In a testament to the increasing global footprint in American higher education, the Open Doors 2024 Annual Report unveils a significant rise in international student enrollment across U.S. colleges and universities. The report, which draws on data from nearly 3,000 institutions, reveals that 1,126,690 international students were enrolled in the 2023/24 academic year, representing a 7% increase compared to the previous year. This surge highlights international students’ pivotal role in enriching the U.S. academic ecosystem, now comprising 6% of the total enrollment in higher education. Learn why U.S. colleges and universities are seeing a surge in international students in 2025.
Key Drivers of Growth
India has emerged as the leading source of international students, followed closely by China and South Korea. This trend underscores the strong academic ties and the growing appeal of U.S. education in these countries. The predominance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields among international students continues, reflecting the global demand for expertise in technology and innovation sectors.
The increasing participation in Optional Practical Training (OPT) further underscores this trend. OPT allows international students to gain practical work experience in the U.S. after graduation, which has become increasingly attractive in a tech-driven global economy. This hands-on training enhances their employability and aligns with the shifting focus toward industries driven by technological advancements.
Top Destinations for International Students
Certain U.S. universities have distinguished themselves as preferred destinations for international students, combining academic excellence with diverse, global perspectives. Below are the top 20 U.S. colleges with the highest international student enrollment for the 2022/23 academic year:
| Name of the University | Location | Number of International Students (2022/23) |
|---|---|---|
| New York University | New York | 24,496 |
| Northeastern University – Boston | Massachusetts | 20,637 |
| Columbia University | New York | 19,001 |
| Arizona State University | Tempe, Arizona | 17,981 |
| University of Southern California | California | 17,264 |
| University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign | Illinois | 14,680 |
| Boston University | Massachusetts | 13,281 |
| Purdue University | West Lafayette, Indiana | 11,872 |
| University of California, Berkeley | California | 11,719 |
| University of California, San Diego | California | 10,431 |
| University of Michigan | Ann Arbor, Michigan | 10,411 |
| University of Washington | Washington | 10,198 |
| University of California, Los Angeles | California | 9,725 |
| University of Texas, Dallas | Texas | 9,582 |
| Johns Hopkins University | Maryland | 9,322 |
| Pennsylvania State University | University Park, Pennsylvania | 9,161 |
| Carnegie Mellon University | Pennsylvania | 9,009 |
| University of California, Irvine | California | 8,984 |
| University of Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | 8,614 |
| University of Wisconsin, Madison | Wisconsin | 8,567 |
Regional Highlights and Academic Preferences
New York: New York University (NYU) is leading the list, with 24,496 international students. The university’s location in a global metropolis and diverse academic offerings make it a magnet for students worldwide. Similarly, Columbia University in the same city hosts 19,001 international students, emphasizing New York’s appeal as an educational hub.
Massachusetts: Northeastern University in Boston ranks second with 20,637 international students. Its cooperative education model and proximity to a thriving tech industry make it highly attractive. Boston University also figures prominently, showcasing Massachusetts’ strong pull in higher education.
California: The state stands out with multiple universities on the list. The University of Southern California (17,264), University of California, Berkeley (11,719), and University of California, Los Angeles (9,725) highlight California’s allure, particularly for STEM students. The state’s reputation for innovation and robust tech industry make it a top choice for international students.
Midwest: Universities like the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (14,680), and Purdue University (11,872) demonstrate the region’s strength in engineering and technology programs. These institutions attract many international students seeking high-quality education in these fields.
East Coast: Institutions such as Johns Hopkins University (9,322) and Carnegie Mellon University (9,009) maintain their appeal, especially for students pursuing healthcare and technology. Their strong research programs and industry connections enhance their desirability.
Looking Ahead
As international student enrollment grows, U.S. universities are poised to diversify their campuses further and expand global collaboration. The trends outlined in the Open Doors 2024 Annual Report suggest a bright future for international education in the U.S., driven by the increasing interconnectivity of the global academic community and the ongoing demand for excellence in higher education.
