The new year is just around the corner and, with it, a full slate of exciting higher education marketing conferences and events to attend. Whether you’re looking to refine your enrollment strategies, discover new ways to connect with prospective students, or just escape your inbox for a few days, 2026 offers no shortage of opportunities to level up.
Still have room in your calendar? We’ve curated this list of higher ed marketing conferences to help you fill it — and to make sure it’s time well spent.
7 Good Reasons to Attend a Higher Ed Marketing Conference
On the fence about attending a conference? Not sure whether you can justify the time away from your desk? Here‘s why attending these events can make a real difference for your institution:
- See what’s working (and what’s not). Conferences are where the best (and worst) of today’s marketing strategies come to light. You’ll hear real stories from institutions that are seeing major returns from innovative campaigns, and learn from others’ mistakes so you can avoid them. It’s the fastest way to see what’s actually moving the needle in enrollment and how you can apply these insights directly to your institution.
- Refine your student recruitment tactics with data-driven strategies. Data is king in recruiting, but you need to understand how to leverage it. Conferences give you the tools to not only understand prospective students but also implement strategies that will drive conversions. This is your chance to learn from the best how to use data to fine-tune your messaging, target the right audiences, and track your success.
- Reconnect with peers and build cross-campus relationships. Marketing doesn’t happen in a vacuum, especially in higher ed. Conferences give you the rare opportunity to sit down with fellow admissions officers, enrollment managers, faculty members, and even presidents or chancellors from other institutions to discuss what’s working for them and what’s not. These connections are invaluable for building stronger, more collaborative relationships that can elevate your institution.
- Find solutions to the problems keeping you up at night. From budget constraints to shifting student expectations, you’re up against a long list of challenges. At a conference, you’ll be in a space designed to tackle them head-on. Discover cutting-edge tools, strategies, and case studies that show how other institutions are overcoming the same obstacles, and walk away with practical solutions you can implement right away.
- Keep your institution on the cutting edge. Whether it’s AI in instructional design or new social media platforms for outreach, conferences put you in the know for the latest trends and tech, so you can harness these innovations before your competitors do and stay at the forefront of digital engagement.
- Discover actionable strategies to enhance your campaigns. You don’t need pages of notes you’ll never look at again. Most conferences offer more than just lectures, with lively discussions, hands-on workshops, and other interactive sessions that enable you to apply what you’ve learned right away. With the added opportunity to collaborate with colleagues and receive feedback from experts, you’ll walk away with tangible skills you can immediately use on the job.
- Reignite your passion for the work you do. Working in higher ed can be stressful, and burnout is real. Conferences give you the chance to step away from the daily grind and connect with like-minded peers who understand what you’re up against (and who can offer firsthand advice on how to overcome). Plus, after hearing inspiring success stories from fellow educators or marketing professionals, you’ll leave feeling recharged and ready to take on whatever comes next.
The Top 35 Higher Education Marketing Conferences to Attend in 2026
Now onto the full list of conferences, presented in chronological order.
2026 Presidents Institute
When: January 4–7, 2026
Where: Orlando, FL
Hosted by the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC), the Presidents Institute brings together over 300 independent college and university presidents to explore critical issues facing higher ed. Topics for the 2026 event will include campus resilience, the evolving academic social contract, and the current federal policy landscape. With plenary sessions and interactive discussions, the Institute is a great opportunity for leaders to exchange ideas on pressing topics such as finances, accreditation, and partnerships, all while deepening professional relationships.
2026 Carnegie Conference
When: January 21–22, 2026
Where: Lake Buena Vista, FL
The Carnegie Conference brings together marketing, enrollment, and student success leaders for an interactive two-day event aimed at shaping the future of higher ed. This year’s focus will be on bridging the student journey from recruitment to graduation and beyond, with an emphasis on authentic storytelling, innovative strategies, and technology-driven impact. Whether you’re focused on attracting students or supporting them throughout their college experience, this conference will deliver actionable insights and opportunities for collaboration.
