Investigating the mediating role of career aptitude on the career path of international students

Purpose This study examines how career transition resources and career aptitude shape international students’ career decisions during their pre-decisional stage. Grounded in social cognitive career theory (SCCT) and transition theory, we explore how career aptitude mediates the challenges and adjustments faced by international students in a foreign country. Design/methodology/approach A two-wave survey (N = 319) at a US public university was conducted. International students’ experiences were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine the direct and indirect effects. Findings Results indicated that perceived career opportunities (PCOs) were significantly related to both career aptitude and intention to remain abroad. Cultural adjustment was a significant predictor of self-efficacy and intention to remain abroad, while protean career attitude predicted only career aptitude. Outcome expectations fully mediated the relationship between resources and the intention to stay abroad, whereas self-efficacy did not mediate the relationship. Originality/value Given the increasing attention towards international students and their impact on the global labor market, this study points out how to enhance their career experiences in a host country and their readiness to work as a global talent after graduation.