Janice Lozano
International students in the US face an uncertain job market, with many employers reluctant to hire non-US citizens due to the time and expense involved in sponsorship. The process is made more complex by visa requirements, which can be difficult to navigate. However, there are some ways to improve your chances of finding work as an international student in the US. These include starting your job search early, taking advantage of your school's career services, networking, and building relationships with potential employers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition of an international student | In Canada, an international student is a "non-Canadian student who does not have 'permanent resident' status and has had to obtain the authorization of the Canadian government to enter Canada with the intention of pursuing an education." |
| Definition of an international student | In Japan, an international student is a "student from a foreign economy who is receiving an education at any Japanese university, graduate school, junior college, college of technology, professional training college or university preparatory course and who resides in Japan with a 'college student' visa status." |
| Number of international students | It is projected that the number of internationally mobile students will reach 6.9 million by 2030, an increase of 51%, or 2.3 million students, from 2015. |
| Top countries for international students | As of 2023, the top 10 countries for foreign student enrollment according to UNESCO are: China, the USA, and the UK. |
| Acceptance rates for international students | The average acceptance rate for international students at 360 ranked US universities was 39.1% for fall 2023. However, some universities accepted 90% to nearly 100% of international applicants. |
| Factors influencing acceptance rates for international students | Financial aid: Schools that are need-blind to international students are more likely to receive a higher number of applications. Schools that are need-aware may reject students who cannot afford the cost of attendance. |
| Factors influencing acceptance rates for international students | Country of origin: Students from China and India may face lower acceptance rates as they are the majority of international students. |
| Factors influencing acceptance rates for international students | School reputation: Admissions officers may be skeptical of grades from lesser-known schools and international schools where English is a second language. |
| Support for international students | Some universities in the US offer pathway programs to help international students transition to the US and provide extra support, such as Auburn University and the University of Utah. |
| Support for international students | International students may qualify for student aid in the US through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). |
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What You'll Learn
International students in the US
International students are a significant contributor to the US economy, injecting $43.8 billion and supporting 375,000 jobs in the 2023-24 school year. They also help universities increase domestic student enrollment and enhance graduate programs and research efforts. The US hosted over 1.1 million international students in the 2023/2024 academic year, a 7% increase from the previous year. California, New York, Texas, and Massachusetts are the top states for international students.
International students are attracted to the US for various reasons, including the quality of education, the opportunity to study in a different country and culture, and the potential for personal growth and development. However, getting into a top US college or university can be significantly harder for international students due to several factors. Firstly, financial aid is a significant factor. Many colleges are need-aware, meaning they consider an applicant's ability to pay when making admissions decisions. As a result, students who cannot afford the cost of attendance may be rejected. In contrast, the few schools that are need-blind to international students tend to receive a disproportionately high number of applications.
Another challenge for international students is the quality of their supporting application materials, such as recommendation letters. Many international students attend schools where teachers have limited English proficiency, which can result in poorly written recommendation letters that may hurt their chances of admission. Additionally, admissions officers may be skeptical of grades and transcripts from lesser-known international schools, questioning the rigor or quality of the school. This can make it difficult for even high-achieving international students to stand out.
Furthermore, the admissions process itself can be more complicated for international students. The application requirements and procedures can vary significantly from those in their home countries, and navigating the process can be challenging. Understanding the necessary standardized tests, transcripts, essays, and other requirements can be complex and time-consuming.
Lastly, international students may face additional scrutiny or competition due to their status. Colleges often have specific quotas or targets for international student enrollment, and the number of available spots may be limited. Additionally, international students may be competing with a larger pool of applicants from their region or country, further increasing the difficulty of gaining admission to top US institutions.
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International students in China
China has been the largest source of international students globally for the last decade, and its universities are still recruiting international students for programme admissions. China has one of the largest education systems in the world, with over 2,000 universities and more than 7 million graduates each year.
