Objective <p>The aim of this study is to reveal the tendencies of medical students toward brain drain and identify the factors influencing brain drain.</p> Methods <p>A mixed-methods design was adopted in this study. Quantitative data were collected from 1036 medical students enrolled in the faculty of medicine of a state university using a sociodemographic information form and the Brain Drain Attitude Scale. Qualitative data were collected from 12 sixth-year students using a semi-structured interview form.</p> Results <p>The prevalence of pull factors of brain drain was significantly higher among the male participants, and the participants whose mothers had bachelor’s or higher degrees showed decreased tendencies toward brain drain, whereas those whose mothers were homemakers exhibited increased tendencies. For the participants whose fathers were healthcare workers, pull factors decreased, yet overall brain drain tendencies increased. Additionally, foreign language proficiency was identified as a factor increasing brain drain tendencies. Four main themes shaping the thoughts of the participants on brain drain were identified, and the health system and working conditions had the strongest effects.</p> Conclusion <p>The results of this study indicated that the idea of brain drain was not yet firmly established among medical students. However, in the absence of improvements in the health system, it may become a significant driving force.</p>