International students in less attractive institutions and countries: how integration can make a difference

This paper explores integration strategies for international students in less renowned Portuguese institutions, but which nonetheless enrol large proportions of international students. The research questions focus on how these institutions approach international students’ integration, what practices contribute to their success and the role integration plays in enhancing institutions’ attractiveness. Interviews with institutional representatives unveiled integration strategies related to community building/belonging, institutions acting as a second home and academic support. The paper foregrounds innovative approaches that benefit international students and institutions, which may be relevant, especially in less attractive contexts (countries and institutions) which need to find different ways of standing out.