Peppa Pig and Mr Bean among icons of British culture driving international students to study in UK, survey finds
A British Council survey found that British popular culture is a significant factor in international students’ choice to study in the UK. The findings suggest that familiar characters, music and public figures add to the country’s appeal alongside its universities’ academic reputation.
Censuswide surveyed 2,500 UK-based students aged 18 to 25, with 500 respondents from each of the US, China, India, Pakistan and Nigeria. Of those surveyed, 83 per cent said British culture mattered when choosing where to study abroad; 59 per cent cited fictional characters, with Harry Potter the most influential, followed by Mr Bean, James Bond and Peppa Pig. British music influenced 62 per cent, while among cultural figures Queen Elizabeth II was cited most often.
- British culture helps attract international students to UK universities.
- Harry Potter led the fictional characters, followed by Mr Bean.
- The survey covered 2,500 students from five countries.