From Admission to Arrival: ISSS Strategies for Supporting International Student Yield

Resource by 2024 KC Leaders

George F. Kacenga (William Paterson University of New Jersey), IEM KC

Julie Wilbers (Vanderbilt University), KC ISSS

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) professionals are increasingly recognized as valuable partners in supporting international student yield. By collaborating with Admissions and other campus offices, ISSS teams can play a pivotal role in ensuring that admitted international students feel welcomed, supported, and prepared to enroll. Here are ten effective strategies ISSS professionals can implement to positively impact international student enrollment:

1. Pre-arrival Communication: Engage admitted students with timely pre-arrival emails and virtual orientations, ensuring they feel welcomed and informed early on.
2. I-20 and Deposit Expectations: Clearly communicate the timeline for I-20 processing and the requirement for a commitment deposit (if applicable) before the I-20 can be issued, ensuring students understand the importance of these steps.
3. I-20 Issuance and Visa Application Support: Offer expedited I-20 issuance and detailed guidance on visa applications, including webinars and one-on-one advising sessions, to help students navigate the process efficiently.
4. Dedicated Support Channels: Establish dedicated communication lines (e.g., email, phone, chat) for prospective international students to address their questions and provide timely assistance.
5. Virtual Information and Q&A Sessions: Host virtual sessions for newly admitted students with current international students and alumni to answer questions about campus life, academics, and the overall student experience.
6. Pre-departure Orientations: Conduct comprehensive pre-departure orientations, covering essential topics such as travel, housing, health insurance, and cultural adaptation.
7. Housing Assistance: Provide support for securing on- or off-campus housing by partnering with local housing providers and offering resources to ease the transition.
8. Peer Mentorship Programs: Pair incoming students with current students or alumni, particularly those from the same region or country, to foster a sense of community and support.
9. Regular Check-ins: Schedule regular check-ins with admitted students to address any concerns or challenges they face in their transition to university life.
10. Social Media Engagement: Build vibrant online communities on social media where admitted students can connect, share experiences, and stay excited about their upcoming journey.

International Student and Scholar Services professionals have numerous opportunities to support Admissions and other campus partners in enhancing international student enrollment. By engaging students early, providing clear communication, and offering tailored support throughout the pre-arrival process, ISSS teams can significantly improve the likelihood that admitted students will choose to enroll. In doing so, ISSS teams not only contribute to yield but also foster positive student experiences that begin before they even arrive on campus.