The fiercely competitive employment situation has become a "must consider" factor in students' decision-making.

Zhang Ning, who is majoring in law, expressed her concern over her future employment if she were to continue with this "hard to find a job" major.

"I will change to another major if I continue my education abroad. My current major has fallen out of favor in the fierce job market during the past several years. Sociology and psychology would be my candidate majors," she told China Daily. "Choosing a major that is not too hot but fits my personal interest is the right direction."

"I also seek advice from my predecessors on how to apply for universities," she added.

Zhang Junze, a third-year student of philosophy from Wuhan University in Hubei province, offered an even more thorough explanation for his choice of Japan as his destination.

"Japan left me a good impression when I visited its capital, Tokyo, several years ago," he said. “I'm attracted by the Japanese way of doing things. They are rigorous and always pursue perfection. I want to learn from them."

The 20-year-old was also tempted by a favorable plan approved by the Fukuda Yasuo administration, under which Japan will enroll 300,000 foreign students by 2020.

"It's a very tempting plan," he said. "I also want to take this opportunity to broaden my vision. To go out and see how people in other countries do things is always a good thing. "

Studying in Japan and South Korea has become a new trend in second-tier cities such as Wuhan, according to Zhang, saying Asian countries are more affordable for people in smaller cities.

Analysts say the stronger self-awareness of the post-90s generation is one of the reasons behind their cool attitudes. They know exactly what they want and are more engaged in the decision-making and application process.

The actual situation of the education pursuer, financial ability and timing are three factors experts suggest students and parents should take into account.

A recent survey conducted by chinadaily.com.cn showed that employment is the first major concern for students who choose a university for their continued education abroad, with 28.57 percent saying it's the first priority. The reputation of the university and education fee tied for second place, with 21.43 percent respondents giving weight to them.(Cai Shanshan/chinadaily.com.cn)