ICEF Accommodation 2024

Welcome refreshments 09:15 - 09:45, ICEF Accommodation room

Opening: The two contrasting trends that will shape the future of international student mobility 09:45 - 10:25, ICEF Accommodation roomDescription: This session will take place in the ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 1

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The total number of internationally mobile students has grown steadily for decades, and further growth is projected through the rest of this decade and beyond. The factors behind this trend are by now well known: population growth of college-aged cohorts, economic development, expansion of the middle class, and persistent supply-side shortages in higher education in many countries will all continue to drive growth in student mobility for the long-term.

The context for that student movement, however, is becoming more complex with increasing competition among study destinations, greater mobility within global regions, and an expanding range of delivery modes and techniques for teaching and learning in the 21st century.

Alongside that strong momentum toward further growth, however, we have also seen the emergence of more restrictive policy settings in many study destinations. These arise in large measure from increasing public, and so political concern, around immigration. The world is facing what some have termed a global migration crisis, characterised by historically high numbers of people attempting to cross borders in search of safety and opportunity. And political concern that aims to stem that movement has now spilled over into the international education sector.

This session will set the stage for the day’s programme at the ICEF Monitor Global Summit by exploring the inevitable tension between these two countervailing trends that are shaping the future of international student mobility.

When crisis meets vulnerability: The exponential impact of accommodation issues on international students 10:30 - 10:55, ICEF Accommodation roomSpeaker:Olivia McCafferty - Research Director and Head of Accommodation, Red Brick Research
Description: The experience of international students differs considerably to that of domestic enrollments: the distance from their family and friends, culture shock, potential language issues, or even the challenge of having to adapt to a very different style of education. Moreover, it has become increasingly apparent that international students are less likely to seek help from either their institution or their accommodation provider, with the result that many simply suffer in silence.

In this session, Olivia McCafferty will provide an overview of the unique challenges that the accommodation experience holds for international students while identifying any similarities with other groups. Also covered will be the topic of disclosure, how this differs for international and home students, and with what impact. Finally, some points of reflection will be provided to encourage those working with international students to consider how to better support vulnerable individuals at a time of great change in their lives.

The factors that paint the future of international student accommodation 10:55 - 11:15, ICEF Accommodation roomSpeaker:Stephen Cleal - Customer Success Director, UCAS
Description: A comprehensive discussion on the future of student accommodation and the influencing factors. Hear first-hand from Stephen Cleal, Customer Success Director at UCAS for:
- A deep dive into the international student numbers for this current cycle and how this looks compared with previous years.
- An overview of factors that impact the UK international student numbers including current government policy and how potential changes can impact the sector, global competition – how will changes in other countries impact our student numbers, local economy, and geopolitics – factors beyond our control that can impact our international student numbers.

The crucial role of agents and educators in the accommodation booking process 11:20 - 12:05, ICEF Accommodation roomModerator:Martijn van de Veen - Chief Business Development Officer, ICEF
Panelists:Amina Hofri - Head of Applicant Experience & Conversion, King's College London
Jyotan Singh - Director, SIEC
David Seymour - Head of Sales, Amber
Description: Student recruitment professionals have a responsibility to provide the best possible support and advice to their students throughout the entire recruitment process. This includes accommodation: students deserve transparency and professional advice on cost, providers, formats, affordability and the booking process itself.

For recruitment professionals such guidance also comes with opportunities: Strategic partnerships with accommodation providers and/or booking platforms give educators and agents a competitive edge, increase their student recruitment success, and generate additional income through commissions made on accommodation bookings.

In this session we explore this crucial role of agents and educators in the accommodation booking process. Our panel of experts will provide insights from an agency, educator and accommodation provider angle, and share best practices.

The rise of co-living: A transformative housing solution for international students 12:10 - 12:30, ICEF Accommodation roomSpeaker:Katherine Rose - Cofounder and Managing Director, VervLife
Description: in partnership with Coliving Ventures

Coliving, also known as communal living or shared housing, is the latest buzzword in the rental sector and is increasingly popular among international students. It’s a concept where residents, often from different demographics or stages in life, live in a shared residence and share services and amenities. The concept has gained popularity as a solution for affordable housing and as a response to the desire for community.

During this session, Katherine Rose, Managing Director at VervLife will explain why coliving is an attractive offering for renters, specifically international and UK students; how coliving has evolved over the years, and touch on the challenges the sector is having.

Networking lunch 12:30 - 13:30, ICEF Accommodation room

HMOs and beyond: Understanding product fit in a changing market 13:30 - 13:55, ICEF Accommodation roomSpeaker:Richard Ward - Head of Research, StuRents
Description: Richard Ward, StuRents’ Head of Research, will delve into the specifics of two primary student accommodation types in the UK: HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) and PBSAs (Purpose-Built Student Accommodation). He will compare these formats in terms of format, availability, pricing, and assess their suitability for different student demographics.
Additionally, Richard will examine how fluctuations in student demand, seasonal factors, or even booking speed have a direct impact on the accommodation landscape, including how they affect the crucial "clearing" period: the time when university offers are accepted or declined.

