International education operates at global scale, across diverse markets, regulatory environments, and institutional models. As student mobility grows more complex, institutions and partners increasingly rely on shared reference points, structured engagement, and credible insight to work together effectively. Founded in 1991, ICEF has worked across international education for more than three decades. Today, ICEF supports the sector in four complementary roles: as a convenor, assurer, observer, and professionaliser.
ICEF acts as a neutral convenor, bringing institutions, agencies, and sector stakeholders together through structured events and forums that enable responsible partnership-building across student source and destination markets. Participation is eligibility-based, allowing institutions to engage with agencies committed to transparency and recognised standards.
ICEF provides reference frameworks that help institutions understand who they are working with and how professional standards are evidenced across the sector. Through accreditation services, public directories, training evidence, and due diligence tools, ICEF supports institutional governance and partner decision-making.
ICEF produces independent market intelligence focused on observation and analysis. Research, surveys, and expert commentary support informed understanding of how international education markets, policies, and recruitment models are evolving worldwide.
ICEF supports professional development across international education through structured learning and recognised training frameworks. Via ICEF Academy, professionals can build capability, strengthen practice, and document ongoing development as expectations evolve.
