On June 2, 2026, representatives of Comrat State University and other partner universities of the IR4all project took part in a training on international marketing and the recruitment of international students, held at the Polytechnic University of Valencia (Spain).
The event was dedicated to modern strategies for the internationalization of higher education and the development of universities’ global attractiveness. An expert from the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Lubomír Majerník, presented practical approaches that enable universities not only to increase their visibility abroad, but also to effectively attract international applicants, turning interest in the university into actual applications and enrollments.
During the training, participants discussed why it is no longer sufficient today to simply promote high-quality education or publish promotional materials. According to the expert, successful recruitment of international students requires a systematic approach: modern academic programs, user-friendly digital services, prompt communication, and comprehensive support for applicants at all stages of admission.
Special attention was given to the opportunities of universities in the Republic of Moldova. Participants examined how international projects, academic mobility programs, and cooperation with foreign partners contribute to strengthening the position of Moldovan universities in the global education market.
One of the key topics was the concept of the “student journey” — the process an international applicant goes through from first contact with a university to the start of studies. This journey includes searching for information, choosing a country and university, submitting applications, receiving an admission offer, preparing for relocation, and adapting to a new educational environment. It was emphasized that difficulties at any of these stages may result in the loss of a potential student.
The practical part of the training focused on developing attractive and persuasive messages for international applicants. Participants worked on how to present academic programs through real benefits, alumni achievements, and professional development opportunities.
Issues related to the selection of target countries for promoting educational programs were also discussed. The expert recommended that universities focus their efforts on the most promising markets, taking into account demand for specific fields of study, tuition costs, visa procedures, and opportunities for long-term engagement with students.
The training allowed participants to become familiar with European best practices in the internationalization of higher education, exchange experience, and gain practical tools for improving the global competitiveness of their universities.
The knowledge gained will be used by IR4all partner universities to improve work with international applicants, expand international cooperation, and enhance the quality of educational services.
According to the Rector of Comrat State University, Serghei Zaharia, participation in such international events allows the university to study the best European practices and adapt them to the national context: “Today, the international attractiveness of a university is determined not only by the quality of its academic programs, but also by its ability to create a comfortable and clear environment for international students. I am confident that the experience gained will help us strengthen the international position of Comrat State University and expand cooperation with foreign partners.”