Tackling the triple A in student accommodation issues: Affordability, Availability, Accountability 14:00 - 14:55, ICEF Accommodation roomModerator:Josephine (Jo) Phinith - Business Development Manager, ICEF
Panelists:Hannah Chappatte - Founder & CEO, Hybr
Hui Zhao - Business Director, GoBritanya and Stuhomes
Arunima Dey - Research Manager, The Class Foundation
Speaker:Karen Best - Head of Accommodation, PWC
Description: Beyond choosing what and where to study, one of the most significant challenges that international students face nowadays is finding accommodation. Popular study destinations worldwide are dealing with capacity and affordability crises, which affect international students’ decision making processes and limit their study options.

This session will start with a brief introduction and market insights by Karen Best, Head of Accommodation at PwC, followed by a panel discussion that will zoom in on the following points:
- Factors that contribute to the current availability, affordability and accountability challenges
- A comparison between different major study destinations and how they are responding to their accommodation challenges
- The role that technologically advanced accommodation booking platforms [can] play in terms of access to suitable and affordable accommodation for international students
- The need for transparency, convenience, safety and equal opportunity, allowing students to make well informed decisions and book their new ‘home from home’

Ultimately, the panel will debate which options and responsibilities recruitment professionals have to assist their students with access to appropriate accommodation in their study destination of choice.

Coffee break 15:00 - 15:30, ICEF Accommodation room

Live well, study better: The connection between accommodation and mental health 15:30 - 15:50, ICEF Accommodation roomSpeaker:Yeme Onoabhagbe - Chief Executive, Student Minds
Description: In recent years, the higher education sector has become increasingly aware of the challenges posed by student mental health. With approximately a third of the student body in the UK suffering “clinical levels of psychological distress” according to a study published in the E-Journal of Applied Psychology, it is an issue that needs to be addressed at an institutional level, with the role of accommodation and related services playing a crucial part.

In this presentation, Yeme Onoabhagbe (Chief Executive, Student Minds) provides a valuable overview of the student experience in purpose built student accommodation (PBSA). The session includes a discussion of the impact accommodation can have on mental health, an outline of the latest reports from a range of stakeholders (including partner universities and Student Minds), and concludes with a summary of the best practices adopted by universities to support students with accommodation-related challenges as seen through the lens of the University Mental Health Charter.

Going beyond accommodation: The added value of community, amenities, events 15:55 - 16:15, ICEF Accommodation roomModerator:Martijn van de Veen - Chief Business Development Officer, ICEF
Panelists:Laura Bosworth - Founder & CMO, REAL
Dawn Williams - Director of Marketing, Vita Group
Description: Especially for international students who typically embark on their very first trip overseas to immerse in an entirely new culture and environment, suitable accommodation will need to be their 'safe space', where they feel comfortable amidst the unfamiliar surroundings.

To achieve this feeling of security, of being welcome and supported in a new environment, it's crucial to look beyond the basics of a roof and a bed and offer access to a range of amenities, services, social functions allowing international students to thrive.

In this fireside chat, we'll discuss what's necessary and why, what's nice to have, which amenities cater best to different types of students, and who should provide these: the accommodation provider, the education provider, the local municipality, or the student union for example?

Unlocking global perspectives of student accommodation 16:15 - 16:55, ICEF Accommodation roomPanelists:Simeon Anyalemechi - International student,
Kat Mokrynski - International student,
Clara Wood - International student,
Speakers:Deenie Lee - Co-Founder and Director, The Property Marketing Strategists
Sarah Canning - Co-Founder and Director, The Property Marketing Strategists
Description: Sarah Canning and Deenie Lee from The Property Marketing Strategists discuss the findings from their recent research Unlocking The Global Perspectives of Student Accommodation.

Looking at the key data taken from the survey of 2,000 students studying globally, the session will cover:
- Price vs value
- Why not all ‘international students’ are the same
- Cultural differences
- Lease flexibility
- Nurturing a diverse community

As the student voice is the most important, a panel of students from The Youth Forum will be joining The Property Marketing Strategists to share their personal experiences of finding and living in student accommodation.

Coffee break 17:00 - 17:30, ICEF Accommodation room

From disappointment and despair to security and safety: Avoiding scams in student housing 17:30 - 17:50, ICEF Accommodation roomSpeaker:Victoria Tolmie-Loverseed - Deputy Chief Executive, Unipol Student Homes
Description: International students in the UK are likely to experience high housing costs and can be vulnerable to cases of scams or poor quality accommodation. This also has a significant impact on academic performance and as industry professionals we have a responsibility to assist students in finding safe, well-managed housing and make sure they avoid scams.

This is where Unipol plays an important role: the student housing charity runs a number of “Codes” that can provide the much needed security, reliability and safety. These codes are accreditation schemes that:
- set professional standards for student accommodation buildings and their management. Code members voluntarily commit to meeting these standards
- check compliance with those standards
- give students assurance and confidence about the quality of what they are signing up for when they opt for a Code property
- give students a robust complaints process if things go wrong.

