More International Students Coming to Russia: Pros and Cons

Abstract

Introduction. Despite numerous research works on international students’ training at Russian universities, no analysis of efforts to increase student body has been made so far. In this paper, the authors analyze various aspects of policies aimed at increasing international students’ body (economic advantages, sociocultural benefits, education system changes, international students’ adaptation management). The goal of the paper is to consider the advantages and disadvantages of the international students’ rise in the total population of Russian universities. Materials and Methods. The study comprised several stages, including statistical data screening, analysis of international students’ adaptation measures efficiency, the education process participants’ survey and observation of the activities of public agencies responsible for international students’ stay and study in Russia. The survey involved about 100 university employees, an equal amount of small and medium business representatives and 500 international students from Russian universities. 500 international students participated in a questionnaire survey, and digital content of Russian universities’ websites has been analyzed in order to obtain data necessary for the study. Results. The study revealed a trend toward a rise in international student body at Russian universities, with advantages including higher universities’ incomes, jobs preservation despite the demographic instability, and development of the region’s small and medium business owing to an increased demand for goods and services. The trend also provided socio-cultural and educational benefits and revealed the need to manage students’ adaptation, as well as to establish and develop interaction between universities and federal agencies. Discussion and Conclusion. The research results provide a contribution to education and student body management and regional business strategy planning. The findings may be of assistance to heads of recruitment agencies and bodies responsible for accompanying international students at the place of stay, as well as to service industry managers.