Global patterns of student mobility align with national climate adaptation

Abstract Global talent flows substantially shape national and regional competitiveness. Yet, the effects of climate adaptation on these flows are not fully understood. Here we analyse its impact on international student flows by utilising a panel dataset covering 1.15 million international student flows between 1999 and 2018. Using Poisson Pseudo Maximum Likelihood estimation and spillover-robust policy examinations, we find that a destination country’s climate vulnerability dampens its attractiveness to international students, while stronger adaptation readiness stimulates greater student mobility. We also examine the policy and spillover effects of global climate actions, focusing on the Copenhagen Accord (COP15) and the Paris Agreement (COP21). We set up six climate-adaptation-related scenarios to project future global student mobility, offering insights into preparing for potential shifts in talent flows. Our findings provide implications for policymakers to promote national climate adaptation and link international education strategies with climate finance for vulnerable regions.