Earlier this month, IDP was pleased to release the key findings from the Survey on a National Strategy for International Education in the U.S.
The survey was created in consultation with the following organizations: AACRAO, ACCT, ACE, AIEA, AIRC, EnglishUSA, IIE, NACAC, NAFSA, The Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, the U.S. for Success Coalition, and others. The idea for this survey originated from the IDP’s 2023 Think Tank event, “Destination 2030: Reimagining the future of student mobility.” All consulting organizations provided important input on the survey purpose, content, and design. The survey was administered and analyzed by IDP at no cost.
Survey Overview
The purpose of the survey was to identify collective strategic priorities for international education in the U.S. among higher education leaders and stakeholders, in support of the advancement of a formalized national strategy. The 15-minute online survey was out in the field between November 28 – December 22, 2023. This survey was designed for leaders in higher education who possess influence, perspective, and vested interest in the strategic integration of international education in the United States and was open to any professionals actively engaged in the field of international education.
The survey engaged a diverse group of over 400 professionals from various organization types within the field of international education.
Focus Areas
The survey explores four key areas:
Value of a national strategy – country and institutional/organizational level
Setting targets
Choosing tactics
Role assignment and organization
Survey Results
The results of the survey underscored the importance and complexities of developing a comprehensive national strategy for international education in the United States.
Respondents noted the importance of such a strategy in fostering U.S. global competitiveness, innovation and research, enriching cultural diversity, reducing barriers, and increasing access. However, several concerns were also raised, including sustaining the plan amidst changing government support and geopolitical trends.
Several key areas of consensus also emerged in the survey results, laying the foundation for future advancement of U.S. international education. One of the strongest areas of consensus was around the need for modernization of work pathways, visa policies, and opportunities for residency post-graduation, with expanded federal support and dual intent for F-1 students. Respondents also highlighted the importance of increased funding and federal support to attract more international students to the U.S.
Diversity also emerged as a key theme, with strategies proposed to address visa denial rates, provide scholarships for underrepresented groups, and promote study abroad opportunities to a wider range of students. Respondents identified quality, access, and support as critical components to expanding education abroad opportunities.
In terms of organization and governance, opinions were split between establishing a White House coordinating council and creating an independent cross-sector body. Most respondents agreed on the need for government funding, while alternative funding suggestions included contributions from higher education institutions and related organizations.
While much work is yet to be done, the survey results identify key strategic priorities and action areas that will advance the national conversation and drive real progress in U.S. international education.
CTA: Explore the full survey results
Download the Key Findings report: https://resources.idp-connect.com/us-sector-survey-report
About IDP
IDP is a global leader in international student placement and a proud co-owner of the world’s most popular high-stakes English language test, IELTS.
IDP is listed on the Australian securities exchange (ASX:IEL) and has 6,800 employees across more than 30 countries. Its websites attract 100 million visits a year.
We specialize in combining human expertise with digital technology to help students get accepted into their ideal program and help institutions enroll the best-fit students. Our teams work side-by-side with students at every step, from online searches through to starting their dream program or career.
We partner with more than 890 quality universities and institutions across the United States, Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. Our data insights are relied upon by organizations around the world to help ensure policies are informed by the diverse needs, challenges, and motivations of students.