Higher Education is a leading international journal dedicated to advancing knowledge in the field of higher education studies. Established in 1972, the journal publishes twelve issues annually, reporting on educational developments in universities, polytechnics, colleges, and vocational institutions worldwide, encompassing both public and private sectors. Contributions are peer-reviewed and come from scholars around the globe, addressing the challenges faced by researchers, teachers, institutional leaders, and policymakers in the higher education sector. Our key criterion for publication is that submitted manuscripts must make a significant contribution to the body of knowledge in higher education studies and be situated clearly within the existing literature of the field. As an international journal, we aim to bridge insights from different educational systems and contexts, and encourage submissions that are relevant to an international audience or that promote cross-national dialogue. We particularly welcome the following types of contributions: Empirical research studies that are cross-national or cross-sectoral in scope, or that involve large datasets—such as data from multiple institutions and/or over extended time periods. Historical syntheses and policy studies, including secondary analyses of primary data that offer original interpretations of higher education systems, policies, or contexts. Smaller-scale empirical studies that offer significant conceptual or methodological advances in the international higher education literature. Conceptually based studies that are not primarily empirical, including theoretical discussions, explorations of methodological issues, reflective essays, and critical literature reviews that provide substantial original insights into higher education and its evolving context. Higher Education serves as a platform for the exchange of research findings, experiences, and perspectives, fostering ongoing dialogue among experts in the field. By publishing a diverse range of authoritative overview articles, comparative studies, and focused analyses, the journal aims to deepen our understanding of higher education across the world. Science is built on the shoulders of giants and the work of others that provides base knowledge for research should be properly acknowledged. Unfortunately, the use of fake referencing lists generated by AI, where the listed works have not only have played no part in the composition of the work but often do not exist at all, are a growing problem. If imaginary or non-existent references are identified in your submission, or there are multiple inaccuracies in citations and references, this will trigger the immediate rejection of the manuscript, whatever stage of processing has been reached. Please be extra careful when it comes to citations and the reference list. Ethically responsible conduct in this domain is the sole and full responsibility of authors themselves.