To stand out in a crowded, complex landscape, institutions must offer unique value and clearly demonstrate return on investment (ROI) to prospective students.

In this blog, we’ll explore the key trends, benefits, and challenges shaping international student recruitment in 2025. By understanding these dynamics, higher-ed institutions can position themselves to attract top global talent, cultivate a diverse student body, and tackle the challenges of the enrollment cliff.

Trends in international student recruitment in the US

The total number of international students in the US reached an all-time high of over 1.1 million for the 2023-2024 school year, reflecting a 7% increase from the previous year. This surge not only highlights a strong post-pandemic recovery—particularly in graduate programs—but also underscores the significant economic impact of international students, who contributed $50 billion to the US economy in 2023, according to Forbes.

Students from over 235 countries now study in the US, with India (377,620 students) and China (330,365 students) leading the way. Combined, these two countries account for over 70% of the total international student population. However, other countries, such as South Korea, Canada, and Brazil, are showing steady growth in their contributions to the US international student landscape, reflecting the increasing diversity of origin countries.

Regionally, international student enrollment grew across all US census regions between 2022 and 2023. The South saw the largest growth at +13.4%, followed closely by the Midwest with +13.2%, and the Northeast at +10.5%. The West also experienced growth, though at a more modest +5.7%. These increases indicate that institutions across the country are seeing growing interest from international students, though the scale of growth varies by region.

Despite these gains the 2024-2025 academic year saw a 5% decline in new international student enrollment, suggesting a need for strategic efforts to maintain momentum. US institutions face fierce competition from top universities in other leading study destinations, including the UK, France, Australia, and Canada. To remain competitive, US universities must not only differentiate themselves globally but also navigate restrictive immigration policies that create barriers for prospective students.

How international recruitment fuels university growth and global impact

International student recruitment plays a vital role in higher education, driving institutional growth, global reputation, and innovation. By attracting students from around the world, universities create diverse campuses, secure essential funding, and foster cultural exchange. This strategy not only supports the sustainability of institutions but also positions them as leaders in global education.

Here are four key reasons why international student recruitment is vital:

• Fosters cultural diversity on campus – International students bring unique perspectives that enrich campus life, fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding. This diversity benefits both domestic and international students, shaping culturally aware graduates who thrive in global and inclusive environments.
• Drives financial growth – International students contribute significantly to university funding by paying out-of-state tuition fees, often two to three times higher than in-state rates. In 2023, international students added $50 billion to the US economy, with a substantial portion going directly to universities, supporting academic programs, research, and campus resources.
• Boosts institutional reputation – A diverse international student body strengthens a university’s global presence and reputation. Positive experiences shared by international students enhance an institution’s image abroad, attract more prospective students and faculty, and contribute to higher rankings—ultimately securing additional funding and partnerships.
• Drives innovation and economic impact – International students fuel innovation by introducing diverse viewpoints and experiences. They help shape future global leaders and professionals, contributing to both the US and global economies. There are nearly 180 billion-dollar US companies that were founded or co-founded by a former international student. Former international students also make up nearly 25% of billion-dollar startup companies in the US, creating on average, 800 jobs per startup.

By prioritizing international student recruitment, higher education institutions create thriving, diverse campuses while contributing to cultural exchange, economic growth, and global innovation.

Top 9 challenges of international student recruitment in 2025

Recruiting international students presents a unique set of challenges. From navigating restrictive immigration policies to addressing rising costs and growing competition, universities face significant hurdles in attracting and enrolling top global talent.

Below, we outline the top challenges shaping international student recruitment in 2025 and strategies institutions can adopt to overcome them.

1. Fierce competition in the global education market

A key challenge in international student recruitment is the increasing competition in the global education market. Countries like China, Germany, Japan, and South Korea are ramping up their marketing efforts, streamlining visa processes, and offering attractive post-graduation work opportunities to draw international students.

Meanwhile, Canada and the UK, historically top-choice destinations, have reached 22-30% international student enrollment capacity, leading to discussions on limiting further growth. In contrast, international students comprised just 6% of total US higher education enrollment in 2023, highlighting the untapped potential for U.S. institutions to attract more global talent.

With Canada and the UK tightening study permit regulations, US universities have a unique opportunity to fill this gap. To remain competitive, institutions must modernize recruitment strategies, highlight their unique strengths, and build robust digital presences to effectively engage and convert prospective international students.

2. Lack of employability and immigration pathways

International students often seek career opportunities in their host country after graduation. However, the lack of clear pathways for work and immigration in the US after graduation deters many prospective students. The reality is that most international graduates are not able to remain in the US. 

Universities must address these concerns by highlighting career support services and providing transparent information on work options, such as OPT and CPT, and career outcomes. Admissions and career centers can work together to drive recruitment and enrollment.

3. Nationalism, politics, and anti-immigration rhetoric

The rise of nationalist and anti-immigration sentiments is a key challenge to international student recruitment in the US. Concerns about potential policy changes under the new administration have left many international students uncertain about their future in the country. 

These uncertainties have led some prospective international students to explore alternative destinations where they feel more welcomed and supported. Chinese international students, who accounted for about 25% of the US international student population in 2023-2024, have been particularly impacted. Ongoing U.S.-China tensions have intensified concerns about safety and acceptance and the number of Chinese college students in the US has not returned to pre-pandemic levels.

To combat these challenges, universities must actively foster welcoming and inclusive environments, demonstrating their commitment to diversity through actionable initiatives. According to NAFSA, schools that prioritize these efforts have seen a more stable enrollment among international students, even as the broader national climate has become less welcoming.

4. The global economy and rising costs of higher education

Rising tuition fees and increasing living costs present significant financial barriers for many international students. Economic instability further exacerbates these challenges, leaving families hesitant to invest in overseas education without confidence in the return on their investment.

According to the College Board, average tuition and fees for out-of-state students at public four-year institutions in the U.S. have increased by 37% over the last decade, with total annual costs—including living expenses—often exceeding $50,000. International students frequently face even higher expenses when factoring in travel costs and limited work opportunities.

Many international students rely on family funding, and growing financial strain reduces the number of eligible candidates. Ben Waxman, CEO of Intead, predicts that the purchasing power of international students will decline in the coming decades, pushing prospective students to explore more affordable options in countries like Canada, Australia, or the UK, where tuition fees are typically lower.

5. Securing budget for international student recruitment

Effectively recruiting international students requires a dedicated budget for marketing and outreach, but securing these resources remains a significant challenge. Institutions that focus primarily on domestic recruitment often overlook the strategic benefits of enrolling more international students, including enhanced financial health and an elevated global reputation.

Allocating funds for international student recruitment has been particularly difficult in recent years. Fluctuating economic conditions and bureaucratic hurdles complicate the approval process, with budgets for international recruitment decreasing by an average of 2% between 2020 and 2022 at both public and private institutions.

To justify and secure a sustainable budget for international recruitment, institutions should emphasize the cost-effectiveness of these efforts. In many cases, the cost of recruiting an international student is lower than recruiting a domestic student, yet international students typically contribute more through higher tuition fees. Highlighting this ROI can help demonstrate the value of investing in international recruitment initiatives. 

By making a compelling case for the financial and reputational benefits of international students, institutions can advocate for the resources needed to attract and retain a diverse global student body.

6. Generating enough quality leads and applications from prospective students

Attracting enough high-quality leads and applications from prospective international students is a significant challenge for universities. This challenge is especially pressing for U.S. universities, which are increasingly relying on international enrollments to mitigate the effects of the looming enrollment cliff.

International students often have specific needs and expectations that require tailored recruitment strategies. To capture their interest, institutions must move beyond traditional approaches. Leveraging targeted digital marketing and personalized engagement strategies is essential to effectively connect with and support students throughout the admissions journey. Tools like AI for content creation and SEVIS-compliant platforms for visa tracking can streamline communication and make the process more efficient. 

Building early and consistent engagement with prospective students is equally critical. By establishing relationships early, universities can qualify applicants to ensure they are a good fit, financially prepared, and likely to complete their program. This proactive approach not only increases enrollment but also enhances retention and student satisfaction.

7. Identifying the right tools for international student recruitment

Choosing the right tools for international student recruitment is essential but often overwhelming given the vast number of options available. To succeed, institutions need tools that enable them to seamlessly connect with prospective students, nurture interest, and streamline the admissions journey.

Engagement platforms like Interstride stand out as comprehensive solutions, empowering universities to offer personalized support and valuable resources to international applicants. The Interstride Admissions Portal provides prospective students with opportunities to connect directly with admissions teams and student ambassadors, fostering meaningful engagement and trust. It also offers built-in tools and resources to support prospects in their admissions, immigration, and career journey. 

By investing in technology that enhances efficiency and focuses on the unique needs of international students, universities can position themselves as leaders in global recruitment, build stronger connections with students, and deliver a world-class admissions experience.

