1. Offer Scholarships, Tuition Waivers and Financial Aid
One of the more significant barriers to international students enrolling in universities is the high cost of tuition as well as various other application expenses. Offering scholarships, tuition waivers and financial aid can help alleviate this issue and attract more international students. Universities can also purchase TOEFL vouchers to offer prospective students as a way to alleviate some of their financial burden.
2. Create International Communities on campus
International students often become homesick when they come to a new country filled with unfamiliar people, foods and customs. Universities that create a supportive and welcoming international community can help retain international students. Activities like buddy programs, orientation events, and social events can encourage interactions amongst international students, creating a sense of belonging and support. Although it’s important for international students to immerse themselves in the new culture, encouraging them to connect with fellow students and citizens from their home country can provide a sense of familiarity and security.
3. Provide Cultural Adaptation Support
International students can experience many challenges due to culture shock and language barriers. Requiring students to take the TOEFL iBT test to show English proficiency helps students not only succeed in the classroom, but in social and life situations as well.
Universities that provide academic and personal support in adjusting to their new surroundings can help international students feel more comfortable on campus. Career counseling services, and cultural exchange events can help international students adjust to their new environment. International students who experience any kind of mental health issues, may feel uncomfortable asking for help due to cultural views on the topic. Promote to prospective students that your institution offers judgement-free support and help for all students who may need it.
4. Develop Strong International Marketing Strategies
International students tend to be attracted to universities with a reputation for academic excellence, a desirable geographic location, and a diverse student body. Universities that develop a strong international marketing strategy to showcase their academic programs and services can attract more international students. Websites, social media, and student testimonials are excellent marketing tools that universities can use to promote their institution internationally.
5. Expand Partnership and Collaboration
Developing partnerships and collaborations with institutions abroad can increase an institution's international visibility to potential international students. Higher ed collaborations with TOEFL can also be helpful when searching for prospective students to recruit.
Additionally, international students from these partner institutions can encourage other international students to apply to the university. Besides, universities can develop faculty exchange programs, joint research projects, and collaborative online learning to strengthen international partnerships. Becoming a Designated Institution or joining TOEFL’s Partner Program are some other ways to benefit from the resources at TOEFL’s disposal.
The bottom line
International students’ enrollment has increased drastically over the years, and universities need to ramp up their strategies to attract and retain them. By implementing these strategies, universities can create an inclusive environment for international students, foster global connections, and enhance their institution's reputation around the world.
International students are beneficial to universities in several ways. They offer diverse perspectives, bring unique cultural experiences, and contribute to the institution's economic growth. However, with increasing competition amongst universities to attract international students and restrictive visa policies in various countries, it’s crucial to implement multiple strategies to attract and retain this segment of the student population. Here are several tips and strategies to help universities attract more international students: