For First Time in 5 Years, Incoming Foreign Enrollment in U.S. Grad Schools Fails to Increase

A new report released by the Council of Graduate Schools has found that the number of incoming international students at the post-secondary level in the United States is the same this year as last. This is the first year since 2004 that the number has not increased. In 2003-2004, the numbers dropped by 6%.

The report is the culmination of an annual admissions survey conducted by the CGS, which also found that the overall number of enrolled international students is 2% higher this year than last. While this may seem like good news, the number is markedly lower than the past two years and the lack of growth this year among incoming international students indicates an even steeper decline over at least the next to years. In fact, the 2% is a bit of a false indicator: it is only an increase because the number of international students who completed their programs last year is offset by the number of incoming students in the years immediately prior.

Are Men or Women More Likely to Study Abroad?

According to a recent report published by the Chronicle of Higher Education, women are. The report argues that “[w]omen appear to be much more likely than men to choose to study abroad because of significant gender-based differences in how students are influenced by their backgrounds, academic environments, and social interactions”.

To unpack that a notion a bit, the author of the Chronicle article goes on to say:

Living Abroad Stimulates Creativity

Researchers at INSEAD and Northwestern University have published a new study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology arguing that living abroad stimulates creativity. This information provides extra incentive for international students studying with A.C.E., and should help convince you to take part in our new study abroad programs for 2010.

Now, enjoy this interview with William Maddux from INSEAD.

Academy for International Education Deadline Approaching

NAFSA reports: “The Academy for International Education is an intensive nine-month training program with extensive networking opportunities. The Academy fast forwards your learning process and prepares you to take on leadership roles. This nine-month program is comprised of three training events, complimented by written assignments, regular cohort conference calls, and guidance from a coach. The Academy provides an introduction to the profession of international education including the field’s major practice areas. The program is flexible and is designed to meet your individual needs and learning goals.”

The deadline for the 2010 session is December 1st.

NAFSA Region 1 Conference, 2009

By Shirley Henderson at A.C.E.–Wednesday through Friday of last week, NAFSA Region 1 had its annual meeting in Vancouver, Washington. The A.C.E. attendees were A.C.E.’s Seattle Language Institute Director, Sally Thomas and me, the Enrollment Services Manager.

The regional NAFSA meetings provide great opportunities for networking as well as gaining pertinent information regarding new regulations and local trends.