ICEF North America 2024

Onsite registration opens 09:00 - 19:00, ICEF Finance Room

Networking breakfast 10:00 - 11:00, ICEF Finance Room

Exhibitor pavilion open 10:30 - 19:30, ICEF Finance Room

Opening remarks 11:00 - 11:10, ICEF Finance RoomSpeakers:Martijn van de Veen - Chief Business Development Officer, ICEFDescription: ICEF's Chief Business Development Officer, Martijn van de Veen, will deliver the opening remarks to kick off the seminar programme of ICEF Finance’s inaugural edition. During his speech, he will provide insights into the selection process for topics and speakers, and highlight the growing importance of close cooperation between professionals and decision-makers in international student recruitment, and stakeholders in insurance and financial services, for a successful education journey and a brighter future for any international student.

Studying • Graduating • Settling • Thriving: The financial journey of an international student - In cooperation with RBC 11:10 - 11:35, ICEF Finance RoomSpeakers:Janet Boyle - Senior Vice President, Home Equity Finance & Newcomer Strategy, RBC Royal Bank of CanadaDescription: The academic journey is broad in scope – and from application and enrollment to graduation and beyond, international students require a range of financial products and services to support a successful outcome. Janet Boyle, Senior Vice President of Home Equity Finance and Newcomer Strategy at RBC, will join us to walk through the financial journey of an international student. An accomplished leader and experienced executive in the Canadian financial services industry, she will explain how the students' financial needs and requirements change throughout the different stages of the student lifecycle. She will share an overview of the evolving financial landscape and the innovations, tailored advice, and customized service now available to assist them. Discussion will include: · What are the latest trends and insights that impact a student’s settlement journey? · How important is financial literacy to building stability, success, and a strong financial future? · How does a purpose-driven, principles-led approach create value in the student ecosystem? Janet will provide answers to these questions and more, in a session that highlights the interaction and interdependence between aligning the right financial services with appropriate needs and building a thriving future for today's and tomorrow's international students.

Recruiting the world's fastest growing college-age population: Financing strategies for African students 11:40 - 12:05, ICEF Finance RoomSpeakers:Lydiah Kemunto Bosire - Founder and CEO, 8B Education InvestmentsDescription: In this session, Dr. Lydiah Kemunto Bosire, Founder & CEO of 8b Investments, explores the vast potential presented by Africa's rapidly growing college-age population. Dr. Bosire will highlight available funding options and discuss how to dismantle the barriers currently hindering African students' pursuit of overseas education and access to global career opportunities. With a focus on transparency and accessibility, the presentation will emphasise how education providers and recruitment agencies can provide free, curated information on scholarships and private financing, alongside tailored pathways for skills development and job placement. This comprehensive approach, involving all key stakeholders in international education, aims to create a future where African talent thrives globally, driving innovation and prosperity.

From confusion to clarity: Insights into funding options for international students 12:10 - 13:00, ICEF Finance RoomModerator:Suzanne Tyson - VP Social Responsibility, guard.me
Panellists:Paulomi Patel - Director, Newcomer Client Segment Strategy, RBC Royal Bank of Canada
Shelley Clayton - Director of Financial Aid, University of New Brunswick
Rahim Dharamsi - Associate Director, Development, Windmill Microlending
Logan Bright - Managing Editor, SchoolFinder GroupDescription: Paying for higher education has never been more challenging for students and their families globally. While reports of millions of dollars of available educational funding abound, students—especially international students—say that finding funds for which they are actually eligible is time consuming, confusing and frustrating. This session begins with a brief overview of ways students can pay for their education and includes a list of shareable resources. The ensuing panel discussion features educational funding veterans with broad expertise in financial aid, loans, scholarships, bursaries and employment. Panellists will provide advice on pre-arrival financial preparation and where international students can look for funding and financial support while studying.

