Advance International Education
Ask Your Lawmakers to Help Attract Attract and Retain International Students
Attracting the best and the brightest students from around the world contributes immeasurably to U.S. preeminence in academic research and scientific innovation. Urge your lawmakers to support expanding dual intent and creating a pathway to a green card for international student graduates to ensure the U.S. can attract and retain global talent.
Urge Congress to Improve Student Visa Processing Delays and High Denial Rate in the Global South
International students from the Global South with dreams of studying in the U.S. risk losing the opportunity due to unpredictable and lengthy visa processing times and a disproportionately high visa denial rate. Join NAFSA and the entire U.S. for Success Coalition in urging your members of Congress to intervene. Ask your elected officials to press the U.S. State Department for improvements to visa processing and protocols to make it possible for talented international students from around the globe to arrive on time for the start of the fall semester.
Urge Your Elected Officials to Expand Access to Study Abroad
International experiences like study abroad help students succeed in their careers and collectively contribute to a more innovative, secure, and prosperous United States. Yet only 10 percent of U.S. college students study abroad before they graduate. The bipartisan Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program Act will expand access to the critical skills that study abroad opportunities provide by making it more affordable for institutions and students. Urge your elected officials to cosponsor the bill.
Urge the White House to Adopt a National Strategy for International Education
The United States must increase its efforts to attract and retain the world’s best and brightest and ensure domestic students have access to opportunities that keep them competitive and equipped to collaborate across borders. A coordinated federal commitment to international education will ensure the United States has the talent pool necessary to innovate and engage with the world.
Advocacy Day
Advocacy Day
Speak out for students, scholars, and policies that matter to you! NAFSA Advocacy Day returns to an in-person format for the first time since 2019. Educate Congress on how international education impacts your state and district and why we need a more globally engaged and welcoming United States.
Advocate of the Year
The Advocate of the Year Award is given annually to recognize an individual who has excelled in grassroots advocacy for international education and has inspired others to get involved. The 2024 Award was presented during Advocacy Day in March.