The purpose of the research upon which this article is based was to identify the factors that influence the higher education choices of expatriate children. The study involved a self-completed written questionnaire and structured face-to-face interviews with nineteen students at four international schools in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The study found that the higher education choices of these expatriate children were most influenced by their need or desire to return to the place regarded as home; to study in the country where they intend to settle permanently; to live with, or be close to, siblings or extended members of their family; to minimize tuition, accommodation and general living costs; and to study in the location where they would feel most comfortable. For students leaving the UAE, rankings and institutional reputation were key determinants of choice of higher education institution. Students remaining in the UAE were far more likely to rely on word of mouth from family or friends. It is concluded that living an internationally mobile lifestyle has significant impacts on the choices made by expatriate children.
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