Networking lunch 13:00 - 14:00, ICEF Finance Room

Elevating genuine applicants via FinTech 14:00 - 14:20, ICEF Finance RoomSpeakers:Cheryl Darrup-Boychuck - CEO, Funds Validator
Linda Haddad - Chief Product Officer, Funds ValidatorDescription: Every leading host country mandates that student visa applicants prove financial capacity as a condition for approval. That phase of due diligence is universally inadequate at the moment – even as host government authorities strive to strike a balance between welcoming the best and brightest minds, without burdening domestic resources. Learn how robust financial technology can streamline the proof-of-funding component in international admissions, improving both efficiency and integrity. Agents, host campuses and other stakeholders can empower qualified candidates (and their financial sponsors) to quickly authenticate their bank data, while discouraging those with nefarious intent. It’s time to modernise by moving beyond requests to upload easily-manipulated screenshots and PDFs of bank statements. Join us!

How integrating digital application with payments drives value for students, agents and institutions 14:20 - 14:45, ICEF Finance RoomSpeakers:Brad Finch - SVP & Country Head, Canada, FlywireDescription: As higher education institutions navigate the new government policies impacting Canada, having the right tools to execute against a strategic enrollment plan are more important now than ever before. Improving the speed of acceptance, increasing application conversion rates and accelerating the pace in which payments are received will be critical success factors for Canadian institutions in this new environment. By popular counts, 80% of international students in Canada engage with agents, and these relationships are extremely important for Canadian institutions. Providing agents with centralised software solutions that provide real-time information exchange across critical steps within the admission process allow institutions to create a more efficient, secure ecosystem that helps streamline the student experience. From a student perspective, the drivers of international education are shifting. According to recent research commissioned by Flywire that surveyed over 1,800 higher education students across nine countries, respondents emphasised the significance of early payment guidance from institutions. Flexible payment options, including instalment plans, are crucial for education affordability, with 81% of students expressing a need for financial assistance at the time of application. Additionally, students seek streamlined payment options for various expenses beyond tuition, indicating the importance of scaling payment capabilities to support the entire student financial journey. In this session, Flywire’s Brad Finch walks us through the research, shares best practices and presents real-world examples that showcase how integrating digital application and payments with real-time information exchange for agents helps institutions easily adapt to new market dynamics to better serve students while meeting the needs of today’s evolving landscape.

From dollars to dreams: How your payment processes impact your student recruitment success 14:50 - 15:30, ICEF Finance RoomModerator:Martijn van de Veen - Chief Business Development Officer, ICEF
Panellists:Tyrena Miehm - Relationship Manager, Flywire
Randy Lyons - Director of Business Development, Global Payments | Touchnet
Pranav Rathi - Director (Acting), International Recruitment & Market Development, Fanshawe CollegeDescription: There are many different factors that influence international students' decision-making processes, such as quality of education, choice of programs, tuition & living costs, and appeal of the destination. However, often overlooked yet critically impactful in any recruitment success, are the tuition fee payment processes and procedures. Prospective students typically don't learn about the payment options, processes, and fees involved until the very end of the recruitment funnel. A lack of clarity and flexibility in this crucial step of the process can lead to students withdrawing their applications and opting for institutions offering greater transparency, more options and assistance in terms of tuition fee payments. In this panel, we will discuss the pivotal role that the payment process plays in student recruitment success, and leverage the experiences and case studies of our panelists.

The road to a healthy return on investment: International student employability 15:30 - 15:45, ICEF Finance RoomSpeakers:Ramneet Brar - Co-Founder & COO, WaybleDescription: Did you know that 56% of international students face job search challenges, 70% of international job seekers do not get a job in their area of study, and international students on average earn 20% less than local candidates? This leads to an important question - Is the high cost of international education always paying off? International students and their families invest significant amounts into their futures, and usually graduate with a large student debt. Employability and a healthy return on investment are therefore vital criteria to consider all along the recruitment process, from initial exploration to admission and graduation. In this session, Ramneet Brar tackles that question head-on, exploring strategies for universities and students to maximise the return on their investment. Leveraging her insights and experience as Co-founder & COO at Wayble, Brar will provide insights into how universities and recruitment agencies can help bridge the gap between international student aspirations and employer demands. She will also discuss the various tools available to help international students succeed, such as career development workshops, internship opportunities, and powerful networking tactics.

