The US For Success coalition aims to work in partnership with the government, businesses and higher education institutions to advocate for “supportive” federal policies that help the country to remain competitive as a destination for international students. 

Members include NAFSA, the Institute of International Education, the Association of International Enrollment Management, the Alliance for International Exchange, ETS, Shorelight and World Education Services. 

In a statement announcing the launch of the coalition, the group warned that America’s share of international students is declining while other countries with more favourable visa and immigration policies are increasingly attracting more. 

“By welcoming international students to the nation’s campuses and making pathways for them to apply their knowledge and skills in local economies upon graduation, the coalition aims to position the US as a leading destination for the world’s talent,” the coalition wrote in the statement. 

“Collaboration is essential if the US is going to keep up”

As well as issuing policy recommendations, the group will work with institutions to try and expand the diversity of international students in the US and the range of destinations they study in. 

Fanta Aw, executive director and CEO of NAFSA, said, “Collaboration across the international education sector to identify and advance solutions is essential if the US is going to keep up. 

“The coalition’s agenda will drive forward an important component of NAFSA’s longstanding call for the US to adopt a broader national strategy that would also diversify study abroad and expand campus internationalisation efforts.”

Esther Benjamin, CEO and executive director at World Education Services, added that the organisation is “excited” to help “advance a coordinated national strategy to prioritise the success of international students, as well as the success of the local communities where they study and settle”. 

Allan Goodman, CEO of IIE, said, “US For Success symbolises our shared commitment to fostering global understanding, promoting cultural exchange, and building bridges that transcend borders.

“International students bring a wealth of knowledge, diverse perspectives, and unique experiences to our campuses. They invigorate our local communities, contribute to our economy, and strengthen the global reputation of the United States as welcoming and inclusive.”

The group said it welcomes new partners from higher education organisations, the business sector, the foreign policy community and think tanks.