When do students intend to return? Determinants of students’ return intentions using a multinomial logit model

Abstract

Using a multinomial logit model, this paper looks at the determinants of when tertiary level international students intend to return home upon completion of their studies in New Zealand, be it not return, return immediately, return after some working stint, or return after some further education. Good perceptions of home have a strong positive impact on the probability of returning immediately, with perception of home lifestyle having the strongest impact. Contrary to received wisdom, perception of wage does not play a dominant role in determining when students intend to return home.