For the first time in a long while, universities and colleges in the U.S. have to deal with a decline in the number of foreign students coming to them. Indeed, this decline may be as large as 20 percent, leaving schools to wonder how to recruit foreign students above placing immigration advertising.
Why?
There are many reasons for this decrease, one of which is the changing policies as far as immigrants go. However, this is by no means the sole reason, as possible students also fear the fact that they may not be able to get a job in the U.S. after graduating. In addition, other countries have started to place immigration advertising for study opportunities, which means that the U.S. has more competition than it used to.
H-1B
The good news is that while some policies are changing, the H-1B program, which is the one used for work visas and foreign graduates, has not changed at all. Because this program is supported by many business leaders, it is expected that it will still be in place.
Recruitment Strategies
As the climate changes, so should one’s policies for recruitment. Foreign students are important for bringing fresh, global perspectives to a university, as well as creating more well rounded communities on campus. As such, one should be sure to show those individuals that they are valued and to provide a welcoming campus for them. In addition, one should also strive to find and show internship programs aimed at introducing students to companies that may become their H-1B visa sponsors.
Proactive
One should also keep on recruiting through advertising and other channels, and even bettering their efforts to do so. Universities should strive to provide education to foreign students regarding the U.S. immigration process. Indeed, the media may be creating some confusion, but the F-1 student visas do not only still stand but will do so in the future.
Comply
When one admits a foreign student, they should make sure to help them maintain their status in the U.S. Indeed, the credibility of the university very much depends on this. As such, the institution should continually make sure that they are on top of policy changes, so that they will best know how to help their foreign students remain in the U.S.
While foreign students may be choosing to go to other universities in the world, one shouldn’t despair. There are ways in which they can keep on bringing students to them, though it is crucially important to remember to help them keep their status, since retention is just as important as recruitment.
