Purpose: This study aims to reveal the underlying reasons why international students studying in Turkey choose Turkey and Turkish as a foreign language (TFL) within the framework of the push-pull theory. Methodology: The research was designed using phenomenology, a qualitative research method, with 18 international students studying at a state university in Turkey during the 2024-2025 academic year. Data were collected through semi-structured interview forms and interviews aimed at uncovering the students' reasons for choosing Turkey and the Turkish language. These data were thoroughly examined and analyzed using content analysis, and the findings were presented in tabular form. Results: Research findings reveal that pull factors play a dominant role in international students' decisions to pursue higher education in Turkey and learn Turkish. It has also been observed that the reasons for choosing Turkey and Turkish vary depending on students' countries of origin and their purposes for coming. In particular, varying pull factors such as the quality of higher education in Turkey, the country's geopolitical position, and the ability to communicate in Turkish are especially prominent. Research and literature also emphasize that Turkey, a developing country that provides education in languages other than English, hosts a large number of international students from different continents and countries. Originality: The research is significant in that it guides relevant institutions and organizations, as well as TFL instructors and administrators, by revealing the push-pull factors behind the preferences of international students who choose both Turkey and the TFL. It also has the potential to contribute to the development of limited studies in this area. Furthermore, it is recommended that researchers conduct studies at different levels and with broader participation to produce more generalizable results.
International student migration, Türkiye, Turkish as a foreign language, push-pull theory.