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This qualitative research aimed to identify the factors influencing selected international graduate students to study in the United States or Canada and to explore their post-graduation employment experiences. The researcher compared the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program in the United States with Canada's Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP). The ultimate goal was to determine the similarities and differences in the students' rationales for choosing a study destination and in their experiences with post-graduation employment, considering the post-study work program available in each host country.
A thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with 11 international graduate students identified six key factors that influence the choice of a study destination: (1) academic considerations, (2) financial concerns, (3) social influences, (4) language and culture, (5) immigration and employment policies, and (6) students' perceptions of the host country. Regarding post-study employment experiences, the findings highlighted that U.S. graduates often find the OPT program challenging to navigate and face significant career uncertainty after its completion. In contrast, graduates in Canada report a more favorable experience with the PGWPP, although securing employment remains a challenge in both countries.
Mazzarol and Soutar's (2002) push-pull framework was employed to analyze the factors driving international graduate students to North America. This study deepens the understanding of international student mobility and highlights the challenges impacting graduates' ability to transition into the workforce in their host countries. The findings have significant implications for policymakers, higher education institutions, employers, and international students currently studying or planning to study in the United States or Canada.