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.

Credential Evaluations: The Hidden Key to Building Trust in International Admissions In today’s global education landscape, accuracy and trust are non-negotiable. As institutions navigate processing international applications, the need for reliable, consistent, and fair assessment tools has never been greater. Credential evaluations offer a simple but powerful solution—bridging gaps between diverse education systems, reducing risk, and streamlining admissions decisions. But the benefits don’t stop at universities. For recruitment agents, integrating credential evaluations into your workflow can significantly elevate your credibility, reduce rework, and position you as a true partner in student success. Whether you're an institution aiming to uphold academic integrity or an agent striving to stand out, credential evaluations are no longer optional—they're essential. Why Credential Evaluations Matter to Institutions 1. Reduce Risk Universities are under increasing pressure to detect document fraud and uphold academic standards. Credential evaluations add a trusted third-party layer of authentication, protecting institutions from admitting unqualified or misrepresented applicants. 2. Ensure Fair Admissions With thousands of education systems around the world, it’s nearly impossible for institutions to fairly assess all applicants without some form of standardization. Evaluations create a common language for reviewing foreign credentials. 3. Speed Up Decision Making When students provide ready-to-evaluate credentials, institutions save time. Admissions teams can move faster, leading to higher placement rates and improved student satisfaction. Why Credential Evaluations Benefit You as an Agent 1. Increase Your Credibility Submitting complete, authenticated, and evaluated documents makes you a trusted partner. This credibility leads to: Repeat partnerships Higher application conversion rates Invitations to preferred agent programs 2. Reduce Rework and Rejections Applications often get delayed or denied because of: Incomplete documents Unofficial translations Unverifiable institutions Credential evaluations help minimize these issues and reduce unnecessary back-and-forth. 3. Position You as a Professional Consultant Offering evaluation guidance shows you’re more than just an agent—you’re a strategic advisor. You help students understand the value of their education and guide them toward successful outcomes abroad. How to Integrate Credential Evaluations into Your Process Identify the Requirements Find out which credential evaluation services are accepted by your partner institutions. ECE works with more than 2,000 institutions across the U.S. and Canada. Educate Your Students Explain how evaluations improve their chances of admission, credit transfer, or visa approval—and why starting early matters. Build It into Your Workflow Create a checklist for evaluations as part of your application process. Help students gather necessary documents and start evaluations early. At ECE we’re proud to work with recruitment agents. We even offer a dedicated ECE Agent Portal™ that allows you to place and track orders on behalf of your students. Trust Is the Currency of Global Education In a competitive recruitment landscape the agents and institutions that stand out are those who lead with integrity, clarity, and professionalism. Credential evaluations might seem like a small step, but they play a powerful role in building that trust—ensuring that every application is not only complete but also credible. For institutions, evaluations uphold academic standards. For agents, they elevate your reputation, simplify workflows, and strengthen your value as a long-term partner. Most importantly, for students, they facilitate a smoother, more transparent path to global education.

Introduction The Philippines is emerging as a promising international recruitment market for U.S. higher education institutions. With a young, globally minded population and strong historical ties to the U.S., Filipino students are increasingly considering international study, especially in the U.S., as a pathway to personal and professional growth. In a recent webinar hosted by IDP, in-country experts Jojo Habana, Philippines Country Director and Romina Romero, Country Destination Manager - Canada/US shared valuable insights into student motivations, enrollment trends, and recruitment strategies tailored to the Philippines market. IDP Philippines recently expanded U.S. operations, making it a perfect time for partners to diversify their recruitment strategies into this growing market. This article distills key insights and takeaways from the webinar. Philippines Country and Education System Overview 