2026 UPCEA Digital Teaching & Learning (DTL) Conference
When: February 4–5, 2026
Where: Virtual
The 2026 UPCEA DT&L Conference offers a fully virtual experience for those in digital learning, from instructional designers to online instructors. With a theme of “Designing the Future,” this conference focuses on innovation and community-building in digital education. The event will feature peer-reviewed workshops, lightning talks, and keynote panels, interactive experiences, and community conversations. Plus, it’s free for UPCEA members, making it a great opportunity to explore the future of online learning, no matter where you are.
InsightsEDU 2026
When: February 17–19, 2026
Where: Fort Lauderdale, FL
Hosted by EducationDynamics, InsightsEDU 2026 will focus on marketing, admissions, and enrollment strategies that meet the needs of today’s modern learner. Expect sessions that challenge traditional approaches and explore flexible, career-driven education and how to better serve this evolving student base. With over 120 colleges and universities represented, attendees will discover practical strategies and frameworks designed to drive growth and meet the demands of higher ed in 2026 (and beyond).
ACE Experience 2026
When: February 25–28, 2026
Where: Washington, D.C.
The ACE Experience is the place for higher ed leaders to address the most pressing challenges institutions face today, including the value of higher education, political shifts, and changing demographics. From ACE on the Hill, where presidents and chancellors will advocate for higher ed policy, to the ACE Women’s Network Leadership Conference, which aims to advance women in leadership roles, the gathering offers a variety of opportunities to engage with current issues and develop strategies for the future.
Cascade CMS User Conference
When: March 3–5, 2026
Where: Virtual
A can’t-miss virtual event for anyone in higher ed marketing, the Cascade CMS User Conference offers practical workshops, expert-led sessions, and a chance to connect with peers facing similar challenges. Whether you’re just getting started with Cascade or consider yourself a seasoned pro, you’ll get a sneak peek at upcoming features, optimize your site performance, and leave with new skills to improve your digital presence.
OLC Innovate 2026
When: March 3–5, 2026
Where: Virtual
Hosted in partnership by the Online Learning Consortium and MERLOT, OLC Innovate is all about rethinking online and blended learning in today’s world. Whether you’re an educator, instructional designer, or learning professional, this virtual event offers hands-on opportunities to explore new ideas and collaborate on solutions that will shape the future of education. Expect unique session formats, from design sprints to deep-dive workshops, where you’ll tackle real challenges and walk away with practical strategies to enhance your own learning environments.
SXSW EDU 2026
When: March 9–12, 2026
Where: Austin, TX
SXSW EDU is where education meets creativity and innovation. With 300+ sessions spread across four days, the event explores everything from arts-based pedagogy to global educational initiatives and the future of tech. Whether you’re interested in accessibility, equity, mental health, or leadership, there really is something for everyone. Plus, the wide variety of presentation formats — which include films and performance, interactive exhibitions, and two competitions — make this a place to get inspired and tackle some of education’s toughest questions.
National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR) National Conference
When: March 18–20, 2026
Where: Washington, D.C.
NCMPR’s National Conference is a key gathering for marketing and public relations professionals in higher ed. While this year’s agenda is still in the works, previous years’ conferences included hands-on workshops, case studies, and sessions covering everything from digital marketing to brand strategy and enrollment communications, all led by experts in the field.
HLC Annual Conference 2026
When: March 21–24, 2026
Where: Chicago, IL
Higher Learning 2026, hosted by the Higher Learning Commission, will focus on accreditation and continuous improvement within higher education and bring together professionals dedicated to ensuring high-quality, transformative learning experiences. This year’s agenda is not yet available, but past years have covered topics such as leadership in accreditation, improving student outcomes, and innovative approaches to fostering institutional resilience.
DrupalCon 2026
When: March 23–26, 2026
Where: Chicago, IL
DrupalCon 2026 promises to be the go-to event for the open-source community, gathering professionals from various industries, including higher ed, to explore Drupal’s potential. While the agenda for 2026 isn’t out yet, previous years have featured Industry Summits, including the Higher Education Summit. Last year’s Higher Education Summit offered attendees the chance to explore Drupal’s unique role in the higher ed space, from content management to community building, with curated sessions and guided discussions led by experienced users.
