This paper responds to calls for studies of student migrant experiences and the institutional actors that are involved in international student migration. In particular, we examine the ways in which institutional actors can influence student motivations and experiences through a case study of the Norwegian Quota Scheme. We discuss three main findings. First, institutions play a significant role in determining who migrates and the reasons for migration while shaping the academic experience and future migration plans of international students. Second, state‐funded international student migration programmes constrain the future plans of recipients, reflecting potential differences in decision‐making among state‐funded and self‐financed students. Third, international students – as both students and migrants – undergo significant personal growth during the course of their studies. This complicates state goals to return or retain student migrants, as the ambitions of students are likely to change concomitant with their personal development. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.