This paper examines the determinants of tertiary students’ non-return home following study abroad, a type of brain drain. Survey data on the return intentions of international students in New Zealand universities are analysed using a partial proportional odds model. Initial intention, perceptions of lifestyles and of opportunities for knowledge use are found to be the principal determinants of return intentions. Students who initially intend to return home upon completion of studies have higher probabilities of returning home. Students with favourable perceptions of their home countries, in terms of lifestyle and knowledge application opportunities, are also more likely to return home.