As a member of the U.S. for Success Coalition’s Advisory Council, we are pleased to share the following updates from the U.S. for Success Coalition with the AIRC community. In spite of a continuously challenging policy environment, we have collectively achieved important milestones across each of the four interconnected pillars of our strategy: Mobilizing and supporting champions of our issues Educating and activating influential allies Promoting a positive narrative in the media Leveraging the strengths of our members Here are a few highlights: Introduction of Bipartisan Legislation to Codify Optional Practical Training Our efforts to strengthen relationships with our champions on Capitol Hill and to collaborate with allies who share our interests are yielding results. In March, we helped build support for the introduction of the Keep Innovators in America Act (H.R. 8013) , federal bipartisan legislation to protect and codify the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which in turn, helps Americans to succeed. When the bill was introduced , the U.S. for Success Coalition and more than a dozen of our members announced their support, representing a broad section of higher education, business, and immigration organizations. Thank you to the following organizations from the coalition that endorsed the bill upon introduction: AILA, AIFS, AIRC: The Association of International Enrollment Management, Alliance for International Exchange, American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers, Council of Graduate Schools, EnglishUSA, FWD.us, Global Detroit, NAFSA: Association of International Educators, Presidents' Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, Shorelight, Studyportals, and TESOL International Association. Following the bill’s introduction and in anticipation of more attacks on OPT to come, we convened a coalition-wide OPT strategy meeting . We continue working with the House bill’s co-sponsors on securing more support for the legislation and exploring which of our champions in the Senate might be best positioned to introduce their version of the bill. If you have interest in supporting these efforts, please let us know by emailing info@usforsuccess.org using the subject line: OPT Advocacy. Here are a few quick links to continue to build support for OPT with allies and policymakers: Priority Bill Spotlight by US4S coalition member, FWD.us Press releases from the bill’s sponsors and from our Coalition Action Alert from US4S Executive Committee member, NAFSA, to urge cosponsorship of the bill OPT Strategy Meeting Slidedeck Next steps: Together, we must continue to educate Congress that protecting OPT is a practical step Congress can take to support economic growth, workforce development, and educational excellence. Our topline message is that Optional Practical Training benefits Americans. The program: Helps attract international students, whose tuition fees then make U.S. higher education more affordable for American students and families Creates jobs for American workers Fills labor shortage gaps in high-demand fields with individuals educated at U.S. colleges and universities Priorities for our collective action: Secure additional cosponsors for the House bill Seek bipartisan cosponsors in the Senate Continue to encourage those who have influence with the Administration, including allies in the business sector, Republican members of Congress, and state-level leaders, to quietly urge the Administration to preserve OPT. Dignity Act Builds Momentum On March 19, the U.S. for Success Coalition’s Executive Director and one of our Executive Committee members, the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, joined with other stakeholders from across the nation, representing families, faith groups, businesses, educators, and immigration advocates, to advocate for the DIGNITY Act of 2025. As you likely recall, the bill includes important provisions promoting American prosperity and innovation that will help the U.S. to compete for international students. Thanks in part to our coalition’s efforts, the bill continues to gain bipartisan support. To date, there are 39 bipartisan cosponsors and counting. Student Visa Processing as a National Priority In March, the State Department finally released data that showed significant declines in student visa issuance. On April 8, 2026, our coalition sent a letter urging the U.S. State Department to prioritize international student and scholars visa processing during the upcoming peak season for visa applications, consistent with the approach taken by administrations of both parties in the past. The letter notes that the United States continues to face increasing competition from other nations for global talent, urging that every qualified and vetted international student who seeks to study at one of our many academic programs be able to secure a timely visa appointment for approval in advance of their studies. The letter makes the case that when international students choose the U.S, we all win . View the press release , which includes key facts showing how international students benefit Americans, and read the letter to the Department of State. Promoting a Positive Narrative and Making the Case for International Students Contributing to American Success Following on the successful off-the-record bipartisan briefings we held in November and December with both the House and Senate, we have been actively educating about how international students help Americans succeed by expanding educational opportunities for U.S. students, creating jobs, filling critical skills gaps, and contributing to our local economies each year. Part of that work has included building on the excellent research by our Hill briefing speakers, Stuart Anderson, Executive Director, National Foundation for American Policy, and Michael Clemens, Professor of Economics, George