The impact of conflict on international student mobility: a case study of international students studying in Israel

This paper explores the impact of conflict on international student mobility. Through an examination of undergraduate, international students studying in Israel, this case study questions how and if a situation of ongoing violent conflict affects international student travel decisions to study in a host country. Contrary to assumptions of marketisation of higher education in which international students make market choices based on the pursuit of rational self-interest to acquire competitive academic credentials, this study uncovers alternative motivating factors for international student mobility. Findings from this study reveal that ideological and religious affiliation to a host country may motivate international student mobility towards conflict zones. This study suggests that under these circumstances, international student mobility towards a conflict zone may persevere.