Introduction
The Institute of International Education (IIE) is a global not-for-profit organization that designs and administers international education programs, scholarships, fellowships, research services and exchange opportunities for students, scholars, professionals and artists worldwide.
History and Background
IIE was established in 1919 with the belief that international education could help build a more secure, peaceful and prosperous world. It was one of the first private organizations created to facilitate international exchanges.
Today, IIE reaches more than 29,000 people in 180 countries each year through programs it administers in partnership with governments, foundations, corporations and higher education institutions.
Mission and Purpose
IIE’s purpose is to expand access to international education and create life-changing opportunities for students, scholars and professionals. Its work supports global learning, mutual understanding, leadership development, academic exchange and crisis response. ✨
The organization administers major programs including the Fulbright Program, Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program and the International Visitor Leadership Program on behalf of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.
Governance and Structure
IIE is a global not-for-profit organization, not a Danish foundation, enterprise foundation or privately owned corporate foundation. It is governed by a Board of Trustees, advisory boards and executive leadership.
The organization has a global network of offices and affiliates, with more than 600 international education experts working across regions.
Funding and Grants
IIE manages scholarships, fellowships, grants and exchange programs funded by governments, foundations, corporations and institutional partners. Its funding model is based on program administration, donor partnerships, sponsored initiatives, philanthropic support and global education services.
Although IIE conducts research and offers research services, it is not mainly a basic research funding agency. Its “research grants” and funding-related activities are usually connected to education, mobility, fellowships, higher education access, emergency support and international exchange rather than laboratory-based basic research.
Major Programs and Initiatives
Fulbright Program
IIE administers parts of the Fulbright Program, one of the world’s best-known international academic exchange programs.
Gilman Scholarship
The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship supports U.S. students with financial need to study or intern abroad.
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
This program supports professional development and exchange for mid-career leaders from around the world.
International Visitor Leadership Program
The IVLP connects emerging global leaders with U.S. counterparts through professional exchange.
Crisis Response and Scholar Support
IIE provides emergency support for students, scholars and artists facing crisis, displacement or conflict.
Research and Impact Studies
IIE conducts research on international education, student mobility, higher education trends and program impact. Its research supports institutions, governments and partners in understanding global education patterns.
Impact and Examples of Work Funded
IIE manages programs with participants from more than 180 countries, and more than 27,000 people participated in IIE-managed programs in the last year reported on its website.
Its work has expanded scholarships, supported displaced students, built international partnerships, promoted language learning, strengthened higher education systems and connected global leaders through exchange programs.
Conclusion
The Institute of International Education is one of the world’s leading organizations in international education, scholarships, fellowships, academic exchange and global research on student mobility.
While it is not a Danish foundation, enterprise foundation or traditional basic research funding body, IIE plays a major philanthropic and educational role by managing grants, scholarships, fellowships and exchange programs that create opportunities for learners and leaders worldwide.
For more information, visit here.