In this session, Victoria Tolmie-Loverseed from Unipol will walk us through the different codes and their specifics; and explain how these codes help agents and educators in their efforts to avoid scams and secure access to proper housing for their students.

Meeting the accommodation needs of international students: Why data matters 17:50 - 18:10, ICEF Accommodation roomSpeaker:Paul Humphreys - Founder & CEO, StudentCrowd
Description: Understanding the needs, desires, concerns and opportunities for international students in terms of accommodation starts with collecting reliable data and insights. Not just industry statistics, but also and especially, data and insights generated from the students directly.

Through verified reviews, student generated rankings, responses to polls, we are able to answer important questions, for example: how do requirements from domestic students compare to international students? How is accommodation availability impacting international students’ decision making process in terms of their study options? Which trends can we identify in terms of student accommodation pricing?

In this session, Paul Humphreys, Founder and CEO of StudentCrowd, will explain why data matters when it comes to the needs of accommodation for international students.

Homestay: A safe space for students overseas 18:15 - 19:00, ICEF Accommodation roomModerator:Josephine (Jo) Phinith - Business Development Manager, ICEF
Panelists:David Bycroft - Founder & Chief Business Development Officer, MyStay International (MSI)
Lorna Clayton MBE - Managing Director, Founder, Academic Families
Adam Gregory Lee - CEO & Co-founder, StudentRoomStay
Description: Studying abroad is a great adventure, but navigating an entirely new environment, especially for the first time, can be very challenging and frightening. This puts extra emphasis on the importance of appropriate student housing: not just a place to sleep but their ‘home away from home’. The right ‘fit’ in terms of accommodation can and will have a significant positive impact on their overall study experience.

In this session, industry experts will discuss and outline the many advantages of homestay for international students as a perfect bridge between the trusted home situation in their country of origin and the 'dive into the deep': living without their family, in a foreign country. For example, homestay offers a safe landing for students in a completely new environment and helps to manage the culture shock, build a local network, and has a welcoming family that keeps an eye on them.

Welcome reception 19:00 - 21:00, ICEF Accommodation room

Technology as Copilot for your international student recruitment 09:10 - 09:30, ICEF DigitalSpeaker:Florian Trautwein - Commercial Director, Strategic Sales, Microsoft Advertising
Description: The concept of a virtual assistant can be traced back decades but it was in 2022, with the revolutionary launch of ChatGPT, that a virtual assistant arrived capable of producing highly human-like text. Since then, several competitors have joined the market, aiming to develop the most effective model, with Microsoft forming a partnership with ChatGPT creator OpenAI.

Launched in 2023 by Microsoft as Bing Chat, the idea of a 'Copilot' evolved rapidly, offering a wide range of capabilities including citation, summary, and paraphrase, as well as the ability to operate in multiple languages.

In this session, we look at the story, developments, and vision behind Microsoft Copilot, exploring the ways in which virtual assistants bring together and implement the latest innovations in AI and digital technologies, and how a virtual assistant like Copilot is relevant to student marketing and recruitment professionals.

Digital communication channels: The preconception that GenZ doesn't use email 09:35 - 10:15, ICEF DigitalModerator:Josephine (Jo) Phinith - Business Development Manager, ICEF
Panelists:Franz Riedl - Head of DACH, Intuit Mailchimp
Xenia Muether - Director, Pink Orange Education Marketing
Pernilla Carlstrom - CEO, House of Education
Description: GenZ is the primary target demographic for international student recruitment and, to effectively engage with this generation, it is crucial to understand their communication habits, preferences, formats, and platforms.

For example, one preconception about GenZ is that they hardly use email, meaning that we need to shift to alternative communication channels to meet them in their digital habitat - on a wide variety of social media platforms for example. Another often heard requirement is that communication should be concise, visually appealing, and informal to accommodate an alleged 8-second attention span.

In this session, we'll discuss these and other preconceptions about GenZ and debate whether they are perhaps mere misconceptions. Additionally, we’ll consider whether there really is a need to fundamentally adjust our communication strategies, moving away from email and squeezing our messages into visually appealing formats and soundbites to capture GenZ's attention.

Digital marketing and recruitment: Selecting the best mix of tools, platforms and services 10:20 - 10:45, ICEF DigitalSpeaker:Oliver Matthews - CEO & founder, 4Uni Solutions
Description: In this session, Oliver Matthews will walk us through the broad range of options available in digital marketing and recruitment, looking at common marketing automation platforms and recruitment specialists. We’ll also consider whether it is better to build your digital team in-house, or partner with external providers; and explore the “build versus buy” dilemma, providing insights from real-world case studies.

As trial and error is a common approach in digital marketing and recruitment, this session builds upon an existing bank of experience, showcasing both successes and, more importantly, failures, allowing you to learn from others and avoid costly missteps.

