Lori Meadows
International students are students who travel to a country other than their own for higher education. They typically pay higher tuition rates, which provides valuable revenue that helps subsidize the cost of attendance for domestic students. In the US, international students contributed $9 billion to public universities in 2015, allowing schools to increase domestic student enrollment and support graduate programs and research efforts. The US is a popular destination for international students, with around 1.1 million international students in the country by the latest count. International students must meet certain requirements, such as having completed a bachelor's degree from an internationally recognized institution and demonstrating English proficiency. They may also need to apply for student visas, such as the F-1 visa in the US, which allows for up to one year of post-graduation practical training. International students can explore various funding options, including assistantships, fellowships, and external scholarships.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of international students in the US | 1.1 million |
| Number of international students in Canada | 1 million |
| Primary source of funding for international graduate students in the US | Personal and family resources |
| Percentage of international graduate students in the US funded by personal and family resources | 60.7% |
| English language proficiency requirement for international students in the UK | TOEFL/IELTS test scores |
| English language proficiency requirement for international students at NYU | Varies, based on the Admissions Committee's discretion |
| Visa type for international students in the US | F-1 |
| Visa type for international students in Australia | Temporary Graduate 485 |
| Visa requirement for online programs at NYU | May not qualify for visa sponsorship |
| Visa requirement for online programs with full-time in-person immersion or residency at NYU | May qualify for visa sponsorship |
| Tuition fees for international students in public universities in the US | Higher than the rate for students from within the state |
| Tuition fees for international students in the UK | Higher than the rate for UK and EU students |
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What You'll Learn
International students in the US
International students are a significant part of the US higher education system, with the country hosting around 1.1 million international students, the most in the world. The US has long benefited from being the top destination for international students, attracting the world's most promising talent through its prestigious universities. However, outdated immigration policies and competition from other countries have made it more difficult to attract and retain international students.
International students typically pay full tuition rates, contributing valuable revenue that subsidizes the cost of attendance for domestic students. In 2015, international students contributed $9 billion to public universities, 28% of their overall total revenue. This allows schools to increase domestic student enrollment and support better graduate programs and research efforts. International graduates also contribute to the US economy by creating jobs, starting new businesses, and raising wages for US-born workers.
To study as a full-time student in the US, international students typically need a student visa. The F-1 visa is the most common type, allowing non-immigrant students to enroll in an academic program, language-training program, or vocational program at an accredited institution approved by the US government to accept foreign students. To obtain an F-1 visa, students must provide proof of sufficient funds for the duration of their studies and maintain a residence abroad that they do not intend to give up. F-1 visa holders are generally entitled to up to one year of post-graduation practical training, known as Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows them to gain work experience in their field of study. During their studies, F-1 students may accept on-campus employment but are restricted from off-campus work during their first academic year.
Another option for international students is the M-1 visa, which is for vocational or other non-academic programs, excluding language training. While M-1 visa holders can also participate in OPT, they are not allowed to work off-campus during their studies. For both F-1 and M-1 students, any off-campus employment must be authorized by the Designated School Official and USCIS and must be related to their area of study.
After completing their studies, international students may seek to extend their stay in the US through various visa options, such as the H-1B visa for specialty occupations or an employment-based green card. However, the lack of a postgraduate work visa and a specialized pathway to permanent residency for graduates creates significant barriers for international students wishing to remain and contribute their talents to the US. As a result, the majority of international students ultimately leave the US after graduating.
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International students in the UK
The UK is a popular study destination for international students, second only to the US. In 2023-24, there were 732,285 overseas students in UK higher education, comprising 23% of the total student population. The UK is home to some of the world's most highly regarded universities, where some of the most highly regarded research takes place. UK teaching is designed to encourage new ideas and independent research, as well as group cooperation.
International students looking to study a postgraduate course in the UK can apply for a Master's degree, a PhD programme, or a postgraduate diploma or certificate. The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) Postgraduate service can be used to apply for some courses, but many applications must be made directly to the chosen university. Applications usually require a personal statement, supporting documents, and evidence of English language proficiency if the applicant is not a native speaker.
The cost of tuition fees for international students is typically higher than for UK and EU students. Postgraduate courses cost around £11,000, with some specialised courses costing more. International students can gain funding through their university, the British government, or foreign government schemes.
International students who wish to stay in the UK after graduating can apply for a Graduate visa, which allows them to stay in the UK for two years after completing a course, or three years after completing a PhD or other doctoral qualification. This visa does not require employers to hold a sponsor licence or meet a salary requirement. Graduates on this visa are free to work in most sectors, including as a self-employed or voluntary worker.
