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98% leaders say study abroad helped their career growth: Report

A majority of business leaders believe that international education plays a very major role in shaping leadership abilities, according to a new report released by the Institute of International Education (IIE) and AIFS Abroad. The study found that 98 per cent of surveyed leaders said their international experiences contributed to their personal growth and helped them better understand workplace environments, skills that later translated into leadership roles. The report, launched at the NAFSA 2026 Annual Conference in the United States in May, is based on in-depth interviews with 44 executives and decision-makers from different sectors. According to the findings, 96 per cent of respondents said that studying or living abroad helped them develop cross-cultural leadership skills. Participants also reported improved abilities to work with people from different backgrounds. The management of diverse teams and build professional relationships across countries remains affirmative because of the decision where they have decided to study abroad. AIFS Abroad Chairman William Gertz said the experiences gained through international education continue to have relevance in today's globalised workforce. "The skills and perspectives gained through education abroad are not only relevant but essential for effective leadership in today's interconnected world," Gertz wrote in the report. He added that many leaders described their time abroad as a turning point in both their personal and professional development. Industry observers have pointed to concerns over declining international student enrolments, uncertainty surrounding Optional Practical Training (OPT (work permit after graduation)) policies and ongoing debates over H-1B work visa work visas.