EducationUSA, a branch of the US Department of State, launched a new web platform last week in order to attract and connect better with prospective international students.
Featuring over 200 pages of content, and now fully responsive on mobile devices, the website offers key information and resources readable in over 90 languages.
A new section has also been added, which provides content for foreign governments and institutions.
“We anticipate increased engagement from around the world”
The site drew 1.8 million page visits last year alone, and with the new design, the government hopes to attract more overseas visitors.
“We recognise that it is impossible to meet the demand solely by in-person services,” Anthony Koliha, director of the office of global educational programmes at the US Department of State, told The PIE News.
“Which is why we deploy the most effective technological platforms to reach larger audiences of prospective students ‘where they are’. Through the website alone, we anticipate increased engagement from around the world.”
Prospective international students are guided through what they need to do in order to apply to a US higher education institution with the “Your 5 Steps to US Study” section of the site.
Visitors can also view the latest regional news and trends as well as financial aid opportunities, campus news and events which can be submitted to the website by US higher education professionals.
“In general feedback has been that that the site was well received with users particularly commenting that they like the updated design,” said Koliha.
“More functionality and content are still in the works as we build the site out further in the coming months.”