U.S.A. Justice Department indicts 15 for fraudulent testing in China

The report of the Justice Department of the U.S.A. indicting 15 Chinese nationals for fraud in entrance examinations raises concern about the validity of many international students' applications to attend universities in the U.S.A. The article indicates that the number who cheat is small but discerning schemes to falsify credentials is not only important to the credibility of admission processes but it raises the question of the purpose of the tests in the first place. Are these tests seen only as hurdles to admission or are they seen as a way of determining who is best fit to study at a variety of types of institutions? Unfortunately, the latter goal has been overlooked by many prospective students and their families.

Interest in branch campuses declines in Europe

With the U.K. having dominated in its number of branch campuses, it appears now to be leading the exodus from branch campuses among European universities. A recent survey conducted by the European Association of International Education indicated that establishing branch campuses was the lowest ranked strategy for internationalization among its members. Citing the high cost and reputational risks of branch campuses, the trend appears to have shifted to joint and dual degrees as the preferred approach to increasing the internationalization of their institutions.

The survey also assessed the reasons institution leaders pursuing internationalization. Improving the quality of learning (56%) and more adequately preparing graduates for the global world (45%) in which they will live were the most often endorsed purposes.

NAFSA attendees discuss expanding access to study abroad

The NAFSA conference attracted 11,000 attendees, quite a statement about the growing importance of international students to U.S.A. higher education as well as study abroad by domestic students from the U.S.A. One program explored strategies to increase access beyond the privileged white students who account for the vast majority (76%) of those who study abroad as part of their educational experience. 

Australian students increase study abroad

Previous cohorts of Australian students were reluctant to pursue study abroad but now 14.8% are leaving the country for some of their study years. This figure is now comparable to students in the U.S.A. and comes with a package of benefits, including increased civic interest and better career preparation.

Access to higher education is pivotal and variable

Higher education is critical in preparing students around the world for changing economic conditions and work opportunities. The problem is that access varies so much across various regions o the world.

Comparative and international higher education journal

Those looking for resources on international higher education may benefit from browsing the Journal of Comparative and International Higher Education. The articles are focused and tight so reading is quick and efficient. This particular issue carries two articles of interest to those who are involved in, or considering, branch campus models. Sadly, all of the articles in this issue are authored by individuals who are working out of North America.

Publishing in China

Due to the potential of alterations in academic work, guidance for how to handle publishing in China have been offered to assist authors. Among the recommendations is encouragement not to allow modifications that alter the core of arguments in published works.