subsistence farming to steady jobs in export industries, the students who have enriched themselves and their homelands after studying abroad, and the blossoming wonders of the Internet.

CNN: Toward One World

In August the first 21 Russian students will start taking courses (they will spend their first year studying abroad).

ECONOMIST: Innovation in Russia: Can Russia create a new Silicon Valley? | The