Inclusion and Internationalization: Perception of Higher Education Students

Abstract Internationalization has emerged as a strategic priority in contemporary higher education, aimed at enhancing educational quality by engaging students with diverse perspectives, academic cultures, and global experiences. It also promotes cross-cultural collaboration and fosters inclusive learning environments. Achieving these objectives requires creating conditions that support the academic and social success of students of various backgrounds. In this study, we explore the perceptions of Portuguese higher education students about multiculturalism and the inclusion of international peers. A total of 155 survey responses were collected from local and international students enrolled in four institutions: the Polytechnic of Braganca, the Polytechnic of Guarda, the Polytechnic of Castelo Branco, and the University of Beira Interior; the research employs a mixed methods approach. The results reveal that although students recognize the importance of internationalization and recognize formal institutional policies, significant structural and interpersonal barriers remain. These include communication challenges, group work difficulties, and the perceived lack of visible institutional support for integration. In particular, the students emphasized the need for more targeted and visible inclusion strategies. The findings offer insights that can inform institutional planning and classroom practices, reinforcing the importance of creating inclusive academic environments that support intercultural learning and equitable participation.