No money in the pot: how to fund your study abroad office

In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, securing funding for international mobility can often feel like an uphill battle. With lower budgets and increasing financial pressures, many higher education institutions (HEIs) face the question: how can they support study-abroad experiences? This poster from the 2024 EAIE Conference and Exhibition in Toulouse, France, provides some strategies to consider.

Institution’s mission

Start by demonstrating your global programmes align with key institutional objectives such as social mobility, internationalisation, and employability. Consider bidding for internal funding streams, such as widening participation funds or employability grants. If your Study Abroad Office strategy mirrors the wider institutional agenda, funding opportunities are more likely to materialise.

Explore fee-paying incoming opportunities

While many institutions prioritise reciprocal exchange agreements, it’s worth exploring models that attract fee-paying incoming students. For example, programmes funded by government agencies or international bodies. These opportunities not only generate revenue but also enrich the campus with a diverse cohort of students.

Engage academic departments

Leverage academic interests by embedding international mobility within the curriculum. Outgoing programmes that promote research collaborations are particularly appealing. For example, sending students to the United States to gain skills while enhancing the institutional brand can be a win-win.

Rethink summer schools

Diversifying your portfolio with summer school offerings can open new revenue streams. Many programmes, such as research or placement-based initiatives, can be marketed as "summer schools" for incoming students. Collaborate with your Business Development team to establish pricing models that make these opportunities financially viable for your HEI and your department.

Partner with TNE and International Recruitment

Transnational education (TNE) partnerships offer an excellent perspective for collaboration. Consider organising trips where students can deliver sessions or attend courses at partner institutions. Virtual exchange programmes, such as Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) projects with TNE partners, can also facilitate meaningful engagement without the need for travel.

Seek external funding

Charities and national agencies often have funding streams aimed at widening participation or supporting underrepresented groups. The British Council, for instance, provides grants that extend beyond traditional mobility schemes, creating exciting possibilities for collaborative bids involving students.

Paying fees is OK

A controversial but increasingly accepted perspective is that students should contribute financially to their study abroad experiences. Charging fees, even nominal ones, can foster a sense of value and commitment among participants. Start with free places if necessary, but don’t shy away from introducing costs as demand grows.

Final thoughts

Navigating funding challenges requires creativity, persistence, and strategic thinking. By aligning your initiatives with institutional goals, exploring fee-paying opportunities, leveraging faculty collaborations, and seeking external partnerships, you can develop exciting initiatives even without a dedicated budget.