Xenocentrism and preference for foreign graduate education: Role of perceived academic prestige in a cross-national SEM study

Abstract

Xenocentrism (XEN) is a psychological and sociocultural construct that affects individual preferences in identity-related domains. The primary aim of this study is to examine how XEN influences undergraduate students’ preferences for foreign versus domestic graduate education, with a particular focus on the mediating role of perceived academic prestige (PAP). Although prior research has conceptualized XEN in the realm of consumer behavior, this study extends its application into higher education decision-making. This study employs a quantitative, cross-sectional, cross-national design to test hypothesized relationships among XEN, PAP, and students' preferences for foreign graduate programs. The research design is grounded in theory-driven SEM modeling for the simultaneous analysis of direct, indirect, and moderated effects across two postcolonial emerging economies: the Philippines and the Dominican Republic. This study investigates novel empirical evidence and theoretical insights into how xenocentric beliefs affect students’ preferences for foreign graduate education, with a focus on the mediating role of PAP. It examines how these relationships vary across country contexts. These outcomes will contribute to academic discourse, inform institutional strategy, shape public policy, and enhance student empowerment.