NAGAP Annual Conference – the Graduate Enrollment Management Summit
When: April 8–11, 2026
Where: Baltimore, MD
Year after year, the NAGAP Annual Conference attracts over 800 graduate enrollment professionals to explore the latest trends and challenges in the field. With dynamic speakers, workshops, and networking opportunities, this event provides a space to learn new strategies and share insights with peers. Attendees can anticipate topics on everything from recruitment and marketing to student success, leaving with practical knowledge to bring back to their institutions.
WebCon 2026
When: April 9–10, 2026
Where: Virtual
Hosted by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, WebCon is a virtual gathering for digital professionals across industries. Whether you’re in content creation, design, or development, this conference will deliver essential insights into the latest web technologies, trends, and strategies. In addition to practical sessions on user experience, accessibility, and driving web traffic, the event will include conversations on work/life balance, neurodiversity in tech, and more. Best of all, WebCon is open to the public, so seasoned experts and newcomers alike can gain fresh perspectives and expand their skills.
ASU+GSV Summit 2026
When: April 12–15, 2026
Where: San Diego, CA
The ASU+GSV Summit, hosted in partnership with Arizona State University, brings together innovators, investors, and educators from around the world to discuss the future of education. With over 7,000 delegates and more than 1,100 EdTech companies represented, the Summit will cover everything from early education to workforce development through a series of inspiring keynotes, collaborative workshops, and extensive networking opportunities.
HashtagHigherEdUK 2026
When: April 14–15, 2026
Where: Birmingham, UK
HashtagHigherEd UK is the place for marketing, communications, and recruitment professionals in higher ed to connect, share ideas, and explore new strategies. Over two days, delegates will engage in curated panels, case studies, and small-group sessions focused on branding, international recruitment, and data-driven marketing. Topics range from managing global geopolitical challenges to understanding demographic shifts in student cohorts. More than just a showcase of campaigns, it’s a space for collaboration and deep conversations on the strategies shaping university branding and recruitment.
UPCEA 2026
When: April 15–17, 2026
Where: New Orleans, LA
The UPCEA Annual Conference is a gathering for higher ed professionals to share ideas and collaborate on online and professional continuing education. The 2026 conference will tackle pressing challenges such as evolving technology, budget constraints, and the drive for equitable access to education, and will include ample opportunities to learn from peers and industry leaders.
111th AACRAO Annual Meeting
When: April 19, 2026
Where: New Orleans, LA
Hosted by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO), the Annual Meeting addresses key issues in enrollment management, admissions, career development, and more. Attendees will have the chance to collaborate with experts in a variety of fields and learn about topics including international credential evaluation, promoting equity, and improving transfer and recruitment processes.
Ellucian Live 2026
When: April 19–22, 2026
Where: Denver, CO
Ellucian Live is where higher ed leaders come together to turn tech innovation into real-world impact. Over four days, participants will explore how artificial intelligence can foster deeper human connections and support students throughout their educational journey. Attendees can expect a mix of breakout sessions and keynote talks focused on using technology to meet students where they are and enhance lifelong learning. If you’re looking to lead change rather than just keep up with it, this is the place to be.
2026 Career Education Convention
When: June 22–24, 2026
Where: Cleveland, OH
The 2026 Career Education Convention is expected to be the largest gathering of private career education professionals in North America, following 2025’s record-breaking event. This event will once again offer numerous networking opportunities , with expert-led sessions and keynote speakers addressing the latest trends in career education.
CASE Annual Conference for Marketing and Branding Professionals 2026
When: June 22–24, 2026
Where: Denver, CO
At the CASE Annual Conference for Marketing and Branding Professionals, attendees will gain practical tools for building, sustaining, and measuring a strong institutional brand. With a focus on creative marketing strategies, stakeholder alignment, and data-driven insights, this conference is designed to help mid-level professionals refine their approach in a crowded marketplace. You’ll leave with fresh ideas for crafting a marketing strategy that highlights your institution’s unique identity, prioritizes diversity and inclusion, effectively supports campus stakeholders, and more.
Slate Summit 2026
When: June 22–24, 2026
Where: Nashville, TN
The Slate Summit is back, offering three days of engaging sessions for admissions, student success, and advancement professionals. With over 120 sessions on the agenda, there’s plenty to explore, whether you’re an experienced Slate user or just getting started. This year’s Summit promises fresh insights, hands-on workshops, dynamic networking opportunities, and expert-led sessions on everything from best practices to major trends in student success and advancement.
