Define Your Goals

Take some time to think about your short- and long-term career and personal goals. Consider how these goals can inform your objectives in attending the conference. Plan to attend sessions that address your immediate professional needs, but also make time for sessions that will broaden your perspective of the field.

If your objective is to…

Develop your specialty in the field, find your Knowledge Community (KC), Member Interest Group (MIG), and/or region. You can find sessions, open meetings, workshops, and other programs tailored to these different communities.

Learn about the latest innovations and professional development trends, focus on the sessions and posters related to your interests, and visit the NAFSA Bookstore for the latest resources and publications. 

Develop institutional partnerships, check out the online exhibitor listings and visit the International Education Expo, especially during dedicated expo hours on Tuesday, May 30, 2023.

Find assistance in navigating the international education job market, access career-focused sessions and resources and head to the Career Center.

Build connections with professionals from across the international education field, pay special attention to the conference's networking and engagement programs. Meet new colleagues at the Tuesday opening celebration, in sessions, or in the International Education Expo.

Be inspired and learn how international education intersects with inclusivity and social justice, attend the NAFSA 2023 plenary addresses and hear from our spotlight presenters. 

Plan Your Conference Schedule

Sessions, workshops, and poster descriptions are available via the online planner. You can search for conference sessions by day, knowledge community, presenter, or other focus area. Log in using your conference registration credentials to build your schedule, view the attendee lists, and use the networking features.

Some additional tips to keep in mind:

• Workshops provide you with opportunities to maximize your professional skill set. These require an additional fee. Seats are limited and fill quickly, so register early!
• The poster fair is available online all week, starting May 30. Join presenters in person on May 31 and June 1.
• The Opening Plenary kicks off the conference on Tuesday, May 30, 9:30 a.m. (EDT).
• Join for the welcome (and complimentary) coffee break beforehand at 8:00 a.m. (EDT). You’ll need to be registered to gain access, so come early enough to enjoy!

What to Pack

• Business cards
• Credit cards: Cash will not be accepted at the conference, including at registration and at the NAFSA Bookstore. For Non-U.S.-based attendees, please be sure that your credit card works in the United States.
• Comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking a lot and may be on your feet for hours at a time.
• Appropriate clothing: Attendees dress in all styles—from casual to business. The best recommendation is to dress according to your conference goals. If you plan business meetings, you will need business attire.
  • The rooms in the convention center will be air conditioned. It is a good idea to bring a sweater or something similar if you get cold.
  • Check the weather forecast in Washington, D.C. to help you decide what to pack. Bring an umbrella, just in case.
• D.C. in the summertime can get hot and humid, so plan accordingly by bringing water bottles.
• Mobile phone
  • Check with your mobile service provider to ensure you will have coverage in D.C.
  • To use the NAFSA 2023 app, you will need a smartphone or tablet with internet access that runs the most up-to-date version of the Android or iOS operating system.
• For Non-U.S.-based attendees: Bring a travel plug adapter.