The study abroad motives of Australian university students

This chapter outlines the research project that is designed to investigate the degree of diversity in student motives to study abroad, by comparing survey responses of different Australian students. Some expected areas of diversity in student motives, which have framed the research methodology of this project, are: Field of study, Study abroad destination and Study abroad duration. Students across all major fields of education can participate in study abroad, but perceptions of the curricular-related benefits achievable may influence the degree to which different students pursue those opportunities. From a survey of Australian students, found that the desire to study in a particular country was the primary motivation to study abroad, with academics’ recommendations and perceived learning outcomes of the study program being of secondary importance. The prospect of improved employment outcomes does motivate students to study abroad, even if it is not their primary motive.