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Recruiting international students brings significant academic, cultural, and economic benefits to UK and to our local community. International students contribute diverse perspectives that enrich classroom discussions, enhance cross-cultural understanding, and foster a  global learning environment. Their varied experiences and viewpoints encourage innovation, creativity, and collaboration—skills essential for success in an increasingly interconnected world.

Beyond academics, international students strengthen UK's campus life by sharing their cultures through clubs, events, and personal interactions, helping all students develop intercultural competencies and global awareness. They also contribute to to Lexington and to the region's economy through tuition, housing, and community engagement.

Additionally, a strong international student body enhances UK's global reputation, helping attract top faculty, research partnerships, and international collaborations. Graduates often become global ambassadors for UK, expanding its influence and opportunities worldwide.

In essence, recruiting international students is not just about increasing enrollment—it’s about cultivating a globally minded academic community that prepares all students to thrive in an interconnected world.

Attracting and Welcoming Students

  • Ensure the college website is welcoming to prospective international students an consider adding webpages or page sections that address any specific international applicant requirements/concerns.  
    • Ensure prospective international students can "see" themselves in your college or department
    • Build an "International applicants" button with specific information and with links to international/apply, international/scholarships, etc.
    • Ensure next steps for interested applicants are obvious and easy
    • Consider developing marketing materials when applicable and share them with IEM for in-person delivery to prospective students.
  • Review the admission process to identify and address any barriers for international students in applying for programs.
  • Make clear to whom inquiries/questions for specific programs should be directed. Create templates/tools for faculty and staff to respond to enquiries in a timely manner.Leverage college or department alumni networks to support recruitment in key international markets
  • Generate social media content highlighiting student successes, achievements, etc.
  • and share with on-campus partners (Including the International enrollment team in the UKIC) to cross-promote and to maximize reach  

Academics

  • Ensure your college's master's programs are responsive to the demand for built-in practical work experiences, internships or practicums
  • Consider ways to meet the demand from international students for specific programs (i.e. STEM)
  • Leverage your college's and the university's international partnerships to develop pathways for high-performing undergraduates to apply for graduate programs