1. Survey of International STEM Graduate Students
An online survey was administered to international UCSB graduate students from Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields in 2013 focusing on their motivations for staying or departing the US upon graduation.
Results:
A student’s plans for after graduation is the biggest determining factor on whether s/he will remain or leave the US
If a student wishes to work in industry, there is a 90% probability that s/he will aspire to stay in the US
If a student wishes to work in academia or government, his/her decision to stay/leave is dependent on the interaction of professional, personal, and social factors
Of those wishing to leave the US, 72% cited “family” as an influential factor
Of those wishing to stay in the US, 88% cited “job opportunities” as an influential factor, followed by “overall quality of life” (68%)
Foreign graduate students in STEM still view the US as a top destination country for those wanting to engage in advanced research and innovation.
Students view the current immigration process as a hindrance to staying in the US
Han, X. Stocking, G., Gebbie, M., & Appelbaum, R. (2014). “International Graduate Students in the US: Motivations for Staying and Departing the US Upon Graduation.” In Preparation.