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Connecting Our World is the advocacy home of NAFSA: Association of International Educators and its nearly 10,000 members worldwide. We believe that international education—connecting students, scholars, educators, and citizens across borders—is fundamental to advancing peace, security, and well-being.

Urge Your Elected Officials to Expand Access to Study Abroad

International experiences like study abroad help students succeed in their careers and collectively contribute to a more innovative, secure, and prosperous United States. Yet only 10 percent of U.S. college students study abroad before they graduate. The bipartisan Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program Act will expand access to the critical skills that study abroad opportunities provide by making it more affordable for institutions and students. Urge your elected officials to cosponsor the bill.

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Ask Your Lawmakers to Help Attract Attract and Retain International Students

Attracting the best and the brightest students from around the world contributes immeasurably to U.S. preeminence in academic research and scientific innovation. Urge your lawmakers to cosponsor the Keep STEM Talent Act to enable the U.S. to attract and retain global talent.

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Ask Your Lawmakers to Support Funding for International and Exchange Programs

Urge your lawmakers' support for robust funding of international education and exchange programs as part of FY2025 appropriations, specifically $808.6 million for the State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and $91 million for the Education Department’s Title VI and Fulbright-Hays programs. This funding would help the U.S. recruit global talent and create more opportunities for U.S. students to gain a global education. 

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Urge the White House to Adopt a National Strategy for International Education

The United States must increase its efforts to attract and retain the world’s best and brightest and ensure domestic students have access to opportunities that keep them competitive and equipped to collaborate across borders. A coordinated federal commitment to international education will ensure the United States has the talent pool necessary to innovate and engage with the world.

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Advocacy Day

Speak out for students, scholars, and policies that matter to you! Educate Congress on how international education impacts your state and district and why we need a more globally engaged and welcoming United States.

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Advocate of the Year

The Advocate of the Year Award is given annually to recognize an individual who has excelled in grassroots advocacy for international education and has inspired others to get involved. The 2024 Award was presented during Advocacy Day in March.

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