Case study: The data paradox in digital marketing 10:50 - 11:00, ICEF DigitalSpeaker:Mariana Macedo - Senior Marketing Manager, ESMT Berlin
Description: In this case study, Mariana Macedo from the European School of Management and Technology (ESMT Berlin) discusses their experience in overcoming the so-called 'privacy paradox.' This phenomenon occurs when individuals express concern for privacy but are often willing to share their data in exchange for convenient services, such as those offered by ChatGPT, Alexa, and Siri.

Data is essential for personalised marketing but it can be challenging to collect, especially when using lengthy forms that can negatively impact conversion rates. To address this issue, ESMT implemented a user-friendly tool that respects users' data preferences and provides transparent information about data collection and usage.

This approach has enabled ESMT to enhance their email communication, build stronger relationships with prospective students, and effectively leverage data through a robust CRM system.

How modern AI turns clunky chatbots into human-like service desks 11:30 - 11:50, ICEF DigitalSpeaker:Matt Lanham - CEO & founder, Gecko
Description: In 2023, AI reached a pivotal point, transforming clunky, often disliked chatbots into seamless, human-like interfaces capable of understanding, predicting, and responding to student questions with remarkable accuracy and even empathy.

With international student recruitment agencies supporting hundreds, if not thousands, of students through the recruitment and application process, the benefits of adopting such AI powered chatbots are clear: By reducing the cumbersome work of dealing with routine queries and allowing instant, 24/7 support for students, these AI powered chatbots free up valuable resources and time for recruitment professionals to focus on the more complex and personal aspects of the student recruitment process.

In this session, we will explore the key innovations behind this transformation, showcase real-world examples, and discuss how the future looks as AI begins to drive other critical support processes beyond simple automation of Q&A.

Where is the 'Track&Trace’ in international student recruitment? 11:55 - 12:30, ICEF DigitalModerator:Martijn van de Veen - Chief Business Development Officer, ICEF
Panelists:Naresh Gulati - CEO & founder, Ascent One
Rachel Fletcher - CEO & Co-founder, UniQuest
Description: In today's highly digitised world, consumers expect quick and complete answers to their queries, and real-time updates on the processes they are involved in, often known as ‘track & trace’.

In international student recruitment however countless prospective student enquiries remain unanswered or are met with lengthy delays, and applicants often lack clear and timely updates on the different stages of their application process. Whilst this is frustrating for students, it also means missed leads and missed opportunities for education providers.

In this fireside chat, our host will interview 2 experts in process management in the student recruitment funnel, on all that is needed to ensure a timely and transparent communication process between applicants, agencies and education providers. We'll delve into the roles, responsibilities and opportunities for recruitment professionals, and especially, zoom into the digital tools that are needed to facilitate real-time communication, similar to a track & trace, in the student recruitment process.

AI language learning as a driver of language travel 12:30 - 12:45, ICEF DigitalSpeaker:Julia Silvere - Head of Learning and Development, inlingua
Description: Cutting-edge technologies are revolutionising language learning, making it more accessible and effective than ever before. While initially met with scepticism by the language travel sector, concerned about potential competition from new Apps and platforms, these digital innovations are actually fueling a new wave of language travel.

In this session, Julia Silvère from inlingua will explore how AI is effectively transforming language learning, presenting both opportunities and challenges for traditional language learning providers. She'll also discuss how AI is inspiring a new generation of cultural explorers eager to discover their new language and improve their skills in the countries where it is spoken. Discover how AI is boosting learner confidence, turning curious students into eager travellers seeking authentic immersion experiences.

Case study: ASU’s AI powered ‘language buddy’ 12:50 - 13:00, ICEF DigitalSpeaker:Christiane Reves - Assistant Teaching Professor, Arizona State University
Description: In this special case study, Dr Christiane Reves (Arizona State University’s School of International Letters and Cultures) will present “Language Buddy”. Developed in collaboration with OpenAI as part of the AI Innovation Challenge, Language Buddy supports students in asynchronous online courses with their speaking practice. Serving as a personalised speaking partner, it is capable of adapting to each student’s individual language proficiency level.

Dr Reves will not only share insights into the development and implementation of this AI-powered tool, but she will also present student feedback, demonstrating the real-life impact of Language Buddy upon their studies.

Blockchain: The fraud-proof technology explained 14:00 - 14:20, ICEF DigitalSpeaker:Markus C. Hemmer - Professor of IT Management, Program Director, IU International University of Applied Sciences
Description: *in partnership with IU International University Berlin*

Blockchain is most famous for its use in cryptocurrency, but in reality its applications are much wider. At its core, blockchain is a system of recording information in a way that makes it difficult or impossible to change, hack, or cheat the system. This makes it an attractive technology for use in supply chain management, healthcare, voting, and international education.

In international education, blockchain is used for example to create secure and tamper-proof transcripts and diplomas (digital credentials), making it easier for students to transfer credits between institutions, and for employers to verify the credentials of prospective employees. Blockchain can also be used to create a more efficient and transparent system for international student admissions, using the technology to track applications, financial aid, and visa status.

In this session, Dr. Markus Hemmer, Professor of IT Management at the IU International University in Berlin, will explain the basics of blockchain, with clear examples and use cases.