Baltimore, MD / Washington, DC — STAR Scholars in collaboration with the American International Recruitment Council (AIRC) , is pleased to announce the publication of Navigating the Future of International Enrollment Management: Insights and Strategies (DOI: https://doi.org/10.32674/zhaw2s80 ), edited by Clay Harmon and Krishna Bista . This scholarly volume provides a comprehensive analysis of the rapidly changing global landscape of international student enrollment and offers actionable frameworks for institutions, policymakers, and practitioners. Drawing on contributions from internationally recognized researchers and experienced enrollment professionals, the book addresses critical themes shaping higher education today: the rise of international branch campuses, the role of transnational education models, the integration of artificial intelligence and digital transformation in recruitment, and the importance of equity, student well-being, and institutional resilience. Case studies from the United States, Latin America, Asia, and Africa demonstrate how global perspectives and local realities intersect in shaping the future of international higher education. The volume has been praised by global leaders in the field: “A compelling framework that transforms international enrollment from a complex challenge into a strategic opportunity for global academic excellence.” — Thomas Tinnefeld, PhD, Saarland University of Applied Sciences, Germany “An essential resource offering innovative strategies and crucial insights for education leaders navigating international enrollment in today’s rapidly evolving global landscape.” — Chunipha Poedloknimit, PhD, Western University, Thailand “A rich collection of perspectives that deepens our understanding of how to create supportive and globally connected learning environments for international students.” — Lu Lu, PhD, Beijing Language and Culture University, China As international student mobility faces unprecedented disruption from demographic shifts, political dynamics, and digital innovation, this book provides clarity and foresight. By aligning institutional practice with global strategy, it equips universities and professionals to advance inclusive, ethical, and sustainable enrollment management worldwide. Publication Information: Title: Navigating the Future of International Enrollment Management: Insights and Strategies Editors: Clay Harmon and Krishna Bista Publication Date: September 4, 2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.32674/zhaw2s80 Availability: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, and Open-Access eBook Keywords: International enrollment management, student mobility, higher education, global engagement 📦 Order copies: STAR Scholars Press Catalog ### About AIRC: The Association of International Enrollment Management AIRC 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) for the field of international enrollment management. Its members are accredited secondary and post-secondary institutions, student educational recruitment agencies, and service providers that seek to promote standards-based international student recruitment and enrollment practices. As a leader in the field of international enrollment management, AIRC develops and provides essential resources, services, and programs for its 400+ members to advance their recruitment goals and adhere to standards. Contact: Clay Harmon, Executive Director American International Recruitment Council +1 240-547-6400 Clay.Harmon@airc-education.org

The past two years have seen major changes across the international education sector, yet demand from future students remains high. In fact, international student advisors from 40 countries shared in the most recent ApplyBoard Recruitment Partner Pulse Survey (1) that, despite shifting policies, international students remained dedicated to their academic goals. Read on to learn which factors are currently affecting future students' destination decisions, how interest levels and student perceptions are changing, and which study destinations are top-of-mind. The UK, Canada, and the US Remain the Most Attractive Study Abroad Options When asked how attractive different destinations were to their students, the US was a compelling option for many respondents. 67% said their students thought the US was a 'very attractive' or 'attractive' option :

Over the past several months, the education community has closely followed and responded to policy decisions that have significantly affected the recruitment of international students to U.S. institutions. As we continue to navigate these evolving challenges, Leap GeeBee and our university partners remain committed to driving forward, supporting not only yield efforts for the Fall 2025 intake but also encouraging applications for future terms. Several recent strategic discussions with our institutional partners have revisited the concept of application incentives and flexibility on admissions requirements. While such incentives encourage students to submit applications, do they ultimately work? And, do they simply drive up application volume or do they actually improve other points of the application funnel? Application fee waivers Application fees serve a variety of purposes in the admission process. Practically speaking, there are real costs to be covered in the processing of application materials. Conceptually, the application fee can be an intentional barrier, requiring students to have enough genuine interest in a school to pay the fee. However, incremental costs build quickly as students prepare their application materials, and seemingly nominal amounts in US dollar terms can be significant in the home countries of potential students. Additionally, the initial application is only one of many touchpoints during the admissions process when a university can engage with great students. Lessening the barriers to apply brings more students into a university’s funnel, thus increasing the volume of potential students to admit and ultimately enroll But, what does the data tell us? Out of 138 universities recently reviewed, 98 of the institutions (71%) provided application fee waivers. Perhaps not surprisingly, these institutions received 98.2% of applications submitted during the observed time frame. Admit rate was effectively the same across the two pools. However, offer acceptance as measured through I-20 issuance was lower for fee waiver schools, at 36% compared to 48% for those who required the fee. While conversions for app fee waiver schools were lower by 12 percentage points at the I-20 issuance stage, the higher volume generated by these schools provided a strong enough base to outweigh these losses in ultimate enrollment numbers.

AIRC is pleased to release our 2024-2025 Annual Impact Report. Take a look at AIRC's successes this past year and our future plans. 

Millions of students pursue international education every year. It's a movement that's continued through global shifts in affordability and access, and will continue to grow. In fact, some sources project there will be over 9 million international students by 2030. To see how future students' priorities are shifting and what factors are shaping their journey, the team at ApplyBoard, an international student mobility platform, runs a semi-annual Student Pulse Survey. Since the first survey in 2022, over 3,500 students have shared their thoughts. The most recent survey ran between February 25, 2025, and March 12, 2025, and collected insights from nearly 850 students. Let's take a closer look at which programs and careers students are aiming for, how changing policies are affecting their plans, and which study destinations are gaining ground. Key Findings: In the survey, affordability was the most commonly cited determining factor when choosing a study program. It was noted as important by 77% of respondents. 92% of surveyed students indicated some level of interest in studying in the US. Due to rising costs, just over one in four students are considering different study destinations than they'd initially planned. Strong Interest for Studying in the US Rises When asked where they'd like to study, 65% of respondents were only interested in studying in one or more of the following destinations: Australia, Canada, Germany, Ireland, the UK, and the US. The survey also looked at students' specific levels of interest in these destinations: 

