STEM student mobility intentions post-graduation and the role of reverse push-pull factors

This study examined political, economic, and social factors influencing students' mobility intentions, comparing factors based on students' home country gross national income (GNI) per capita. Researchers analyzed data from the Graduate Students in Science Survey administered to STEM students at ten U.S. research universities. Results suggest that economic push-pull factors influence intent to stay in the U.S., while political, social, socio-economic, and sociopolitical reverse push-pull factors influence intent to return to their home country. Differences in push-pull factors were found based on home country GNI category. The discussion considers implications on global workforce development, higher education, and immigration policy.