Target research project Stimulating and inhibiting factors of international students studying in Slovenia

This project is based on a systematic research approach focusing on a specific student group—international students who come to Slovenia for their studies. The research will begin with a comprehensive review and analysis of existing materials, including legislation and media coverage, to identify factors thatstimulate or inhibit the mobility of this student population.

To gain deeper insights into the current state, we will analyze existing data on international students enrolled in Slovenian higher education institutions and develop a survey questionnaire to collect extensive and high-quality quantitative data. These data will shed light on the motivations of international students for choosing Slovenia as their study destination and the factors influencing their academic success. Particular attention will be given to identifying the key reasons behind their decision to study in Slovenia, the enabling factors that support their studies and successful completion, as well as the obstacles they encounter during enrollment and throughout their studies.

The empirical part of the research will be further enriched through semi-structured interviews with international students. These in-depth discussions will provide valuable insights into their experiences and help identify additional potential facilitating and inhibiting factors that may influence their decision to study in Slovenia, as well as their academic performance and completion.

Project leader: Dr. Andreja Živoder, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ljubljana

Peace Institute: Živa Humer (2024), Leja Markelj (2025) and Franja Arlič