Key interest areas

Key interest areas (KIA) – sometimes referred to as ‘conference tracks’ or ‘program tracks’. These broad categories help the Committee plan a diverse and balanced program that caters to everyone’s needs and help attendees navigate the program schedule. 

Each KIA will appeal to a group of people (target audience) who share common interests, sometimes based on which education sector they work in or what type of role they have within their organisation.

The descriptions and list of topics below are intended as a guide, as topics often cross over more than one key interest area.

Click on read more to find out more about each interest area, including topics of interest.

Admissions and compliance

Covers policy, regulatory and admissions frameworks shaping international student management across all education sectors.

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Graduate outcomes

Examines how institutions measure, communicate and strengthen the long-term value of international education through employability, skills development and alumni impact.

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Learning abroad

Explores global mobility opportunities for students and staff, including outbound, inbound and virtual exchange experiences.

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Marketing and recruitment

Addresses strategic promotion and student acquisition through branding, digital channels, research and engagement campaigns.

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Macro strategy

Interrogates the global, political and economic forces influencing the future direction of international education and institutional planning.

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Pathways

Explores the end-to-end international student journey through pathway programs—including recruitment, transition support, academic preparedness, teaching quality and partner collaboration—designed to enable successful progression into Australian university degrees.

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Professional development

Provides targeted skill-building and capability development for international education professionals.

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Scholarships and fellowships

Covers sponsorship programs supporting international study funded by governments and external agencies.

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Student life

Explores the lived experiences, wellbeing and expectations of international students throughout their study journey.

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Teaching and learning

This KIA includes all elements of the teaching and learning process and experience in relation to international education.

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Transnational education

Explores offshore and cross-border delivery models, including strategy, governance, risk and student outcomes.

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Key dates

11 February - Call for proposals opens

14 March - Call for proposals closes

May - Registration open

mid-June - Program released

31 July - Super early bird registration closes

12 September - Early bird registration closes

14–17 October – AIEC 2025