National Small College Conference
When: July 13–16, 2026
Where: Charlotte, NC
For professionals at small colleges and universities, the National Small College Conference (NSCC) is the premier event of the summer. This conference creates a unique space for leaders to come together and advance the missions of small institutions through expert-led sessions, inspiring keynotes, and networking opportunities. Whether you’re in enrollment, marketing, student success, or administration, NSCC is where you’ll find the tools and connections to strengthen your small college’s future.
eduWeb Summit 2026
When: July 14–16, 2026
Where: Orlando, FL
This year’s eduWeb Summit will bring together 50+ institutions and 25+ business partners for three days of learning and networking focused on the digital future of higher ed. With sessions on everything from enrollment growth and data analytics to digital experiences and AI, this conference is all about gaining practical knowledge you can put to work immediately. If you’re looking to enhance your institution’s digital presence, improve the student journey, or strengthen your brand, eduWeb offers diverse session formats and plenty of opportunities to connect with peers and industry leaders from across the country.
UNITE 2026
When: July 19–23, 2026
Where: Atlanta, GA
UNITE is the gathering for historically Black college and university (HBCU) leaders, students, and partners, dedicated to advancing the goals and missions of their institutions. In addition to celebrating the 20th anniversary of UNCF’s Institution for Capacity Building, this year’s summit will address the five pillars of institutional excellence, student success, research and innovation, economic mobility, and systems change.
With targeted discussions on topics such as AI innovation, global strategies, mental health, and workforce development, UNITE offers a collaborative space for leaders to come together and tackle the unique challenges HBCUs face, driving real change across these institutions and the communities they serve.
2026 Summit for Online Leadership and Administration (SOLAR) Conference
When: July 29–31, 2026
Where: Boston, MA
SOLAR 2026 is where the future of digital learning and institutional strategy will take shape. This event focuses on how online learning leaders are transforming from specialists into change agents to drive both academic and operational excellence across campuses. SOLAR will explain how AI tools can enhance program quality and create operational efficiencies. From governance and technology systems to the human side of change, SOLAR is designed to offer actionable insights to lead the next wave of educational transformation.
EDUCAUSE Annual Conference
When: September 29–October 2, 2026 | October 14–15, 2026
Where: Denver, CO | Virtual
Designed for professionals at the intersection of higher education and technology, the EDUCAUSE Annual Conference offers unparalleled opportunities to learn from experts, connect with peers, and explore the latest tech innovations shaping the industry. Unable to attend in person? Not to worry: EDUCAUSE offers both online and in-person formats to enhance accessibility.
Content Marketing World 2026
When: October 5–7, 2026
Where: Denver, CO
While details for the 2026 edition of Content Marketing World are still to come, if past years are any indication, it’ll be one of the most energizing events for anyone working in content marketing. The 2025 conference alone featured 100+ sessions led by top strategists and creative pros, offering practical takeaways on everything from documenting content strategy to proving ROI. Content Marketing World is known for delivering real-world advice, big-picture thinking, and connections with a global network of content creators, marketers, and team leaders who care about getting content right.
Digital Collegium 2026 Annual Conference
When: October 18–21, 2026
Where: Virtual | Pittsburgh, PA
This hybrid event blends strategic sessions with community-driven conversations that cover topics such as IT, marketing, and digital transformation in higher ed. Whether you attend Digital Collegium online or in-person, you’ll have access to engaging sessions, networking events, and an exhibit hall full of tools and solutions. If you’re looking to sharpen your skills and bring back practical ideas to drive change on your campus, Digital Collegium is a smart bet.
Conferences We’re Keeping an Eye on
These conferences haven’t listed their official dates yet, but we’ll add them to the official list as soon as they do:
- #PSEWeb 2026
- 2026 AMA Symposium for the Marketing of Higher Education
- 2026 P3 Higher Education Summit
- ContentEd 2026
- Digital Universities_US 2026
- NACAC Conference 2026
- Social Media Strategies Summit: Higher Education
No matter what time of year, we’re always available to talk about digital marketing for higher education. Just shoot us a message, and we’ll be in touch.
