Starting Points
Why internationalise?
Context Mapping
Where are we working from?
Understand the context that shapes what internationalisation can realistically achieve in your programme.
Why this matters
Internationalisation does not take place in a vacuum, it happens in a particular context. Programmes do not internationalise in the same way because they do not operate in the same conditions. National policies, institutional priorities, funding, language, labour markets and local cultural ecosystems all shape what is possible. Before introducing new initiatives, it is helpful to understand the context in which your programme operates, the opportunities it creates and the constraints it presents. Mapping these conditions can help programme teams make more realistic and informed decisions about where to begin and what kinds of change are achievable.
Key questions
- What policies shape internationalisation in our context?
- What languages, funding systems, visa rules or labour-market conditions affect staff and students?
- Is internationalisation an institutional strategy or a programme staff-led initiative?
- How well connected are programme teams with international offices, careers services and external partners?
- Are we preparing students for local, home-country, regional or transnational careers?
- Who currently carries responsibility for internationalisation, formally and informally?
- Who currently carries responsibility for updating or changing modules?
Notes & Resources
This section brings together resources, examples, references and practical ideas that may help you explore the topic further. Use what is relevant to your context, and adapt it as needed.
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Explore how institutional and wider contexts shape internationalisation
This EUA resource presents internationalisation as an institutional ecosystem, connecting learning and teaching with students, staff, support structures, external stakeholders and the national context.
Internationalisation in Learning and Teaching · European University Association · 2020 -
Situate your programme within current changes in European higher education
A useful overview of how institutions are responding to changing societal, political, economic and technological conditions, including developments in mobility and internationalisation.
Trends 2024: European higher education institutions in times of transition · European University Association · 2024 -
Explore how internationalisation strategies are evolving across Europe
This recent mapping provides an overview of national approaches to higher education internationalisation across the European Higher Education Area, highlighting different priorities, policy frameworks and changing strategic contexts.
Mapping the internationalisation strategy landscape across the EHEA – 2025 and beyond · EAIE / Academic Cooperation Association (ACA) · 2025 -
Navigate the European Higher Education Area
Explore the official EHEA resource for information on national higher education systems, mobility, recognition, qualifications and the Bologna Process.
European Higher Education Area (EHEA) · Official website
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Contribute to the toolkit!
Do you have a resource, example, question or reflection that could help others? We would love to hear from you. Help us keep this toolkit growing by sharing your ideas.