This study examined the perceptions of expatriate educators regarding their first contract international recruitment experience. The research problem investigated was that recruitment presents ongoing challenges for expatriate administrators while expatriate educator attrition rates in international schools can have an adverse effect on institutional culture including the learning, outcomes, and experiences of students. The research question guiding this study was, What are first contract expatriate educators' perceptions of the international school recruitment process? The research aimed to understand the experiences, challenges, and factors that influence the decision-making process of first contract expatriate educators during the international recruitment process. The study utilized a qualitative phenomenological approach, employing semi-structured interviews with first contract expatriate educators who have recently signed their first expatriate educator contract and moved from their home country to an international school in a host country new to them. This study revealed burnout, stress, and/or lack of perceived trust in their home country's educational system were themes behind first contract expatriate educators' decision to move into an international educational environment and leave their home country's educational system. The findings of this study offer insight into the first contract expatriate educator perceptions and provide evidence-based guidance for expatriate educators and international school leaders in identifying the best fit first contract expatriate educators. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the experiences of first contract expatriate educators during international recruitment and sheds light on the factors that influence their decision to accept or reject a contract and recommendations for both international school recruiters and those aspiring to be first contract expatriate educators. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]