8. Impact of geopolitical factors

Geopolitical tensions, wars, and conflicts significantly affect international student recruitment efforts in the US. Students from unstable regions often face barriers such as disrupted educational systems, financial insecurity, and safety concerns, leading to a noticeable decline in outbound mobility. For prospective students, these challenges are further complicated by difficulties in securing visas, arranging travel, and navigating new cultural environments.

To support students from conflict-affected regions, universities should offer tailored resources and accommodations. These could include targeted scholarships, mental health counseling, and flexible admissions processes to help students overcome barriers and continue their education.

In addition, partnering with organizations that assist refugees and displaced individuals can create meaningful pathways for these students. By prioritizing diversity and inclusivity, institutions not only enhance their global impact but also provide all students with the opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives and global issues, enriching the campus experience.

International student recruitment is challenging—but it doesn’t have to be

Engaging prospective students early and consistently throughout the admissions journey is key to successful recruitment. This involves addressing their concerns—such as finances, immigration, career prospects, and community—while providing the right resources and meaningful connections to build trust and confidence.

With tools designed to enhance every step of the admissions journey, the Interstride Admissions Portal empowers universities to stand out, drive applications, and ensure long-term success.

Learn more about how the Interstride Admissions Portal can help you transform international student recruitment. 

The post International student recruitment 2025: trends, benefits, and challenges appeared first on Interstride.

After decades of steady increase, postsecondary school enrollment has been dropping every year since 2010 according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics. All schools are not equally affected by the enrollment cliff. Some schools have already been feeling it for years while others may just be starting to see the effects.

Community colleges, four-year undergraduate institutions, and those in more remote locations could be hit the hardest while elite universities with strong brand recognition will be less impacted. Colleges and universities on the East Coast of the US and in the Midwest may experience the ramifications of the enrollment cliff more than schools in other areas due to more significant declines in population and students leaving the regions for college.

Why is college enrollment declining in the US?

There are several reasons for the decline in college enrollment. First, the birth rate in the US has been declining since the 2008 recession. The CDC reports that in there were 4,247,694 births in 2009 compared to 3,667,758 births in 2022. Children born in 2008 or later will begin to enter college in the next 2-3 years, causing the enrollment cliff to continue through at least 2029. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the enrollment cliff. Decreased immigration and vacillating international enrollment due to the pandemic and increasing anti-immigration sentiments from the US government lead to a decrease in the number of international students enrolling in US colleges from 2016 to 2022. Lastly, due to rising tuition costs, more domestic and international students may have doubts regarding the value of a college degree.

Attracting international students: A key to boosting enrollment

If your institution is experiencing a decline in domestic applicants, focusing on international students can be a strategic way to increase enrollment volume. While the number of U.S. college students is shrinking, the international student population is growing rapidly. In fact, India has climbed to the top of the list with a 35% increase in international students in the US in 2022-2023.

Data from the Institute of International Education shows that the 2022-2023 school year saw an increase in international student enrollment in the US to pre-pandemic levels. Both undergraduate and graduate-level international enrollment rates have risen, but graduate enrollment of international students is growing at a faster rate than undergraduate. This makes international students a key resource in keeping up with enrollment quotas.

Stay competitive: Tips for attracting international students to your institution

Demand for international education continues to rise, with the US remaining a top destination thanks to its many world-class universities. However, countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia are quickly gaining ground as popular choices for international students.

To counter the enrollment cliff and ensure your institution remains a top choice, US colleges and universities must adopt competitive strategies to attract both undergraduate and graduate-level international students. Below, we share actionable tips to help you stand out in the global education landscape.

Tips for attracting undergraduate international students

• Highlight high-quality academic programs and outcomes:
  • Showcase the reputation and unique features of your academic programs.
  • Emphasize strong employment outcomes for graduates and internship opportunities that prepare students for global careers. Research shows that this a key factor for students considering your college.
  • Promote specialized disciplines such as arts programs integrating tech, design, or business, as well as STEM programs with the added benefit of extended OPT work authorization.

• Showcase multicultural experiences and community support
  • Highlight the diversity of your student body and faculty to appeal to students seeking inclusive, multicultural experiences.
  • Demonstrate how the school fosters community development through clubs, mentoring, and social events—especially important for students living away from their families for the first time.

•  Tailor admissions and marketing materials:
  • Ensure information is tailored to the unique needs of international students, addressing common challenges and questions about studying in the US.
  • Use targeted messaging to emphasize resources for academic, personal, and professional support.

• Connect prospective students with current international students:
  • Facilitate opportunities for prospective students to interact with current international students who can share firsthand experiences, answer questions, and offer reassurance.

• Promote programs aligned with global workforce trends:
  • STEM programs are particularly appealing due to strong career prospects and the additional two years of OPT work authorization available to international STEM graduates.
  • Highlight programs in high-demand fields where US employers face talent shortages, making these pathways more attractive to international students.

By implementing these strategies, your institution can enhance its appeal to undergraduate international students and remain competitive in the global education market.

Tips for attracting graduate international students

Did you know there are more international students in the US enrolled at the graduate level than at the undergraduate level? To capture this audience, institutions must focus on what matters most to prospective graduate students: career outcomes.

A report by Interstride and NAGAP found that 58% of international graduate students said a better understanding of career outcomes would have influenced their choice of institution. To address this, institutions should emphasize employment data that showcases the value of their graduate programs. Key outcomes to highlight include:

• Percentage of graduates with full-time job offers at the time of graduation.
• Percentage of international students with CPT and OPT authorization who secure internships or employment.
• Percentage of international alumni with H-1B or green card sponsorships, showcasing pathways for long-term employment in the US.
• Average alumni salaries, demonstrating the return on investment of your degree programs.

By emphasizing these outcomes, institutions can help prospective students see the long-term value of their education, even when faced with the high cost of tuition.

Additionally, institutions should highlight the presence of international faculty and staff. This sends a strong message that the university values diverse perspectives and creates an inclusive environment, which is particularly important for graduate-level international students.

With a strategic focus on career outcomes and diversity, institutions can better attract and support graduate international students.

Creative strategies for combating the enrollment cliff

Addressing the enrollment cliff isn’t just about attracting more international students—it’s also about retaining them throughout their entire academic journey. High student retention ensures steady revenue for your institution while reducing the impact of enrollment declines. Retention challenges, such as students leaving school for the workforce, dropping out, or transferring to other institutions, can amplify the effects of the enrollment cliff.

To make international students a key part of your overall enrollment management strategy, consider these creative retention strategies:

1. Prioritize support for international students: Offer comprehensive support systems that address academic, cultural, and personal challenges. Programs like mentorship initiatives, career advising tailored to international students, and community-building events can foster a sense of belonging and improve retention.
2. Streamline the transition to campus life: Ensure international students feel prepared and supported when they arrive. Orientation programs and ongoing resources that address visa compliance, housing, and financial planning can help students navigate their new environment with confidence.
3. Expand distance education thoughtfully: While some institutions are combating the enrollment cliff by offering more online courses, keep in mind that international students are limited in how many online classes they can take each semester due to visa restrictions. Ensure your distance education strategy includes in-person or hybrid options that comply with these regulations.
4. Enhance career pathways: Help international students see the long-term value of staying enrolled by emphasizing career outcomes, such as internships, CPT/OPT opportunities, and alumni success stories. Highlight programs that prepare students for competitive job markets or advanced studies.

By integrating these retention-focused strategies into your enrollment management approach, you can build a sustainable and resilient plan for combating the enrollment cliff while supporting your international student community.

Overcome the college enrollment cliff

Declining enrollment can be a challenge for admissions professionals, but with the right strategies, the enrollment cliff can be effectively addressed. Partnering with Interstride for Admissions equips your institution to support international students at every stage—from admissions to graduation and beyond.

Features like instant communication tools and connections to current students allow prospects to ask questions about academics, student life, and campus culture, creating a personalized and engaging experience.

By leveraging Interstride, your institution can stand out to international students, fostering trust and interest while building a strong foundation for enrollment success.

The post Strategies to overcome the enrollment cliff appeared first on Interstride.

The University of Southern California (USC) is a prestigious private university in Los Angeles that has an international student population of almost 13,000 students. They launched their International Student Mentorship Program (ISMP) in January 2023, and now they are sharing their successes with the program so far.

Where did the idea to launch a mentorship program for international students come from?

To better support our international students at USC, we surveyed them in October 2022 on what USC resources, services, and events they have and haven’t used, and what they would like to see offered in the future. Some of the broader themes that emerged in international students’ responses to the latter question are below:

I realized that many of the needs and additional support requested by our international students in the survey could be addressed through alumni mentorship. Mentorship, particularly with international alumni, can help international students develop potential professional connections, adapt to life in the US, and build their job-search tool kits including resume writing, interview skills, and job-search strategies. Being mentored by someone who shares their international identity also fosters a sense of community and belonging which can benefit students’ overall mental health and wellbeing as they face the challenges of college life in the US.