Financial literacy and mental health: The foundation for international student success 15:50 - 16:30, ICEF Finance RoomModerator:Vanessa Goulding - Business Development Manager, USA & Canada, ICEF
Panellists:Sean Coote - Vice President International, Niagara College
Christina Furtado - Mental Health and Wellness Specialist, guard.me
LeChelle Saunders - Manager, Student Services and International Student Advising, Niagara University in OntarioDescription: In this panel discussion, we will explore the critical issues of financial literacy and mental health for international students. Financial anxiety, for example, is a major source of stress, impacting academic performance and well-being. It is important, therefore, 1) to understand the root causes and consequences of this anxiety, and 2) to examine solutions that empower students to manage their finances effectively. Think of financial literacy workshops, financial support programs, student employment opportunities, financial counselling services, and budgeting tools. In parallel, compared to domestic students, international students face a heightened vulnerability to mental health challenges. These challenges can negatively impact their well-being, study results, and future career opportunities. Education providers, study abroad agencies, and other stakeholders in international education have an important role and responsibility to foster mental health awareness and resilience in order to support international student success. The panelists will discuss how to equip recruitment professionals, and international students themselves, with the knowledge and strategies to ensure they have the financial and mental health foundations they need to thrive.

Coffee break 16:30 - 17:00, ICEF Finance Room

Financial acumen as a tool to effect change 17:00 - 17:20, ICEF Finance RoomSpeakers:Clay Harmon - Executive Director, AIRC - American International Recruitment CouncilDescription: Financial acumen is a critical skill for international educators. By understanding budgeting and financial analysis, educators can effectively advocate for their programs and secure the resources they need to thrive. In this session, AIRC’s executive director Clay Harmon will explore strategies for educators on how to demonstrate the return on investment (ROI) of their international education programs. provide suggestions for collaboration with the institution's finance officers, aimed at building trust and achieving shared goals.

The impact of shifting international student demographics on student funding resources 17:25 - 17:45, ICEF Finance RoomSpeakers:Riane Corter - Associate Director of University Relations, Prodigy FinanceDescription: International students are traditionally expected to self-fund their education, but the rising tuition costs and the decrease in scholarship availability cause the need for additional and alternative funding solutions. Universities and recruitment agencies are increasingly recognising the need to provide international students with earlier and more comprehensive information about funding options throughout the admissions process. In this session, Prodigy Finance’s Riane Corter will address the challenges faced by universities and agencies in these conversations, and explore best practices to effectively communicate and support international students' funding needs.

Fintech innovations in cross-border payments 17:50 - 18:10, ICEF Finance RoomSpeakers:Prajay Bangur - Deputy Vice President, EbixcashDescription: International students now have access to faster, cheaper, and easier payment methods thanks to Fintech innovations that tackle traditional banking challenges like high fees, slow transactions, and currency exchange fluctuations. In this session, Prajay Bangur from Ebixcash will - delve into the technologies powering this transformatio - explain how blockchain empowers secure and transparent transactions - highlight how Artificial Intelligence uis used for automation and personalisation. - discuss how Fintech fosters financial inclusion by providing students with diverse payment options beyond traditional banking systems. Ultimately, this session explores how Fintech's transformative power is creating a more inclusive global education system, making international education more accessible for students worldwide

