Why do Mongolian students choose to study in Australia?

Purpose: This paper is based on a pilot study undertaken at an Australian university that has successfully recruited students from Mongolia. The study examined the factors that attracted Mongolian students to study in Australia and at the subject university, as well as students' expectations before arrival, barriers to learning and the university's key areas and services that support learning. The study also examined areas in which the learning experience could be improved, as well as personal, social and cultural gains apart from academic achievement, and the role of education agents in helping students to choose the subject university. Design/methodology/approach: The student cohort consisted of all graduate students. The qualitative survey included eight questions, which primarily aimed to examine the reasons behind Mongolian students' decision to study in Australia. The online survey was pilot-tested with a focus group consisting of academic staff to ensure that the survey was working properly and to ensure that the questions were worded appropriately and easily understood. Based on the responses of the focus group, some questions were reworded to solicit effective responses. Findings: The study found that Mongolian students were attracted to an English-speaking country and high quality of education. Their expectation prior to arrival was a university campus as portrayed in marketing material, including expansive open spaces. The study also highlighted the need to diversify student profiles at metropolitan locations. It found Mongolian students made friends, learnt a new culture but faced learning difficulties too. Originality/value: Many studies have examined the factors influencing students' decision to study in certain countries. While previous studies have focussed on large countries such as China and India, emerging sources of international students such as Mongolia are ignored. The focus on Mongolian students is original in Australia and overseas.