Lana Oconnell
International students are individuals who travel to a foreign country to pursue an education. The definition of an international student varies from country to country, and is often dependent on visa status. International students have a significant economic impact on their host countries, contributing billions of dollars to local economies and supporting thousands of jobs. In recent years, the number of international students has been steadily increasing, with a projected 51% increase in internationally mobile students by 2030. The top destinations for international students have traditionally been the US and UK, but the rise of tuition costs and higher immigration barriers in these countries have led to a shift towards alternative destinations, such as China, which is now the leading destination for Anglophone African students.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | The definition of "international student" varies from country to country. In the US, they are "individuals studying in the United States on a non-immigrant, temporary visa that allows for academic study at the post-secondary level." Most international students in the US hold an F1 Visa. |
| Impact on local economies | International students have a significant economic impact on local communities in the US. They bring an average of $29,000 to spend on tuition, accommodation, food, etc. This creates an average of one new job for every three international students enrolled. |
| Top host countries | The US and UK have traditionally been the most popular destinations for international students. However, China has seen a steady increase in international students since 2003 and is now the leading destination for Anglophone African students. |
| Top sending countries | In the 2023-24 academic year, India and China sent the most students to the US. |
| Number of international students | In the 2023-24 academic year, around 1.1 million international students were enrolled in US colleges and universities. |
| Destinations' popularity | The popularity of destinations is influenced by visa and immigration policies, political developments, tuition costs, and the availability of employment during and after education. |
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What You'll Learn
International students' economic impact on the US
International students have a significant economic impact on the US, contributing billions of dollars to the country's economy each year. In the 2023-2024 academic year, international students studying at US colleges and universities contributed an estimated $40 billion to $43.8 billion to the US economy, according to different sources. This figure includes the tuition fees and living expenses paid by international students, who often receive the majority of their funds from sources outside the United States.
International students' contributions to the US economy extend beyond their financial inputs. They bring cultural diversity to US campuses and local communities, enriching the academic environment and fostering cultural exchange. Additionally, international students help to sustain and create jobs in various sectors, including academia (teaching and administration), housing, dining, retail, transportation, and healthcare. Their presence also supports local businesses and stimulates innovation and entrepreneurship on campuses, leading to new ideas and startups that drive economic growth.
The economic impact of international students is particularly notable in certain regions and cities. For example, in Greater Boston, which hosts over 63,000 international students, the economic gains are significant, contributing about $3 billion to the local economy. Similarly, in Mankato, a small city in Minnesota with a Minnesota State University campus, the approximately 1,716 international students brought an infusion of $45.9 million, supporting around 190 jobs.
The US has the world's largest international student population, with over 1,000,000 international students enrolled in its colleges and universities, and this number is growing. The leading places of origin for international students in the US are India and China, which together make up over half of the international student population. However, the US faces growing competition from other countries, such as the UK and Canada, which are becoming attractive alternatives for international students. Therefore, policymakers must carefully consider the economic implications and implement supportive policy frameworks to maintain the US's competitive edge in attracting international students.
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International students' visa requirements
International students intending to study in the United States must obtain a student visa. The type of visa depends on the student's course of study. The most common student visas are F-1 and M-1 visas. F-1 visas are for full-time international students pursuing academic studies, while M-1 visas are for those in vocational or non-academic programs.
To obtain an F-1 visa, students must complete the DS-160 visa application form and submit supporting documents, including a passport, travel itinerary, photo, and Form I-20. The Form I-20 is issued by the student's SEVP-certified school and confirms their enrollment in an academic program. Students must also attend a visa interview, where they demonstrate their proficiency in English, prove their financial ability to support themselves during their studies, and confirm their intention to return to their home country upon completion of their studies.
For an M-1 visa, students must meet similar requirements, including submitting the DS-160 form and supporting documents, and participating in a visa interview. The key difference is that M-1 applicants must be enrolled in a vocational or non-academic program, rather than an academic one.
It is important to note that students must initiate the visa process early, as wait times for visa interviews and processing can vary by location and season. Additionally, students are expected to maintain their student status and adhere to the regulations set by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Department of State.
For students participating in exchange programs, the J-1 exchange visitor visa is applicable. This visa is for foreign nationals who have been approved to engage in work-and-study-based exchange programs, such as visiting scholars, camp counselors, or research assistants.
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International students' enrolment trends
International student enrolment trends have been subject to various political, economic, and social developments. In the US, international students are defined as individuals studying on a non-immigrant, temporary visa, with most holding an F1 Visa. The US has historically been a top destination for international students, with state universities and colleges being the biggest pull. In the 2023-24 academic year, over 1.1 million international students enrolled in US colleges and universities, a sharp rise from the 1979-80 school year.
