Challenges faced by international nursing students undertaking graduate research: Contemporary issues

Globalisation has resulted in universities around the world accepting an increasing number of culturally and linguistically diverse students, which facilitates the exchange of knowledge, strengthens cultural awareness and develops a globally adaptive nursing workforce. Graduate research students play an important role in Australian universities' education and research efforts. However, there are limited student perspectives and voices that explore the challenges and barriers faced by international nursing students undertaking graduate research. This article summarises the lived experiences of three Chinese graduate research students, including challenges with language barriers, cultural differences, academic adjustment and the impacts of time zone differences. In providing these unique insights, we hope to identify ways to reduce the risk of failing to meet expectations and improve the learning experiences for future international nursing students.