Mason University; Senior Fellow, Peterson Institute for International Economics, among others. In February, we convened some of the world’s top researchers on immigration and the economy to discuss their latest research. View highlights of topline findings related to how international students contribute to U.S. competitiveness. Building upon the vitally important message testing we conducted last year with generous support from US4S Executive Committee Members (ETS, NAFSA, and Shorelight), we are now planning a digital campaign focused on key members of Congress with strong potential to champion international student policy issues. We will be in touch in the coming weeks about that campaign so that you can help to amplify the message. Strengths of our Members: The Coalition’s Executive Committee continues to drive our strategy and to actively collaborate on implementing our agenda to maintain the U.S. #1 position in international students, with invaluable input and counsel from our Advisory Council . This year, we have also added four new members to the Coalition, including International Student Resource Center (ISRC), JBI, Medforth Global Healthcare Education, and WERC. Each of these new members brings important subject matter expertise, networks, and commitment to our shared advocacy agenda. Each of our coalition members continues to provide relevant data and real-life examples of impact, to leverage their relationships with policymakers, and act collectively to advocate for visa and immigration policies that help the U.S. to remain competitive. To highlight just a few recent reports you may wish to use in your own advocacy: Keystone Education Group → Student Interest and Perceptions : A recent survey demonstrates that student interest in the United States remains down, but stable and shows that policies may be impacting overall perceptions of U.S. quality. Shorelight → Beyond the Interview: A Decade of Student Visa Denials and What Comes Next : Updated April 2026; analyzes 2015–2025 visa denial trends and links them to enrollment decline and access barriers. ApplyBoard → Top Trends in International Education for 2025 and Beyond: Navigating Global Student Mobility Fl a gship trends report on global student demand, policy impacts, and shifting destination preferences. Global Detroit → Global Detroit released the first state data report to use new federal data tracking international students working after their graduation. The findings prove that international students are a massive source of high-skilled talent, helping Michigan employers to fill tens of thousands of critical positions in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). IDP Education →The most common post-graduate employment pathway for international students in the U.S. is Optional Practical Training (OPT). In IDP’s survey , students were asked how changes to post-study work (PSW) policies such as OPT would affect their decision to study in a particular destination. If no post-study work visa were available, 66% would choose a different country to study or reconsider their options. Upcoming Events We look forward to seeing many of you at NAFSA’s annual conference in Orlando, Florida, where we will have two special meetings for US4S members on Wednesday, May 27: 9:30-10:30am ET, US4S Members-only Strategy Meeting, Room W107 Convention Center 12-12:30pm ET, US4S Session, NAFSA Pavilion, Expo Hall As a reminder, here is what you can do now: Urge Members of Congress to support a bill that would codify OPT. Urge the State Department to prioritize student visa processing. Let us know if you need support in partnering with influential allies who can weigh in with the Administration. If you have questions or have resources that can help support other coalition members in their work to facilitate international student success, please don’t hesitate to email us at info@usforsuccess.org . 

DENVER, CO, March 13, 2026 – AIRC is pleased to announce a new strategic partnership with S.W.I.P.E. (Schools with International Programs of Excellence) , a network of K-12 international student program administrators committed to the highest standards of international student support and program development. Plans for the partnership include a number of initiatives in which AIRC and S.W.I.P.E. will share their knowledge, expertise, and professional development opportunities with each other's members, thus strengthening the international enrollment management ecosystem and enhancing partnership opportunities between association members. According to S.W.I.P.E.’s Executive Director, Anna DeJulia, “S.W.I.P.E. is excited to partner with AIRC to bring greater visibility to K–12 international schools within the global recruitment ecosystem. By bringing the K-12 school, agent, and post-secondary sectors together in one place, we are creating new opportunities, opening the door for stronger collaboration, clearer pathway opportunities, and strengthening the ecosystem that will ultimately help our international students thrive.” According to AIRC’s Executive Director, Clay Harmon, “In a time of global student mobility shifts, we are pleased to partner with S.W.I.P.E. to expand our knowledge base and assist our members in diversifying their portfolios. Our partnership will help to ensure that international students at every stage of their educational journey are guided by practitioners dedicated to upholding the highest standards in international enrollment management.” About S.W.I.P.E (Schools with International Programs of Excellence) S.W.I.P.E. is a community of K-12 international student program administrators committed to the highest standards of international student support and program development. The SWIPE community supports excellence at the K-12 level through professional development, collaboration, advocacy, and promotion of member programs. About AIRC: The Association of International Enrollment Management AIRC: The Association of International Enrollment Management is a 501(c)(3) non-profit membership association recognized by the U.S. Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission as a Standards Development Organization (SDO). AIRC champions the interests of international students, educational institutions, and educational agencies through the development of professional standards and partnerships that advance effective and strategic practices in international enrollment management. Contact: Clay Harmon, Executive Director AIRC: The Association of International Enrollment Management +1 240-547-6400 Clay.Harmon@airc-education.org

