Choosing China

Unpacking the motivations of international students through a case study in Shanghai

Authors

  • Yu Zhang Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China
  • Tian Qin Trinity University, USA
  • Xiaoqiao Zhang Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/2bdfsc16

Keywords:

international student in China, student motivation, recruitment strategies, case study

Abstract

The internationalization of higher education continues to accelerate with globalization, making China one of the top host nations for international students. This qualitative case study took place at a university in Shanghai, with 76 international students from 20 countries enrolled in the same English-taught engineering program. This research explored the motivations of international undergraduate students pursuing degree programs and their overall experience in China. The research reveals four main factors that shape students’ decision-making: academic reputation, social network influence, affordability, and safety. Additionally, many students identified academic difficulties even as they acknowledged the benefits of studying in China. This study recommends that Chinese universities improve their recruitment tactics, including expanding communication channels, increasing school visits, and strengthening alumni networks to attract more qualified and well-suited students and enhance their reputation.

Author Biographies

  • Yu Zhang, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China

    YU ZHANG, M.A. in Higher Education. She currently serves as Manager of the International Undergraduate Recruitment Office at the Shanghai Jiao Tong University Global College in Shanghai, China. She has a very extensive background and more than 10 years of managerial experience in international admissions, intercultural students’ affairs and student development.

    Affiliation: Global College, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China

    E-mail: yu.zhang@sjtu.edu.cn

  • Tian Qin, Trinity University, USA

    TIAN QIN, Ed.D., is the director of Recruitment and Residencies in the Department of Health Care Administration at Trinity University. Her research interests include international student mobility, transnational partnership programs, first-year experience and academic advising.

    Affiliation: Trinity University, San Antonio, TX, USA

    Email: vtianqin@trinity.edu

  • Xiaoqiao Zhang, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China

    XIAOQIAO ZHANG, Ph.D. (Corresponding author),  associate professor and the assistant dean of International Affairs in the School of Education at Shanghai Jiao Tong University. Her research focuses on international students’ acculturation stress, mental health, global competency and overall sense of belonging in the communities.

    Affiliation: School of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China

    E-mail: xiaoqiao.zhang@sjtu.edu.cn

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Published

2026-02-27

Issue

Vol. 16 No. 7 (2026): Journal of International Students

Section

Special Issue: Institutional Global Footprints and International Enrollment Trends

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How to Cite

Zhang, Y., Qin, T., & Zhang, X. (2026). Choosing China: Unpacking the motivations of international students through a case study in Shanghai. Journal of International Students, 16(7), 47-68. https://doi.org/10.32674/2bdfsc16