Student perspectives on AI in student recruitment and admissions processes 14:25 - 14:45, ICEF DigitalSpeaker:Stewart Nutting - Associate Head of Data Analytics, IDP Education
Description: Roughly half of international students state that they have used or expect to use AI tools to help them select a programme and destination for study abroad, but at the same time students seem cautious about institutional use of AI, especially in admissions processing.
The Emerging Futures survey by IDP has investigated how international students feel about the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in planning for study abroad and admissions processing, and in his presentation IDP’s Stewart Nutting will walk us through the results, for example:
In which areas of their degree/application process do students use AI most heavily
Which concerns do they have about AI in HE (e.g. bias, post-uni job availability, plagiarism etc.)
How does the institution's use of AI impacts students' decisions
When looking at the survey results, which differences exist between the different source markets, genders, age brackets, intended fields of study.

Balancing automation with authenticity: Understanding the human factor in digital student recruitment 14:45 - 15:30, ICEF DigitalModerator:Craig Riggs - ICEF Monitor, Editor in Chief, ICEF
Panelists:Alejandra Otero - Founder & CEO, geNEOus
Leanne Linacre - CEO & Co-founder, Lead5050
Andrew Plant - Senior Business Development Director, QS Quacquarelli Symonds
Description: *in partnership with Lead5050*

From marketing to admissions to enrollment and anything in between, increasingly sophisticated digital tools are available in every step of the international student recruitment funnel and beyond. They provide revolutionary opportunities to improve efficiency, increase quality, create more transparency, and reduce cost & time. And it doesn’t end there: Artificial Intelligence is now making it possible to automate different stages in the recruitment process, in part or in full.

As we rely more and more on technological innovations and automation, questions arise such as
- How far does automation go and what impact does it have on the human factor in the student recruitment process?
- Is technology always the better option?
- What are the ethical implications of using AI in student recruitment, especially in areas like admissions decisions?
And ultimately:
- What is the true, and indispensable human factor in digital student recruitment?

On this panel, moderated by ICEF Monitor’s Editor in Chief Craig Riggs, we aim to answer these questions and debate the human factor in digital student recruitment.

Transformation in admissions: The journey to a 100% digital intake 15:30 - 15:45, ICEF DigitalSpeaker:Holly Sanders - Chief Transformation Officer, World Education Services (WES)
Description: Any organisation undergoing a digital transformation process must first clearly define its reasons, objectives, and motivations: the 'Why' before the How, When, Where, and so on. This is just especially crucial when aiming for a 100% digital admissions process.

Drawing from her experience, Holly Sanders, Chief Transformation Officer at World Education Services (WES), will guide us through the different steps of a digital transformation process. She will identify key factors, stakeholders, partners and possible pitfalls, all whilst reminding us of the fact that Digital Transformations is not just about technology.

Case study: Harnessing AI to revolutionise international admissions 15:50 - 16:00, ICEF DigitalSpeaker:Bernie Thompson - VP UK & Australia Partner Admissions, INTO University Partnerships
Description: Bernie Thompson, from INTO University Partnerships, will walk us through the digital transformation of their admissions process, using automation and AI-driven technology. To address the challenge of scaling operations, the organisation has implemented an innovative system to automate and enhance international student recruitment, improving the experience for both students and agents. Bernie will highlight the steps they have taken to implement this project, from recognising the need for change to executing the solution, and provide insights into the successes, challenges, and key learnings from this ongoing transformation.

The metaverse as a social hub: Building community for international students 16:30 - 16:50, ICEF DigitalSpeaker:Anna Herasymenko - Senior Product Designer, Meta Reality Labs, Meta
Description: Social activities are a cornerstone of any student's journey, fostering a sense of belonging and community, whether they are international, domestic, or online.

As international students increasingly engage in online, hybrid, and immersive learning environments, emerging digital solutions are required to replicate the fun, freedom, and social connections they typically enjoy in traditional educational settings. This will help them express themselves and build lasting friendships also in digital and virtual environments.

In this session, Anna Herasymenko, Senior Product Designer at Meta, will explore how the Metaverse enables connectivity and a sense of belonging, through examples of virtual campus events, student-led virtual spaces, and enhanced self-expression tools.

Smart money moves smart students: Digital innovations in cross-border payments 16:50 - 17:05, ICEF DigitalSpeaker:Julie Armstrong - Global Head of Education, Industry Solutions and Partnerships, Convera
Description: Fintech, which refers to innovative digital solutions that enhance financial services, has revolutionised international payments and helped to streamline processes for education agents and their clients.

Advanced payment technologies ensure that students, agencies and universities benefit from seamless financial transactions and international tuition fee payments and cross-border transfers become more efficient, reliable, and secure.

The fintech landscape however is not always an easy one to navigate, especially in an international context. In this session, Julie Armstrong, Global Head of Education, Industry Solutions, and Partnerships at Convera, shares her views, experience and insights on fintech and international education, and will guide us through the latest digital innovations in cross-border payments.

