Abstract
This study investigates the impact of various factors on students' preference towards pursuing higher education abroad. The independent variables examined include cost, cultural exposure, personal and professional growth, quality of education, academic reputation, and career prospects. The research employs a quantitative approach, utilizing a snowball sampling technique to gather data from a sample size of 205 participants. Correlation and regression analyses are conducted to assess the relationships between the independent variables and the dependent variable, which is the preference towards higher education abroad. The study aims to provide insights into the complex interplay of factors that influence students' decisions to pursue international education. By understanding the relative importance and impact of each factor, stakeholders in the education sector can better cater to students' preferences and tailor their offerings accordingly. The findings of this research have potential implications for educational institutions, policymakers, and students themselves, contributing to informed decision-making processes and enhancing the overall quality of international education experiences. Ultimately, this study endeavors to shed light on the intricate dynamics that shape students' aspirations for global educational pursuits.
Keywords: Higher education, international education, student preferences, cost, cultural exposure, personal growth, professional growth, quality of education, academic reputation, career prospects, snowball sampling, correlation analysis, regression analysis.
References
Nafari, J., Arab, A., &Ghaffari, S. (2017). Through the looking glass: Analysis of factors influencing Iranian student’s study abroad motivations and destination choice. Sage Open, 7(2), 2158244017716711.Smith, A., & Brown, B. (2018).
Chen, J. (2014). An Empirical Investigation on Chinese High School Students' Choice of Pursuing Undergraduate Education Abroad. Journal of International Education and Leadership, 4(2), n2.
Singh, N., & Srivastava, D. K. (2018). Factors affecting students’ preferences to study abroad programs: A case of indian business school students. Journal of Teaching in International Business, 29(2), 96-112.
Liu, Y., Kamnuansilpa, P., & Hirofumi, A. (2018). Factors affecting international students’ decisions on destination for studying abroad: A case study in China. Frontiers of Education in China, 13, 93-118.
Nachatar Singh, J. K., Schapper, J., & Jack, G. (2014). The importance of place for international students’ choice of university: A case study at a Malaysian university. Journal of Studies in International Education, 18(5), 463-474.
Li, M., & Bray, M. (2007). Cross-border flows of students for higher education: Push–pull factors and motivations of mainland Chinese students in Hong Kong and Macau. Higher education, 53, 791-818.
Welsch, M. (2018). Interest and Intent in Pursuing Higher Education: Nepali Students' Perceptions on Study Abroad Experiences. In International Student Mobility and Opportunities for Growth in the Global Marketplace (pp. 246-260). IGI Global.
King, R., & Ruiz‐Gelices, E. (2003). International student migration and the European ‘year abroad’: effects on European identity and subsequent migration behaviour. International Journal of Population Geography, 9(3), 229-252.
Kondakci, Y. (2011). Student mobility reviewed: Attraction and satisfaction of international students in Turkey. Higher education, 62, 573-592.