The anatomy of international students’ acculturation in UK universities

Abstract

The diversity of the student population in the United Kingdom’s higher education sector evokes a vision of the world as a global village. The effect of this diversity on the UK economy has been considerable. Nevertheless, the research attention given to how overseas students can become integrated into UK culture remains inadequate. This interpretive research study helps to fill that gap by exploring the acculturation of overseas students in the United Kingdom using a London-based university as the contextual platform. It discusses the challenges faced by overseas students, which include culture shock, discrimination and limited opportunities for interpersonal relationships, and looks at how these challenges might be addressed. The article suggests strategic directions for higher education institutions to create value for their target students in the highly competitive education sector.