Student mobility has increased significantly in the last two decades. With the United States as the most popular location in the world for international students, recruitment of this student population became a priority for many institutions of higher education. The use of international student recruitment agents has become a common practice among institutions that pursue this market. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of partnerships between international student recruitment agents and institutions of higher education, to understand what makes them successful business partners, and to learn how to improve these partnerships. The findings suggest that channels of communication between institutions of higher education and international student recruitment agents ought to improve so they can support and represent each other properly. Furthermore, standardizing onboarding processes as well as agent professional certifications play a crucial role in maintaining high standards of ethical practices. Finally, regulating agent-institution collaboration would ensure they serve students efficiently. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]