Savanna Hoffman
The USA has the world's largest international student population, with more than 1,000,000 students choosing to study at a US college or university. International students contribute billions of dollars to the US economy each year, and their presence helps to support job creation and stimulate local economies. California, New York, and Texas are the top three states with the greatest number of international students, with 12.5%, 12.1%, and 8% of all international students in the US, respectively.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of international students in the US | More than 1,000,000 |
| Percentage of international students in higher education in the US | Nearly 5% |
| Top 5 states with the greatest share of international students | California, New York, Texas, Massachusetts, and Illinois |
| Percentage of international students in California | 12.5% |
| Percentage of international students in New York | 12.1% |
| Percentage of international students in Texas | 8% |
| Percentage of international students in Massachusetts | 7.3% |
| Percentage of international students in Illinois | 5.5% |
| Largest single origin of international students in the US | India |
| Number of Indian students in the US in 2023-2024 | 331,602 |
| Number of Chinese students in the US in 2019-2020 | 372,532 |
| Number of Chinese students in the US in 2023-2024 | 277,398 |
| Economic impact of international students in the US | Contribute billions annually through tuition and living expenses |
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What You'll Learn
International students' economic impact
The USA has the world's largest international student population, with more than 1,000,000 students choosing to broaden their education and life experience at a US college or university. International students account for 6% of the total higher education population in the United States. They come from 217 nations and territories, including China, India, Vietnam, Nepal, and even the island nation of Niue in the South Pacific.
International students contributed $43.8 billion to the US economy during the 2023-2024 academic year and supported more than 378,000 jobs. This is the highest amount ever calculated. On average, a new job is created for every three international students enrolled in a US college or university. The states with the largest economic activity derived from international students are California, New York, Massachusetts, Texas, and Illinois.
International students also bring diversity to US universities, although it has been argued that this may not be as great as the diversity provided by Americans of different social backgrounds. International students play a significant role in the American research enterprise and drive entrepreneurship and innovation. They help drive cutting-edge research and development, fill job openings in critical STEM fields, advance national security, and bolster the US economy by generating new domestic startups and businesses.
While the US government generally does not provide funding for international students to come to the US to study, they may qualify for student aid as non-citizens through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). International students also have the option of community colleges, which offer a great education at a fraction of the cost.
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US government policies for international students
The US has historically been the top destination for international students and global talent, with its colleges and universities attracting the best and brightest from around the world. However, recent policy changes by the US government have made it more difficult for international students to enter and remain in the country.
One significant change is the expansion of the reasons for which international students can be stripped of their legal status in the US, leading to fears of deportation. For instance, the Department of Homeland Security has been revoking students' legal status, while the State Department has been cancelling visas, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio citing student involvement in pro-Palestinian protests as one reason. In addition, the Trump administration has mandated increased vetting and screening for individuals seeking admission to the US, including F-1 and J-1 students and other visa holders. This directive also calls for intensified scrutiny of individuals from countries with identified security risks and monitoring of those within the US to ensure they do not harbour hostile attitudes towards American institutions or support national security threats.
The US government has also paused government funding for programs and grants in higher education, immigration, and humanitarian aid, impacting international and non-citizen students. This includes essential international education and exchange programs such as Fulbright and IDEAS.
Furthermore, there is a lack of clear immigration pathways for international students after graduation, which is a significant challenge. Without a national recruitment and retention strategy, the US risks losing top talent to other countries that actively implement policies to attract international students.
To address these concerns, organisations like NAFSA: Association of International Educators advocate for public policies that foster a more globally informed and welcoming United States.
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Popular US states for international students
The USA has the world's largest international student population, with more than 1,000,000 international students choosing to study at a US college or university. This accounts for nearly 5% of all students enrolled in higher-level education in the USA, and the numbers are growing. International students contribute billions of dollars to the US economy each year through tuition fees and living expenses.
California, New York, and Texas are the three US states with the greatest number of international students. During the 2023-24 school year, about 12.5% of international students were in California, 12.1% in New York, and 8% in Texas. Massachusetts and Illinois are also popular, with 7.3% and 5.5% of international students, respectively. These states offer a wide range of cultural, economic, and educational opportunities for international students.