How did you design and launch the mentorship program? 

We hope this step-by-step explanation of how we executed our International Student Mentorship Program (ISMP) may help other institutions that are looking for ways to increase support for their international students. 

1. Test: We reached out to alumni via email and the Trojan Network (our online networking and mentorship platform) to gauge interest in a mentorship program for international students.
2. Build: Using existing mentorship programs at USC as guides, we built a framework for our own program, including  program descriptions, mentor/mentee handbooks, best practice guides, and program goals.
3. Plan: We created a timeline and structure for the program that would last one semester. Then, we started planning the program orientation and monthly workshops.
4. Launch: We launched with an in-person launch event and orientation with an additional virtual option for mentors who could not attend in person. At orientation, we provided participants with program resources such as the mentee and mentor handbooks that included conversation starters and worksheets for goal setting.

How did you foster continued alumni engagement throughout the program?

There is always a lot of excitement at the beginning of the semester, but as the semester goes on, it’s common for engagement to drop. Here are some strategies that worked for us to keep alumni mentors engaged throughout the semester:

• Email check-ins with mentors
• Accessible events with virtual options
• Speaker opportunities for highly engaged mentors
• Follow-up survey and focus group after the semester ended

What feedback did you receive from participants of the first iteration of the mentorship program?

Because this was our first time running this program, we relied on participant feedback to gauge the program’s success and make improvements for the next year. Over the summer after the program had ended, we organized a focus group with the alumni mentors. Key feedback included setting clearer expectations for mentors and mentees, offering more training for mentors prior to the start of the program, easier access to the program managers, making monthly mentorship meetings mandatory, and training on resources for international students.  

How did you incorporate that feedback into version 2.0 of the mentorship program?

We implemented all of mentors’ feedback in the second year of the program, with separate orientations for mentors and mentees as well as separate bi-weekly open office hours; a pre-program training for mentors on “Mentoring Like a Coach”; a workshop on “Career Resources for International Students”, and stricter requirements for orientation and monthly mentor/mentee meetings.

To make the program more accessible to mentors living out of state or abroad, we also made all of our mentor trainings and meetings virtual. 

Our improvements paid off! We went from 68 mentors in 2023 to 103 mentors in 2024, and we were able to pair every one of our 112 mentees with a mentor this year. There are many current international students at USC interested in participating in this mentorship program, so we hope to continue growing alumni participation in order to give more students the opportunity to benefit from their mentorship.

Launch your own international student mentorship program with Interstride

Student ambassador programs are one way that institutions can provide support to current international students. These programs leverage current students and alumni to answer questions, reassure, and guide mentee students throughout their academic and career  journeys. Admissions professionals looking to engage more prospective international students may also benefit from a student ambassador program. Harness the power of high touch marketing and peer-to-peer engagement with Interstride for Admissions.

The post USC’s International Student Mentorship Program: a model for career and community development appeared first on Interstride.

Effective outreach and engagement for international undergraduate students look different than they do for domestic students. Global differentiated strategies are needed to reach international students. This guide is valuable for higher education professionals who are new to international marketing and recruitment or are looking to build on their international student population in new ways.

Important international student enrollment trends to know

New international student enrollment increased by 14% for the 2022-23 school year to a level higher than pre-pandemic numbers. Graduate student enrollment increased the most, by 21%, but undergraduate enrollment also grew for the first time in five years. 53% of international students come from China and India, so keep that in mind when you are doing outreach and engagement. You may want to have information on your admissions web pages that are specifically catered to students and families from these countries.

While international student enrollment in the US is increasing, there is also increasing competition from other countries including the UK, Australia, and Canada. For some potential international students, it has become harder to see the value of a US education due to a variety of factors:

• Rising cost of attendance in the US
• Challenges in getting a visa after graduation
• Political climate
• Economic downturn

Meeting prospective students where they are

A QS international student survey from 2022 asked international undergraduate students in the US about their experiences with the college admissions process. The following survey questions and results reveal key strategies for international student engagement and outreach:

1. What influences where students decide to apply and attend university? 

• High-quality teaching (strong academic program)
• Openness to international students (large international student community and support systems)
• The culture/lifestyle
• Good reputation as a place to study
• Well-ranked universities

Recommendation: To appeal to international students, highlight your institution’s academic programs, culture, and reputation including what sets them apart from other schools. To show that new international students will be welcomed at your institution, showcase current international students, alumni, and professors from other countries.  

2. What resources did you find most helpful during the admissions process?

• University website – 60%
• General internet research – 48%
• Admissions office – 47%
• Email and other communication from the university – 45%
• Friends and family – 36%

Recommendation: Most international students will not visit campus before their first semester, so they rely heavily on online information to gain a sense of what the school is really like. Your institution’s web pages should be up-to-date and accessible to students in other countries.

3. Who were the key players in the decision-making process?

• 63% of prospective international students want to ask current international students questions
• 67% of international prospects will talk to their parents to help them choose where to study in the US 

Recommendation: Prospective students are going to connect with current students no matter what whether it’s via family, friends, social media, etc. If you want students to get the most accurate info, you can help facilitate these connections through virtual events and student ambassador programs.

Marketing strategy tips

The marketing plan you use for domestic students will not necessarily work for international students. Create a differentiated marketing and recruitment strategy focused on the international prospects that you want to reach. When building your outreach plan, consider the following:

• Audience – Who are you trying to reach?
• Platforms – How will you reach them?
• Messaging – What will you say?

When creating your messaging, look at global and institutional data and play to your strengths. For example, math, computer science, and engineering programs are most popular for international students, so market those programs and highlight how your STEM programs stand out from other institutions. You should also coordinate marketing efforts with other campus offices such as career centers. They have helpful data on students’ career outcomes that could be appealing to prospective students.

Key takeaways

It’s more important than ever to revamp your approach to international student outreach and engagement. There are many steps you can take. The most valuable include understanding the current national and international trends, having a clear plan, and differentiating it as much as possible for international students. Think about what prospective students really need and want, talking to current students for insight. Finally, focus on what makes your school different, and leverage student ambassadors as much as possible to communicate information to prospects. 

The post International undergraduate student outreach and engagement 101 appeared first on Interstride.

Anyone who has worked in admissions for a long time will remember the days of boxes of manila file folders of applications, paper inquiry cards to collect student information, and manual data entry that made it impossible to track students from the prospect to applicant to enrolled stages. Glossy printed viewbooks were mailed, and virtual tours were merely collections of photos on the admissions website.

Those days are long over.

The reasons to have a robust digital presence and marketing strategy versus relying on static print materials are numerous. 

Application numbers have risen at many institutions, which could create a greater workload and more competition to attract the highest quality students. Admission staff turnover is among an all-time high, paving the way for technology to create more efficiencies and digital initiatives to take hold to reach more students. Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is changing how applicants apply and how admission offices review applications. Admission offices need to stay on top of these trends by keeping the newest technology at the forefront of everything they do, particularly when it comes to attracting and engaging international students.

Having the right tech at your disposal for managing internal processes and workflow is equally as important as having the right tech presence for attracting the best and brightest students from around the world. Most international applicants will never visit your campus in person, which makes having an informative and easy-to-navigate website, visually engaging virtual tour, and interactive social media presence even more important. Utilizing the right technology and platforms to encourage Interaction with current international students is key for helping prospective students form a lasting sense of community as early in the admission process as possible.

These are among the top factors to consider when establishing a digital presence to attract international students:

1. Multi-platform global visibility

A strong digital presence ensures that your institution is visible to a wide audience around the world. Prospective international students often initiate their search for educational opportunities online and through word-of-mouth. An engaging and easy-to-navigate website, active social media profiles, and a carefully crafted and interconnected online presence make your institution easily discoverable and accessible to students from countries outside the US. 

Websites and other platforms should be optimized for mobile devices, as students in certain markets may rely on mobile devices to access websites and other digital platforms for daily tasks. Reputation and a top-quality education are among the biggest factors that influence where international students decide to study, and a comprehensive multi-platform digital presence can support these goals. If appropriate, consider providing some digital material in multiple languages. Although students speak English, their parents may not, and they are a primary driver in their school decision-making process.

2. Virtual campus tours and multimedia content

Many students from outside the US initiate their college search online and will never get a chance to visit your campus in person. By offering engaging virtual campus tours and multimedia content (curated professionally and by current students) you can showcase what it is really like at your school and provide an immersive experience that rivals that of the opportunity to visit on campus. Consider having current international students curate “day in the life of” videos to virtually show prospective students around campus and how they spend their time.

3. Active social media presence

Prospective students want to receive authentic communication about what it’s really like to be a student at your institution. A social media presence on multiple platforms is one way to push out authentic messages that highlight the diversity of your international student body while showcasing academics and student life and fostering a sense of community. Ensure that social media platforms are well maintained and that staff or students are trained to respond appropriately and quickly to inquiries that may come through. Consider what social media platforms are most active in countries in which you would like to recruit more students and establish a presence there.

