Exploring international postgraduate students’ experiences at a South African University

Abstract: South Africa is one of the few countries in the Sub-Saharan Africa that are making concerted efforts to attract international students to institutions of higher learning. However, an array of studies has revealed both pleasant and unpleasant experiences faced by international students while studying in South African institutions. This study explored the experiences of international postgraduate students studying at a University in the KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa. Qualitative research method was employed in the study. Data was collected from nineteen (19) international students currently registered for postgraduate studies in the university. The social learning theory was used to underpin the study in relation to the experiences of the international students while studying in South Africa. A questionnaire with open-ended questions was used to collect data from the participants. Data collected was analysed through thematic data analysis method which brought about construction of various themes which include acclimatisation, socialisation, academic terrain, and financial affordability, among others. Findings of the study revealed affordability of tuition, a conducive environment, adaptability, quality of education provided, amongst others, are experiences which incite international students migrate to study in the selected South African based university. However, securing funding is a major challenge to many of the participants. Based on the findings, therefore, the research study recommends the introduction of a special endowment fund by South African universities to attract the attention of prominent wealthy personalities within the continent. Such an endowment fund could be used to sponsor indigent students from Africa to study and conduct research in any of the South African universities