April 25 & 26, 2025

Portugal

Admissions Conference

Empathy Elevates Education

70+

Attendees from across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa

40+

Participating schools

92%+

Satisfaction rate

The transformative impact of empathy, inclusion and collaboration is evident at international schools that embrace these attributes. Strong connections between students, staff and families are a major contributing factor to student recruitment, innovation and advancement. Join us as we explore the synergistic benefits of merging diverse perspectives as schools build inclusive communities where everyone’s voice is valued.

Since 2013, OpenApply has been working to fill the professional development gap in the admissions world in preparation for these increasing challenges. We are excited to return for our 20th Admissions Conference!

The conference theme is ‘Empathy Elevates Education’, and will encompass:

  • School Community Collaboration
  • Data-Driven Admissions Decisions
  • Innovation and Transformation in Schools

Join us in Portugal to network with forward-thinking admissions and marketing professionals, exchange best practices, and incorporate transformative strategies and techniques to further the advancement of your school.

Agenda

The conference schedule consists of professional-development sessions delivered by admissions, marketing and advancement leaders within the community, and OpenApply workshops delivered by our team.

Both days will run from 8:30am to 4:30pm, with a Happy Hour taking place on the evening of Day 1.
More information will be available soon!

Why Attend?

Forge connections, share insights, and strengthen relationships within the international school community.
Leverage AI and analytics to enhance decision-making processes and improve student enrollment outcomes.
Discover innovative strategies and best practices to supercharge communication, process efficiency and more.

Who Should Join?

Admissions & Enrollment Professionals
Marketing & Communications Professionals
Advancement, Tech/IT & Senior Leadership

Pricing

Early Bird Pricing through 14 March

US$299

Pricing after 14 March

US$349

*The registration fee includes food and beverages during the conference and the Happy Hour. Participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodation.

Have a story to share?

Do you have a success story, a new practice, or an area of expertise you’d like to share? This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase your work and inspire others!

Based on the theme, Empathy Elevates Education, we are seeking sessions that align with the following topics:

  • School Community Collaboration
  • Connecting with Your Audience Through Empathy
  • Crafting your School’s Story
  • Developing your Fundraising Strategy
  • Leveraging your Alumni Network
  • Data-Driven Admissions Decisions
  • Effective Outreach and Engagement
  • Inclusion Beyond Curriculum
  • Innovation and Transformation in Schools

Speakers will receive:

  • Complimentary registrations to the conference and networking events (up to two per session)
  • Certificates of Appreciation

Proposals will be accepted until 28 February, 2025

Submit Your Proposal Here

Our Previous Events

What our past participants have said

Event Location

The workshop will take place at TASIS Portugal.

Estrada Nacional No 9 Quinta da Beloura II, 2710-697 Sintra, Portugal

Hotel Recommendations

1️⃣ Legacy Hotel Cascais, Curio Collection by Hilton

  • King Guest Room – 170 €
  • King/Twin Guest Room with Balcony or Patio – 185 €
  • King/Twin Cascais Room with Ocean view and Balcony – 200 €

Price per room, per night with breakfast buffet included – single occupancy.

For double occupancy the extra person is an additional 15€/night.

Above rate is subject to availability. We suggest booking as soon possible via the dedicated BOOKING LINK

2️⃣ Hotel Pestana Cidadela Cascais

  • Classic Room, Single Occupancy €170
  • Classic Room, Double Occupancy €185

The rate is based on per room per night and inclusive of breakfast (s), internet in guest room, service charge and taxes.

The rate is exclusive of city tax, which is €4 per night per person.

Above rate is subject to availability. We suggest booking as soon possible via the HOTEL WEBSITE and use code TASISPT

Any questions, please reach out to filipa.casimiro@pestana.com

Shuttle Bus

Coming soon!

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I get a certificate from the event?

All participants will receive a certificate in digital form.

Do I need to bring a computer?
Yes. Materials and resources will be shared virtually and you might want to access your OpenApply account for some workshops.
What is included in the registration fee?
The registration gives you access to all of the sessions and covers the costs of all food and beverages plus a happy hour during the conference. It also covers the costs if conference shuttles are arranged. Attendees are responsible for the costs of their own travel and accommodation.
Do I need to be an OpenApply user to benefit from this event?
While our team will be present to offer support and hands-on training for our product, non-users can also benefit from the shared experiences and solutions, which address common challenges encountered by all admissions teams in their daily operations.
What is the cancellation policy?
We offer a full refund up till 7 days prior to the event, minus a $50.00 processing fee. No refunds will be given after that date. Attendee substitutions can take place up to 48 hours prior to the event without penalty when it is an exact workshop substitution. You can directly cancel and request a refund on Eventbrite, or contact events@faria.org

Can’t make it?

See our other events