Redefining Study Abroad: CEA CAPA’s Acquisition of CIS Signals Sector Transformation

Global Education Consolidates as CEA CAPA Integrates CIS Network Across 37 Countries

In a strategic move to expand its global education footprint, Infinedi Partners, LP, has announced that its portfolio company, CEA CAPA Education Abroad, has completed the acquisition of CIS Abroad, CIS Australia, and Barcelona SAE, collectively referred to as CIS, from their parent organisation, Global Educators. CIS is widely recognised as a leading provider of education abroad and career readiness programmes, catering primarily to undergraduate students from the United States and Australia. With operations spanning Europe, Asia, Africa, and Central and South America, CIS facilitates transformative international learning experiences through its dedicated study centre and an extensive network of academic partners.

Each year, CIS serves over 4,000 students from more than 200 colleges and universities, offering tailored programmes that integrate academic rigour with cultural immersion and professional development. The acquisition is expected to significantly strengthen CEA CAPA’s position in the global education sector, thereby enhancing its capacity to deliver high-impact, cross-cultural learning opportunities.

Following the acquisition, CEA CAPA is projected to serve over 15,000 students annually from more than 450 institutions across the United States and Australia. Its expanded portfolio will encompass educational and career programmes in 92 cities across 37 countries, delivered through 17 study centres and a robust network of global partnerships.

Jay Hegenbart, Founder of Infinedi, stated that the merger would broaden study abroad options, particularly for students in disciplines such as business, engineering, psychology, and health sciences, while maintaining consistent programme quality, comprehensive student support, and rigorous safety standards worldwide. Beth Stiller, CEO of CEA CAPA, emphasised that the integration would strengthen institutional partnerships, expand programme offerings and geographic reach, and enable the development of new classes and customised academic pathways. These enhancements are expected to amplify the organisation’s impact and accessibility.

Infinedi Partners, a New York-based private equity firm founded in March 2018 by Jay Hegenbart, is distinguished by its commitment to building innovative partnerships with founder-led businesses and financial entrepreneurs. Unlike traditional firms, Infinedi exclusively invests in companies where it serves as the first private equity partner, employing less leverage and favouring longer-term investment horizons. Infinedi Partner Carter Harned reaffirmed CEA CAPA’s mission to cultivate global leadership and expressed enthusiasm for the increased access and added value the merger brings to students and partner institutions alike.

The firm adopts a solution-oriented investment approach, working collaboratively with business owners to develop tailored strategies that benefit all stakeholders. Its investor base comprises prominent institutions with long-standing ties to the firm’s leadership and a track record of successful outcomes. Infinedi continues to seek new investment opportunities; further information is available at infinedi.com. CEA CAPA Education Abroad is recognised as a leading provider of study abroad programmes, international internships, and career development opportunities designed to support students across diverse academic and professional interests. It enables students to earn academic credit while cultivating cross-cultural understanding, communication skills, and independence. The organisation remains committed to expanding equitable access to global education and empowering students to become thoughtful, capable leaders through immersive international experiences.

Currently, CEA CAPA offers study abroad programmes in 92 cities across 37 countries, including Europe, Latin America, and Australia, through its network of study centres and university partners. In addition to standard offerings, it provides custom and faculty-led programme options. More information is available at ceacapa.com.
CIS, founded in 2000, delivers study abroad experiences to U.S. undergraduates through partnerships with international universities in 29 destinations. CIS Australia, established in 2013, offers global study, volunteer, and internship programmes for Australian students. Barcelona SAE, launched in 2009, specialises in U.S. student programmes based in Barcelona. Collectively, these organisations serve over 4,000 students annually from more than 200 colleges and universities. Additional details can be found at cisabroad.com, cisaustralia.com.au, and barcelonasae.com. This acquisition marks a significant milestone in advancing global education access and enhancing the quality and reach of international learning experiences for students worldwide.

Editor’s Note:

The acquisition of CIS Abroad, CIS Australia, and Barcelona SAE by CEA CAPA, backed by Infinedi Partners, marks a major step in reshaping international education. It aims to improve access to high-quality study abroad programmes while maintaining strong academic standards, student safety, and global relevance. By combining resources and expertise, the merger expands CEA CAPA’s reach to 92 cities in 37 countries, serving over 15,000 students from more than 450 institutions each year. The integration is designed to offer more diverse programmes, stronger student support, and broader academic options in areas like business, engineering, psychology, and health sciences. While this growth is promising, it's also important that programme diversity, cultural understanding, and collaboration with institutions are preserved. The real success of this merger will depend on how well it adapts to the changing needs of students and universities.

Skoobuzz strongly believes this initiative is a real chance to change the way global education works, making it more open to everyone, more meaningful, and better prepared for the future.