The United States continues to attract international students in record numbers, hosting over 1.1 million students during the 2023-2024 academic year — a 7% increase from the previous year, according to a new report.
The annual study, from nonprofit the Institute of International Education (IIE), found that 1,126,690 students from more than 210 countries and territories pursued higher education in the U.S., marking an all-time high.
Key Findings
Steady New Enrollments and Record-High Graduate and OPT Numbers
- New Enrollments: Nearly 299,000 international students enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities for the first time in 2023-2024, holding steady at pre-pandemic levels.
- Graduate Students: Graduate programs welcomed 502,291 students, an 8% increase from last year and a record high.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): The number of students gaining practical work experience through OPT surged to 242,782 — a 22% increase from the previous year.
- Undergraduates: The undergraduate population remained stable at 342,875, showing a modest 1% decline.
- Non-Degree Programs: Enrollment in non-degree programs, including English and exchange programs, fell by 12% to 38,742, following significant growth the prior year.
India Overtakes China as Top-Sending Country
India emerged as the largest source of international students, accounting for 331,602 students — 23% more than last year. Growth was particularly strong at the graduate level (19%) and in OPT (41%). Meanwhile, Chinese student numbers declined slightly by 4% to 277,398 but remained the top source for undergraduate and non-degree programs.
Eight countries, including Bangladesh, Colombia, and Spain, reached all-time highs in the number of students studying in the United States. Sub-Saharan Africa also saw notable growth, with student numbers increasing by 13% — the highest growth rate among all regions for the second consecutive year.
Popular Study Destinations
California, New York, and Texas continue to be the most popular states for international students. Among the top 10 states, Missouri (+35%), Michigan (+14%), and Illinois (+13%) experienced the most significant growth.
STEM Dominates as the Field of Choice
STEM fields remained the most popular area of study, attracting 56% of international students.
- Math and Computer Science: Chosen by 25% of students, these fields saw continued growth.
- Engineering: Nearly 19% of international students pursued engineering programs.
- Business and Management: Representing 14% of international students, business remains a key draw.
For more on international student trends, Boundless put together a report examining how international student enrollment has changed over time.