Before COVID, most evaluation companies would have frowned upon accepting emailed documents. To authenticate documents, typically original documents or official documents sent in a sealed envelope are required. The pandemic changed all of that. When the world shut down, we had to consider other secure ways to receive academic documents from international students. The question still remained – should we accept these emailed credential scans? Rise of digital documents For years, ECE resisted accepting emailed documents because we did not consider them official. As the pandemic spread around the world, institutions began asking that we accept emailed documents while their offices were closed for health reasons. A few years later, what started as a temporary solution has become acceptable practice. While we were willing to work with emailed documents, we initially considered it a temporary measure aimed at helping institutions deal with pandemic shutdowns and the resulting limited access to office space. As the pandemic subsided, most office spaces re-opened, and official documents were available again for shipping. Interestingly, the pandemic inadvertently started a new trend: widespread adoption of digital documents and electronic document portals by many institutions around the world. It is easy, secure, and environmentally friendly. Save the trees! With that said, does ECE still accept emailed documents? Yes, we still accept emailed documents from relevant sources. However, we have established an email authentication process that each emailed document goes through before it is accepted for evaluation purposes. We also only consider accepting emailed, authenticated documents if no digital transfer or electronic portal option is available. Emails are not a substitute for established trusted practices offered by the institution in question. Why do we need to vet emails? Primarily, emails can be spoofed to pass off fraudulent documents as legitimate. Second, emails could be sent by an unknown source, which would render the documents unofficial or unacceptable. Thus, we prioritize email authentication practices when dealing with emailed documents. We have become very efficient in knowing what to look for and when to hold up the evaluation for further investigation. Adventures in email authentication One of our interesting discoveries involved an email sent to us from an African university account by what appeared to be a member of the academic registry staff, judging by the title listed in the email. Although the person was a publicly listed staff member of the university, the email address for the account was different by one letter from what was publicly listed on the university's website. The correct email address used the person's first name initial followed by the full last name (e.g., hsmith). The fake email address used the first and middle name initials followed by the last name (e.g., hasmith). A small detail that is amazingly easy to miss. Another issue was that the email transmission failed to pass through the DMARC and DKIM email security protocols and indicated origin from a server we have not seen used in any prior communications with the same university. Something wasn’t adding up! Another case involved an email from a university in the Middle East, but from a completely unverifiable Gmail account. While it is common for some institutions to use Gmail accounts, it is not acceptable if we cannot verify those accounts on their website or through other official means. In this instance, we contacted a known contact at the university and notified the applicant that we were reaching out for more information. Not too long after, we received a response indicating the documents were not authentic, and the email address in question was not authorized for official communications. We took another step and used a free email checker tool (ECE uses the Free Email Verifier by Wiza) to see if the email address was still active (which it was when we first reviewed this case). Lo and behold, the email address was no longer deliverable. We never found out whether the person worked at the university, but we now know that whoever sent the email was not authorized to do so. The value of email authentication became even more apparent when we received a message from a reputable email address of a university. From the looks of it, it was a regular official email with attached academic documents. Nothing of note there. However, when we inspected the message header more closely, the red flags popped up. The email transmission failed several authentication protocols, which was unusual for messages received from what was considered an official email address. It was enough to hold up the evaluation process and contact the university for verification. In all these cases, we confirmed that the emailed documents were fraudulent, further demonstrating the importance of exercising caution when working with emailed documents. We will be sharing a more detailed resource on email authentication via the Connection Advantage soon. In the meantime, the advice is: “know your sender and verify how the email was sent." Happy emailing, everyone! 

