CHALLENGES EXPERIENCED BY KAZAKHSTANI STUDENTS DURING THEIR ACADEMIC MOBILITY PROGRAM ABROAD

Abstract

Internationalization of higher education in Kazakhstan, as a viable response to globalization, is carried out through academic mobility programs among other initiatives. However, studying abroad is not all about sweetness and light, it might also cause challenges for international students. The problem is that the majority of research conducted on student mobility is focused on the benefits of the programs lacking information about potential obstacles. Moreover, there is little research examining various strategies employed by international students during their adjustment in a new environment. Therefore, this study aimed to explore what kinds of challenges Kazakhstani students encounter during their academic mobility program abroad. Additionally, the study examined students’ reactions to these challenges as well as different approaches and strategies employed by them to overcome obstacles.