Trends in International Students in the U.S. for the 2023-2024 Academic Year

The 2023-2024 academic year marked a significant milestone for international students in the United States, with enrollment reaching an all-time high. This surge reflects the growing global demand for U.S. higher education and the diverse backgrounds of students choosing to study there.

Record-Breaking Enrollment Numbers

According to the Open Doors Report, the U.S. hosted 1,126,690 international students during the 2023-2024 academic year, a 7% increase from the previous year and the highest number of international students in the U.S.

Leading Countries of Origin For International Students Studying in the US

India

For the first time since 2009, India surpassed China as the top country of origin for international students in the U.S., with 331,602 students enrolled, marking a 35% increase from the previous year.

China

Despite a 4% decline, China remains a significant source of international students, particularly in undergraduate and non-degree programs.

South Korea

South Korea remains a steady source of international students, with a strong presence in undergraduate programs, especially in social sciences, business, and engineering.

Canada

Canada’s proximity and cultural similarities make it a popular choice for international students, with a diverse range of academic disciplines pursued.

Vietnam

Vietnam is emerging as a significant source of international students, focusing on STEM fields, business, and hospitality management.

Brazil

Brazil remains an essential source of international students, with growing interest in business, engineering, and arts programs.

Top Universities Enrolling International Students

Several U.S. universities continue to attract large numbers of international students due to their academic reputation and diverse campus environments.

University of Southern California (USC)

USC consistently ranks top for international student enrollment in engineering, business, and computer science programs.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

A preferred choice for international students, especially from China and India, with strong engineering, business, and agriculture programs.

New York University (NYU)

Known for its academic rigor and location in New York City, NYU attracts international students to business, social sciences, and the arts.

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

UCLA offers diverse programs and firm international student services, making it a popular choice among international students.

Harvard University

While the number of students is smaller than that of more significant public universities, Harvard’s prestige and academic offerings make it a top destination for international students, particularly those interested in law, business, social sciences, and humanities.

Purdue University

Known for its excellent engineering and agricultural programs, Purdue has long been a destination for students from India and China.

Popular Programs Among International Students

STEM Fields

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics programs are the most popular among international students, with over half pursuing degrees in these areas.

Business Administration and Management

Graduate business programs, including MBA and specialized business programs, remain highly sought after by international students.

Health Professions

There is growing interest in health-related programs such as nursing, public health, and medical research, and international students are increasingly enrolling in these fields.

Social Sciences

Fields like economics, political science, and sociology attract international students interested in understanding global systems and cultures.

Hospitality and Tourism

Hospitality management and tourism programs have gained traction, especially with students from Vietnam, Brazil, and China.

Economic Impact

According to the Department of Commerce, international students contribute significantly to the U.S. economy. Their economic activity brought in more than $50 billion in 2023.

Looking to The Future

As the 2025-2026 academic year approaches, the future of international students in the U.S. remains dynamic. With record enrollment numbers from diverse backgrounds and increasing interest in fields like STEM, business, and health professions, the U.S. continues to be a top destination for students worldwide.

This ongoing growth in international student enrollment highlights the global recognition of U.S. higher education institutions, which provide access to cutting-edge research, academic excellence, and credentials that hold significant value internationally. As global demand for U.S. education continues to rise, universities must innovate to meet the evolving needs of their international student populations and remain competitive in attracting the best talent from around the world. For organizations looking to support these efforts, Higher Education Publications’ university administration database offers critical resources for connecting with the right decision-makers to help universities support domestic and international students effectively.

0 replies

Leave a Reply

Want to join the discussion?
Feel free to contribute!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *