Student perspectives on the value of university mobility programmes

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the benefits of university–organised international experience for full‐time undergraduate students at a single English post‐1992 university with a high proportion of widening participation entrants. Using a mixed‐methods design, data were collected from 91 undergraduates through a questionnaire and a focus group with semi‐structured questions. Findings show that participation in international experience is associated with increased cultural capital and a marked development of aspirational capital, evidenced by shifts in students' confidence, career awareness and perceptions of international opportunity. These benefits were most pronounced among students from socio‐economic disadvantaged backgrounds and were strongly mediated by institutional support. The study's key contribution is the extension of cultural and aspirational capital into the context of undergraduate international experience at a post‐1992 university, demonstrating how structured institutional support can enable transformative outcomes for students who would not otherwise engage in outward mobility. This research can aid UK Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) by informing enhancements to outward student mobility programmes. These improved practices may contribute to understanding the pre‐requisites of enabling a high‐quality, meaningful and sustainable approach to international experience programmes. Rationale for the study: This study provides insight into the benefits of a university‐organised international experience for undergraduates at a post‐1992 university in the UK, focusing on those from widening participation backgrounds where outward mobility has historically been low. Why the new findings matter: The findings demonstrate that international experience can build cultural and aspirational capital, enhance employability and broaden global outlooks for students from socio‐economic disadvantaged backgrounds. This highlights its transformative value beyond traditional academic outcomes. Implications for relevant audiences: For practitioners, the study underscores the importance of targeted promotion, structured support and accessible short‐term mobility options. Policymakers and funders can use the findings to strengthen schemes such as the Turing Scheme and Erasmus+, to better support widening participation and social mobility agendas. Researchers and practitioners gain an extended application of cultural and aspirational capital theories within international student mobility education. Institutions and senior leaders can apply the insights to inform the design of inclusive, sustainable international programmes that enhance student engagement, employability and global citizenship.