Chinese students' decisions for studying in U.S colleges: an exploratory investigation

This study explores decisions Chinese students make on whether or not to study in universities and colleges in the United States. Due to the rapid growth of Chinese students in the U.S. in recent years, and the limited literature about this market segment, this research attempts to investigate the process of decision making that leads to Chinese students studying in the United States as their preferred destination. International student enrollment is a vital component of university life and a much needed source of financial revenue. The Chinese students' decisions to attend college in the U.S indicate that Chinese students are seeking education with a world view, and they opt to break from the traditional Chinese educational system. Although choosing to study in the U.S. is an academic endeavor, the decisions leading to such a choice are not solely academic in nature. This article offers academicians and university administrators a better understanding of the Chinese students' decision making process, hopefully to provide a better quality education to serve this market segment.