Rethinking Internationalization: Student Insights on Global Competence in Higher Education

This article explores student perspectives on Global Competence development in higher education, addressing a gap in internationalization research where student voices remain underexamined despite their relevance to effective policy and program design. Based on a survey of 900 undergraduate students at a mid-sized Spanish public university, the study reveals that students find Global Competence highly relevant, with particular emphasis on English proficiency and intercultural interaction. While differences in perceived importance are linked to sociodemographic and academic factors such as gender, international exposure, and field of study, interest in Global Competence remains consistently positive across all groups. These findings highlight the need for inclusive internationalization strategies that go beyond mobility programs, providing all students with opportunities to engage in global learning. By incorporating student perspectives, higher education institutions can better align internationalization efforts with student needs.