Analysing International Student Mobility to Finland: A Push-Pull-Mooring Framework Approach

Abstract

This study explores the factors influencing the motivations and decisions of international students to study and stay in Finland using the Push-Pull-Mooring (PPM) framework. The research aims to understand how various push, pull, and mooring factors affect the perceived value, satisfaction, and retention of international students in a non-native English-speaking country.

Quantitative data analysis was conducted using Smart-PLS on 149 responses collected via online surveys from international students at higher education institutions (HEIs) in Finland. The data was gathered through purposive and snowball sampling techniques, and structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to examine the relationships among various factors.

The findings reveal that pull factors such as high-quality education, career opportunities, and a stable political environment significantly enhance the perceived value of studying abroad. Conversely, push factors related to negative conditions in the home country negatively impact the perceived value. Mooring factors, including social sup-port and connections in the host country, are crucial in influencing both the perceived value and the intention to stay. Despite the strong impact of pull and mooring factors, the study found that satisfaction with the study experience did not significantly influence the intention to stay in Finland, suggesting that career opportunities and social support systems are more critical in retention decisions. The study provides actionable insights for HEIs and policymakers to improve international student experiences and retention rates in Finland.