Dear Colleagues, A few weeks ago, the US Department of State finally released its F-1 visa issuance data for last summer, confirming what we already knew to be true: the US issued significantly fewer student visas in 2025. The total decline of 36% is the largest single-year decline on record other than what we experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. This sudden, precipitous drop in student mobility to the United States is due solely to unilateral, unpredictable, and unhelpful policy changes under the Trump administration. It has had real impacts on AIRC members of all types, many of whom have contacted us to express deep concerns for the immediate and medium-term future. Under these difficult circumstances, our mission and our community are more important than ever. I want to assure you that AIRC is here for you throughout 2026 and beyond:  AIRC events provide concrete, solutions-oriented knowledge and data to help equip our members for new opportunities and markets. For example, this year's Spring Symposium examines the rise of global destination markets and how our field can strategically respond. Registration is open now ! I hope to see you in Orlando on Monday May 25. And save the date for AIRC's 18th Annual Conference in Dallas, the first week of December 2026. Our most critical moral and strategic imperative right now is to take the best care we possibly can of our current and future students. To that end, AIRC continues our #WeAreHereforYou campaign through our 2026 webinar series . The series focuses on practical advice and resources for serving international students during challenging times. AIRC continues to offer valuable member benefits and resources that help members advance their international enrollment management strategies, including networking and partnership opportunities, IEM resources, conference and events, and professional development opportunities. The membership renewal period will begin on May 1, and we encourage you to stay involved and continue engaging with the AIRC community. Now is the time to lean in. On the advocacy front, AIRC continues to collaborate with our US for Success Coalition partners to push for a better policy environment, through actions like amicus briefs, support letters, and action alerts. Although the administration's regulatory actions are counterproductive, international education and exchange still have solid support throughout the federal government and in Congress. Stay tuned for more detail on this point very soon - hopefully later this week. There is no denying that 2026 is a tough time for our community. But we will persevere because our mission - and our students - are worth it. I am continually amazed by AIRC members' grit, determination, and "happy warrior" ethos. As always, I welcome your input on how we can better serve you and advance our mission. Please feel free to contact me directly anytime at clay.harmon@airc-education.org . Warm regards, Clay Harmon, EdD Executive Director AIRC: The Association of International Enrollment Management

Krutika Thalnerkar Senior Content Writer | Leap Scholar If 2024 was about “wait and watch,” 2025 was the year Indian students officially broke the mold. We have seen a massive transition from “hoping for the best” to “calculating the best”, where every degree is scrutinised for its global market value. After analyzing the journeys of 3 million students, the data tells a powerful story: In 2026, you aren’t just an applicant; you are a strategic investor. The old question “Can I afford to go?” has been replaced by the high-stakes reality: “What will this degree actually give me?“ Beyond the traditional hubs, a “Great Destination Shift” is underway. From the growing interest in the UAE to the strategic rise of tuition-free Germany, Indian students are redrawing the global map in search of affordable excellence. With AI Master’s interest skyrocketing and working professionals leading the race to upskill, the 2026 intake is no longer about just a degree; it is about securing a seat in the future of work. Aspirant Profile & Demographics The demographic profile of Indian aspirants in 2024–25 exhibits a structural shift compared to the cohort from three years earlier. Analysis of data from over three million applicants and survey respondents on the Leap Scholar platform indicates a transition in the broader educational landscape. Age Distribution  While the primary age distribution follows established patterns, granular analysis reveals specific compositional changes: The data indicates that while the majority of aspirants (65.5%) are in the 18-25 age bracket, there is a significant cohort of mature students. Notably, over one-third of the applicants are aged 26 or older, suggesting a trend of working professionals seeking qualifications later in their careers. Gender Distribution The gender gap remains evident, with male applicants constituting 58% of the aspirant base compared to 42% for females. However, this gap is narrowing, particularly with more women pursuing STEM programmes abroad. What Students Are Interested In Studying - Degree Level Distribution 2025

Over the last couple of years, we have seen the emergence of AI’s use in international student recruitment and how it is reshaping the industry. There seems to be a mix of early, enthusiastic adopters, and those who just hope it will go away. But it isn’t going away. Our latest student survey found that almost one-third (30%) of respondents would use AI to write their applications, with 40% saying maybe, but they were unsure of whether it was ‘allowed’. We owe it to the students we serve, to incorporate AI into our ways of working for better service in recruitment, make the process transparent so they are clear on terms of use, and offer guidance and AI’s best practices to ensure their readiness for the global economy. And we must do it in a safe, compliant way. Some institutions and recruitment agencies are also benefitting from AI’s use, from optimising processes to reduce peak workload administration to offering on-demand information to students across different time zones with chatbots. Those who have already integrated AI are a step ahead. Its advantages continue to grow as more stringent visa checks and compliance pressures increase already stretched workloads processing student applications to the US. Historically, the admissions process has been highly time-consuming and prone to human error. But with the use of AI, one can harness the data and predictive power to make it all the more efficient. A competitive advantage, recruiting the best students AI’s ability to screen and prioritise high-quality applications ultimately means students can make their destination decisions more quickly. This speed is a competitive advantage; students are more likely to act on an offer rather than wait for others. This ensures the best students are engaged early, improving the quality of your applicant pool. Edvoy’s Genie is an AI course matching tool. It analyses 200+ data points to assess the likelihood of a student’s application success. The data points include academic qualifications, budget, and entry requirements. By pre-qualifying the student much before the application is submitted, AI helps save time for universities, which would otherwise be wasted on ineligible applicants. AI in compliance, navigating stringent visa checks Any change to visa requirements puts more pressure on compliance procedures. AI can conduct thorough pre-vetting processes to catch any inconsistencies, which is a major boost to application integrity. It can also be used to assess mock interviews for credibility checks, ensuring the student’s verbal communication aligns with their written application. AI can also help as a final compliance check, where it analyses student profiles and flags unexplained study gaps or complex financial histories for mandatory human intervention before the issuance of the I-20 form. This helps universities maintain their reputation and high visa success rates. With this strategic handholding by AI, recruitment partners and universities can focus on more important tasks, such as personalised student guidance and relationship-building. The ethical responsibility of AI But with every powerful tool comes ethical responsibility. At Edvoy, we firmly believe that while AI helps boost efficiency and processes, its predictive nature comes with the potential bias of what a successful applicant is. Leaving it unchecked could result in unfairness. Edvoy uses a number of tools to actively safeguard us against existing biases. For example, the data supplied to our systems, such as Genie, covers diverse demographic groups to ensure balanced outcomes. Additionally, it’s built with XAI or Explainable AI, which helps humans understand the rationale behind the AI results (and in our case, Genie’s recommendations), making it easy for us to monitor and improve the system. AI isn’t going anywhere; it has the ability to greatly enhance our ways of working, and can make education more accessible across the globe. We must work together to inform students of best practices and ensure that transparency and ethical accountability remain at the heart of every use.