How new technologies are reshaping standardised language testing 17:10 - 17:50, ICEF DigitalModerator:Martijn van de Veen - Chief Business Development Officer, ICEF
Panelists:Bronagh Rolph - Head of Assessment, HE & Adult, Cambridge English
Steven Duggan - Vice President, Vollee
Arum Perwitasari - Academic Relations Lead, EMEA, ETS
Description: Standardised language tests play a crucial role in providing uniform measures of reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities, ensuring fair comparisons among test-takers for academic admissions and professional certifications.

AI technologies, including natural language processing and machine learning, are expected to revolutionise standardised language testing through increased speed and efficiency: By automating the evaluation of responses and providing instant feedback. Moreover, AI can adapt assessments in real-time based on a test-taker's performance, offering a personalised experience that traditional tests cannot provide.

While the potential benefits of AI are promising, concerns about bias, security, and privacy, as well as the need for human oversight, must be carefully considered. On this panel representatives of leading and upcoming test providers will explore the future of language testing in the age of AI, and discuss the potential benefits and challenges of AI-powered testing, as well as strategies for ensuring fairness, accuracy, and ethical standards.

Case study: Harnessing GenAI & student data to enhance retention, academic success and administration 17:50 - 18:00, ICEF DigitalSpeaker:Nina Kunkel - Head of Public Sector Partners DACH, Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Description: Artificial intelligence is reshaping the education landscape across various key areas in international education, like learning, administration and student retention.
In terms of learning you can think of personalised learning paths, tailored content, and adaptive exam formats, ensuring a more effective and engaging educational experience.

When it comes to administration, especially in the often rather complex international student recruitment process, application processing and timetabling can be streamlined and automated.

And in terms of student retention, especially relevant for international students, AI powered platforms can help predict student academic success by analysing vast amounts of data, identifying those students who may require extra support. This enables education providers to implement targeted interventions aimed to decrease dropout rates and enhance overall academic performance.

In this session, Nina Kunkel from Amazon Web Services will walk us through examples of these innovations, and how they are implemented by education providers.

Welcome refreshments 09:15 - 09:45, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 1

Opening: The two contrasting trends that will shape the future of international student mobility 09:45 - 10:25, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 1Speaker:Craig Riggs - ICEF Monitor, Editor in Chief, ICEF
Description: The total number of internationally mobile students has grown steadily for decades, and further growth is projected through the rest of this decade and beyond. The factors behind this trend are by now well known: population growth of college-aged cohorts, economic development, expansion of the middle class, and persistent supply-side shortages in higher education in many countries will all continue to drive growth in student mobility for the long-term.

The context for that student movement, however, is becoming more complex with increasing competition among study destinations, greater mobility within global regions, and an expanding range of delivery modes and techniques for teaching and learning in the 21st century.

Alongside that strong momentum toward further growth, however, we have also seen the emergence of more restrictive policy settings in many study destinations. These arise in large measure from increasing public, and so political concern, around immigration. The world is facing what some have termed a global migration crisis, characterised by historically high numbers of people attempting to cross borders in search of safety and opportunity. And political concern that aims to stem that movement has now spilled over into the international education sector.

This session will set the stage for the day’s programme at the ICEF Monitor Global Summit by exploring the inevitable tension between these two countervailing trends that are shaping the future of international student mobility.

Envisioning a growth strategy for international education in the United States 10:30 - 10:55, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 1Speaker:Fanta Aw - Executive Director & CEO, NAFSA - Association of International Educators
Description: The US has long been the leading global destination for international students. It is also the only major study destination without a coordinated national strategy for international education. It also happens that the US has been losing market share to other competing destinations over the last 20 years.

However, a newly established coalition of international education organisations is working to reverse that trend, and those key stakeholders are now closely engaged with government in an effort to make it easier for students to pursue their studies in America, and to make the US an even more attractive study destination.

This keynote will provide an insightful look at the landscape for international education in the US, and at the major issues and trends that will shape the future of student mobility for US educators

Getting past policy shock: How the sector is responding to new migration settings 11:00 - 11:55, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 1Moderator:Sara Sandford - Consultant, Edified
Panelists:Marie Braswell - Associate Vice President, Global Strategy & Market Development, Centennial College
Rachel MacSween - Director of Client Partnerships, UK & Europe, IDP
Andy Howells - Chief Marketing Officer, NCUK
Bobby Mehta - Pro-Vice Chancellor Global Engagement, University of Portsmouth
Description: Needless to say, student mobility has been disrupted in a number of leading study destinations this year with the introduction of more restrictive policy settings for international students. Especially in Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom, new rules around – variously – enrolment caps, visa application fees, minimum funds requirements, accompanying dependants, and post-study work rights have all been accompanied by a great deal of confusion and uncertainty in the marketplace, not to mention critical media coverage.

This featured panel will consider the immediate-term and long-term implications of those changes, and explore how educators and partners are adapting their recruitment strategies in response

The Canadian reset: Building a more sustainable future 12:00 - 12:30, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 1Speaker:Larissa Bezo - President & CEO, Canadian Bureau for International Education - CBIE
Description: Canada has been one of the fastest-growing study destinations in the world over the last decade. After two years of 30%+ year-over-year growth between 2021 and 2023, foreign enrolment in the country surpassed one million students at the end of 2023.

