Lori Meadows
International students are learners who travel to a country different from their own to pursue their education. They are considered internationally mobile if they obtained the entry qualification for their current level of study in another country. The number of international students is projected to reach 6.9 million by 2030, with China, the US, India, and Japan being top destinations for foreign student enrollment. International students are required to maintain full-time status and meet academic standards to keep their visas valid. They bring fresh ideas and viewpoints, enriching the educational environment for everyone.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | Students who undertake all or part of their secondary or tertiary education in a country other than their own |
| Number of international students worldwide | 6.9 million in 2022, up from 5.12 million in 2016 |
| Top 3 destination countries | United States (1,126,690 international students), Canada (842,760 students), and the United Kingdom (758,855 students) |
| Top destination countries in 2023 | China, India, Japan |
| Reasons for choosing a destination country | Tuition cost, immigration barriers, value for money, quality of universities, diversity of programs, career opportunities, availability of scholarships, safety |
| Visa requirements | May vary depending on the country; for example, the US requires a non-immigrant, temporary F1 Visa |
| Support available | Advice on visas, part-time jobs, travel, accommodation, and cultural integration |
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What You'll Learn
International students are considered nonimmigrants in the US
International students are defined as "non-immigrant" visitors who come to the United States temporarily to take classes or take online courses virtually from anywhere in the world. A non-immigrant is someone who does not intend to migrate to or reside in the US. International students are often on a student visa, which allows them to enter the US for the specific purpose of studying. The US government offers two types of nonimmigrant visas for international students: the F-1 Visa and the M-1 Visa.
The F-1 Visa, also known as the Academic Student Visa, allows international students to enter the United States as full-time students at accredited academic institutions. These institutions can include colleges, universities, academic high schools, or even elementary schools. To be eligible for the F-1 Visa, students must be enrolled in a program or course of study that culminates in a degree, diploma, or certificate. Additionally, the student's school must be authorized by the US government to accept foreign students. F-1 students may accept on-campus employment under certain conditions and restrictions. After their first academic year, they may also be eligible for three types of off-campus employment, including the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training Extension (OPT).
The M-1 Visa, on the other hand, is for Vocational Students or those enrolled in non-academic programs. To qualify for the M-1 Visa, students must be enrolled in an "academic" educational program, a language-training program, or a vocational program at a school approved by the Student and Exchange Visitors Program. M-1 students who need more time to complete their program must apply for an extension of stay with the US Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS). Unlike F-1 students, M-1 students are not allowed to work off-campus during their studies.
It is important to note that international students in the US are subject to specific regulations and requirements. They must maintain their student status, comply with employment restrictions, and adhere to the terms of their visa. Failure to do so can result in violations of their nonimmigrant status, potentially impacting their ability to remain in the country.
The distinction between "international students" and "foreign students" is important in understanding the context of cross-border student mobility. While the term "international student" refers specifically to students crossing borders for educational purposes, "foreign student" is used to describe non-citizens enrolled at educational institutions outside their home country, regardless of whether they have physically moved to a new country for their studies. This distinction helps standardize data collection and reporting, providing a more accurate representation of international enrollment statistics.
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International students in the US need a Form I-20
International students are individuals who undertake all or part of their secondary or tertiary education in a country other than their own. In 2022, there were over 6.9 million international students worldwide, with the United States being the top destination, hosting 1,126,690 international students.
International students in the United States are considered nonimmigrants as their sole purpose for being in the country is to complete a program of study. The US Department of Homeland Security categorizes international students as F-1 nonimmigrants or M-1 nonimmigrants. F-1 nonimmigrants are international students pursuing a full course of academic or professional study at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school. M-1 nonimmigrants, on the other hand, are international students enrolled in a full course of study at an SEVP-certified vocational or other recognized non-academic institution.
All F and M students studying in the United States need a Form I-20, also known as the "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status". This form is issued by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to certified colleges and universities in the US. The Form I-20 serves as proof that a student is enrolled in an accredited college or university and is required for various stages of the transition to student status in the United States.
Once an international student is accepted into an SEVP-certified school, they will receive a Form I-20 from their designated school official (DSO). It is important to check the information on the Form I-20 against your passport to ensure that your name and date of birth are correct. If there are any discrepancies, the student should contact their DSO to request an updated form with the correct information. The Form I-20 will include the student's program start date, and students are allowed to enter the United States up to 30 days before this start date.
The Form I-20 is a crucial document that international students must keep safe throughout their stay in the US. It is required for paying the mandatory I-901 SEVIS fee, applying for an F-1 or M-1 student visa, and when entering the country. Additionally, the Form I-20 may be needed when applying for certain United States government documents and benefits, such as an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or Social Security Number. If international students plan to travel outside the US and re-enter, they must carry their original Form I-20 with them.
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International students are increasingly choosing China
An international student is someone who has moved to another country with the sole purpose of studying. In recent years, China has become one of the most sought-after destinations for international students. In 2016, China was the third-largest receiver of international students globally, with 442,773 international students. The number of international students in China has been growing steadily since 2003, and China is now the leading destination for Anglophone African students.