As global student mobility enters a period of rapid transformation, U.S. colleges and universities are facing new challenges: shifting visa trends, rising competition from Canada and the UK, economic pressures on families, and a saturated digital recruitment environment. In this landscape, strong, ethical, and data-driven partnerships between universities and recruitment agencies are emerging as the most reliable solution for sustained international enrollment growth. With India poised to remain the world’s largest outbound higher education market , and the U.S. retaining its spot as the number-one study destination, universities must rethink how they engage with agencies to build resilience, quality, and long-term recruitment success. This blog explores what U.S. institutions must do differently in 2025 , how recruitment partners like Texas Review add value, and what a successful university–agency ecosystem looks like in the years ahead. Why Strong Partnerships Matter Now More Than Ever 1. Student Markets Are Volatile  Visa changes, geopolitical shifts, affordability concerns, and job market news can influence student flows overnight. Agencies on the ground provide real-time market intelligence universities cannot access directly. 2. Digital Marketing Alone Is Not Enough Students still want: In-person guidance Application support Financial planning help Visa preparation Career pathway counselling Agents remain critical touchpoints for students and families. 3. Quality Over Quantity Is The New Priority Universities are increasingly focused on: Retention Career outcomes Diversity Academic readiness Well-trained, high-integrity agencies play a major role in ensuring students are the right fit. The Four Pillars of a Strong University–Agency Partnership To thrive in 2025 and beyond, universities must shift from transactional interactions to structured, collaborative, and transparent relationships. Pillar 1: Shared Market Intelligence & Data-Driven Decision Making Universities often rely on historical trends, but markets move fast. Agencies provide: Real-time insights on student preferences Competitive pricing intelligence Demand by program and study level Barriers affecting specific regions Policy awareness (visa, immigration, scholarship trends) In return, universities should share: Conversion data Program competitiveness Application volume insights Enrollment bottlenecks This two-way intelligence helps institutions adjust programs, pricing, marketing, and communication strategies. Pillar 2: High-Quality Training for Counsellors One of the biggest gaps in international recruitment is counsellor-level program understanding . Universities should offer: Monthly product trainings Webinars with faculty Recorded demos of labs, facilities, and student services Detailed admissions guidelines Clear visa and compliance updates Scholarship and assistantship insights When counsellors are well-trained, they: Recommend the right programs Improve student preparedness Reduce deferrals and drop-offs Enhance application accuracy Boost conversion Pillar 3: Streamlined Admissions & Student Experience Indian students are heavily influenced by how fast and transparent the admissions process is. Universities should: Make Applications Easier Accept unofficial transcripts for initial review Offer digital document verification Allow trusted partners to pre-screen applications Reduce dependency on expensive credential evaluation services Improve Processing Speed 6–8 week decisions no longer work. Students expect: 10–20 day initial review Fast I-20 issuance Clear communication on missing documents Increase Transparency Provide agents with: Reasons for rejections File status dashboards Timeframes for review stages A transparent system builds trust and speeds conversions. Pillar 4: Collaborative Marketing & Outreach Agencies like Texas Review run: Multi-city education fairs Targeted school and college outreach Digital campaigns Counsellor training meets Alumni meetups University spot admissions sessions Universities should participate through: Faculty-led talks Virtual masterclasses Program spotlight sessions Alumni testimonials On-ground visits at peak times This creates massive visibility and positions institutions as top-choice destinations. How Texas Review Adds Value to University Partners Texas Review, with its 13+ years of experience in U.S. student recruitment, brings a combination of scale, quality, and insights: 1. Market Leadership 350-member recruitment team Strong presence across India’s Tier 1, 2, and 3 cities Extensive student counselling reach Deep understanding of U.S. program trends 2. Ethical, High-Compliance Recruitment Counsellor training Pre-screening based on university criteria Document verification Visa readiness checks SEVIS and compliance awareness 3. Program Promotion Strategy Especially for STEM programs beyond Computer Science: Public health Environmental sciences Robotics Data analytics Bioinformatics Supply chain Aviation / aerospace Healthcare informatics 4. Conversion-Focused Admission Support Application-quality checks Timely submissions Scholarship guidance Visa preparation 5. In-depth Market Analytics Region-wise demand Program-specific interest levels Behavioural shifts Competitor insights What Universities Can Do in 2025 to Build Sustainable Pipelines 1. Diversify Program Marketing Move beyond CS and promote: Emerging STEM Research-intensive programs Affordable tracks Hybrid and co-op oriented degrees 2. Strengthen Affordability Options Offer: Scholarships for Indian students Early payment discounts Research assistantships Instalment-based tuition plans 3. Build Consistent Communication Students and agents value: Clear deadlines Transparent requirements Response timelines Visa guidance Real