International students expectations and motivations

This study addresses the stereotypes surrounding international students (Samuelowicz, 1987; Watson, 1999) and their motivations behind and expectations of tertiary level study. A large and comprehensive quantitative survey of students was undertaken across various faculties at the University of New South Wales. This paper reveals in particular the reasons why international and local students study, their motivations for study and their expectations of teachers and of gaining a university education. The study finds that common stereotypes may be misleading and that there are many similarities between the needs of international and local students.