The popularity of these states among international students can be attributed to various factors, including the reputation of academic institutions, the availability of specialized programs, and the potential for career opportunities. Additionally, the cultural diversity, vibrant cities, and unique characteristics of each state, such as climate and history, contribute to their appeal.
It is worth noting that the US government's policies and visa regulations have impacted international student enrollment trends. While the US remains the top destination for international students, competition from other countries and changing global dynamics may influence these choices in the future.
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International students' visa requirements
International students wishing to study in the US will need to obtain a student visa. There are two nonimmigrant visa categories for people wishing to study in the US, commonly known as the F and M visas. The F-1 Visa (Academic Student) allows you to enter the US as a full-time student at an accredited college, university, seminary, conservatory, academic high school, elementary school, or other academic institution, or in a language training program. To qualify for an F-1 visa, you must be enrolled in a program or course of study that culminates in a degree, diploma, or certificate, and your school must be authorized by the US government to accept foreign students.
The M-1 visa (Vocational Student) category includes students in vocational or other non-academic programs, other than language training. To qualify for an M-1 visa, you must be enrolled as a full-time student at the institution.
To obtain a visa, you will need to be interviewed by a consular officer who will determine whether you are qualified to receive a student visa. You must establish that you meet the requirements under US law to receive a visa. Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans are taken as part of the application process. After the visa is approved, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee (depending on your nationality) and make arrangements for the return of your passport and visa.
Before applying for your visa, you must pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee and present the receipt as proof of payment when you apply for your visa. You must then apply for your visa at a US Embassy or Consulate, bringing your Form I-20 and other required documents. It is important to note that a visa does not guarantee entry into the US; it only permits you to travel to a US port of entry and seek permission to enter the country.
Upon arrival in the US, you will meet a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer who will verify your information and determine if you may enter the country. If the CBP officer admits you into the country, they will give you a Form I-94, “Arrival/Departure Record”. You have 30 days to enter the country before your official program start date listed on your Form I-20.
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International students at community colleges
The USA is home to the world's largest international student population, with more than 1,000,000 students choosing to pursue their education in the country. International students are drawn to the US by its diverse culture, unique history, and high-quality education system.
In recent years, community colleges in the US have become an increasingly popular choice for international students. Community colleges offer a range of benefits, including lower tuition fees, smaller class sizes, and one-on-one assistance. International students can take advantage of the diverse range of courses offered at community colleges, including undergraduate degrees, diplomas, and certificate courses. Some of the most popular courses among international students include engineering technology, geosciences, automobile mechanics, and paralegal studies.
One of the main advantages of attending a community college is the cost. The average tuition fee for an undergraduate course at a top community college is USD 15,000 per year, which is significantly lower than the average cost of USD 45,000 per year at a four-year university. Community colleges also offer flexible programs that can cater to the needs of international students. After completing a two-year degree at a community college, students can transfer to a four-year institution to continue their studies. This provides international students with the opportunity to save money while still obtaining a degree from a prestigious university.
Additionally, community colleges often have higher acceptance rates for international students than universities, making them a more accessible option for those who may not meet the stringent requirements of universities. Community colleges also provide a supportive environment with smaller class sizes, allowing students to receive more personalized attention and assistance.
Overall, community colleges in the US offer international students a unique opportunity to access high-quality education at a fraction of the cost. With their diverse course offerings, flexible programs, and supportive environment, community colleges are an attractive option for international students seeking to broaden their educational and cultural horizons in the United States.
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Frequently asked questions
To study in the US as an international student, you must get a student visa. You will also need to pay your own tuition and expenses. While the US government generally does not provide funding for international students, you may qualify for student aid as a non-citizen through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
California, New York, and Texas are the three states with the greatest number of international students. In the 2023-24 school year, about 12.5% of international students were in California, 12.1% in New York, and 8% in Texas.
The US has the world's largest international student population, with more than 1,000,000 international students choosing to study at US colleges or universities. The US also has a diverse range of unique cultures, climates, histories, and economies across its states.
The US government does not provide funding for international students, so you will need to pay your tuition and expenses. International students often pay higher tuition fees than domestic students, especially at public universities.