New insights | Rebuilding trust by rethinking priorities in international student recruitment By Riccardo Lanza Studying abroad in the United States has a stellar reputation; it is the most popular destination for international students, hosting over one million students in the last academic year. We all know, however, that recent times have been challenging - the Trump administration cutting research funding, the immigration crackdown on international students and now, competition from emerging markets is intensifying as some of the European Union’s most high-profile leaders gathered to launch the ‘Choose Europe for Science’ initiative early in May. It seems the threats keep coming. It is time for universities in the USA to reassert their leadership by focusing not just on academic excellence, but on delivering the outcomes and experience today’s students value most. Edvoy’s recent research into student preferences and institutions’ perceptions of what students are looking for highlights an essential truth: student priorities are changing in subtle but significant ways. By acting on what they say, we can rebuild trust in the USA as the ultimate destination. A changing market: strategic students, choosing differently Edvoy’s latest data confirms international students are increasingly acting like consumers. Applicants are outcome focused, with value for money and employability standing out as integral to their decision-making. The top three factors for making their final choice on where to study were: Opportunities for industry placements and work experience , especially important to students from Nigeria, Nepal and Pakistan Access to scholarships or financial support , a critical consideration for particularly undergraduates from lower-income countries Cultural alignment and sense of community , where the perceived ease of fitting in and feeling welcomed had a strong influence on their decision. What is noticeable by its absence, compared with previous insights, is the university’s ranking. Over 60% of institutions ranked university reputation among their top three assets in marketing their university, whereas only 38% of students said it had a decisive impact , particularly those in Saudi Arabia, India and Bangladesh. One Indian student commented, “I knew what country I wanted, but the university came down to job links and cost. I actually ruled out a higher-ranked school because it didn’t have paid internship options.” In contrast, more than half of the students surveyed listed scholarships in their top criteria, whereas fewer than one in three institutions viewed them as a major attractor. This is a major challenge for USA universities that expect the highest tuition fees for international students, globally, with an average of $20,000-$50,000, going up to an average yearly cost of $45,000-$70,000 including accommodation and living expenses. For most, studying abroad is more than an academic pursuit - it's a major investment, often funded through family resources or loans. A degree alone is no longer the end goal; it's a gateway to better career opportunities, higher earning potential, and, for some, a path to long-term residency or international work experience. This is why features like post-study work opportunities, industry partnerships, and robust career support are playing an increasingly pivotal role in where students choose to study. Their perceived value comes with the promise of greater return on investment from the initial outlay. Changing the narrative: aligning student priorities with international student recruitment strategy The USA is renowned for its academic excellence, boasting some of the world’s top universities that consistently dominate global rankings. To compete with emerging markets, offering lower costs, it’s important to talk about more than these credentials. And you won’t have to do it on your own. While 32% of students listed university websites among their top three research tools - placing them ahead of social media (25%) - the most trusted source of guidance was clear: 44% of students said they rely on recruitment agents or study abroad consultants to help them decide what and where to study. The impact of these conversations is significant. Globally, 38% of students change their original choice of course or destination after speaking with an advisor - a figure that rises to over 60% in South Asia and East Africa . Working with, and training, partners and agents on how to talk differently about your university is vital. Here are some key areas to focus on to help them be successful: Circulate latest scholarship information for agents to promote to their student networks, updated visa and admissions guidance ensures transparency and reflects ease to apply. Showcase career opportunities , such as paid-for internships during study, mentorships or graduate employment rates . Successful alumni may even be open to talk to your agents as well. Celebrate diversity ! Many campuses offer cultural celebrations on their campuses but seldom talk about it during the application process. Share photographs with your recruitment network, and talk about how you welcome international students and help immerse them in their new country. Finally, adapt partner training based on regional priorities . For instance, students from Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia focus more on rankings; those from Nigeria, Pakistan and Nepal care more about affordability and post-study work opportunities. A student-centred strategy will win! To remain a top destination for international students, USA universities must move beyond traditional markers of prestige and also focus on what students truly value today: affordability, employability, and a sense of belonging. Rebuilding trust means listening more closely and aligning recruitment strategies with students’ evolving priorities. By highlighting practical outcomes, strengthening agent partnerships, and tailoring messaging by region, institutions can better meet the needs of a new generation of globally minded learners - and ensure the United States remains a compelling and competitive choice in a shifting global education landscape.