Why international students are so important for US higher education sector?

The global demand for higher education is on the rise, creating opportunities for US colleges, local communities, and the world at large. Currently, a record number of international students are pursuing education at US institutions, reflecting the growing appeal of American higher education.

Worldwide, the number of mobile students is projected to soar from 6.9 million today to over 10 million by the decade's end. This trend is a boon for US academic institutions grappling with declining domestic enrolments. Unlike many countries, the US has the capacity to welcome these students, along with the energy, diversity, and financial contributions they bring.

Record-Breaking Numbers

According to the latest Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange, US colleges and universities hosted 1,128,065 international students during the 2023/2024 academic year—a historic high. This represents students from over 200 countries and marks the fastest growth rate in over a century.

Where Are These Students From?

The majority hail from India and China, which together account for about half of the international student population. Notably, the number of Indian students has surged by 23.5%

Popular fields of study include mathematics, computer science, engineering, and business management. While most students attend classes on campus, over 18,000 have opted for online programs.

Why Choose the US?

For decades, the US has been a top destination for international students. Its appeal lies in the reputation of nearly 4,000 colleges and universities, opportunities for post-graduation work experience, access to cutting-edge labs, and the academic freedom to explore diverse fields.

Despite domestic concerns about declining confidence in higher education, international students continue to highly value the quality and opportunities offered by US institutions.

A Unique Advantage

The US boasts unparalleled capacity and a history of welcoming students from all backgrounds. Unlike countries where universities are regulated by centralized ministries of education, US institutions have the flexibility to establish strategic priorities for international recruitment. Many collaborate with local governments to offer tuition discounts to students from specific regions or industries.

This decentralized approach positions the US to absorb a growing number of internationally mobile students. In 2020, 85% of the global population aged 15-24 resided in developing countries, and this demographic is expected to grow by 7% by 2030.

Economic and Cultural Impact

International students currently make up 6% of total US college enrollments and contribute nearly $50 billion annually to local economies through tuition, housing, and other expenses. While other major host countries, like Canada and the UK, face capacity challenges, US institutions have room to expand.

With domestic enrollment expected to decline by 2 million students by 2025 due to falling birth rates, international students present a crucial opportunity to fill the gap.

Preparing for the Future

To fully capitalize on this growth, universities must ensure their campuses and local communities are ready to welcome more international students. Collaboration between university leaders, local officials, and policymakers will be essential in maintaining a supportive environment.

If current trends persist, a significant portion of international students will remain in the US temporarily for work experience, while most will return home with American degrees and a deeper connection to the country.

A Win-Win Investment

International education benefits everyone. It fosters cross-cultural understanding, enriches academic environments, and strengthens economic ties, generating over $50 billion annually in the US alone. For American students, it opens doors to global perspectives and future partnerships.

Investing in international education is a step toward creating a more interconnected and accepting world—one where knowledge and collaboration transcend borders, demand for higher education is on the rise, creating opportunities for US colleges, local communities, and the world at large. Currently, a record number of international students are pursuing education at US institutions, reflecting the growing appeal of American higher education.

Worldwide, the number of mobile students is projected to soar from 6.9 million today to over 10 million by the decade's end. This trend is a boon for US academic institutions grappling with declining domestic enrolments. Unlike many countries, the US has the capacity to welcome these students, along with the energy, diversity, and financial contributions they bring.