employability stories 4. Invest in India With large-volume recruitment, universities should allocate: Dedicated regional managers Annual faculty visits Exclusive agent workshops Co-branded marketing campaigns 5. Prioritize Long-Term Partnerships Instead of cycling through dozens of agencies, institutions should cultivate long-term relationships with high-quality, high-capacity partners . Conclusion As international education becomes increasingly competitive, strong university–agency partnerships are no longer optional — they are essential. The institutions that succeed in 2025 and beyond will be those that: Embrace collaboration Prioritize transparency Respond to real-time market needs Invest in counsellor training Support affordability Promote emerging STEM fields By working closely with experienced partners like Texas Review, U.S. universities can build resilient, scalable, and high-quality recruitment pipelines that benefit students, institutions, and the global workforce.

In October, Leap GeeBee hosted its first global insights webinar, Latin America Market Insights 2025 , bringing together international admissions professionals from across the U.S. to explore emerging opportunities in Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico. The session, led by Leap GeeBee’s in-country LATAM team, highlighted one of the fastest-growing regions for outbound student mobility and outlined practical steps for U.S. institutions seeking sustainable, long-term partnerships. Latin America’s demographic and economic profile makes it one of the most promising regions for higher-education engagement. With over 650 million people and a median age of just 31, the region is home to a digitally connected, aspirational youth population. As David Arango, Country Manager for Latin America, shared during the webinar, “We’re witnessing a real shift. Students aren’t just chasing prestige anymore. They’re asking: What’s my return on investment? Will this program get me a job, or help me build a career back home?” That emphasis on employability, affordability, and flexibility is reshaping how students in Latin America choose destinations and programs. While the U.S. remains a top choice, competition from Canada, the U.K., Australia, and Europe has intensified, particularly among students seeking post-study work options or lower-cost alternatives. For U.S. institutions to stay competitive, outreach in LATAM must evolve from transactional recruitment to relationship-based engagement focused on career outcomes and long-term value. Brazil: A Rebounding Powerhouse As the region’s largest market, Brazil continues to show strong recovery and renewed interest in U.S. higher education. Following a period of currency stabilization and improved visa processes, outbound student demand is accelerating. Barbara Lemos, Business Development Manager for Brazil, noted, “When the Brazilian real stabilized last year, we saw a noticeable uptick in inquiries. Students are again seeing the U.S. as attainable, especially for language programs, exchange experiences, and undergraduate STEM pathways.” Brazilian students increasingly seek career-aligned undergraduate degrees that connect directly to employability, particularly in engineering, computer science, business, healthcare, and creative industries. These students are outcome-oriented and view international education as a strategic step toward long-term mobility or entrepreneurship. Alongside full degree programs, short-term mobility options are rising fast. Summer exchanges, intensive English or STEM boot camps, and one-semester certificate programs are popular among students who want to strengthen their English proficiency, gain a credential, and enhance their résumés without committing to four years abroad. These programs also serve as a bridge to longer-term study, allowing students to test the U.S. environment and build confidence before transferring into degree programs. However, affordability remains a key concern. Students and parents are highly sensitive to total cost of attendance - not only tuition, but also housing, travel, and visa expenses. Programs that clearly communicate financial value, payment flexibility, and return on investment stand out in this competitive landscape. For institutions, highlighting career placement rates, internship pathways, and alumni success resonates far more than ranking or prestige alone. While Brazil once hosted several government-funded mobility programs, there are no active national scholarship schemes supporting outbound study at this time. Only a few state-level initiatives remain, generally targeting high school students. The OAS Scholarship primarily supports inbound mobility, bringing students into Brazil or other OAS member states, rather than funding Brazilians to study abroad. As such, institutional scholarships, payment flexibility, and local partnerships play an even more critical role in supporting Brazilian students today. Finally, Brazilian students respond strongly to localized engagement. Outreach in Portuguese, WhatsApp-based communication, and partnerships with local schools, agencies, and professional associations build trust and visibility. When institutions invest in language, transparency, and sustained presence, families respond with loyalty. Colombia: Scholarship-Driven and Graduate-Focused Colombia continues to distinguish itself as one of the most sophisticated and scholarship-driven education markets in Latin America. Both undergraduate mobility and graduate advancement present strong potential for U.S. institutions. At the undergraduate level, Colombian families typically invest strategically, looking for programs that combine affordability, transferability, and employability. Private universities often partner with