However, interest from foreign students in the US declined during the Trump administration, with policies targeting foreign student enrolment. This shift has opened opportunities for other countries to attract international students. China, for instance, has seen a steady increase in international students since 2003, with no apparent impact from events like the global recession or the rise of terrorism. In 2016, China was the third-largest receiver of international students, with enrolments from Asia, Europe, and Africa. By 2018, the number of international students in China had grown to 492,185, with Africa showing the highest growth rate.
The UK, traditionally another leading destination, has seen a similar decline in international student enrolments due to increased tuition fees and higher immigration barriers. This has resulted in a projected increase in internationally mobile students by 2030, with students exploring more cost-effective alternatives. East Asian countries like China, Korea, Japan, and Taiwan are becoming competitive destinations, keen to attract foreign students for their reputation and demographics.
Community colleges in the US, despite a decline during the Covid-19 pandemic, have also attracted thousands of international students, with Texas, California, and Florida being top destinations. These students contribute significantly to the local economies, with each international student bringing an average of $29,000 to spend on various expenses. Their economic impact supports local businesses and creates jobs, with an average of one new job for every three international students enrolled.
Overall, international student enrolment trends are dynamic and influenced by various factors, including visa policies, education costs, political developments, and the emergence of new destinations offering competitive opportunities.
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International students' contribution to local communities
International students contribute significantly to the economies of their host communities. In the United States, for example, international students from 217 countries and territories enrolled in colleges and universities during the 2023-24 academic year, bringing with them an average of $29,000 to spend on tuition, accommodation, food, books, and other expenses. This influx of money supports local businesses and creates jobs, with an estimated one new job for every three international students. For instance, in Mankato, a small city in Minnesota, 1,716 international students contributed $45.9 million to the local economy, supporting approximately 190 jobs.
The presence of international students can also lead to the development of new businesses and services that cater to their diverse needs and interests. For instance, a Sichuan restaurant in a small town in Ohio was reportedly established to serve the large number of Chinese students enrolled at the nearby Miami University.
International students also contribute to the cultural diversity and enrichment of their host communities. For example, the University of Illinois at Chicago, which enrolled over 3,500 international students, is known for its culturally rich college community, where students can access exclusive programs and services that enhance their cultural experiences.
Additionally, international students can foster greater understanding and appreciation of different cultures among their local peers and community members. Through interactions in classrooms, social settings, and extracurricular activities, local students and community members have opportunities to learn about different customs, traditions, and perspectives, promoting cultural exchange and a more global perspective.
Furthermore, international students can contribute to the innovation and advancement of their host communities. Many countries, such as the United States, attract international students by offering them merit- and need-based financial assistance, which can foster a diverse and talented student body. These students bring their unique skills, talents, and perspectives to their host institutions, contributing to research, academic discourse, and the development of new ideas and technologies.
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International students' pathway programs
International student pathway programs are designed to help international students improve their written and oral communication skills in preparation for studying abroad. These programs are offered across the United States, in every region of the country, and provide a range of benefits and support services to help students transition to life at a university in a new country.
One example of a pathway program is the Utah Global pathway program at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. This program offers a wide range of services to international students, including application assistance, visa assistance, English language exam help, and academic advising. The city of Salt Lake City is known for its stunning mountains and national parks, and its international culture, making it easier for students to find a place to fit in while studying outside their home country.
Another example is the Gonzaga Global pathway program at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. Gonzaga University is known for its world-renowned NCAA basketball team, but it also offers outstanding academics, ongoing support services, and a welcoming environment for international students. The pathway program provides benefits such as visa application and interview help, student and family orientation, English language tutoring, and exclusive career and cultural programs.
Auburn University also offers a pathway program with a streamlined application process and extensive pre-arrival support. The Louisiana State University Global Pathway program provides an easier transition, extra support, and career growth assistance, including a social program that promotes understanding between the international community and the larger Baton Rouge community.
Pathway programs can be extremely beneficial for international students, helping them to improve their English language skills, gain academic and social acculturation, and earn credits toward their degree. These programs can also have a positive economic impact on the local communities, as international students bring money to spend on tuition, accommodation, books, and other expenses, creating jobs and supporting local businesses.
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Frequently asked questions
Definitions of "international student" vary from country to country. In the US, an international student is an individual studying on a non-immigrant, temporary visa. In Australia, an international student is anyone who is not an Australian citizen, permanent resident, New Zealand citizen, or holder of an Australian permanent resident humanitarian visa.
The US and UK have traditionally been the most popular destinations for international students. However, the rise in tuition fees and higher immigration barriers in these countries have led to a shift towards alternative destinations such as China, which is now the leading destination for Anglophone African students.
International students have a significant economic impact on their host countries, particularly at the local level. In the US, international students contributed $4.68 billion to the economy in the 2023-24 academic year, supporting 47,136 jobs.
Host countries can have a significant impact on international students, both positively and negatively. For example, the Trump administration's policies were reported to have negatively impacted international student enrollment in the US, while pathway programs at US universities can help international students transition to life and academic success in the US.
A variety of subjects are popular with international students, including arts and humanities, STEM, social sciences, business, and health and wellness.
