International student motivations and experiences of studying in small to mid-sized universities in remote Canada

A scoping review

Authors

  • Xuechen Yuan University of Windsor, Canada
  • Osagie Okonufua University of Windsor, Canada
  • Muhammad Kiani Brock University, Canada

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/2w641h08

Keywords:

International students, remote university, small university, push-pull factors, Canada, lived experience, retention

Abstract

Canada is undergoing significant changes in its immigration policies to reduce the number of study permits and educational pathways for immigration; thus, understanding the realities of small- to mid-sized universities in remote regions potentially affected by this shift is imperative. However, international student motivations and experiences in these contexts remain underexplored in the literature. This scoping review investigates 21 English-language studies conducted in Canadian universities with student enrollment under 20,000, which examine international students’ push‒pull dynamics, lived experiences, and postgraduate retention. Key pull factors include postgraduate immigration pathways, English and cultural immersion, perceptions of safety and affordability, and inclusive school admission; meanwhile, academic pressure, parental expectations, and career-related concerns are major push factors. For lived experiences, recurring themes emerged, encompassing areas such as cultural adjustment, social attachment, language learning, institutional support, and systemic challenges—all of which shape decisions to remain or relocate after graduation. 

Author Biographies

  • Xuechen Yuan, University of Windsor, Canada

    XUECHEN YUAN (JAMES), a PhD student, is currently studying cognition and learning at the Faculty of Education, University of Windsor, Canada. His research focuses broadly on international student experiences in higher education, with emphasis on the politics of belonging, international student accountability, curriculum development, and psychological processes. Email: xyuan3@lakeheadu.ca

  • Osagie Okonufua, University of Windsor, Canada

    OSAGIE OKONUFUA, a doctoral student in the Faculty of Education at the University of Windsor, has a research focus on the sociocultural and political dimensions of education. His work examines the academic experiences of minority students in higher education, with a particular focus on the role of psychological capital and resilience. Email: okonufu@uwindsor.ca

  • Muhammad Kiani, Brock University, Canada

    MUHAMMAD KIANI, a PhD student in Educational Studies at Brock University, researches educational technology, game-based learning, and VR-based learning. With an M.Sc. in medical education and field experience as an academic director, his work focuses on how interactive digital tools enhance engagement and learning outcomes. He has developed over 20 educational games and tools. Email: oa23qo@brocku.ca

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2025-09-13

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Vol. 15 No. 9 (2025): Journal of International Students

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How to Cite

Yuan, X., Okonufua, O., & Kiani, M. (2025). International student motivations and experiences of studying in small to mid-sized universities in remote Canada: A scoping review. Journal of International Students, 15(9), 179-204. https://doi.org/10.32674/2w641h08