About Us

NAFSA and International Education

International education is the cornerstone for building a more understanding and peaceful world. NAFSA serves the needs of more than 10,000 members and international educators worldwide and is the leading organization committed to international education and exchange, working to advance policies and practices that build global citizens with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in today's interconnected world.

What We Believe

NAFSA believes that international education advances learning and scholarship, fosters understanding and respect among people of diverse backgrounds and perspectives, is essential for developing globally competent individuals, and builds leadership for the global community. We believe that international education lies at the core of an interconnected world characterized by diversity, equity, inclusion, social justice, and well-being for all. NAFSA believes that diversity in our classrooms, our communities, and our workplaces is our strength. We seek to conduct international education in socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable ways.

Our Aspirations

NAFSA aspires to an environment in which every student, scholar, and practitioner seeking the benefits of international education finds a path, and every institution of higher education integrates international perspectives into its teaching, research, and service missions. We aspire to enlightened international relations, globally engaged citizenry, and a more peaceful and just world.

Our Work

NAFSA leads the way in advocating for a better world through international education. NAFSA serves international educators and their profession, advances international education in institutions of higher education, and promotes international education and the policies that sustain it in the public arena. The association helps define the profession of international education by establishing principles of good practice and providing professional development opportunities. NAFSA encourages networking among professionals, convenes conferences and collaborative dialogues, and promotes research and knowledge creation to strengthen and serve the field.

Who We Are

NAFSA is the largest and most comprehensive association of professionals committed to advancing international higher education. NAFSA realizes its values, vision, and mission by convening people to advance international education. Based in the United States, we provide high-quality programs, products, services, and physical and virtual meeting spaces for the worldwide community of international educators. As a self-supporting, not-for-profit organization, we depend on effective governance and a strong, increasingly diverse financial foundation. We celebrate innovation and value highly talented volunteer leaders and staff. We are committed to working in a professional and collegial manner and to respecting others—values that are at the heart of international education.

Strategic Plan

NAFSA's work is guided by a strategic plan, developed and refreshed periodically by the Board of Directors. The plan announces the association's vision, mission, and values. It guides the association in developing services, programs, and products to serve its members. Learn more about the strategic plan.