In 2021, student enrolment data from the Chinese Ministry of Education stated there were 35 million undergraduate students and 3.3 million postgraduate students across the country. Of that number, 255,720 were full-time international students, representing less than 1% of total enrolments nationally. However, when compared to other global study destinations, the number of international students is sizeable. China welcomed around 260,000 students yearly, which is equivalent to 38% of the UK’s total international enrolment share.
There are two different kinds of universities in China: Chinese universities and international universities. The country's top-ranked universities, rich history, culture, and ancient history make it a popular study destination for international students. Tsinghua University, for example, is ranked No.1 for Computer Science in the world. The university offers 32 programmes delivered entirely in English and 189 undergraduate modules and 550 postgraduate modules taught in English. However, of Tsinghua's 15,000 students, only 5% are international.
China's rapid economic growth has also contributed to the rise in the number of international students. The country is known as "The Factory of the World" and is the world's biggest producer of steel, concrete, clothing, and toys. International students are attracted by the affordable tuition fees, the opportunity to gain a top-notch education from world-class institutions, and the chance to explore a diverse and multifaceted environment.
There are thousands of high-quality English-taught programmes in China, from medicine to literature to engineering. Most Chinese universities offer some courses taught in English specifically for international students. To study in China in English, students will need to prove their English proficiency by taking the IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo English Test. Native English speakers or those who have studied a previous degree in English may be exempt from these exams.
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International students in Canada
International students are present in all levels of education in Canada, including primary, secondary, trades, college, and post-secondary education. The number of enrolled international students has been increasing steadily from 2015 to 2018, with the greatest rise in college attendance. In 2018, there were over 120,000 international college students in Canada, according to the IRCC. The IRCC reports that as of December 2019, there were a total of 642,480 international students in Canada at all levels, representing a 13% increase from the previous year. However, the statistics from the International Education Division of Global Affairs Canada (GAC) for 2018 reported 721,000 international students, as GAC includes both short- and long-term students in their statistics.
Canada offers a wide range of in-demand study programs for international students, from STEM and AI to languages. Each province and territory in Canada is responsible for designating schools at the post-secondary level that may enrol international students. These designated learning institutions (DLI) include universities, colleges, CEGEPs, vocational schools, private career colleges, and language schools. All primary and secondary schools in Canada are also DLIs and can enrol international students.
To study in Canada as an international student, you must first choose a program and school and apply for admission. If the school admits you, they will send a letter of acceptance, which you need to apply for a study permit. The rules for applying vary for each school, including the level of English or French proficiency required. The Government of Canada does not pay for the medical costs of foreign students, and health coverage varies depending on the region.
Canada's intake of international students has been described as needing to be "sustainable" by Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab. The country has experienced a population surge, leading to challenges in its housing infrastructure. There have also been concerns about the ethical delivery of education to international students, with allegations of corruption in higher education institutions. Despite these issues, Canada remains a popular study destination, with 96% of international students endorsing it due to its quality education and reputation as a safe and tolerant country.
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International student finances
International students often face financial challenges when studying abroad, and there are limited ways to reduce education costs. While some students rely on private family funds, others may require financial aid or scholarships. Here is a guide to understanding international student finances:
Sources of Funding
International students can explore various sources of funding to support their education. These sources can include:
- Personal Funds: Many international students use their personal or family savings to fund their education.
- Scholarships: Scholarships are a significant source of funding for international students. Some scholarships are need-based, awarded to students with financial need, while others are merit-based, targeting students with exceptional talent. Free scholarship databases are available, offering opportunities for undergraduate international students.
- Loans: International student loans are specifically designed to help students studying abroad. These loans can cover tuition, books, and living expenses.
- Assistantships and Fellowships: Graduate international students may receive funding through assistantships or fellowships offered by universities.
- On-Campus Employment: While not recommended as the sole source of funding, on-campus jobs can provide additional financial support for international students.
- Country-Specific Grants: Some countries offer grants and scholarships specifically for their citizens studying abroad. For example, the Great Britain-China Educational Trust awards grants to Chinese nationals pursuing PhDs in UK universities.
- University Financial Aid: Universities may offer financial aid packages to international students, but this varies widely between institutions.
