SAF Brings University Partners to London for a Familiarization Trip at IES Abroad

For university partners, knowing what a study abroad program offers is one thing. Seeing where students learn, actually meeting the people who support them and getting a feel for the experience firsthand is another.

That's what brought 14 university officials from Japan and Korea to the IES Abroad London Centre for a recent familiarization trip led by SAF.

Taking place alongside the EAIE 2026 Conference and Exhibition in Glasgow, the visit gave participants an opportunity to explore the London Centre's academic programs, internship opportunities and student services, while getting to know the team responsible for delivering these experiences.

Led by IES Global’s Carol Carmody and SAF Japan’s Natsuko Kambayashi, the trip also highlighted how SAF and IES Abroad, both part of IES Global, combine their expertise to help connect students with international education opportunities.

Getting to Know IES Abroad London

With its diverse communities, cultural institutions and professional opportunities, London offers countless ways to learn beyond the classroom. The IES Abroad London Centre helps students make the most of the city through a range of academic programs and experiential learning opportunities, backed by a dedicated local team.

During the half-day visit, the delegation heard presentations on IES Abroad's signature programs, internships, customized offerings and comprehensive student services. These gave university representatives a closer look at what students can expect in London, both academically and in terms of the support available throughout their stay.

The session wrapped up with lunch at The Clerk & Well, a traditional British pub, where everyone could continue their conversations over a taste of local cuisine.

Strengthening Study Abroad Partnerships Through Firsthand Experience

Familiarization trips like this one are an important part of SAF's work with its university partners. While brochures, websites and online meetings can provide plenty of useful information, visiting a study abroad centre in person offers a different perspective.

For our university partners, the visit was a chance to ask questions, meet the people who support students on the ground and get a better sense of the programs they could recommend to their own students.

It was also an opportunity to learn more about the wider IES Global network. As part of IES Global, SAF works closely with IES Abroad to connect students with international education experiences and provide support throughout their journeys. The London visit gave university partners a closer look at that collaboration in practice.

These firsthand experiences are particularly valuable for university staff who advise students on their study abroad options. Having a clearer picture of a destination, its academic offerings and the support available can help them answer students' questions and identify programs that align with their academic and personal goals.

Just as importantly, the trip gave everyone a chance to spend time together and build relationships that can continue long after the visit. 

Making the Most of EAIE 2026

The London visit took place around EAIE 2026 in Glasgow, where international education professionals from around the world gathered under the theme "The Rhythm of Revolution".

The conference offered another opportunity for SAF to reconnect with partners, meet new colleagues and discuss the changing needs of students and universities.

Together, the conference and familiarization trip provided two complementary perspectives on international education. While EAIE brought the wider sector together to exchange ideas and explore new approaches, the London visit offered a chance to see how study abroad programs are actually delivered on the ground.

For SAF's university partners, it was an opportunity to combine conversations about the future of international education with a closer look at the experiences available to their students today.

Join SAF on a Future Familiarization Trip

Following the successful London visit, SAF looks forward to organizing more familiarization trips that give university partners a firsthand look at study abroad destinations and the support available to their students.

These visits also offer valuable opportunities to meet local teams and strengthen relationships across the IES Global network.

Interested in joining a future trip? Get in touch with an SAF advisor to learn more about upcoming opportunities and how your team can take part.