U.S. institutions through articulation or 2+2 transfer pathways, creating structured routes for students who wish to complete their degree abroad. Interest is particularly high in STEM, business, and creative industries, where U.S. programs are seen as innovation leaders. However, it’s in the graduate and professional education space that Colombia shows exceptional growth. Rising scholarship availability, expanding middle-class aspirations, and employer sponsorship are driving outbound demand for master’s degrees, MBAs, and executive education programs. According to Natalia Mendoza, Business Development Manager for Colombia, “Colombian students are very intentional. They’re looking for degrees that advance their professional standing, not just another credential. Hybrid, dual-degree, and executive programs that allow them to study part-time or begin online are especially attractive.” This practical mindset means institutions offering career-aligned, modular master’s programs, particularly in business analytics, data science, finance, education, and global public policy, are better positioned for recruitment success in Colombia. Financing plays a defining role, with programs like COLFUTURO’s Scholarship-Loan Program becoming a cornerstone of Colombia’s international education ecosystem. The initiative offers partial loan forgiveness for students who return to Colombia after completing graduate studies abroad, effectively linking talent mobility to national development goals. Mexico: The Gateway Market Mexico remains one of the most stable and strategically important recruitment markets in Latin America. Its close proximity, cultural familiarity with the U.S., and growing middle class make it a consistent source of qualified students across undergraduate and graduate levels. The market has evolved toward structured, affordability-focused pathways that reduce financial barriers while maintaining academic quality. The most successful models are those that integrate flexibility, recognition, and affordability from the start of the student journey. A growing number of Mexican students are pursuing 2+2 and 1+3 transfer pathways, beginning their studies at home or in local institutions before completing degrees in the U.S. These routes allow families to manage costs while still accessing international credentials. Dual-degree programs, especially in business, engineering, hospitality, and computer science, continue to attract strong interest by combining binational learning and bilingual skill development. U.S. community colleges are increasingly seen as a cost-effective starting point for Mexican students. With lower tuition, simplified admissions, and transfer articulation agreements, these partnerships offer a clear, affordable path toward a bachelor’s degree in the U.S. Leap GeeBee supports this model by connecting U.S. colleges with trusted preparatory schools and agency partners across Mexico, as well as educating families on the pathway from community college to a four-year institution. At the graduate level, demand is shifting toward blended and hybrid formats that allow professionals to balance career and study. Students are drawn to programs that combine online coursework with short-term residencies or on-campus immersion experiences. Disciplines such as education, business analytics, cybersecurity, and health administration show the strongest growth, particularly when programs emphasize flexibility, affordability, and international relevance. For U.S. institutions, Mexico offers a model of sustainable recruitment built on collaboration and adaptability. Institutions that prioritize transfer-friendly credit policies, academic partnerships, and hybrid program options are well positioned for success. Aligning with financial resources such as U.S. Embassy Mexico scholarships can further enhance affordability and reach. Recommendations and Next Steps for U.S. Institutions in Latin America Latin America remains one of the most dynamic regions for international student recruitment but success here depends on adaptability, trust, and long-term commitment. Below are some key recommendations from our team to shape an institution’s approach to engaging with the region. Understand What Drives Students and Deliver on It Students across the region view international education as a career investment, not a luxury. They’re calculating return on investment, focusing on employability, affordability, and post-graduation outcomes. To meet these expectations, universities should: Emphasize career pathways, internship access, and alumni employment outcomes in communications. Highlight value and flexibility, including payment plans, scholarships, and hybrid delivery options. Showcase real graduate success stories from Latin American alumni. Strengthen Agility and Collaboration with Agencies Leap GeeBee’s partner network across Latin America consistently values efficiency and engagement over brand name alone. Strong relationships depend on: Quick turnaround times (TATs) for application review and decision release. Clear and consistent admissions requirements. Open communication channels and availability of admissions teams. Joint engagement through webinars, fairs, or local outreach. Navigate Market Barriers with Practical Solutions Persistent challenges such as currency fluctuations, visa delays, and competition from countries offering post-study work options continue to shape student decisions. The most effective institutions respond by: Offering transparent pricing and creative financing (installment options, on-campus jobs, local scholarships). Simplifying application steps and minimizing hurdles to completion. Using hybrid or dual-degree pathways to reduce cost and travel risk. Customize Your Approach by Source Market Another key element shaping success in Latin America is program segmentation by source market. