Burma Country Commercial Guide
Learn about the market conditions, opportunities, regulations, and business conditions in burma, prepared by at U.S. Embassies worldwide by Commerce Department, State Department and other U.S. agencies’ professionals
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Education
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Overview

Demand is high for bachelor’s degrees with foreign accreditation.  Local education institutions often seek to collaborate with international universities and institutions to provide students with the opportunity to study foreign degrees locally at affordable tuition fees.  Many local professional training centers and institutions have entered the market.  Private training centers offer a variety of certificates and diploma courses in business management, finance, marketing, project management, information technology, hospitality, engineering, and accounting, as well as bachelor’s and master’s degree programs from their partner international universities.   

The outbound student mobility rate in Burma has increased significantly since 2021. According to the Institute of International Education’s Open Doors 2023 Report, 3,222 students from Burma were studying in the United States in the 2023-2024 academic year, a 30% increase compared to Year 2022-23 (2,483 students). Of the 3,222 students, 76.3% were enrolled in undergraduate programs, 14% in graduate programs, 3.0% in non-degree programs, and 6.6% in optional practical training. Students from Burma were most likely to study business management, financial management, project management, hospitality, accounting, marketing, engineering, and information technology. The most preferred states for Burmese students in the United States are California, New York, Massachusetts, Washington, and Texas.

Some local education agents now provide preparatory educational services to students who want to study abroad or pursue international education. These education agents offer pre-collegiate programs to assist students in developing their academic abilities to secure admission and possible financial assistance at international institutions in the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, Canada, and Singapore. They also assist with visa applications, prepare students for life in a Western college setting, and assist in career planning. Recent U.S. entry restrictions announced in June 2025 included nationals from Burma, impacting the ability of students and their dependent family members to travel to the United States. These developments affect short-term international mobility plans and require careful consideration during partnership discussions with U.S. educational institutions.

Local education agents remain committed to identifying flexible, sustainable solutions to navigate current challenges. Engagement with U.S. institutions continues, with efforts focused on developing viable pathways to support ongoing educational collaboration and student mobility. These include virtual learning options and partnerships with international universities operating in-country.

Leading Sub-sectors 

Community Colleges

Attending community college is gaining popularity in Burma as students and parents realize that the idea is an effective and economical route to transfer to high-ranked four-year universities. Local education agents play an essential role in promoting U.S. community colleges to potential students in Burma. Many U.S. community colleges have partnered with regional study-abroad agents to recruit Burmese students. About 10 to 15 reputable education agents in Burma work with universities and colleges from various countries, such as Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Korea, Japan, the U.K., the United States, and Canada. 

Four-Year Degree and Master Programs

Local education agents, international schools and counseling services have partnered with U.S. universities to promote graduate and postgraduate programs to Burmese students. Due to the entry restrictions announced in June 2025, U.S. institutions and their local partners have been exploring alternative options to support students during this transitional period.

Opportunities 

In Burma, there is a growing awareness of the importance of quality education, with many families continuing to prioritize educational investment despite ongoing uncertainty. The departure of numerous professional educators from the public sector following the 2021 coup has led to an increase in demand for private education alternatives. In response, local private firms have invested more in the primary and secondary education sectors. At the same time, local education agents, international schools, and private colleges are increasingly exploring partnerships with international institutions, including U.S. education providers, to offer undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The enforcement of the military conscription law has prompted more young people to pursue educational opportunities abroad. While challenges remain, these developments suggest a continued interest in building viable international education pathways for Burmese students.

Educational seminars given by universities from numerous countries offering scholarships are now common in Burma. While focused on attracting Burmese students, U.S. universities can explore new partnerships with private local institutions in Burma’s education sector. Offering virtual study options presents a timely and strategic opportunity during this period.

Appointing a Local Representative 

Education service providers offering local representation play a critical role in the success of U.S. colleges and universities in Burma education market. Students and parents feel at ease seeking advice on issues such as the school admission process and guidelines from experts, advisors, and counselors based in the country who have a broader understanding of schools and policies. Numerous U.S. colleges and universities have appointed local education providers to promote their schools and recruit students from Burma. 

Exhibit at Education Fairs 

Education Fairs in Burma have previously been an excellent opportunity for university recruiters to interact with prospective students. EducationUSA is a U.S. Department of State network comprising over 430 international student advising centers across more than 175 countries and territories. The EducationUSA program not only assists Burmese students in studying at accredited postsecondary institutions in the United States but also provides support to U.S. higher education institutions in achieving their recruitment and campus internationalization objectives. Following the 2021 coup, education fairs in Burma have paused, with institutions joining those held in neighboring countries instead. EducationUSA Burma organizes monthly information sessions, quarterly newsletters, one-on-one student advising, cohort advising and education fairs, both virtually and in person. U.S. institutions can access more detailed information on the EducationUSA website and from the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at the U.S. State Department.

Resources 

Contact Information  
The U.S. Commercial Service  
U.S. Embassy, Burma
office.burma@trade.gov  

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