Exploring intentions: factors influencing international study decisions in healthcare bachelor degree programs

TL;DR

This study explores what influences healthcare students in Norway to participate in international exchange programs, highlighting factors like social relationships and financial concerns.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into the decision-making process of healthcare students regarding international exchange participation, including both enablers and barriers.

Findings

Social relationships, financial considerations, and personal motivations are linked to students' decisions about exchange programs.

The study highlights the importance of addressing practical and personal challenges to ensure equitable access to exchange opportunities.

It examines not only participants but also those who opt out, offering a broader perspective on exchange intentions.

Abstract

Study abroad programs offer significant benefits for healthcare students, including enhanced cultural awareness and professional development. However, participation in these programs is often influenced by various enablers and barriers. Understanding students’ characteristics, preferences, and knowledge about exchange opportunities is important for supporting students and developing strategies to facilitate exchange.

This study conducted a cross-sectional survey among students enrolled in four 3-year professional health bachelor’s programs in Norway. It aimed to investigate students’ characteristics, preferences, and knowledge about exchange opportunities. Additionally, it sought to examine enablers and barriers to exchange, as well as associations between students’ characteristics and their intention to participate in exchange programs.

The survey results (N = 192) suggest associations between social relationships, financial considerations, personal motivations, and students’ decisions regarding participation in exchange programs.

This study provides a more nuanced understanding of students’ characteristics, preferences, and barriers associated with the intention to participate in international exchange opportunities within health science programs. Institutions should address the practical and personal challenges that students may encounter, thereby ensuring equitable access and participation. Furthermore, the study offers insights into the initial stages of the exchange process, focusing not only on those who choose to participate in exchange programs but also on those who opt out.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12909-025-07136-4.