An exploratory investigation of study-abroad online information cues

Despite numerous studies on the factors involved in the decision-making process on study abroad, little attention has been paid to the initial stage when students process information. This qualitative study aims to map out the cues involved when Chinese students process study-abroad information from an information-processing perspective. Findings showed that family members, the Internet, and agents were the main channels through which respondents obtained information. Recognition of qualifications by the source country, employment prospects, and price were identified as important cues. This study identified the determining role of cues by using a rating system. Using marketing cues, marketers may be able to design and align marketing strategies which are more efficient at attracting Chinese students in the future.