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to Latin America. Each country has its own student profile, shaped by distinct economic realities and educational priorities: Brazil – Prioritize undergraduate STEM and business programs, along with short-term English or exchange options. Lead with affordability and outcomes; note that while national government funding is inactive, state-level and institutional scholarships can make study abroad viable. Colombia – Focus on graduate and professional advancement programs aligned with COLFUTURO and employer sponsorships. Mexico – Expand transfer pathways, community-college articulation agreements, and blended graduate programs that accommodate working professionals. Institutions that adapt messaging, program design, and pricing to each country’s realities will achieve stronger engagement and sustainability. Utilizing Leap GeeBee’s in-country teams for local insight and real-time support, maximizing digital marketing, providing collateral and engagement tools in Spanish and Portuguese, and considering in-country representation are all ways to further customize an institution’s approach in the region. Embrace Emerging Models of Engagement The region’s growth will be driven by ecosystem-based partnerships, not one-off recruitment. Institutions should explore: Microcredentials and short-term programs that upskill professionals without requiring full relocation. Hybrid and dual-degree delivery models that balance recognition with flexibility. Regional hubs and faculty exchanges to bring education into the region. Scholarship collaborations with organizations like COLFUTURO (Colombia) and U.S.–Mexico Embassy programs . Stay Connected If you missed the Latin America Market Insights 2025 webinar or would like to connect directly with our LATAM country managers, contact the Leap GeeBee U.S. team at universityrelations@leapfinance.com . In addition, the US team will be attending the AIRC Conference in December. Be sure to connect with us and learn more about: New recruiting markets, updates to existing regions, and additional market insight webinars scheduled for 2026 Digital marketing opportunities designed to enhance visibility in emerging markets. Virtual and in-person recruiting events hosted through our global network of trusted agents. Our new In-Country Representative Platform, now available across all Leap GeeBee markets 

The New Reality of Global Enrollment: Partnering for Education and Employability For decades, studying in the United States has symbolized ambition and possibility for international students. Yet the motivations guiding those choices are evolving. Today’s students view education not only as an academic pursuit but as a strategic investment—one that must yield tangible outcomes in employability, immigration access, and long-term career growth. This evolution has implications not just for students, but for the institutions and agencies that serve them. Universities and recruitment partners alike are being challenged to rethink how programs are designed, positioned, and supported. Understanding the Shift: From Prestige to Practical Outcomes Recent data from Revelio Labs, analyzing over 150 million hiring records, reveals a clear trend: entry-level hiring is shrinking while demand for experienced professionals rises. As automation and AI reshape industries, early professional exposure is no longer a bonus—it’s a prerequisite. For international students, this means planning practical training—such as Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT)—from the outset of their academic journey. Moreover, proposed updates to the H-1B system that favor higher-paying positions will further reward graduates who transition quickly into meaningful employment. Universities that integrate employability into the student experience are better positioned to attract and retain these globally minded learners. Learning from Global Models The global enrollment landscape underscores the urgency of adaptation. The U.S. share of the international student market has fallen from 28% in 2001 to 16% in 2024 (ICEF Monitor, 2024). Meanwhile, competitors such as Canada have expanded by aligning education policy with clear, predictable work pathways. Canada’s co-op education framework offers a compelling example: paid, field-related work is built directly into the degree structure, and universities such as Waterloo and UBC guarantee students industry exposure before graduation. Between 2012 and 2022, Canada’s international enrollment rose by 201%, compared to 24% in the U.S.—a gap driven largely by transparent, work-integrated models. Redefining Institutional Value For U.S. institutions seeking to remain competitive, the challenge is not simply to offer CPT or internships, but to embed employability into the core of the educational experience. Effective strategies include: Proactive Guidance – Integrating early advising on CPT, OPT, and H-1B pathways ensures students plan their work experience strategically. Tailored Career Support – International students benefit from dedicated career services that address visa-specific job searches and employer communication. Curricular Integration – Making internships or co-op placements credit-bearing guarantees every student gains relevant U.S. experience before graduation. These practices strengthen both student outcomes and institutional reputation by linking learning with demonstrable return on investment. The future of international education will belong to those who bridge expectation and outcome—those who recognize that employability is not an afterthought but the foundation of value. Author: Christina Chen, GoElite Inc.