Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is NAFSA's mission?
2. What does "NAFSA" stand for?
3. Who are NAFSA's members?
4. Does NAFSA have local affiliates (regions)?
   
5. How is NAFSA funded?
6. Where is NAFSA's 62nd Annual Conference?

1. What is NAFSA's mission?
NAFSA is an association of individuals worldwide advancing international education and exchange and global workforce development. NAFSA serves international educators and their institutions and organizations by setting standards of good practice, providing training and professional development opportunities, providing networking opportunities, and advocating for international education.

How is this mission fulfilled? NAFSA's mission, vision, and values are contained in its strategic plan, which guides the work of the association. Visit the Strategic Plan 2008-2010 for an in-depth look at NAFSA's planning document.

2. What does the name "NAFSA" stand for?
The name of the association has changed since its inception in 1948 to reflect the expanding roles of NAFSA members into all aspects of international education and exchange. The original name of the association was National Association of Foreign Student Advisers (NAFSA). Read more about NAFSA's History.

See a full list of NAFSA acronyms.

3. Who are NAFSA's Members?
NAFSA's members number nearly 10,000 individuals from all 50 states and over 150 countries. A majority of NAFSA's members can be found on college and university campuses working as foreign student advisers and admissions officers, study abroad advisers, directors of international programs, teachers of English as a second language, administrators of intensive English programs, overseas educational advisers, community volunteers, and administrators of sponsored exchange programs.

NAFSA's leadership structure brings member volunteers into service in three main areas: influencing public policy, creating and disseminating knowledge, and maintaining a strong organization.

4. Does NAFSA have local affiliates?
NAFSA's 11 regions play a major role as a link between the members and the national association. The regions provide professional development and networking opportunities for members locally. Locate your state and visit your region's Web site! Find out more about NAFSA's regions.

5. How is NAFSA funded?
NAFSA relies on several sources for its funding

• Member dues
• Annual conference registration and exhibitor fees
• Publication sales
• Workshop registration
• US Government grants for special programs
• Contributions from members, foundations and Global Partners
• Investment income

NAFSA's Global Partnership Program brings opportunities to members from service, program, and product providers. Learn more about benefits and services to Global Partners.

6. Where is NAFSA's next Annual Conference?
NAFSA's 62nd Annual Conference will be held in Kansas City, Missouri, May 30th – June 4th, 2010.

NAFSA's Annual Conference is an exceptional educational resource designed to help you to learn, share, and succeed. Gain insight into what's ahead. This is the one conference you need to be ready to capitalize on tomorrow's most promising opportunities in international education and exchange. Want to present a session?.