In what sense 'distinctive'? The search for distinction amongst cross-border student migrants in the UK

•'Geography' is inadequately conceptualised in studies of 'distinction' (Bourdieu).•Despite significant divergences in student fee regimes, significant cross-border student flows continue in UK.•'Glocalisation' may be an important aspect of student mobility.•Cosmopolitan distinction may be a driver producing clustering of student migrants in global cities.

This paper offers a geographical analysis of the concept of 'distinction' in relation to student mobility within the UK. The analysis in this paper is based primarily on interviews with Scottish students who have chosen to study in England, and English students who have done likewise in Scotland. The paper problematises the concept of 'distinction' in the stratified higher education system of the UK. The paper's originality lies in showing how global forces affect these intra-state student flows and how 'distinction' as a driver of mobility is signified. The research offers a starting point in understanding the glocalisation of student mobility.