There are several reasons why international students are increasingly choosing China. Firstly, China has a significant number of world-class universities that are attractive research centers. Many of these universities offer secure campus facilities, medical services, and student support offices to help international students adjust to life in a new country. Additionally, public transportation in China is efficient, affordable, and easy to use.
Another reason for the increasing attractiveness of China as a study destination is the affordability of international education. Studying in China costs relatively less than studying in developed countries like the US and the UK, where tuition costs have been increasing. China also offers a large number of scholarships to international students, which further enhances the value proposition.
Furthermore, China's rapidly growing economy creates a variety of opportunities for international graduates. Many companies in China, both foreign and domestic, are seeking professionals with international experience and an understanding of Chinese business culture. Thus, a degree from a respected Chinese university, along with international exposure, can set graduates apart in competitive job markets.
Lastly, China's geographical position makes it a convenient hub for exploring Asia. Additionally, Mandarin Chinese is the most spoken language in the world, and its importance is growing as China plays a more central role in the global economy. By studying in China, students have the opportunity to learn Mandarin through immersion, classroom training, and interaction with native speakers. This can provide a major career advantage, especially for those planning to work in international business, diplomacy, or trade.
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International students face financial pressures in the UK
International students are those who undertake all or part of their secondary or tertiary education in a country other than their own. The UK is a popular destination for international students, receiving 758,855 international students in 2022. However, international students may face financial pressures when studying in the UK due to the high cost of tuition, accommodation, food, and transportation.
The cost of studying in the UK can be a challenge for international students, with tuition fees and living expenses posing significant financial burdens. International students may struggle to manage their expenses and adapt to the UK's high cost of living. The cost of living crisis in the UK has placed nearly 300,000 students in financial peril, with a disproportionate number of older, working-class, or Black students at risk of dropping out due to financial pressures.
To alleviate financial pressures, international students can explore scholarship opportunities and seek financial aid offered by UK colleges and universities. Some universities offer scholarships specifically for international students, and it is crucial for students to create a budget and plan their finances to manage the cost of studying and living in the UK.
In addition to financial pressures, international students may also face challenges in adapting to a new culture and language. The UK has unique customs, traditions, and social norms that may differ from what students are accustomed to in their home countries. Regional accents, colloquial phrases, and fast-paced speech can also make communication difficult for international students.
The decline in international enrolments due to financial pressures and other factors has impacted the finances of UK universities. Universities have faced staff cuts, course eliminations, reduced research innovation, and even the shutdown of whole departments due to financial constraints. The UK government's spending on public tertiary education is lower than that of other advanced economies, contributing to the financial challenges faced by universities.
Overall, international students face financial pressures in the UK due to the high cost of tuition and living expenses. To overcome these challenges, students can seek scholarships, financial aid, and create budgets to manage their expenses effectively.
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International students can benefit from discounted airfare
An international student is someone who has moved to another country or territory with the sole purpose of studying. This definition is supported by the OECD and UIS convention, which makes a distinction between "international students" and "foreign students". An international student is one who crosses borders specifically for studying, while a foreign student is a non-citizen enrolled at an institution outside their home country but has not necessarily travelled there for educational purposes.
International students often face higher tuition costs and immigration barriers, especially in leading destinations like the US and UK. As a result, many are exploring alternative destinations that offer better value for money, such as China, India, and Iran. China, for instance, offers a large number of scholarships and has many English-taught graduate and postgraduate programmes.
The mobility of students across borders has become a significant trend, with the number of internationally mobile students projected to reach 6.9 million by 2030. This has led to increased competition among countries and universities to attract international students. As a result, international students can benefit from various perks such as discounted airfare.
Etihad Airways, for example, offers exclusive discounts on flights for international students. Students can save 10% in Economy and 5% in Business, provided they are not citizens or permanent residents in the country they are studying in. They must submit their student ID or official acceptance letter for verification before booking. Similarly, KAYAK, a travel search engine, partners with travel companies that offer discounts on flights for college students and travellers under 26.
Overall, international students can take advantage of discounted airfare offered by select airlines and travel companies. These discounts can help offset the high costs of international education and make studying abroad more accessible and affordable.
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Frequently asked questions
An international student is someone who undertakes all or part of their secondary or tertiary education in a country other than their own.
The three most popular destinations for international students are the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. China is also a popular destination, with the number of international students growing steadily since 2003.
International students can seek support from organizations such as the International Student & Study Abroad Resource Center, which offers advice and resources for students studying in the USA, UK, and Australia. Universities also often have support services and resources specifically for international students.
Studying abroad can be expensive, with tuition costs and travel expenses being major factors. However, there are ways to save money, such as part-time jobs, scholarships, and discounted student airfares. International students may also be eligible for financial support or scholarships from their host country or university.
Visa requirements vary depending on the country of study. In the US, international students typically need a non-immigrant, temporary F1 Visa. In the UK, all international students require a student visa. It is important to research the specific visa requirements for your destination country.
