NAFSA and Partners Continue International Education Week Tradition

NAFSA: Association of International Educators will again partner with the Association of International Education Administrators (AIEA), the Alliance for International Exchange, the Association of International Enrollment Management (AIRC), and the Forum on Education Abroad to continue to the annual tradition of celebrating International Education Week (IEW) in November. International Education Week. This is the second year NAFSA and its partners are continuing the tradition on behalf of the field. Historically a joint effort of the U.S. Departments of State and Education, International Education Week provides institutions in the United States with an opportunity to showcase the people, places, and power of global connections among its students, faculty, and staff. IEW will be held November 16-20, 2026. The following are statements by leaders of the partnering associations:

"International Education Week offers us an opportunity not only to celebrate the impact of international education but also to reaffirm our commitment to the values that have sustained this field for generations," said Fanta Aw, executive director and CEO of NAFSA: Association of International Educators. "At a time when division too often overshadows dialogue, when borders can become barriers rather than bridges, and when fear of difference can diminish our shared humanity, international education offers another way forward. Let us tell the stories of impact and possibility this week and every week."

"International education turbocharges personal growth, economic competitiveness and workforce development," said Melissa Torres, President & CEO of the Forum on Education Abroad. "At a time when policy positions threaten the ability of students to study across borders and gain critical global competencies, we need to do everything we can to spotlight the power of these educational experiences. We are proud to uphold International Education Week and continue our advocacy for these career-defining opportunities."

"We believe it's critical to carry on the IEW tradition and provide space for our industry to celebrate, reflect, and recommit. AIEA is pleased to join our colleagues across the sector in lifting up the work we do and those who lead it," said Clare Overmann, CEO of AIEA.

"International Education Week is an opportunity to remind ourselves that educational and cultural exchanges are not distant or abstract experiences; they're part of the fabric of our communities, creating meaningful connections and tangible benefits for Americans and people around the world," said Mark Overmann, executive director of the Alliance for International Exchange.

"At AIRC, we are proud to support International Education Week by celebrating the student at the heart of our mission. This week is a testament to our community of dedicated IEM professionals who work tirelessly to guide and support international students at every step of their journey. Through their expertise and commitment to ethical standards, our members ensure that global learners find welcoming campuses where they can truly thrive," said Clay Harmon, executive director of AIRC.

Members of the international education community are encouraged to leverage hashtags such as #IEW2026 and #ChampionIE to promote their activities during International Education Week. A social media toolkit has been prepared that includes sample posts and graphics.

NAFSA: Association of International Educators is the world's largest and most comprehensive nonprofit association dedicated to international education and exchange. NAFSA promotes policies that ensure the continued growth and impact of global learning, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding through study abroad, international student services, and campus internationalization. With a network of over 10,000 professionals in the field at more than 3,500 institutions in 150+ countries, NAFSA is committed to fostering a more globally connected and peaceful world.