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Deciphering International Students' Choices: Push-Pull Dynamics and Necessary Condition Analysis in Malaysian University Selection

Author

Listed:
  • Norzalita Abd Aziz

    (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia)

  • Saif Ahmed

    (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia)

  • Rasheedul Haque

    (MAHSA University, Malaysia)

  • Sayeeduz Zafar Qazi

    (University of Business and Technology, Saudi Arabia)

  • Abdul Rahman Bin S Senathirajah

    (INTI International University, Malaysia)

Abstract

This study examines the essential and influential factors guiding international students' decisions to enroll in Malaysian universities, focusing on university attributes, economic considerations, host country policies, cultural stimuli, and perceived skill acquisition. A quantitative research approach is adopted, combining Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and Necessary Condition Analysis (NCA) to identify both influential factors (sufficiency) and essential preconditions (necessity) for enrollment decisions. Data was collected through a cross-sectional survey of 400 international students, with stratified random sampling ensuring proportional representation. Results show that university characteristics, particularly academic quality and institutional reputation, are crucial determinants and necessary preconditions for attracting international applicants. This study differentiates between necessary and sufficient factors in international students' university selection, offering insights for policymakers and educational institutions to maintain sustainable growth.

Suggested Citation

  • Norzalita Abd Aziz & Saif Ahmed & Rasheedul Haque & Sayeeduz Zafar Qazi & Abdul Rahman Bin S Senathirajah, 2025. "Deciphering International Students' Choices: Push-Pull Dynamics and Necessary Condition Analysis in Malaysian University Selection," International Journal of Knowledge Management (IJKM), IGI Global, vol. 21(1), pages 1-34, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:igg:jkm000:v:21:y:2025:i:1:p:1-34
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Chinnasamy Agamudai Nambi Malarvizhi & Shamima Raihan Manzoor & Rasheedul Haque, 2024. "Revisiting the Extended IoT Use Behavior Model Among Senior NCD Patients for Smart Healthcare in Malaysia," International Journal of Service Science, Management, Engineering, and Technology (IJSSMET), IGI Global, vol. 15(1), pages 1-25, January.
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