4. Online information sessions and webinars

Hosting online information sessions and webinars can provide a platform for sharing detailed information about academic programs, admission procedures, and campus life. They also offer an opportunity for prospective international students to interact directly with university representatives and current international students to receive official answers to questions. If hosting these events live, be sure to offer them in different time zones and/or make them available as recordings so that students around the world can access them at a later point.

5. Engagement platforms to foster community among prospective and admitted students

An often overlooked category of curating a digital presence is engagement platforms. Many admission offices are quick to provide engagement opportunities for admitted students, but miss the chance to engage prospective international students early in their college search process. Providing opportunities for them to engage with current students from their home country or area of academic interest through structured online chats can help them feel more connected to your school community and boost the likelihood that they will apply and enroll, if offered admission.

6. Other creative engagement strategies

Prospective students may want to engage with your university in ways beyond traditional methods. Ask current students from countries that you would like to recruit more students from how they wanted to communicate when they were in high school. Was it text message? WhatsApp? Other specialized platforms unique to other geographic regions? Prospective students are less likely to download a mobile app or sign up for a platform they are unfamiliar with. Meet them on the platforms where they already have a presence to engage them more efficiently and effectively.

In an increasingly global and interconnected world, a strong digital presence is not just an advantage but a necessity for universities seeking to attract international students. By re-examining your digital presence, you can create a welcoming online environment that resonates with prospective students from around the world.

Alison Herget is a former international admissions leader at Villanova and Brandeis universities. She has led efforts to recruit and enroll diverse undergraduate classes of students from all over the world, managed international communication strategies, and traveled to more than 50 countries.

The post Building a digital marketing strategy for international admissions appeared first on Interstride.

Perhaps you’ve been given a directive from an enrollment leader that you need to increase international numbers on campus. Or you’re interested in diversifying your incoming class. Meeting these lofty goals requires a differentiated strategy each step of the way. You can’t expect to keep employing the same strategies and expect different results.

As a former international enrollment leader who worked in the field for more than 12 years, I know first-hand the importance of communicating and interacting with international prospects each step of the way. International students studying abroad often have never visited the US and their views of the country are limited to what they see in TV and movies. They gravitate toward brand name institutions in or near big cities because that is what they have heard of, but can miss out on other great-fit schools in other parts of the country. 

For prospects, connecting with current international students and developing a sense of community is crucial in their decision making process. Yet, many institutions wait until students’ senior years to start communicating with them – and even then, they may be sending content of little relevance and the same information they are sending to US citizens and permanent residents. 

As demographics change and an increasingly diverse group of international students seek undergraduate degrees in the US, this one-size-fits-all communication strategy is becoming more and more irrelevant.

It’s time to shake up your international prospect strategy. Here are five reasons why:

1. Community is more important now than ever

The Educations.com Trends Survey indicates that 63 percent of prospective international students have questions they want to direct to current students. If you don’t have communications channels set up for them to ask these questions, where do they go? Social media, third-party websites, friends of friends…all of which may not be the most comprehensive, helpful, or accurate sources. Ensuring they can connect with students like themselves at your university ensures they feel welcome and informed before they step foot on campus.

2. Demographics are changing

The number of international students residing outside the US who submitted a Common Application increased at nearly triple the rate of applicants in the US since 2019–20 (55% versus 18%). Overall, the number of international students in the US grew by 12% in the 2022-23 academic year, the largest single-year increase in more than 40 years, according to findings from the federal government and the Institute of International Education. 

India saw a 35 percent increase in students studying in the US and now has the largest-ever number of students studying in the country. Meanwhile, many areas in the US will soon see a decline in high school graduates. Coming up with a marketing and recruitment strategy that recognizes these trends is crucial for the long-term health of your institution.

3. A non-differentiated strategy is confusing to students and can be misleading

Non-US citizens don’t need to know when to apply for scholarships that only US citizens are eligible for, or that an on-campus event is happening tomorrow (hard to make it last minute if you’re in a different country!). What they really want to know is: Will there be other students from my background? Will I go through culture shock? Will I experience snow for the first time? A cohesive digital strategy is especially important for communicating with international students, many of whom will never set foot on campus or visit the US before enrolling. Getting in front of prospective students as early in their search process as possible with answers to their questions eliminates confusion and increases the feeling of connectedness with your school community.

4. Increasing competition from domestic and non-US universities

Undergraduate applications to US universities were up substantially overall in 2023. But for some sending countries, like China, the US is falling out of favor as a study abroad destination due to barriers like visa delays and the political climate. Other countries are starting to step in to get a piece of the international enrollment pie. The US remains the top destination country for inbound international students, according to UNESCO’s Institute for Statistics, but the US’s share is falling. US colleges and universities will need to work harder to attract and retain a diverse group of students from throughout the world, and that is a process that starts with an innovative prospect marketing plan.

5. Diversity in all forms is key for a healthy campus climate

One study, conducted by researchers at Duke University, surveyed alumni from several universities. They found that US students who interacted extensively with international students reported higher levels of campus involvement, including coursework outside their major, cultural clubs and organizations, and interaction with faculty outside the classroom. Many colleges are increasingly focusing on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) in their strategic plans with an eye toward racial and ethnic diversity. Not adding international students into this mix is a missed opportunity, due to the value they bring to the campus experience and sustaining future enrollments for years to come.

Alison Herget is a former international admissions leader at Villanova and Brandeis universities. She has led efforts to recruit and enroll diverse undergraduate classes of students from all over the world, managed international communication strategies, and traveled to more than 50 countries

The post Top 5 reasons why you need a new approach to international prospect marketing appeared first on Interstride.

Importance of admissions and career centers collaboration

Career services is a useful and underutilized tool for student recruitment and retention. According to a National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) survey report from 2020, college students in the US are placing a greater emphasis on career services and career development to prove the value of a degree from a higher education institution, and career support is especially important for international applicants. 

A report from Interstride and NAGAP shows that the majority of students cited a better understanding of career outcomes as a factor that would affect their choice of institution. Career centers track the career outcomes of current students and alumni, so they will be able to share up-to-date, relevant data and information with admissions offices.

Shifting the ways admissions and career centers collaborate

Traditionally, at many colleges and universities in the US, admissions and career services offices work completely separately. Admissions offices interact with students during the recruitment and enrollment phases while career services interact with students who are already enrolled. 

When admissions and career centers work together, they can drive enrollment and career success for their students and alumni. This can increase the number of notable graduates from the school and the amount of donations they receive from alumni (because there will ideally be more highly paid graduates who are happy with their degree program). This benefits the school overall, can increase the admissions and career center budgets, and drive even more student recruitment. 

Benefits of admissions and career center collaboration for international students

Here are some ways an admissions and career center partnership benefits current and future international students:

• It demonstrates the return on investment (ROI) of education: Sharing career outcomes during the recruitment process helps prospective international students and their parents calculate the ROI of a US college degree. ROI shows prospective students that the school is committed to not just providing quality education but to helping students translate that education into real-world experience.
• It ensures staff throughout campus are better able to support international students’ needs: Admissions staff will be better equipped to answer questions on career-related topics, such as visa restrictions and internships instead of referring candidates to other offices for answers.
• It helps prospective international students find the best-fit school(s) for them: Collaborating can help admissions representatives paint a more vivid student journey and tell a story for prospective students about how they’ll grow personally, academically, and professionally.
• It ensures international students feel supported from admissions through graduation and beyond: Highlighting the career center shows students that they are going to have personalized guidance throughout their time at your school. This is particularly important for international students, who face unique challenges in a new country and an unfamiliar educational system and job market. 

How admissions and career centers can partner to drive international student enrollment

Below are the top strategies we recommend for admissions and career services collaboration:

Focus on career readiness

Illinois Tech increased its first-year student enrollment by 25% by focusing on career readiness and engaging students through hands-on experiences and personalized mentorship. If your school uses internships or experiential learning programs as an integral part of its academic programs, make sure to highlight them in marketing materials and presentations to prospective students to help them see a direct pathway between their education and career goals.

Helping students gain awareness of career resources and opportunities in the US early in their academic journey is also key to career readiness. Make sure the career services office is available during new student orientation and that incoming students receive information about it before they step foot on campus. This is especially important for international students as they take advantage of career centers less than domestic students due to unfamiliarity with the service, according to research from 2016. 

Use career outcomes data as a selling point for recruitment 

Job and internship outcomes can be a powerful selling point for a school, so providing prospective students and their families with career outcomes data in marketing materials is crucial. When possible, share overall outcomes but also parse out data for non-US citizens or permanent residents. Relevant data could include:

• What percentage of students had internships? How many internships did they complete on average? Where did they complete internships?
• How many students had jobs during their studies?
• What percentage of students were employed full-time after graduation? Who were the top employers who hired them?
• What are the average salaries for recent alumni in different disciplines?