The honest truth about international student insurance 18:15 - 19:00, ICEF Finance RoomModerator:Martijn van de Veen - Chief Business Development Officer, ICEF
Panellists:Pamela Kwiatkowski - Chief Revenue Officer (MSH Americas/StudyInsured), StudyInsured
Dan Witt - COO • Research Development Office • International Education Services, Waterloo Catholic District School Board
Del Pereira - Director, Partnership & Development, StudentcareDescription: International student insurance is typically a mandatory component of any student recruitment process, imposed either by the institution or the destination country. Its importance is undeniable: protection and proper coverage for unforeseen situations – whether related to health, travel, accidents, or other circumstances – are critical. The reality however is that most students, and even the professionals who recruit them, don't fully understand the details of their insurance policies: for example, what is or can be covered and to what extent, potential costs involved in specific situations, and the types of treatments (public and/or private) accessible to them. In this session, our panel will delve into the specifics of international student insurance and provide greater clarity. They'll discuss a range of case studies and real-life scenarios that highlight the true value of comprehensive coverage. We will also address common misconceptions about insurance and reveal some of the least known or most underrated features typically included in insurance packages. In summary: join us for the honest truth about international student insurance!

Networking reception 19:30 - 22:00, ICEF Finance Room

Navigating the Canadian high school landscape more effectively and efficiently 11:00 - 11:25, ICEF NA • Room 1Speakers:Lisa Williamson - Marketing & Communications Manager, Canadian Association of Public Schools - International (CAPS-I)Description: Canada continues to be the most popular destination for international high school students because of the excellence of education and variety of programs and destinations from coast to coast. However, ‘more to choose from’ could mean it’s time consuming and challenging to find the ‘best fit’ for a young, minor student. This presentation will provide practical insights as well as useful tips and tools to support agents in navigating the Canadian high school landscape more effectively and efficiently. Agents will also learn about the professional learning opportunities available at no cost, to help build ‘Canadian’ expertise within their staff. Canadian Association of Public Schools - International celebrated its 15th year in 2023 and is a national non-profit association comprised of 130 public school /boards districts offering education from the primary grades through to high school graduation.

Why the IRCC student cap will NOT impact language students in Canada 11:30 - 11:55, ICEF NA • Room 1Speakers:Diego Sanchez - Director, International Affairs, Languages CanadaDescription: Did you know that 21.2 million international visitors will set foot in Canada in 2024? And that there are absolutely no restrictions to entering the country for those bearing a valid visitor visa (TRV) or an eTA? Despite the measures announced by IRCC in January, 2024, the impacts for language students in Canada will be hardly felt. In fact, if anything, those measures will make it easier and faster for legitimate students to get their visas. A study permit is NOT required to attend short-term language programs in Canada. International students can study English or French in Canada for less than 6 months on a TRV or eTA depending on their country of origin. In fact, over 100,000 students come to Canada each year on TRVs or eTAs. Join us to learn the difference between the reality of the language sector for your students planning to travel to Canada and what the main news headlines have been mistakenly reporting.

Independent schools in Quebec | Les écoles privées du Québec 12:00 - 12:25, ICEF NA • Room 1Speakers:Nicholas Hayter - Director of International Studies, Collège Bourget representing FEEP - Fédération des Établissements d'Enseignement PrivésDescription: Independent schools in Quebec operate as non-profit organizations, boasting a rich history spanning over a century and deeply embedded within their respective communities. The predominant language of instruction in these institutions is French, with English being offered as a secondary language. Additionally, there are bilingual schools catering to both English and French speakers. International students have the flexibility to opt for accommodations within the school's residence, with a host family, or a blend of both options. All these schools provide comprehensive academic programs alongside a diverse array of extracurricular activities. Government funding further ensures that the tuition fees remain competitive, rendering these institutions financially appealing to prospective students. ==================== Les écoles privées au Québec sont des organismes à but non lucratif, jouissant d'une riche histoire qui s’étend sur plus d'un siècle et profondément ancrées au sein de leurs communautés respectives. La langue principale d'enseignement est le français, l'anglais étant enseigné comme langue seconde. On trouve aussi quelques écoles bilingues. Les étudiants internationaux ont la possibilité de choisir entre des logements dans la résidence de l'école, chez une famille d'accueil ou une combinaison des deux options. Toutes ces écoles offrent des programmes académiques complets ainsi qu'une large gamme d'activités parascolaires. Le financement gouvernemental garantit que les frais de scolarité restent compétitifs, rendant ces établissements financièrement attrayants pour les futurs élèves. This session can be presented bilingually

