Administrative Determinants of International Student Attraction in Malaysian Universities

Oshaghilashkariani Amirreza; Alireza Mohammadi

doi:10.56982/dream.v5i01.325

Authors

Oshaghilashkariani Amirreza City University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Alireza Mohammadi City University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56982/dream.v5i01.325

Keywords:

international student attraction, administrative determinants, higher education internationalization,, service quality, Malaysian universities

Abstract

The globalisation of higher education has intensified competition among host countries and universities to attract international students, particularly within emerging education hubs such as Malaysia. While prior studies have predominantly emphasised academic reputation, cost, and cultural factors, the role of administrative determinants in shaping international student attraction remains conceptually underdeveloped. Addressing this gap, this paper develops a comprehensive conceptual framework that synthesises key administrative determinants influencing international students’ enrolment decisions in Malaysian universities. Drawing upon Push–Pull Theory, Institutional Theory, and Service Quality perspectives, the study identifies critical administrative dimensions, including admission and application processes, visa and immigration facilitation, administrative communication and responsiveness, international student support services, and the digitalisation of administrative systems. The paper argues that administrative efficiency and service quality function as strategic pull factors by reducing uncertainty, enhancing institutional trust, and improving the overall student experience throughout the pre-arrival and enrolment journey. By contextualising these determinants within Malaysia’s higher-education internationalisation agenda, this study highlights the strategic alignment between institutional administrative capabilities and national policy objectives. Conceptually, the paper contributes to the international education literature by repositioning administrative functions from peripheral operational roles to core strategic assets that enhance institutional competitiveness. Practically, it offers insights for university administrators and policymakers to strengthen administrative excellence as a sustainable competitive advantage in attracting international students. The paper concludes by outlining directions for future empirical research to validate the proposed framework across institutional and cross-country contexts.

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