Lana Oconnell
California is the top destination for international students in the United States, with the University of Southern California enrolling more international students than any other university in the country. In 2023-24, there were more than 1.1 million foreign students in the US, with California maintaining its spot as the top destination. In 2021, over 130,000 international students attended California colleges, accounting for about 14% of all international college students in the US. The state's diverse culture, top research universities, national parks, and beaches along its 840-mile coastline make it a popular choice for students from around the world. However, concerns have been raised about the impact of visa terminations and policies of the Trump administration on international student enrollment in California.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of international students in California colleges in 2021 | 130,000+ |
| Number of international students in California colleges in 2023-24 | 1.1 million+ |
| Number of international students enrolled in the University of California in Fall 2024 | 35,000 |
| Number of international students enrolled in California State University in Fall 2024 | 13,718 |
| Number of international students enrolled in California's community colleges in Fall 2024 | 14,533 |
| Total number of international students in California including private universities | 154,000 |
| Number of international students enrolled in the University of Southern California | 17,469 |
| Number of international students enrolled in UC Berkeley | 12,441 |
| Number of international students enrolled in UC San Diego | 10,467 |
| Number of international students enrolled in UCLA | 10,446 |
| Percentage of international students in the University of California in Fall 2024 | 11.5% |
| Percentage of international students in California State University in Fall 2024 | 3% |
| Percentage of international students in California's community colleges in Fall 2024 | 1% |
| Percentage of international students in California colleges out of all international students in the US | 14% |
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What You'll Learn
International students in California: visa requirements
California is one of the most popular destinations for international students, with over 130,000 international students attending California colleges in 2021. The state's diverse culture, top-ranked universities, international-friendly programs, internship opportunities, sunny weather, and beautiful national parks are major attractions for international students.
To study in California, international students must navigate visa requirements, which can be a lengthy process. A valid nonimmigrant visa is necessary, with the F-1 visa being the most common type for international students. The process involves several steps, and it is recommended that students initiate the procedure promptly. Firstly, students must obtain a valid passport from their government. Subsequently, they need to secure the I-20 certificate of eligibility from their chosen educational institution. This certificate is crucial for the visa application process and must be presented alongside other essential documents.
The required documents for the visa application include proof of sufficient financial resources, a letter of admission, the DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application form, and a valid passport. Most applicants are also required to schedule an interview at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. It is worth noting that the F-1 visa application necessitates the completion of form I-901 and payment of the SEVIS (Student Exchange Visitor Information System) fee to the Department of Homeland Security before the student visa interview. This fee is in addition to the Department of State's visa application fee.
Upon arrival in the United States, international students must present their visa, passport, and Form I-20 at the port of entry. It is important to note that students entering the country on an F-1 visa are restricted from entering earlier than 30 days before the start date indicated on their I-20 form. Additionally, students must ensure that the name on their passport matches the name provided on their admission application. When departing the United States, F-1 visa holders must leave within 60 days of completing their academic program.
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Top California universities for international students
California is the third-largest state in the USA, covering 155,812.8 square miles of land area. It is also home to around 1,700 universities, so it can be challenging for prospective students to choose one. California is a significant contributor to the agricultural, aerospace, and manufacturing sectors, and many universities have created high-quality and affordable programs that focus on engineering and technology. The state is also known for its sunny weather, diverse culture, top research universities, national parks, and beaches. California's higher education network has an excellent reputation for providing quality education, and students can expect their diplomas to be acknowledged for their quality and prestige both nationally and internationally.
The University of Southern California enrolls more international students each year than any other university in the United States. California's liberal and culturally diverse nature means that students will be exposed to new and novel languages, foods, cultures, peoples, ideas, celebrations, and activities on a daily basis.
Some of the top universities in California for international students include:
- San Jose State University: Established in 1862, San Jose State University is the oldest public university in California. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, it has become a breeding ground for future tech innovators and entrepreneurs. The university is home to around 3,000 students from 100 different nationalities worldwide. The Charles W. Davidson College of Engineering is renowned for its programs in electrical and aerospace engineering, and the Lucas College and Graduate School of Business is consistently ranked among the nation's top business schools.
- University of California, Berkeley: Consistently ranked as one of the top universities in the United States, UC Berkeley offers a rich history and a diverse range of exceptional programs.
- Stanford University: Stanford's tuition rate for the 2021-22 school year was about $55,000.
- University of California, Los Angeles: UCLA is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in the United States and offers a diverse range of programs.
- University of California, Santa Barbara: UCSB has a student life and party scene, and the beach is within walking distance.
- University of California, Irvine: UCI offers a beautiful and clean campus with modern and unique buildings.
- University of San Francisco: USF offers a diverse and inclusive environment that fosters both academic and personal growth.
- California State University, East Bay: CSUEB offers a student-centered learning environment with a focus on social justice, cultural awareness, and global citizenship. Its location in the East Bay provides access to vibrant cultural centers and internship opportunities in various industries.
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Why California is a popular state for international students
California is the number one state in the US for hosting international students. In 2021, over 130,000 international students attended colleges in California, and including private universities, there were 154,000 international students in the state, accounting for about 14% of all international college students in the US.