French-language college education in Canada | L'éducation collégiale francophone au Canada 12:30 - 13:00, ICEF NA • Room 1Speakers:Jean Léger - Directeur général, Réseau des cégeps et des collèges francophones du Canada (RCCFC)Description: The presentation will focus on the Réseau des cégeps et collèges francophones du Canada (RCCFC), an organization that brings together nearly 60 French-language post-secondary institutions across Canada. The presentation will begin with an introduction on the role and importance of the network in Francophone education in Canada. It will highlight the objectives of the network, such as the promotion of French-language college education, collaboration between member institutions, and the development of quality French-language programs of study. The presentation will then provide an overview of the network's members, which are located in different provinces and territories in Canada, such as Quebec, Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Manitoba. It will also highlight the diversity of programs of study offered in French-language CEGEPs and colleges, including technical and continuing education programs. The presentation will also address the tools put in place by the RCCFC; CollegeCO, to help our members market their educational services. Postéduc EXPO, a virtual trade show dedicated to helping students in grades 9 to 12, guidance counsellors and parents in their post-secondary careers. Finally, the presentation will highlight the importance of the Réseau des cégeps et collèges francophones du Canada in maintaining and promoting post-secondary education in French across the country, as well as the challenges and opportunities it faces. ================ La présentation portera sur le Réseau des cégeps et collèges francophones du Canada (RCCFC), une organisation qui regroupe près de 60 établissements d’enseignement postsecondaire de niveau collégial francophone à travers le Canada. La présentation débutera par une introduction sur le rôle et l’importance du réseau dans l’éducation francophone au Canada. Elle mettra en évidence les objectifs du réseau, tels que la promotion de l’enseignement collégial en français, la collaboration entre les établissements membres et le développement de programmes d’études de qualité en français. Ensuite, la présentation fournira une vue d’ensemble des membres du réseau, qui sont situés dans différents provinces et territoires du Canada, tels que le Québec, l’Ontario, le Nouveau-Brunswick, la Nouvelle-Écosse et le Manitoba. Elle mettra également en lumière la diversité des programmes d’études offerts dans les cégeps et collèges francophones, notamment les programmes techniques et de formation continue. La présentation abordera également les outils mis en place par le RCCFC ; CollegeCO, pour l’accompagnement de nos membres vers la commercialisation de leurs services en éducation. Postéduc EXPO, un salon virtuel dédié à l’accompagnement des étudiants de la 9e à la 12e année, les conseiler.eres d’orientation et les parents dans leurs parcours postsecondaires. Enfin, la présentation mettra en évidence l’importance du Réseau des cégeps et collèges francophones du Canada dans le maintien et la promotion de l’éducation postsecondaire en français à travers le pays, ainsi que les défis et les opportunités qui se présentent à lui.

How to build effective relationships in 25 minutes • Agencies 14:00 - 14:25, ICEF NA • Room 1Speakers:Tiffany Egler - Executive Director Event Management & Agent Relations, ICEFDescription: This session will provide student recruitment agencies with a step-by-step guide on how to make the most out of their participation at ICEF events in general and ICEF North America 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

ICEF Agency Status: Build trust, save time & grow your business 14:30 - 14:55, ICEF NA • Room 1Speakers:Stephanie Zimmermann - Agent Relations Director, ICEF
Nick Golding - VP Government Relations and Strategic Partnerships, ICEFDescription: Find out how ICEF is leading the way in quality assurance for international education agencies with ICEF Agency Status This session is for agencies and educational institutions wanting to find out more about ICEF’s expanded agency accreditation program: ICEF Agency Status (IAS). It is more important than ever for professional agents to distinguish themselves and demonstrate their standards to educational institutions and students - hear about how IAS benefits the whole sector, as well as the eligibility requirements for agencies such as background and reference checks and their endorsement of the ICEF Code of Conduct. You’ll find out more about how reputable agencies can be instantly verified using a unique badge, ID and QR code based on blockchain technology, and our new global online network of accredited agencies. A must-attend session for anyone interested in how ICEF is driving professional standards in international student recruitment for improved student outcomes.