Promote career development opportunities and relevant job market information

Many international student prospects are completely unfamiliar with the US job markets, as well as restrictions on working and interning while in the US. This partnership can help admissions teams answer questions about on-campus and/or off-campus employment while on an F-1 student visa and address other top concerns for international students regarding career services and working in the US.

• Stay up-to-date on the school’s career resources for international students so that you can proactively share them with prospects.
• Promote career development events that the career center hosts such as workshops, networking events, and job fairs. 
• Inquire with career center professionals about what questions international students ask most so that you can share trendy information with prospects. 

Share student success stories 

Recruitment and marketing strategies need to include a personal element to be effective. According to the 2022 QS International Student Survey, hearing stories from current international students can play a major role in the college selection process. If you partner with the career center, you get to tap into a whole host of international student and alumni stories about how their experience at your university helped them land an internship or get a full-time position somewhere in the US. 

You might want to feature international student stories on the admissions website or brochures. The school’s marketing team can also use quotes, photos, and video or audio clips that you collect from students and alumni in their digital recruitment content.

Final thoughts on admissions and career centers collaboration

Through an admissions and career centers partnership, both entities can gain a more holistic understanding of the needs of students in their institutions and help bolster student success.

Interstride can help your institution’s admissions and career centers collaborate and support international students. Our admissions platform easily connects prospective students from anywhere in the world with student ambassadors and admissions representatives. Current students can use Interstride’s seamlessly integrated career services to build a professional network, find international-friendly jobs and internships, and learn about visa options. 

Interstride designed these platforms specifically with international students in mind. Let us help you effectively attract, engage, and retain more international students and increase your institution’s reputation and career outcomes. 

The post How admissions and career centers can work together to drive recruitment and enrollment appeared first on Interstride.

ROI is the amount of money a student makes on their investment (i.e. their degree) versus how much the investment costs initially (i.e. college costs). On average, graduates in the US who have a bachelor’s degree see a 38% return on investment from their education after 20 years of working. A good ROI on someone’s education means they earn a lot more money than they invested in their degree. In other words, their college degree has a high profit. 

The importance of ROI in international student recruitment

Employment is top of mind for parents and students. A report from Interstride and NAGAP shows that the number one factor that would affect prospective international graduate students’ decisions to attend an institution is a better understanding of career outcomes. 

Another study found that 90% of prospective international students chose to study abroad specifically to improve their future employment options. While employment outcomes are not the only way to demonstrate the value of a college education, they are clearly the primary factor for most international students. 

How to demonstrate ROI to prospective students

ROI for higher education is commonly calculated based on post-graduation wages. However, with the increasing cost of higher education and the current job market, this limited version of ROI no longer speaks to many prospective international students. There are many ways to demonstrate ROI to prospects and their families. Use the actionable tips below to drive recruitment and enrollment of international students by clearly demonstrating the ROI of your institution.

Highlight employment opportunities and outcomes for international students through OPT data

Admission offices can show that international students have opportunities to translate their academic learning into real-world professional practice with Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT provides international students with one year of work authorization in a job that relates to their field of study. OPT can be used before or after graduation, and eligible STEM majors get an additional two years of OPT after graduation.

International prospects may not know about these opportunities and utilizing them can significantly increase the ROI of their degree. The admissions office can also provide digestible statistics on what percentage of international students use OPT and what percentage get a job offer after OPT expires. Include breakdowns for pre-graduation and post-graduation OPT and what percentage of international students get internships during school. If possible, include separate data sets for different academic majors.

Use employment data

Other employment data for international students and graduates can also demonstrate ROI. The International Student Services office at your school captures this data and can share it with you. This includes: 

• What percentage of international students work on campus
• What percentage of international students participate in Curricular Practical Training (CPT) programs
• What percentage of international students get full-time job offers after graduation
• The annual average salary for international alumni in various fields
• The top employers for international alumni in various fields

Focus on graduation rates

High retention and graduation rates reflect positively on the school and its ROI. They show prospective international students that they will be supported throughout their academic journey. Share data on graduation rates based on international students’ home country and their academic major. Interstride research shows that international prospects rely on university websites for information so make sure graduation rates and employment data are clearly displayed there.  

Want to improve student retention rates to boost graduation rates? Here are three specific international student retention strategies for admissions professionals.

Highlight student success stories

Data is a powerful tool to demonstrate ROI, but it often lacks a personalized touch. Share current and former students’ stories of career success and how their degree helped them achieve that success. The more specific, the better. 

You should also consider a student ambassador program. Instead of just reading or watching student stories through a screen, ambassador programs allows prospective students to speak directly to current students and alumni about their experiences at the school. Prospects will likely view information and opinions from students and alumni as being more genuine than those from admissions office representatives. 

According to the Institute of International Education, online recruitment strategies and international student ambassador programs have the highest impact on increasing international student enrollment. Interstride’s student ambassador platform seamlessly integrates into your school’s existing website.

Don’t forget about soft-skills development 

A college degree provides benefits beyond career development and financial gain. For example, college graduates are more likely to be active, engaged citizens in their communities. College also gives international students opportunities to develop key soft skills such as:

• Creativity
• Leadership
• Teamwork
• Verbal and written communication

A 2023 ZipRecruiter study found that 93% of employers use soft skills as a critical role in their decision about whom they want to hire. You can help prospective international students and their families understand the value of soft skills in US culture and the US job market by including these benefits in your recruitment content on ROI.

Start showcasing your school’s ROI with Interstride

Tuition costs are a top concern for prospective international students and their families when applying to colleges in the US. To ensure they are getting a good ROI on their US education, prospective international students are focusing on career supports and career outcomes when choosing a school. Admissions professionals can increase international student enrollment and retention by illustrating the ROI of specific degrees from their institution. Focus on ROI from a holistic perspective that includes employability, earning potential, and soft skills development. 

The Interstride for Admissions platform caters specifically to international students so you can start communicating directly with prospects and their families and showcasing your institution’s success without having to overhaul your entire website. Let us do the heavy lifting for you.

The post Demonstrating ROI to prospective international students appeared first on Interstride.

Before choosing a US college or university, students should think about the return on investment (ROI) of their education. ROI is the amount of money you make on your investment (i.e. your degree) versus how much the investment cost initially (i.e. college costs). On average, graduates in the US who have a bachelor’s degree see a 38% return on investment from their education after 20 years of working. A good ROI on your education means you earn a lot more money than you invested in your degree. In other words, your college degree has a high profit.

Calculating the ROI of your US education 

One way to estimate ROI is to subtract the total cost of your education including tuition, fees, and books from how much you can potentially earn with your degree over a certain period of time. This can be a helpful tool, but keep in mind it is only an estimate, and earning potential is not guaranteed.

Here’s an example ROI calculation over 20 years:

With a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, this hypothetical student could earn over $2.5 million in profit from their investment in their higher education over 20 years! Note that this example is based on US salaries with the assumption that the student remains in the US for work after graduation.

Being able to estimate your ROI using a mathematical calculation is especially important if you plan to take out student loans because you will be paying interest on top of the cost of your education. Review your loan details to estimate how much interest you will pay and add that to your total education-related expenses. This will help ensure that you get a positive ROI on your degree even with student loan interest.

Important factors that impact ROI

There are multiple factors that affect the financial ROI of your US education as an international student. Two students from the same school may yield vastly different ROIs after graduation depending on the various choices they make in their academic and professional journeys. Factors that can impact ROI include:

• The major you choose in college – Certain majors have a much higher ROI than others. The most cost-efficient majors for undergraduate study are computer and information science and business finance.
• The salary expectations for your desired job – Some jobs that require a degree earn much more than others. To build accurate expectations of how much you can earn after graduation, research the annual salary of your desired job. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is a great resource with recent statistics on most jobs in the US.
• The demand for your desired job – Research the demand for new workers in your chosen field. The BLS has a database that includes the ten-year projections for job demand for most occupations. This is especially valuable to students like you who will be graduating and entering the job market in the next five years or so.
• The cost of living in your area – The cost of living varies significantly across the US. For example, the average cost of living in New York City (NYC) is 128% higher than the national average for the US, but the cost of living in South Bend, Indiana is 13.5% below the national average. While these differences will affect your overall costs during college, they will become an even more important factor if you plan to stay in the US for work. A $75,000 entry-level salary will go a lot further in South Bend, Indiana than it will in NYC.

The value of your American degree

Another factor that affects ROI for international students is your goals for after graduation. If your goal is to remain in the US for work after graduation, you should research how many workers in the industry are on employer-sponsored visas. Industries that already employ a lot of international talent, such as computer science and engineering fields, may be more likely to sponsor you. These workplaces may also be more welcoming of people from an international background.

