The Changing Dynamics of International Student Movement: Understanding the Trends and Patterns of Push and Pull Factors in Indian Higher Education System

Abstract: The internationalisation of higher education has become a pivotal global trend, driven by the movement of students seeking educational opportunities beyond their home countries. This study focuses on the mobility of international students in India, aiming to analyse the patterns, determinants, challenges, and implications of this mobility for Indian universities. Additionally, the study carried out the scoping review techniques to explore the existing literature on the different pull and push factors that influence international students’ decisions to study in India. This research employs a secondary data analysis approach, reviewing existing scholarly works, government reports, institutional data, and statistical trends. Moreover, the study conducted a content analysis to synthesize the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE, 2021) report in order to address the study's objectives. The findings reveal that factors such as economic affordability, academic reputation, and cultural attractiveness play significant roles in shaping international student mobility in India. However, obstacles such as bureaucratic barriers, infrastructure limitations, and concerns over safety and quality of education pose challenges for international students in the Indian higher education system. The outcomes of this research provide actionable insights for policymakers and educators, suggesting that addressing these challenges could significantly enhance the international student experience and improve India’s standing in the global education market. Keywords: Internationalization, Higher Education, Mobility, International Students, Academic Exchange JEL Classification Number: 12 123, 12 125