Opoku-Agyemang Williams¹, Asamoah Oppong Zadok^{1, 2,}, Kofi Afari², Aidoo Anokye Joel¹

This study investigates the purchasing behavior, preferences, and financial challenges of international students at the University of Tlemcen, Algeria. Understanding consumer behavior is essential for educational institutions, marketers, and policymakers aiming to support student wellbeing and financial planning. A descriptive cross-sectional quantitative survey design was employed to collect data from a randomly selected sample of 100 international students. Data were gathered using a structured online questionnaire that included both open- and closed-ended questions, as well as Likert scale items. The study analyzed income levels, frequency and amount of spending, and product purchasing preferences. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied using SPSS and STATA to analyze the responses. Results revealed that a majority of the students were single and highly educated, with most earning moderate annual incomes. Weekly and biweekly purchases were common, and most respondents reported spending between 500 and 1000 Algerian Dinar per purchase. Higher income levels were associated with greater spending capacity and more frequent purchases, while students with lower incomes exhibited more conservative spending patterns. The findings suggest that income level is a key determinant of consumer behavior in this population. This research contributes valuable insights into the economic behavior of international students, highlighting the need for targeted financial education and support services. It also offers useful data for local businesses and service providers aiming to better cater to this demographic.

International students, Consumer behaviour’ purchasing patterns, student income, spending habits, and University of Tlemcen