If your goal is to return to your home country or work in other countries outside the US after graduation, you should consider how your degree and US experience may translate to job opportunities abroad. You must weigh whether an expensive degree from the US will be worth the income you will make in another country. Ask yourself:

• What industries in other countries are in demand and require a bachelor’s degree?
• Will a US degree be accepted in my home country and in other countries?
• What will my earning potential be?
• Is this degree versatile and valuable no matter which country I end up working in?

Beyond financial ROI

While we know earning potential is important, ROI for higher education is not as simple as a mathematical calculation. According to a 2022 report from Interstride, 84% of international students would recommend studying in the US to their friends, but only 49% felt that from a career perspective, the value of a US education justifies the cost.

This research highlights that there are important factors beyond financial gain that international students are thinking about when considering the value and ROI of a US undergraduate degree. The non-financial benefits of a US education that contribute to the overall value of your degree include:

• Increased social capital
• Transformative learning opportunities
• Exposure to new ideas and perspectives
• Access to new career paths

Conclusion

ROI for international students studying in the US is the value of your degree. ROI can be estimated by calculating your degree-based earnings over a certain time period and comparing that to the total cost of your education.

However, remember that ROI is more complicated than a mathematical calculation. ROI for higher education includes various financial factors such as future job outlook and sponsorship opportunities in the field for international graduates and non-financial factors such as social capital and exposure to new ideas. Students should think about ROI whether they plan to stay in the US after graduation or return to their home country. It may also be valuable to compare your earning potential in the US vs another country.

The post How to measure the ROI of your education as an international student appeared first on Interstride.

What is an admissions student ambassador?

As an ambassador, you represent your university or alma mater and serve as an authentic voice for prospective students. This is a wonderful chance to showcase the school’s offerings and diversity, and instill excitement in prospects considering attending the institution.

Admissions ambassadors are reliable advocates that international prospects can turn to for information and guidance. Whether prospects have questions about the application process or university life – you have firsthand experience that you can share. Something as simple as having conversations can actually be quite impactful. As an ambassador, you can help potential students feel embraced and supported while helping your institution attract more international students.

Joining your university’s ambassador program is a great opportunity to:

• Connect and inspire potential students
• Give prospects an insider scoop on the international student experience
• Gain volunteer experience and develop leadership and communication skills

5 ways to be an amazing ambassador

With the right preparation and expectations, you can serve your school well. Below are six ways to be a great digital student ambassador at your college or university:

1) Be sincere and build trust

It is crucial to provide honest and genuine peer-to-peer interaction with prospects. They want to know that you are being sincere when you answer their questions and when you share about your experiences at that school. You know firsthand that navigating the admissions and application process as an international student can be challenging and intimidating. Considering the pivotal role that college plays in shaping their future, international applicants may experience feelings of being overwhelmed and under pressure throughout the application and admissions period.

Therefore, as an admissions ambassador, it is important to check-in consistently and purposefully to signal support. These small actions will let prospects know that you care about their success and that you are here to ease any concerns they may have about applying to and attending the institution. Always be sincere when interacting with prospective students and their families. Having a trusted peer to lean on during this process can also increase a prospective student’s trust in the institution.

2) Be proactive and nurture relationships

Building meaningful relationships takes time and active effort. Take the initiative to reach out to prospective students before they have questions. When you do get questions, respond as promptly as possible. According to the QS International Survey, 94% of international prospects say they don’t want to wait long to hear back. Considering how busy admission officers can be, ambassadors can fill in the gaps and check-in with students more casually and regularly.

As an ambassador, you’re also uniquely positioned to share applicants’ most pressing issues and questions with staff so they can better understand and support prospects. This enables admissions teams to be proactive rather than reactive about meeting the needs of prospective international students.

3) Use strong communication skills

All communication with prospects and their families should be clear and concise. Whether you are responding to an email, chat request, or connecting virtually over video, you should also be calm, open, and welcoming.  When possible, relate to the emotional challenges international prospects face, but remember that you are representing your university. While you want to be relatable and personal, you should also remain professional. Strike the right balance between formal and informal communication.

4) Embrace a positive attitude

International students come from a variety of different cultures with different beliefs, customs, and communication norms. Having a positive attitude as a student ambassador can enhance your ability to build rapport with prospects and leave a favorable impression. Your energy can motivate prospects to feel excited, confident, and welcome, making it more likely for them to consider applying and attending. Ultimately, as an admissions ambassador, your attitude reflects not only on yourself but your school. A positive attitude helps to strengthen the institution’s reputation, attract more prospective students, and contribute to a vibrant and thriving international community.

5) Manage your time well

We know college students often have busy schedules. Good time management and organization is essential. To balance your course load, student ambassador responsibilities, and other extracurricular activities, set aside specific times for each activity just as you would for class time. Reach out to prospective students regularly to ensure you are building genuine relationships and providing adequate support.

Be the best student ambassador you can be

Being a great student ambassador means providing great advice and guidance to prospective students, sharing your authentic experiences, and positively representing the school. If you follow the tips above, you will surely excel in your school’s student ambassador program. The cherry on top? You’ll gain invaluable leadership and professional experience while giving back to your international student community.

The post How to be a great student ambassador appeared first on Interstride.

Being a student ambassador not only enables you to provide tailored support to fellow international prospects but it also grants you valuable leadership experience. In this blog, we’ll dive into an ambassador’s key responsibilities so you can give back to your university in a meaningful capacity and enhance your professional skills.

What are the duties of a student ambassador?

The ultimate role of an admissions ambassador is to help prospects feel more comfortable and confident in the admissions and application process. By doing so, ambassadors can influence prospects to feel motivated and excited to apply for and potentially attend the institution. If your school partners with Interstride, your duties as a student ambassador will exist primarily online on the admissions portal. While your specific responsibilities may vary depending on your college or university, the general admissions ambassador duties are outlined below.

1) Provide mentorship to prospective students

As a student ambassador, you provide the peer-to-peer interactions that international prospects desire. Your impact extends beyond merely answering questions; you offer guidance that can significantly influence a student’s decision regarding where to apply to college in the US or whether to apply at all.

Since an international student’s admission journey is filled with many challenges, helping someone overcome an obstacle or clarify confusing details can go a long way. Whether a prospective student is seeking feedback on their application or has a question about campus life or the student immigration process, you’re in the best position to educate them.

To create a positive and supportive environment, it is essential for student ambassadors to proactively engage with prospective students on a regular basis. Initiating dialogue and maintaining consistent communication shows prospects you want to see them succeed. By taking an active approach in reaching out to potential students, you contribute to building a supportive network and nurturing a lasting positive impression of your institution.

2) Share from your own personal experiences

Prospective students want to hear from current students rather than admissions staff because they want to know what the school is like from their peers. Prepare to be a great student ambassador by thinking back to when you applied to the school and how it felt. Reflect on traveling to the US for the first time and what valuable experiences you had. Get vulnerable and share those experiences and feelings with potential students to show you can relate to how they might be feeling. Try to share stories that include positive endings, advice, or important lessons learned.

3) Foster community

As a student ambassador on Interstride, you may also be asked to foster connections between prospective students, admissions officers, and other student ambassadors through online groups. This provides additional opportunities for prospects to build a wider support system at your school. Depending on the different groups, you can connect with more than one prospect to share your relevant experiences and insights. Prospects and families may have questions about:

• Transitioning to living in the US for international students
• Specific academic programs and interests
• Living on-campus
• Financial aid and work opportunities
• How to find on-campus services for new students

4) Support incoming students in transitioning to US university life

The positive impact of student ambassadors goes beyond the admissions process to helping new students feel welcome and supported when they finally arrive on campus. This is especially valuable for international students because moving to another country to live and study can be very overwhelming. As an ambassador, you can continue to chat online with students and give advice even after they have enrolled in the school. This gives new international students someone to lean on during this major life transition and reflects well on the university or college’s reputation.

Represent your school as a digital student ambassador

You can see from the duties of student ambassadors that they are essential to actively engaging and supporting prospective students. Student ambassadors are relatable and approachable. Compared to admissions staff, ambassadors can speak from personal experience rather than reading off a script. Prospective international students want to chat with current students in the US, and digital student ambassadors fill that role. You may have an impact on their choice to apply to the school and make them feel excited to attend as an international student!

The post What does an admissions student ambassador do? appeared first on Interstride.

International admissions in the US are becoming more competitive than ever as international student enrollment returns to pre-pandemic levels. With the continued increase of graduate-level students, there has never been a more exciting or crucial time for graduate enrollment management (GEM) professionals to better understand and support their international students.

A recent report from Interstride and NAGAP, the Association for Graduate Enrollment Management, highlights areas of growth for the international graduate student admissions experience. The study identified areas where students and admissions professionals were not aligned on what students needed support with. We surveyed 345 graduate international students studying in the US and 84 NAGAP members who are GEM professionals. The participating students represent 56 different countries.

