Understanding National College of Ireland’s International Student’s preferences during the Covid-19 pandemic

The world is encountering an unprecedented outbreak in the name of COVID-19. There is no doubt that this virus has directly impacted everyone’s lives. Education is one of the most important factors contributing to the improvement of humankind. The education sector is also one of the most heavily impacted sectors by the pandemic. COVID-19 has caused a major stir in the education sector. However, the educational needs of the world have not been hindered and the number of students has only increased since the outbreak of the pandemic. This paper aims at identifying international student’s behaviours towards higher education outside of their country during the time of the pandemic. Consequently, understanding the factors that affect the decision-making process of studying abroad. This study also studies why the currently enrolled students chose the National College of Ireland over other schools to pursue education during the time of the pandemic. Moreover, the study investigates if students are satisfied or dissatisfied with the changes in the teaching approach and practices initiated due to the COVID-19 pandemic.