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International students in Australia
Australia is one of the top study abroad destinations for international students, with a total market value of over 5 billion AUD (3.47 billion USD) generated by international students in 2018. The country offers a diverse range of experiences for international students across its eight states and territories. In 2023, there were 786,891 international students enrolled in educational programs in Australia, a 27% increase from the previous year. This number is expected to grow by 18% in 2024.
The Australian government encourages international students to consider studying, working, and settling in regional areas outside of major cities, such as Adelaide, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory. In 2018, 3% of international students enrolled in Australia chose these regional locations. The states attracting the largest portion of international students in 2023 were New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland.
International students contribute significantly to Australia's economy and demographics, with international education being one of the country's largest exports. In 2019, international students represented an average of 26.7% of the student body population in Australian universities, giving Australia the highest ratio of international students per capita in the world. The top countries of origin for international students in Australia in 2023 were China, India, Nepal, Colombia, and the Philippines.
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Funding for international students
University Funding
Many universities offer scholarships, bursaries, and other funding schemes specifically for international postgraduate students. For example, the University of York offers scholarships to American and Canadian graduate students and has an International Masters Regional Scholarship to support international postgraduates. The University of Edinburgh is part of a consortium of universities in Scotland that have been awarded funding from the Economics & Social Research Council (ESRC) to support postgraduate studentships in the Social Sciences.
Government Funding
Some governments offer funding for international students to pursue postgraduate studies in their country. For instance, the UK government offers Chevening Scholarships, which cover full tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and a visa for international students from any country. The UK government also offers Commonwealth Scholarships for students from developing nations.
External Organisation Funding
There are also external organisations that provide funding for international postgraduate students. The Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers grants for international graduate study, while the German Chancellor Fellowship Program funds university graduates from the United States who wish to spend a year in Germany working on a self-designed project. The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship provides scholarships for students from developing countries with no other source of financial aid, and the American Association of University Women offers fellowships for non-American women seeking a Master's or doctorate in the USA.
It is important to note that funding opportunities vary and have specific eligibility criteria, application processes, and deadlines. International students should research and explore the funding options available for their specific circumstances and desired field of study.
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Visa requirements for international students
International students who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in a foreign country must meet specific visa requirements. These requirements vary depending on the country of study, and individuals should refer to the official immigration guidelines of their intended destination. However, here is a general overview of the visa requirements commonly encountered by international postgraduate students.
In the United States, international students must obtain a student visa to pursue their studies. The specific type of visa depends on the nature of the course and the educational institution. The two primary types of student visas in the US are the F visa and the M visa. The F-1 visa is for full-time international students pursuing academic studies, while the M-1 visa is designed for those engaged in vocational studies. Additionally, the J-1 exchange visitor visa is available for foreign nationals participating in work-and-study-based exchange programs, such as visiting scholars, camp counselors, or research assistants.
To obtain a student visa in the US, individuals must first apply to a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved school. Once accepted, the student will be registered in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and must pay the associated fees. The next step is to apply for the appropriate visa at a US Embassy or Consulate, presenting the required documentation, including Form I-20, during the visa interview. It is important to initiate the visa application process early, as wait times for interview appointments can vary.
After graduation, F-1 visa holders can remain in the US for up to one year of post-graduation practical training. To take advantage of this option, a change in visa status must be applied for within 60 days of graduation. This practical training can be completed during the degree or after graduation but must be directly related to the field of study. STEM students may be eligible for an extended period of practical training of up to an additional 24 months.
In Australia, international students who have recently graduated from an Australian institution can apply for a Temporary Graduate visa. This visa allows graduates to live, work, and continue their studies in Australia temporarily. The specific requirements and duration of this visa should be confirmed through the official Australian immigration channels.
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Frequently asked questions
Sources of funding for international graduate students in the US include personal and family resources, private loans, fellowships, and assistantships.
The requirements for international students applying for graduate programs in the US vary by institution. However, common requirements include having a regionally accredited four-year US bachelor's degree or its equivalent and proof of English language proficiency.
After graduating from a US university, international students on an F-1 visa are generally entitled to stay in the country for up to one year of post-graduation practical training. They may also be able to work temporarily in a role related to their field of study.
Popular destinations for international graduate students include the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. These countries offer a range of prestigious universities and competitive programs.