California's popularity among international students is due to a variety of factors. Firstly, California boasts a diverse culture, making it a relatively welcoming state for those from other nations. The state is also known for its liberal and culturally diverse nature, which provides students with the opportunity to experience and embrace new languages, foods, cultures, peoples, ideas, celebrations, and activities on a daily basis. This enhances their overall educational experience beyond the classroom.
Secondly, California is home to several of the nation's top universities, including Stanford University, the University of California, Berkeley, the University of California, Los Angeles, and the California Institute of Technology. These institutions offer top-ranked academic programs, international-friendly programs, and internship opportunities that are attractive to international students. The University of Southern California, in particular, enrols more international students each year than any other university in the US.
Additionally, California's large size and diverse landscape offer a range of weekend sports and activities. From surfing along its famous shoreline to hiking in scenic nature trails and visiting its many forests and state parks, students can enjoy a variety of outdoor experiences. The state also offers a Mediterranean climate, allowing students to experience all four seasons.
Furthermore, California has a strong economy and is an international epicenter for the entertainment, information, education, and technology industries. This provides students with a wide range of academic and career opportunities. While tuition and living costs in California are generally high, there are also various options for financial aid and more affordable universities for international students.
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International student enrolment statistics in California
California is the top destination for international students in the United States. In 2023-24, more than 1.1 million foreign students were enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities, with California maintaining its spot as the top destination. California's diverse culture, top research universities, beautiful national parks, and hundreds of beaches along its 840-mile coastline make it a popular choice for international students.
In 2021, over 130,000 international students attended California colleges, with the number expected to increase to 154,000 including private universities, accounting for about 14% of all international college students in the U.S. The University of California (UC) system enrolled about 35,000 international students in the fall of 2024, or about 11.5% of all students. The California State University (CSU) system enrolled 13,718 international students, or about 3% of its total enrollment. Across California's 116 community colleges, 14,533 students had a student visa in the fall of 2024, or about 1% of the student body.
The University of Southern California (USC) is particularly popular among international students, enrolling the most international students of any university in the United States. In 2024, USC enrolled 17,469 international students, followed by UC Berkeley with 12,441, UC San Diego with 10,467, and UCLA with 10,446. Chinese students make up the largest international student group in California, followed by Indians, with students from these two countries accounting for over half of all international students in the United States.
International students in California are required to have a valid nonimmigrant visa, typically an F-1 visa, which is the most common type. They must also present a passport, the I-20 certificate of eligibility from their school, documents demonstrating sufficient financial resources, a letter of admission, the DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application form, and may need to schedule an interview. The high cost of living in California, which is about 50% higher than the national average, and the high tuition fees at public and private universities, are important considerations for international students.
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The impact of Trump's policies on international students in California
California is one of the most popular destinations for international students in the United States, with around 154,000 international students in the state, accounting for about 14% of all international college students in the country. The University of California and California State University systems alone enrol about 50,000 international students, who make up a significant portion of graduate programs and pay higher tuition fees than California resident students.
The Trump administration's policies have had a significant impact on international students in California. One of the most notable effects has been the termination of F-1 visas for dozens of international students across the state's universities and colleges. Campus officials have stated that these visa cancellations were carried out by the federal government under new Trump administration policies, often without explanation. The administration has also vowed to "aggressively revoke" Chinese student visas, which could affect as many as 50,000 students in California. This policy is part of a tense trade war between the two countries and targets those with connections to the Chinese Communist Party or studying in critical fields.
The potential loss of so many international students could have far-reaching financial implications for California's universities and the state's economy. International students not only contribute significantly to tuition revenue but also spend their dollars with local businesses. Additionally, many international students have remained in the US after graduation, contributing to various sectors as scientists, business leaders, and more.
Trump's policies have also targeted Harvard University, revoking its international student certification due to the university's failure to meet certain demands, including requests for records of student protest activity. This move has been interpreted as a warning to all universities in the US, indicating that the federal government is willing to use various mechanisms as leverage. As a result, some international students have chosen to pursue their education in countries like Britain or Canada, which offer more stable visa policies and flexible post-graduation work options.
Furthermore, Trump's budgets have proposed reducing federal aid funding, including cuts to programs like Federal Work-Study and the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant. These cuts may further limit the financial resources available to international and domestic students, impacting their ability to access higher education in the US.
Overall, the Trump administration's policies have created uncertainty and concern among international students considering California as a study destination. The perceived risk and changing political landscape have prompted students to explore alternative study destinations, potentially impacting the diversity and global reputation of California's universities.
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Frequently asked questions
In 2021, over 130,000 international students attended California colleges. In 2023-24, this number rose to 154,000, including private universities.
The University of Southern California (USC) enrols the most international students out of any university in the United States. In 2024, it accounted for 17,469 international students.
In 2023-24, over half of international students in the US were Chinese or Indian nationals. In California, Chinese students outnumber Indian students. Students from Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Ethiopia and South Africa are also among the top countries of origin.
International students in California need a valid nonimmigrant visa. The F-1 visa is the most common type. Students must present their visa, passport, and I-20 certificate of eligibility from their school at the port of entry.