ChatGPT for education marketing: Opportunities, strategies, and outcomes 15:00 - 15:25, ICEF NA • Room 1Speakers:Philippe Taza - CEO, Higher Education MarketingDescription: It’s no secret that AI is changing the digital marketing landscape, including the education sector. These advancements enable institutions to streamline workflows, elevate productivity, and achieve remarkable outcomes in the global student market, all within a remarkably short timeframe. However, this all depends on how well your team can utilize AI and prompt the right results. In this presentation, Philippe Taza will highlight how your organization can use ChatGPT to supercharge your team and its international marketing activities. He will provide a key overview of ChatGPT features and prompt engineering while also diving deep into various use cases across content, ad campaign creation, and more. You can expect to learn valuable tips and strategies, gain insight into AI risks and pitfalls, and discover helpful resources for your institution’s continued success with AI.

How does the Canadian new political landscape influence the recruitment of international students for the francophone market?|Comment le nouveau paysage politique canadien influence-t-il le recrutement d'étudiants internationaux pour le marché francophone 15:30 - 16:30, ICEF NA • Room 1Moderator:Monèle Schrot - Director, French Programming - Canada, ICEF
Panellists:Mathieu Gingras - Director of Development, Université de Moncton
George Khoury - Senior Advisor, Collège Avalon
Diego Sanchez - Director, International Affairs, Languages CanadaDescription: Canada's political landscape is evolving and impacting policies for students to study abroad. This panel explores how these changes affect the recruitment of international students for French-language education programs. All panellists will delve into how federal and provincial policies, alongside broader economic and social trends, shape the landscape for attracting students to Canada's vibrant francophone institutions. ================ Le paysage politique canadien évolue et a un impact sur les politiques permettant aux étudiants d'étudier à l'étranger. Ce panel explore la manière dont ces changements affectent le recrutement d'étudiants internationaux pour les programmes d'éducation en langue française. Tous les participants examineront comment les politiques fédérales et provinciales, ainsi que les tendances économiques et sociales plus larges, façonnent le paysage pour attirer les étudiants dans les établissements francophones dynamiques du Canada. This session can be presented bilingually

Student motivations for North American study destinations - US update 17:00 - 17:55, ICEF NA • Room 1Moderator:Jennifer Wright - Director of Operations and Certification, AIRC - American International Recruitment Council
Panellists:Samrat Ray Chaudhuri - Asst Vice President for International Recruitment, Webster University
Sonal Shah - Co-founder & Director, Kanan International
Paul Hofmann - Associate Vice Provost for International Affairs, University of LouisvilleDescription: Student interest for study abroad in North America can be influenced by many factors, as is the decision to apply to Canadian or US institutions. Will a Canadian cap on student visas affect the US market? In this session you will hear an agency perspective about how students decide on a North American destination and how advising may differ for Canada or US destinations. US university representatives will reflect on recent experiences recruiting from different markets and what he observes in the field with regard to study destination. And, a general overview of US trends, US visa policies and issuance, and US demographic shifts will be presented.

Life under the Cap: How institutions are adapting to Canada's new immigration settings 18:00 - 19:00, ICEF NA • Room 1Moderator:Craig Riggs - ICEF Monitor, Editor in Chief, ICEF Monitor
Panellists:Marie Braswell - AVP Global Strategy, Centennial College
ZiPing Feng - Chief International Enrolment Officer, Thompson Rivers University
Victoria Martin - Chief Commercial and Compliance Officer, GUS Canada
Gonzalo Peralta - Executive Director, Languages CanadaDescription: On January 22, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced a temporary, two-year cap on the number of new study permits issued to international students. The cap, and its accompanying policy settings went into effect immediately and the entire international education sector in Canada has been trying to make sense out of it ever since – as too have many thousands of students, parents, and agents around the world. This expert panel will bring in the perspectives of language schools, colleges, career colleges, and universities to explore how Canadian educators across all of these segments are dealing with the newly mandated cap settings. This will be a session for sharing practical information, ideas, and strategies for recruiting and supporting students under the constraints of the enrolment cap for 2024 and 2025.

