The US for Success Coalition, which was founded a year ago, is advocating for a comprehensive government approach to enhance international education in the United States and improve visa processing for international students. With over 40 member organizations, the Coalition emphasizes the need for coordinated national policy to address the challenges faced by international students, particularly those from Africa, who often encounter high visa denial rates. Fanta Aw, CEO of NAFSA, highlighted the importance of this coordinated effort, stating that it is crucial for the US to remain competitive in the global education landscape.
The Coalition supports the Department of State's visa interview waiver policy, which aims to streamline the visa process for international students. A recent campaign led to over 1,300 messages being sent to Congress, advocating for improved visa standards. In response, eight US senators reached out to Secretary of State Antony Blinken to discuss these concerns. Tom Dretler, CEO of Shorelight, underscored the necessity of a national strategy for international education, which is further supported by a report from IDP in March 2024 indicating strong educator backing for such a strategy.
Currently, international students represent over 5% of total enrollment in US higher education, with the potential to double this figure if barriers are addressed. The Coalition's initiatives aim not only to protect US competitiveness but also to foster global cooperation in education, ensuring that the US remains a top destination for international students. As the Coalition marks its one-year anniversary, its goals reflect a commitment to enhancing the international education landscape in the United States and addressing the pressing issues faced by international students today. This collaborative effort is crucial for the future of US higher education and its role in the global market.