Challenges and best practices in international student enrollment in higher education institutions: a study from a global perspective

Purpose Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) around the world are undergoing significant changes due to growing demand, rapid technological progress and the evolving landscape of quality assurance. This study aims to examine the key challenges HEIs face when enrolling international students, highlight effective strategies and recommend approaches to address these challenges – while upholding standards of quality assurance. Design/methodology/approach Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, this study systematically reviewed and analyzed 51 research articles published between 2016 and 2024. These articles were sourced through comprehensive searches on Scopus and Google Scholar. A thorough screening and quality assessment process was applied to ensure the credibility and reliability of the findings. Findings The review identifies several major obstacles in international student enrollment, including financial limitations, visa-related issues, academic and language challenges, cultural adjustment difficulties and resource constraints within institutions. Effective practices observed include offering scholarships, establishing strategic partnerships, simplifying admissions procedures and strengthening academic support services. To maintain quality, HEIs should align with global standards, embrace digital tools, promote inclusive environments and provide holistic student support. Moreover, strong governance structures and continuous feedback loops are critical to balancing enrollment growth with quality assurance. These findings lay a foundation for resolving enrollment challenges while advancing equitable, high-quality international education. Originality/value This study contributes fresh perspectives on the challenges and effective practices related to international student enrollment and maintaining quality assurance. By emphasizing the need to balance access and excellence, the findings offer meaningful insights for policymakers and higher education institutions aiming to strengthen global education systems.