Selecting the right education agents to partner with can really make a difference to your school’s growth trajectory, so it’s important to choose ones that align with your institution’s values and goals. In this How to Tuesday article, we share some key things to consider when starting an education agent partnership. 

Evaluate agent reputation and expertise

Begin by researching an agent’s standing in the industry. Look for agents with proven track records in your target markets and verify their credentials. The best partners will have specialised knowledge of specific regions and demonstrate a clear understanding of your school’s unique offerings.

Conduct a step-by-step evaluation process

During this research stage, it’s advisable to take the following steps:

1. Review the agent’s historical performance data with similar institutions.
2. Assess student satisfaction rates from previous placements.
3. Conduct reference checks with other educational partners.
4. Arrange face-to-face meetings at education fairs or virtual interviews.
5. Request detailed marketing plans for your institution.

Build ethical partnerships

Transparency should form the foundation of your agent relationships. Establish clear expectations regarding commission structures, enrollment targets, and communication protocols. Ethical agents will prioritise student welfare over commission, ensuring learners find institutions that are the best fit for their needs. 

Use technology for agent management

Once you’re working with an agent, CRM systems can help you track their performance metrics and streamline communication. Modern platforms allow you to monitor application progress, conversion rates, and student outcomes, providing valuable insights for data-driven decisions about your agent network.

Nurture long-term relationships

Lastly, the most successful school-agent partnerships extend beyond transactional interactions. Make sure to invest time in regular catch-ups and show recognition for top-performing agents to foster loyalty and motivation.

Choosing the right education agents requires careful consideration, but the return on investment makes the process worthwhile. Need some guidance on international education agency partnerships? Contact Schools & Agents today—it’s what we specialise in!

Written by Stephanie Clark