Until now, study abroad programs have rarely measured or evaluated how the international experience develops students' professional competencies. As students and parents increasingly ask, "How will this improve my career?", it is no longer enough to highlight cultural experiences or academic credits alone. Study abroad providers must demonstrate the tangible academic and professional value of their programs through measurable, evidence-based outcomes that show how the experience enhances graduates' career readiness and long-term employability.
We measure, validate, and certify the professional and personal growth you achieve through your study abroad experience.
Global Compass® is a B2B SaaS platform that enables institutions to collect, measure, and analyze student competency data, providing evidence-based certification for Study Abroad Programs that excel in developing global competencies. Universities and individual students access the platform through a simple subscription, which includes assessments, benchmarking, impact reports, and certification.
Study Abroad Global Experience Certification®, a certification that demonstrates your study abroad program's commitment to developing globally competent graduates
STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM CERTIFICATION
When students demonstrate significant improvements in their international competencies.
The SAA Study Abroad Global Experience Certification® is a mark of excellence that study abroad programs can proudly display on their website, brochures, and marketing materials. It demonstrates a verified commitment to developing students' global competencies and provides universities, students, and parents with credible, evidence-based assurance of your program's quality and impact. Earning the certification enhances your institution's reputation and differentiates your program in an increasingly competitive study abroad market.
Journals Indexed at Econpapers, SSRN or Strategic HR Review (Emerlald) among others ratify the method
Guaranteed by scientific community
8
Tests measuring international competencies
100%
Accurate, Engaging and Self Administered
200+
U.S. Media Cited
Get Certified Yearly
The certification process is fast, simple, and secure. Before departure, each student receives a unique confidential access code to complete a set of brief online questionnaires that establish a baseline of their international and professional competencies. At the end of the study abroad program, students complete a second assessment to measure changes in those competencies. The results are analyzed to identify individual and program-level improvements, and all findings are presented in confidential reports available only to the authorized participants and institutions.