Why are more students considering hybrid/online programs since the enactment of the latest Canadian immigration policies 12:30 - 13:00, ICEF NA • Room 2Speakers:Jeffrey R. Beard - Chairman of NOIC Academy Advisory Board, NOIC Academy
Jonathan Burdick - Member of NOIC Academy Advisory Board, NOIC AcademyDescription: In the face of significant domestic challenges, Canada has recently revised its immigration policies, introducing measures such as capping international student visas. This session will delve into how educational institutions can adapt by embracing hybrid and online learning models, thereby offering students enhanced flexibility to manage the emerging uncertainties. We will focus particularly on how NOIC Academy has aligned its educational programs with these evolving circumstances.

How to build effective relationships in 25 minutes • Providers 14:00 - 14:25, ICEF NA • Room 2Speakers:Vanessa Goulding - Business Development Manager, USA & Canada, ICEFDescription: This session will provide educators with a step-by-step guide on how to make the most out of their participation at ICEF events in general and ICEF North America 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 agencies

The ICEF Agent Voice: Insights into current recruitment trends 14:30 - 14:55, ICEF NA • Room 2Speakers:Ian Cann - VP Americas, ICEFDescription: ICEF Agent Voice is an annual survey of ICEF-screened agents from over 100 countries. It is unique in its frequency, reach, and level of detail – comparing perspectives of agents around the world and gaining fresh insights into how they are adapting and responding to global issues and challenges. This includes a year-on-year comparison of the attractiveness of international study destinations as perceived by agents recruiting for a wide range of international study programmes. Additional aspects covered include: - Where ICEF agents plan to send students in 2024 and beyond - How institutions can effectively provide support and work closely with their agents this year - What agents see as the most effective marketing strategies - Visa approval rates The survey findings will help educators to build their reputation and relationships with agents and will also assist them in developing strategies to market themselves and their destinations more effectively.

Importance of Canadian education providers in supporting international students 15:00 - 15:25, ICEF NA • Room 2Speakers:Matthew Little - Director of Partnerships, Infinite GroupDescription: Canada has strengthened its position as a global leader in higher education for those seeking top-tier education, attracting a staggering 800,000 international students from diverse backgrounds in 2023 alone. This inflow underlines Canada's status as a preferred destination for higher education, with its universities continually striving to create campuses that embrace and celebrate students from all corners of the globe. In this session, Matthew Little delves into the significance of positioning Canada as a key study destination for students worldwide. Matthew will not only emphasise the unparalleled educational opportunities that Canada offers but will also underscore the critical importance of close collaboration with the government to ensure the success of international education initiatives.

Navigating uncertain times through partnership and collaboration: Success stories and strategic insights 15:30 - 15:55, ICEF NA • Room 2Speakers:Matthew Melnyk - Director, Student Recruitment, Brock UniversityDescription: Join us to discover the power of strategic partnerships and the art of thriving through periods of uncertainty. This session will showcase how Brock University has effectively leveraged its partnerships and a robust strategic plan to navigate global uncertainty and policy changes. Attendees will learn how Brock’s guiding values shape these strategies, ensuring that by working alongside like-minded partners, we collectively do more than survive—we thrive. Gain insights into practical, collaborative strategies that promise not just resilience, but growth and success in challenging times.

