On January 14, 2003, NAFSA: Association of International Educators released, In America's Interest: Welcoming International Students, the report of its Strategic Task Force on International Student Access. At a time when efforts to counter the global threat of terrorism have highlighted the importance of building ties and friendships around the world, the report concludes that the United States needs a comprehensive strategy to enhance the ability of international students to pursue educational opportunities here.
NAFSA updated and expanded on the recommendations of this 2003 report when it issued Restoring U.S. Competitiveness for International Students and Scholars in 2006.