Shortly after, however, the Canadian government began to introduce more restrictive policy settings, including changes in post-study work rights for some students, increased minimum funds requirements, limitations on accompanying dependants, and a cap on student commencements for 2024 and 2025.

All signs now point to a substantial slowdown in application volumes and student enrolments for the 2024/25 academic year, with educators and stakeholders across the country working to adapt their long-term recruitment strategies as a result.

This insightful keynote will provide the latest on the fast-moving developments in the Canadian market, and an outlook for rebuilding Canada’s foreign enrolment for the long-term.

Networking lunch 12:30 - 13:30, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 1

Starting with why. Future directions for international education in the UK 13:30 - 13:55, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 1Speaker:Jamie Arrowsmith - Director, Universities UK International (UUKi)
Description: The international education sector in the UK has been under considerable pressure this year, with new rules for accompanying dependants, a review of the Graduate Route’s post-study work rights, a barrage of negative media coverage, and considerable financial challenges for higher education institutions throughout the country.

In the midst of these changes the UK sector is now working to reframe the conversation around international students in a more strategic light. Universities UK is bringing forward a new blueprint for government, and this session will highlight some key aspects of that new framework.

Reality check: International recruitment and the financial health of education systems 14:00 - 14:55, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 1Moderator:Craig Riggs - ICEF Monitor, Editor in Chief, ICEF
Panelists:Roger Brindley - President - North America, Acumen | Sannam S4 Group
Judith Lamie - Pro Vice-Chancellor International, Swansea University
Lil Bremermann-Richard - Group CEO, Oxford International Education Group
Georgia Moss - UK Education Strategy Lead, PwC UK
Description: Some of the world’s major study destinations – notably the UK, Canada, and Australia – are reporting significant declines in international student numbers this year. That downward trend has been accompanied by widespread media reports of financial distress among post-secondary institutions, as well as a growing number of staff redundancies and programme cuts.

This suggests a strong link between international student numbers and the financial stability of higher education systems in the world’s leading study destinations? Is that the case, and, if so, why? And what can institutions now do to improve their financial standing in the face of shifting student demand?

This expert panel will share their insights, drawn from a variety of perspectives across the sector (and beyond) and building on real-world examples in a number of study destinations.

Coffee break 15:00 - 15:30, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 1

Moving at the speed of government: The view from Australia 15:30 - 15:55, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 1Speaker:Sarah Todd - Vice President (Global), Griffith University
Description: Dating back to late 2023, the Australian government has made no less than nine major policy or rule changes affecting international students. These range from increased minimum funds requirements to a doubling of visa application fees to new restrictions on “visa hopping” for onshore students. They have been accompanied by a deliberate approach to both slow visa processing and apply greater scrutiny to visa applicants, the latter of which has resulted in historically high visa rejections rates for year-to-date 2024. And that was all before the announcement last month of a cap on international student commencements that will come into effect in January 2025.

Needless to say, that is a great deal of change for any institution or school to adapt to. And this special presentation will provide the perspective of a lead practitioner from Australia on the significant headwinds facing the sector this year and what the way forward may look like into 2025 and beyond.

Who decides about quality? Building a better framework for quality recruitment 16:00 - 17:00, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 1Moderator:Adam Pettit - Director of Partnerships, AECC
Panelists:Jacqui Jenkins - Global Programme Lead for International Student Mobility, British Council
Dan Harris - Global Financial Crime Compliance Director, Kaplan International Pathways
Nick Golding - VP Government Relations and Strategic Partnerships, ICEF
Andrew Bird - Chief Marketing Officer, Southampton Solent University
Description: There has been a surge in international student mobility since the pandemic, and that rapid growth has tested many of the quality assurance measures in place across the international education sector. Student services have struggled to keep pace, the global stock of student housing has been overstretched, and several models for recruiting and teaching international students have come under greater scrutiny.

Parallel to a pattern of more restrictive rules around international students in many destinations has been a call for increased regulation of education agents. However, partly because the agent space is so large, varied, and lacking serious barriers to entry or to the expansion of agent networks, it has also been highly resistant to regulation.

This expert panel will explore the key components of strengthened quality assurance for education agents, and discuss some of the more promising models emerging in the industry today.

Coffee break 17:00 - 17:30, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 1

Beyond the "Big Four": Alternative destinations and the growing competition for global talent 17:30 - 18:15, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 1Moderator:Peter Thompson - VP Data Analytics, Market Research & Insights, INTO University Partnerships
Panelists:Edwin van Rest - CEO & Co-founder, Studyportals
Joanna Kumpula - Head of International Education and Integration Support, Tampere University
Florian Hummel - Vice-Rector International Affairs, IU International University
Jessica Turner - CEO, QS Quacquarelli Symonds
Oliver Jawara - Director, Nous Group
Description: Sometimes referred to as the “Big Four”, the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada are the world’s largest study destinations. But with persistent challenges in visa processing, new policy settings, and rising concerns around affordability, we are now seeing greater student movement to emerging destinations in Asia, Europe, and elsewhere.

