Investigating the factors that attract and retain international students at the University of Cape Coast (UCC)

Abstract

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are changing in making its products 'fit' for the new age of diversity and globalization due to the new trends in demand for education. This study was undertaken to identify the factors that attract and retain international students in HEIs in Ghana. The total study population was 200 international students at University of Cape Coast (UCC) which was conveniently sampled to 171 students. Descriptive data analysis was used and the study sought using questionnaires and analysed with SPSS version 21. The study revealed that the cost of tuition and lack of scholarship opportunities prevent international students in studying in UCe. Yet, factors such as availability of peace and security, appreciable length of programmes, and job opportunities for programmes were some of the factors influencing international students ' stay at the host institution. The study, therefore, recommends that Policy makers and institutions should maintain reasonable education costs and scholarships as an advantage to attract intel'l1ational students. UCC and other tertiary institutions must continue to maintain peaceful, secure. and conducive environment for international students.