Demonstrating Financial Ability
When applying for a student visa or enrolling in a university, international students are often required to demonstrate their financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses. This can be done through various means:
- Bank Statements: Providing multiple months of bank statements showing savings or checking accounts can prove financial ability.
- Scholarship Money: If you have secured a scholarship, a scholarship offer letter can serve as proof of financial ability.
- Mutual Funds and Investments: Some universities accept proof of mutual funds, annuities, or certain types of investments as evidence of financial resources. However, the accepted types of investments vary among schools.
- Proof of Property: In some cases, proof of property ownership can be considered when assessing an international student's financial ability.
- Employer's Letter: An official letter from an employer stating the annual salary can also demonstrate financial ability.
Country-Specific Information
Financial support for international students can vary depending on the country of study. Here is some information for two popular study destinations:
- United Kingdom: The UK offers student finance support, including tuition fee loans and maintenance loans, for eligible international students. Each nation within the UK (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland) provides different types and levels of financial support. International students can also explore scholarships offered by the British Council, the Scottish Government, and Study in Wales.
- United States: US institutions, particularly public universities, may waive application fees for international students. Additionally, international students can explore scholarships, grants, and fellowships specifically for students studying in the US. The US Department of Education provides resources to protect students from dishonest scholarship organizations.
In conclusion, international students can access a range of funding options to support their studies abroad. It is important to research the specific financial requirements and opportunities in the country and institution of choice.
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International student visas
International students seeking to study in the United States must obtain a student visa. The type of visa depends on the course of study and the type of school the student plans to attend. The two most common student visas are the F-1 visa and the M-1 visa.
The F-1 Visa is for full-time international students pursuing academic studies. To be eligible, 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 Visitor Program (SEVP). They must also demonstrate English proficiency or be enrolled in courses leading to English proficiency, have sufficient funds to support themselves throughout their studies, and maintain a residence abroad. F-1 students may accept on-campus employment but may not work off-campus during their first academic year. After the first year, they may engage in off-campus employment related to their area of study, such as STEM OPT.
The M-1 Visa is for full-time international students pursuing vocational studies or other non-academic programs, excluding language training. Similar to the F-1 visa requirements, M-1 visa applicants must be enrolled in a SEVP-approved school, demonstrate English proficiency or be enrolled in English proficiency courses, have sufficient funds, and maintain a residence abroad.
In addition to the F and M visas, there is the J-1 exchange visitor visa. This visa is for foreign nationals participating in work-and-study-based exchange programs, such as visiting scholars, camp counselors, au pairs, and research assistants.
To obtain a student visa, international students must first apply to a SEVP-approved school. Once accepted, the student will be registered for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. The school will issue a Form I-20, which the student must present during their visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. It is recommended to apply for the visa early, as wait times for interview appointments vary.
It is important to note that student visa policies are subject to change. In 2020, the Trump administration proposed limiting F-1 visas to the term of the intended program, up to a maximum of four years, with a two-year limit for students from specific countries. While this proposal was withdrawn in 2021, the Biden administration has recently posted a new notice regarding fixed time periods for nonimmigrant academic students.
Additionally, under the Trump administration, there has been an expansion of visa screening procedures, including the review of applicants' social media presence and online activity. International students have expressed concerns about how their online activity and political views could impact their visa applications, leading some to delete or hide certain posts, unfollow controversial accounts, and avoid discussing political topics on social media.
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Frequently asked questions
An international student is a student who travels to a foreign country to receive an education.
International students face several challenges when applying to US colleges, including financial aid, language barriers, and lack of recognition of their previous schools.
International students can increase their chances by focusing on schools that are need-blind or need-aware with full aid, ensuring their family's finances are in order, and applying to schools that have pathway programs for international students.
Some US colleges with pathway programs for international students include Auburn University, the University of Utah, the University of Illinois at Chicago, Adelphi University, and the University of Kansas.
Popular destinations for international students include the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and China. China has seen a growing number of international students and is now the leading destination for Anglophone African students.