Download the full report here for more details.

What graduate admissions professionals need o know

• Admissions professionals rely heavily on email to share resources with prospective students, but students are turning to university websites, general internet searches, and university admissions offices before email.
• The top challenges graduate international students face are navigating finances and tuition and visas and immigration.
• As one graduate student explained, “Applications are overly expensive specifically for international students. Plus the cost of taking and sending GRE/TOEFL scores to each university adds an additional expense of ~200$ per university.”

• Prospective students want to make sure they will get a good return on investment for their education. 58% of international graduate students reported that a better understanding of career outcomes may have swayed them to choose a certain program.
• Highlighting career outcomes from alumni is a great way to boost graduate international student enrollment.

• International graduate students want clear information, timely communication, and better overall support throughout the admissions process. Addressing these needs could help increase international student enrollment.

Download the Interstride & NAGAP report for free

In the full report, you will find information on the challenges international graduate students face and the top resources they use during the admissions process. It includes stats on student satisfaction with the information they received from universities. Lastly, in the report, you can see where professionals’ responses align or misalign with international students’ responses and areas of improvement that could influence international students’ choice of institution.

The post The international graduate student admissions experience appeared first on Interstride.

Inside Higher Ed surveyed college and university admissions directors and found that only about one-third of admissions offices met their enrollment goals for the year and most were concerned about meeting their goals for the following year. Paired with the ever-evolving state of student recruitment and changes in student behavior and expectations, admissions officers are faced with unique challenges.

Colleges and universities need to adapt to navigate and leverage the digital ecosystem. These five higher education marketing strategies can help your institution stand out from competitors and reach more prospective international students to boost recruitment and enrollment.

Moving your higher ed marketing strategies online

Most prospective students are from the Gen-Z generation and have been raised in a digital world. Therefore, it’s essential to move higher education marketing strategies online as much as possible to meet prospective students where they’re at. Phone calls and mailing recruitment materials are no longer effective strategies. Instead, prospective students are likely to seek personal reviews and explore university websites to help them decide which school is right for them.

Unfortunately, university web pages are often outdated or too confusing for international prospects to navigate. They are also typically designed for internal use (professors, students, etc) rather than for marketing purposes. Because university and academic websites are not tailored to international students, they often struggle to find the crucial information they need. This represents a missed opportunity for recruiting international college students.

According to research from Interstride, providing clear information online about academic programs and admissions processes can increase international student enrollment. Additionally, university websites should be interactive and have a chat feature for prospective students and their families to engage with admissions officers or current students.

Re-designing a website can be costly and time-consuming, but Interstride makes it easy for universities to engage and support international students with our dynamic, easy-to-navigate portal. This interactive tool can be plugged directly into your university’s website so that you don’t have to do any expensive website overhaul.

Understanding your audience and developing personalized marketing strategies

Understanding your target audience is key to any successful marketing campaign. The majority of prospective undergraduate students are Gen Z. This generation is unique and traditional marketing strategies often don’t work for them. Increasingly, consumers want to feel a connection to a university or brand before spending money. This means providing authentic digital interactions that offer human connection, transparency, and relatability.

Research from Econsultancy shows that 68% of marketers see a higher return on investment (ROI) when they personalize their marketing strategy. Higher education institutions should prioritize adopting targeted marketing strategies to efficiently reach prospective students while offsetting the rising costs of student recruitment.

If prospects and existing students are satisfied with their admissions experience, they can become the best advocates for your university down the line. One great way to leverage satisfied students in your higher education marketing strategy is through a student ambassador program. Student ambassadors are current or former students who represent the university to prospective students throughout the admissions process. Because they were once in the same position as the prospect, ambassadors can connect with leads 1:1 and provide an even more personalized experience by answering questions and helping candidates feel connected to the school before they even apply.

Influencer marketing at your university

In this day and age, we all understand the value of influencer marketing. An influencer is defined as someone who has an online following or can affect their followers’ decisions. This could include the decision of what university to attend. In higher education, the equivalent of influencers are student ambassadors.

Student ambassadors can help boost your institution’s reputation and promote your brand in amazing ways. An institution’s brand plays an important role in a prospect’s decision-making, but the people who represent the brand have the power to drive more interest and enthusiasm among prospects. International students want to know true opinions from real representatives – not admissions officers. Student ambassador ‘influencers’ can engage directly with student prospects.

Leveraging student ambassador programs is an untapped tool that should be a part of your university’s higher education marketing strategies.

Emphasizing Career Outcomes

With the high cost of a college education in the US, international students and their families want to know that their degrees will have value and benefit their lives in significant ways. A report from the ICEF Monitor states that employability and employment outcomes are top factors in international students’ choices for US colleges and universities. One study found that 90% of prospective international students chose to study abroad specifically to improve their future employment options.

Universities should demonstrate that a degree from their institution can lead to a desired career. One of the best ways to do this is to highlight alumni stories and how their degrees helped boost their careers. Alumni themselves can also participate in the admissions process to personally share their experience with prospective students.

Your marketing materials should also highlight general career outcomes using data collected from former students. Universities should track:

• How many students were employed after graduation from each program
• What industries they are employed in
• Who their employers are
• What additional education they pursued, if any
• Where in the world students go after graduation
• International student outcomes, in addition to general student population outcomes

Implementing marketing strategies across the entire student journey

Student satisfaction and retention is another vital part of educational marketing strategies. If students are dissatisfied with their university, they may leave the school or speak negatively about it to others. If current students and alumni voice negative experiences, that could deter international prospects and their families from considering higher education at your institution or even in the US at all. Keeping students happy and satisfied throughout their entire academic journey is key to fostering a positive reputation locally and abroad, and continuing to attract top talent from around the world to study in the US.

Understanding what students need at each stage of their higher education journey is the first step to keeping them satisfied. First-year students may need more hands-on support with academics and making friends. Upper classmen may need more tailored career development and immigration resources.

Additionally, departments have to work together to ensure they reach students at all stages of their academic journey. When each department has their own leadership, resources, processes, and systems, they may not be able to fully support and engage international students. Admissions Offices, Career Services, International Student Offices, Offices of Retention, and Community Life need to work together and have staff members who focus specifically on marketing to international students.

Taking your higher ed marketing strategies to the mext level

Leveraging the Interstride platform helps you identify the most engaged prospects and make data-informed decisions to best recruit students. University admissions offices will find the tool valuable for increasing international student enrollment, boosting the school’s reputation, and improving overall student retention.

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According to research from the National Student Clearinghouse, 27.6% of full-time students in 2020 chose not to continue their studies at their current college for the next academic year. While that number is slightly lower for international students, every student that drops out or transfers to another university represents lost revenue for the school. With the decrease in enrollment in the U.S., focusing on international student retention is more important than ever.

What is student retention and why it matters?

Student retention refers to keeping students enrolled in their current institution until they graduate. Low student retention caused by students leaving school for the workforce, dropping out for other reasons, or transferring to a different school can lead to loss of revenue for the university, and a lost opportunity to recuperate recruiting costs. On the other hand, high retention rates are a signal of student satisfaction and a sign of prosperity and stability for the university as a whole. By implementing the correct student retention strategies, you can boost your school’s reputation and increase both enrollment and retention rates.

According to NAFSA, Elizabeth Matthews, Assistant Director of the Office for International Students and Scholars at Michigan State University, states that it is ‘a misstep to fail to recognize the impact that international student attrition has on the reputation of the institution abroad.’ If current students and alumni voice negative experiences, that could deter international prospects and their families from considering higher education at your institution or even in the U.S. at all. Therefore, keeping active students happy and satisfied is crucial to fostering a positive reputation locally and abroad, and attracting top talent from around the world to study in the U.S.

Top barriers to student retention

In order to implement effective student retention strategies, you should first understand the challenges that cause students to drop out or transfer to another university or college. For international students, these can include:

• Culture shock or difficulties acclimating to a new environment
• Lack of university support to ease transitioning into American life
• High cost of education and living in the U.S.

1) Lack of Support or Guidance

Once international students are enrolled, universities often fail to provide the academic, career, and immigration support they desperately need which can lead to poor retention and reputation. At some universities in the U.S., departments operate completely separate from each other. When each department has their own leadership, resources, processes, and systems with little to no collaboration across other departments, an active international student may feel disconnected and ill informed.

Many colleges in the U.S. also have complex and archaic websites that students must navigate regularly to find information and complete essential tasks like registering for classes. These websites are usually designed for professors, university staff, and domestic students, so international students may struggle to find the crucial information and resources they need. Regardless of whether an international student is looking for academic or immigration support, the lack of university guidance can leave students feeling confused and overwhelmed in a completely new environment.

