Exploring motives and challenges of students in Erasmus+ mobility program: A Case of Khazar students

Abstract

One significant development in educational mobility is the emergence of the Erasmus+ programme, which has facilitated study experiences abroad for many students, including those from Azerbaijan. Consequently, it is crucial to understand the primary reasons behind students' decision to participate in the program and the urgent pressing issues they come across while pursuing it. In the same vein, this mixed research study investigates the motives and challenges of Erasmus+ students at Khazar University. The results showed that the main motives for the program are: a chance to study abroad, a chance to meet new people, to have fun and to gain independence or self-sustainability. On the other hand, the students perceived the pre-Erasmus period as the most challenging. The most daunting challenge for students in this period is paperwork. However, the major hurdles during the Erasmus program include variations in education systems, financial constraints, and culture shock. Following the Erasmus period, most students face what can be described as "post-Erasmus adjustment syndrome."