This chapter offers a critical review of international student migration with a focus on South Africa and Germany. Drawing on empirical literature, policy reports, and case studies, this examination explores global mobility trends, regional dynamics in African student migration, and country-specific developments. Key themes explored include motivations for studying abroad, institutional support, acculturative strategies, and student experiences related to academic integration, social adaptation, and mental health. The analysis identifies macro trends in global student flows, highlights regional barriers and supports, and evaluates national responses. A conceptual framework is introduced to explain how acculturative stress, acculturative strategies, psychological capital, and institutional support interact to shape mental health outcomes among international students. The chapter concludes by synthesising key insights into the structural and psychological dimensions that condition international student experiences.