2) Financing

As the costs of higher education in the U.S. continue to rise, financing remains a key factor in international student retention. International students face higher tuition and fees and have to pay for travel to and from the U.S., as well as living accommodations. They may also experience financial uncertainty due to fluctuations in currency exchange rates. International students and their families want to make sure they are getting a high return on investment. The student should feel confident that their career opportunities upon graduation will be equally or more valuable than the cost of the degree. That means not only implementing creative pricing strategies and offering financial aid, but showing students how valuable a degree from your university is.

3) Lack of Community

International students may struggle to fit in at their new school while being far from home and away from their support system. If students don’t find a meaningful connection to their university or develop strong social ties with other students, they may feel isolated and dissatisfied. This could lead them to drop out, return to their home country, or transfer to a different school in search of a sense of belonging. Retention strategies in higher education should include addressing cultural differences and language barriers that prevent international students from connecting to their school and other students.

Retention Strategies for Higher Education

1) Engage early on and creatively

Ensuring that international students have a good and accurate first impression of the school is key to long-term retention. This is especially true for international students who likely will not be able to visit the school in person before they enroll. Excellent student retention strategies start engaging students before they even enroll at the university or arrive on campus. Supporting international students in the admissions process with long term retention in mind sets both parties up for success. It sends the message to prospective students that the school cares about them and will support them from day one through graduation. If you wait until a student is struggling or dissatisfied in some way to provide support, it may be too late.

International students may also be hesitant to reach out and ask for help. The university should proactively show students that it cares about their well-being and success, and educate them on how to access services and resources on-campus that may be relevant to them. Some ways to implement this retention strategy include regularly checking in with international students and leveraging student ambassadors to increase engagement. Student ambassadors can be available online or in-person to answer international students’ questions and share resources.

2) Provide tailored support and resources for academic success

Colleges and universities need to provide individualized support and guidance for each international student. Retention strategies for students in their first year of school should be more hands-on and include actively connecting students to resources that they likely would not seek out on their own. Academic and career advisors should meet with first-year students regularly, and work with them to create a tailored support plan.

For international students in the middle of their studies or in their last academic year, advisors must actively engage and inform students of their options to work and stay in the U.S. upon graduation. This includes providing them with the proper career development and immigration resources and opening doors to possible job opportunities.

To design and carry out effective higher education retention strategies for all stages of the international student journey, Admissions Offices, Career Services, International Student Offices, Offices of Retention, and Community Life need to collaboratively engage with international students. One office working in isolation cannot fully support a student.

Here are some suggested supports for fostering international students’ academic success:

• Online and in-person tutoring
• English language classes
• Virtual office hours with professors
• Academic writing workshops
• Online and in-person social events
• Workshops and webinars on U.S. culture, immigration pathways, and work authorization
• Networking events with alumni
• Job fairs with companies that sponsor international students
• 1-on-1 advising on graduation requirements and career options

3) Create connection and build community

A sense of belonging is key for international student retention. International students who feel isolated are likely to drop out or transfer elsewhere. With the increase of online classes, international students may also feel more disconnected from their peers even if they are living on or near campus. To foster positive social encounters among students, it’s important to meet them where they are – online.

An effective way to increase student interactions is through a digital university ambassador program. These programs invite prospective and new students to engage with current students and alumni online, and allows them to ask questions and get advice from their peers. Research shows that digital messaging and engagement platforms foster social immediacy which increases students’ feelings of connectedness. “Online immediacy, such as instant feedback and timely responses on a chat group or email, replicates the social cues that are present in a real time interaction.” By facilitating positive and authentic interactions digitally, student ambassador programs can help new American and international students feel welcomed and connected to the school in their first year to ensure their return.

A better way to improve international student retention

While admissions offices work hard to keep student enrollment numbers up, getting students in the door isn’t enough. You must also be proactive in implementing strategies to improve international student retention. Students want to know that their college will support them throughout their higher education journey and set them up for future success. Interstride’s dynamic tool helps you better engage and support prospective and current international students, and supplements existing international college student retention efforts. University admissions will find it valuable for increasing international student satisfaction, boosting the school’s reputation, and improving overall student retention.

The post Retention strategies for international college students appeared first on Interstride.

Alumni represent an underutilized resource for university admissions offices. They have more to offer their alma mater than just financial donations. Alumni are uniquely positioned to engage with prospective and current international students. They can share first-hand experiences, provide insight and guidance, and help admissions teams support students in the admissions process and throughout their entire academic journey.

When leveraged effectively, alumni can also have a positive impact on the university’s reputation, enrollment rates, and student retention rates. This blog explains how alumni help with student retention and provides concrete ways to engage alumni to boost international student enrollment.

Who are alumni?

University alumni are former students who have graduated from the school. Former students of the university include those who have:

• Completed an undergraduate degree
• Completed a graduate degree
• Completed a non-degree program
• Earned a certificate or credential

Alumni often have access to certain benefits and resources through their alma mater’s alumni association. An alumni association is an essential part of any growing or established institution to keep alumni connected to the university. These associations can organize events and networking opportunities for former and current students, as well as manage fundraising through alumni donations.

Why is alumni engagement important for universities?

Not only does engaging alumni provide a means for fundraising, it also offers incredible value for the university’s brand. Consistently engaging with alumni in positive ways can boost the university’s reputation globally. Proper alumni engagement can ultimately lead to more efficient support for international students throughout their entire student journey, from admissions to graduation. 

1) Recruitment

The evolving state of international student recruitment is becoming more competitive, and recruitment costs are increasing. International students and their families have voiced that they want to connect with existing students and alumni to help them understand and weigh whether a US college degree is worth the high tuition costs, immigration challenges, and career outcomes. In other words, does an American education provide a high return on investment?

Alumni can take an active role in the international student recruitment process to help prospects and families see the value of choosing a university in the US. They are uniquely positioned to resonate profoundly with students and to make a positive impact on their experiences. However, universities must actively engage alumni and identify the best representatives to include in the admissions process.

Learn more recruitment strategies for increasing international student enrollment from Interstride’s blog.

2) Representation

Diversity and inclusion are becoming more prominent selling points for prospective university students. Engaging alumni is a powerful tool to showcase your university’s diversity, but if you don’t stay connected with alumni, you won’t have much to show! One of the biggest challenges for international students studying in the US is lacking a sense of belonging. Alumni can represent the best references and most relatable people for international students to connect with. They can demonstrate the career outcomes of studying at your institution to convey the true value and quality of your university in a real way.

3) Retention

Low retention rates due to dropouts and transfers to other institutions decrease revenue for a university and damage its reputation. Engaging and leveraging alumni to support international students throughout their student journey can be very impactful. Alumni can provide mentorship and guidance on acclimating to American university life, offer advice on their academic journey, and even provide professional connections or opportunities in the future. By keeping alumni engaged, you can ensure that they will be available and willing to support current students when they need it. This can prevent international students from leaving your university when challenges arise.

How alumni can help international students

Admissions offices need to work with alumni associations to be actively in touch with the school’s alumni network. When alumni are engaged, they can take action to support international students in various ways depending on where students are in their higher education journey.

Prospective Students (Admissions Stage)

We already know that prospective international students want to connect with existing students and alumni. When universities do not effectively facilitate those connections, prospective students will seek out information themselves through informal or personal networks (e.g. friends, family, classmates) and social media (i.e. LinkedIn). With these methods, students may have a difficult time getting the accurate information they need or even come across negative reviews of your university.

Additionally, admissions teams miss out on key insights regarding what prospects are asking about. Having this information available to you can help you tailor a more effective recruitment strategy. Admissions offices can bridge these gaps by actively connecting alumni with international prospects. Focus on opportunities for authentic interactions through student ambassador programs and online messaging and engagement platforms.

Here are some ways that alumni can help prospective international students:

• Provide advice on how to prepare a strong application
• Share about their own experiences as international students
• Speak honestly about the challenges of being an international student and how to overcome them
• Share information about specific degree programs
• Share their positive career outcomes as a result of studying at your institution

Existing and Graduating Students

Existing international students often need support navigating university services and adjusting to life in a new country. Alumni can share practical recommendations for housing, insurance, building community, and more to help ease the transition of coming to the US for the first time. Alumni can also support international students academically by sharing useful resources and services on- or off-campus.

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) and Career Centers at the university should work collaboratively and help connect current international students to alumni who work in the industry they are interested in. Alumni are valuable sources of job market information. They may have insight into how international students can leverage their US education to gain more career opportunities, and even help them build their professional networks by introducing them to their colleagues. In the best case scenario, alumni can potentially refer current and graduating international students to internships and job opportunities.

Leverage alumni more effectively with Interstride

Interstride’s engagement tool helps you leverage alumni to boost recruitment and retention of international students. The platform provides prospects with opportunities to connect with alumni ambassadors, ask questions, and access expertly-crafted resources. International students can choose to speak to alumni from their home country, ones who majored in a field of study they are interested in, or speak directly with admissions officers. Contact Interstride today for a demo to learn how you can engage alumni to help international students through their higher education journey from admissions to graduation.

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