Background and purpose: Nowadays, internationalizing higher education institutions is one of the most important strategic activities for these centers. The aim of this study is to introduce effective policies and strategies in the internationalization of higher education institutions based on literature.
Materials and Methods: This is a systematic review study. The studies published within a ten-year period (۲۰۱۴-۲۰۲۴) were reviewed in international databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Emerald). Selected studies be precisely focused on the internationalization strategies of universities and higher education institutions. Also, the intervening variable is internationalization strategies, which are considered in all studies. Data extraction was performed by the main author. In cases of ambiguity, the data were reviewed, and decisions were made by the second and third authors. The qualitative assessment of literature was carried out based on checklists of the Joanna Bridgers Institute, and the data were subsequently extracted and categorized in Excel software using the data collection form.
Results: A total of ۸۰۴۵ documents were retrieved according to our search in databases as well as snowball search, of which ۳۲۲۴ were duplicates and ۴۸۲۱ were left for review of the title and abstract considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Of these, ۳۵۱ documents were excluded due to lack of thematic relevance, ۱۵ because of lack of access to the full text, and ۵ owing to ambiguity in the results. Finally, ۴۰ documents were approved and their data extracted. The main strategies were related to allocating budgetary resources, providing necessary infrastructure and services, developing human resources, participating in international events and meetings with stakeholders, informing about the institution's unique actions and features, establishing international centers and offices, concluding cooperation agreements, specifying individual qualifications for attracting students/professors, creating a knowledge economy based on education, offering internationally recognized/dual degrees, developing curricula, promoting mobility as well as cultural programs.
Conclusion: According to the findings, it can be said that internationalization strategies should be reflected in all aspects of an educational institution, and the entire organization should move towards internationalization. The most effective strategies for the correct formation of this process are related to management strategies. On the other hand, education and research must be able to promote and develop the cultural and social factors of internationalization appropriately.