Challenges in international joint education programmes: a systematic review

International Joint Education Programmes (IJEPs) represent a transformative approach to transnational education by enabling institutions from different countries to collaboratively confer joint or dual degrees. While their popularity has grown due to their potential benefits, such as fostering student mobility, enhancing employability and driving curriculum innovation, these programmes face significant challenges. This paper systematically reviews studies focusing on first-hand experiences with IJEPs to explore their benefits, issues and possible solutions. Key challenges identified include regulatory barriers, financial constraints, language proficiency issues, cultural adjustment and pedagogical differences. The review also examines how strategies like language support measures, expectation management and the use of technology can mitigate these challenges. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on IJEPs by providing evidence-based insights and recommendations to support their effective design and management.<p></p>