Questioning reverse migration: Insights on Indo-Canadian relations 16:00 - 16:30, ICEF NA • Room 2Speakers:Sandeep Singh - CEO & Co-Founder, Intake AbroadDescription: The relationship between India and Canada is dynamic, exhibiting fluctuations between strength and fragility, yet it doesn't exert a significant influence on migration or reverse migration from India to Canada. Those returning to India from Canada often include individuals facing deportation, legal hurdles, or challenges in obtaining permanent residency. Nevertheless, Canada’s reputation as a land of opportunities steadfast, attracting individuals who flourish by establishing businesses, earning, investing and contributing’s to nation growth. However, critically examining the phenomenon of reverse migration, this topic delves into the nuanced relationship between India and Canada. Through insightful analysis, it explores how Indo-Canada relations intersect with migration patterns, shedding light on key factors influencing the movement of individuals between the two countries.

From classrooms to careers: Trending programs for the future of work 17:00 - 17:25, ICEF NA • Room 2Speakers:Kayla Briel - Chief Commercial Officer, Global University Systems - North AmericaDescription: Explore the evolving demands of the Canadian job market and discover trending programs designed to address the global skills gap in the healthcare, digital, and IT sectors. Gain insights into how these future-focused programs are gaining popularity and shaping the future of work both in Canada and internationally by equipping students with the practical learning required to thrive in dynamic industries.

Simplifying payments for students, educators, and agents 17:30 - 17:55, ICEF NA • Room 2Moderator:Ross Holmes - VP, Partnerships and Publishing,
Panellists:Kanishk Gupta - Executive Director and Global Head of International Student Pay, CIBC Capital Markets
Ravi Balchandani - Executive Director and Head of India Market Strategy Company, CIBC Capital Markets
Sushil Sukhwani - Founder and Director, Edwise International
Sean Coote - Vice President International, Niagara College CanadaDescription: Elevating the student experience – Pay fees in preferred currency. Anytime. Anywhere. Ranked among the top 10 safest banks in North America by Global Finance Awards (2021), over 150 higher education sector partners and thousands of students across the globe leverage CIBC’s wealth of industry expertise to tailor financial solutions and facilitate digital payments, with volumes surpassing $500 billion annually. - Our International Student Pay (ISP) program allows students to -make payments for tuition, accommodation and other fees in their preferred currency from anywhere in the world and at any time. - Our International Student Banking Offer (ISBO) program provides a well-rounded solution for students to open and prefund their Canadian bank account while overseas to demonstrate their proof of funds and secure their study permit faster. With an easy to use digital platform, students are able to submit an application in minutes and transfer funds in their preferred currency at any time. Join us for an insightful session with educators, agents and other key stakeholders to discuss opportunities for cross-border payment efficiencies.

BMO empowering newcomers: A path to financial literacy and smooth transition into their new life 18:00 - 18:25, ICEF NA • Room 2Speakers:Prajesh Vasani - Lead: Pre-Arrival Banking, BMO Bank of MontrealDescription: Embark on a transformative exploration of BMO's pioneering initiatives dedicated to fostering the success and growth of newcomers to Canada. Our presentation will highlight three flagship programs—BMO's NewStart®, BMO SmartProgress™, and the revolutionary BMO Newcomer Talent Program. These initiatives will be meticulously unveiled and discussed, providing a roadmap for students to access best-in-class and personalized banking products. At the heart of our presentation is a focus on empowering students with financial education well before they set foot in Canada. We aim to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills essential for financial success in their new environment. Join us as we guide agencies, institutional partners and prospective students through a comprehensive understanding of these programs, demonstrating how BMO is not merely a financial institution but a dedicated partner in the newcomers' journey.

Actionable outcomes through data 18:30 - 19:00, ICEF NA • Room 2Speakers:Robin Garcha - Partnerships Director, Solutions Lead, IDPDescription: Data-driven decision making is an essential element of a successful international enrollment management strategy. This session will explore how to drive actionable outcomes through data. The presenter will discuss how Canadian institutions can gather and use data in recruitment strategies to inform decisions, including recruitment and marketing investments, messaging strategy, identifying key emerging markets, planning for program mix/capacity, understanding their position within the market, and tracking conversion. The session will employ real-world examples showcasing these practices in use across the Canadian market.

Seminar Programme ICEF North America

Seminars