Featuring new findings from recent research in the field, this session will be a conversation among leading practitioners and analysts. The discussion will focus on the factors behind this shifting student demand, and how institutions – both within the Big Four and without – can respond.

From dreaming to reality: Connecting recruitment to labour markets and post-graduate outcomes 18:20 - 19:00, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 1Moderator:Janet Ilieva - Director and Founder, Education Insight
Panelists:Nannette Ripmeester - Director - Performance Benchmarking Europe and North America, Etio
Anne Marie Graham - Chief Executive, UK Council for International Student Affairs
Nick Miller - CMO, QA Higher Education
Description: We see it time and time again: every major survey of international students or prospective students says that employability and employment outcomes are some of the top decision factors in terms of where and what students choose to pursue in their studies abroad.

What does that drive to better career outcomes mean in terms of how students approach study abroad? And what does it mean for educators, in terms of the programmes on offer and with respect to the services and supports that students need to ensure better post-graduate outcomes? How do we relate career opportunities and labour market requirements in study destinations to opportunities that students have at home? And how does this all factor in how we engage and recruit students in markets around the world?

This session will feature new research and expert insights on the link between study and career success.

Welcome reception 19:00 - 21:00, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 1

ICEF Agency Status and Academy: The twin pillars of industry self-regulation 14:30 - 15:00, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 2Speakers:Nick Golding - VP Government Relations and Strategic Partnerships, ICEF
Stacey Crosskill - Director, ICEF Academy,
Description: Find out how ICEF is setting new standards in international student recruitment with the ICEF Agency Status (IAS) accreditation programme, and supporting training needs through ICEF Academy certification.

This session is for agencies and educational institutions aiming to enhance their quality assurance measures through ICEF’s programmes. It is more important than ever for professionals to distinguish themselves and demonstrate their standards to partners and clients. Hear how reputable agencies can be instantly verified through their unique IAS ID, which features a QR code based on blockchain technology, and our global online IAS directory of accredited agencies.

Learn how ICEF Academy enhances knowledge and expertise through its training courses, helping increase credibility with partners and clients. Understand how IAS and ICEF Academy can become core components of your quality assurance and due diligence processes, driving professional standards and ethical practices in international student recruitment.

Join us to explore how ICEF’s quality assurance programmes can help your organisation stand out, improve student outcomes, and build lasting trust with partners and clients.

How to build effective relationships in 25 minutes • Providers & Agents 15:30 - 15:55, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 2Speaker:Resh Kodabuckus - Business Development Manager,
Description: This session will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make the most out of you participation at ICEF events in general and ICEF Higher Education in particular.

The session will cover the following topics:
- How to maximise your time during the event
- Post-event follow-up and agent contracts
- How to maximise your working relationship with providers and agents

The link between assessment, student outcomes & employability 16:00 - 17:00, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 2Moderator:Josie Booth - EMEAA, Business Development Director, ICEF
Panelists:Bronagh Rolph - Head of Assessment, HE & Adult, Cambridge University Press & Assessment
James Carmichael - Country Manager, UK and Ireland, Pearson
Catherine Jones - Assessment Development Specialist, LanguageCert
Description: Over the last decade, there have been significant changes in teaching and learning, and this has led to some important changes and new challenges in assessment as well.. Institutions, policy makers, and other stakeholders are increasingly focused on student outcomes, in terms of performance, graduation, and career progression. And this has led in turn to a greater emphasis on the role of assessment in student preparation and selection, and to a greater interest in the relationship between assessment and student outcomes.

This special session brings together the leading providers of assessment within international education to discuss what the future looks like for students, what emerging trends in the job market are influencing the creation of new types of assessment, and how assessment can better prepare students for the demands of the future workplace.

ICEF Monitor Global Summit Roundtable Series 17:30 - 19:00, ICEF Monitor Global Summit room 2Panelists:Tom Wilmot - Director of Global Expansion, StudyLink - A Flywire Company
Sara Sandford - Consultant, Edified
Desmond Kohn - Director, Global Business Development, Sinorbis
Kate Barnes - Executive Director, Acumen | Sannam S4 Pty Ltd
Ross Holmes - VP, Partnerships and Publishing, ICEF
Description: As distinct from a panel session or keynote, the roundtables provide a space for a less-structured discussion but with guidance from an informed specialist. To provide that guidance, each table is led by a host whose role is to moderate and animate the discussion around the topic at hand.

- There will be two sittings of most tables, each lasting 40 minutes. The first begins at 17:30; the second at 18:15.

Roundtables' topics:
1. Building effective relationships with agents by using the Agent Quality Framework - Tom Wilmot
2. Insights from Edified's Agent Perceptions Tracker - Sara Sandford
3. Creating and managing social media accounts in Asia - Desmond Kohn
4. Best practices for working with in-country representatives - Kate Barnes
5. Where is student demand shifting this year? - Ross Holmes

ICEF Accommodation 2024 - Seminar Programme

Seminars