The influence of the federal government budgetary process on international education programs is discussed, and information is provided to help persons who wish to have their views known to the decision-makers. Specific information is included on programs administered by the U.S. International Communication Agency (USICA) and the Department of Education. The federal budget cycle is described, using the example of late spring/summer 1982 through October 1983. The following methods of reaching decision-makers are discussed: personal visits, letters, telephoning, and telegrams/mailgrams/public opinion messages. The key decision points are summarized as follows: the relevant department or agency formulating the budget; review and decisions on departmental and agency budget requests; budget committee hearings and actions on the first and second concurrent budget resolutions; authorization committee hearings and action; appropriations committee hearings and action; conference committee meetings and action; House and Senate floor action; and action on a continuing appropriations resolution. A list of government officials who deal with international education programs is presented, along with information on how and where to communicate with them. A glossary of terms central to the federal budgetary process is included. (SW)