Are you looking to boost international student recruitment for your institution? Building partnerships with reputable education agents can be a game-changer. Not only do agents serve as invaluable local resources for providing cultural insights and language expertise, but their established networks give you access to students from all around the world. Here’s what you need to know.

Identify the right agents

The first step is to thoroughly research and vet potential agent partners. Look for those with a proven track record and a strong presence in your target location, and most importantly – an alignment with your institution’s values and enrollment goals. The best way to assess if an agent is right for you is to meet them in person or through reputable third parties. Do this by, for example, attending international education fairs and becoming a member of professional networks like Schools & Agents. 

Establish ongoing communication

Once you’ve identified promising agents, prioritise building strong relationships through regular correspondence, leaving the lines of communication open for questions or concerns. It’s also essential that agents have all the relevant information about your institution’s programmes, admission requirements, application processes, and unique selling points – and don’t forget to establish clear expectations and commission structures from the start.

Develop mutually beneficial partnerships

Consider your agent partners an extension of your recruitment team, not just third-party vendors. Share market insights, student enrollment data, and feedback to help agents better understand and represent your institution. You might also want to extend an invitation to top-performing agents to visit your school or campus and attend events to enhance their familiarity with your institution.

A well-coordinated agent network can serve as a powerful tool for driving sustainable enrollment growth and enhancing global presence, helping institutions gain a competitive edge in the international education industry. Let Schools & Agents simplify these connections for you – get in touch with us today!

Written by Stephanie Clark