Pratikatmas image
India has emerged as the leading source of international students in the United States, accounting for 29 percent of the total international student population and overtaking China for the first time since 2009, according to a recent Open Doors report on International Educational Exchange. During the 2023-2024 academic year, over 3,30,000 Indian students enrolled in US higher education institutions, a 23% increase over the previous year.
Fostering graduate programs and OPT development The increase was primarily driven by an increase in undergraduate student enrollment, which increased by 19% to 196,567 students. Additionally, the number of Indian students participating in Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs after graduation increased by 41%, reaching a total of 97,556.
US Ambassador Eric Garcetti expressed excitement over India's achievement, saying, “I am pleased to report that with over 330,000 students, India has sent more students to the US this year than any other country. It is International Education Week. Let's celebrate it. The power of education builds tomorrow's leaders and deepens our relationships. I first came to India as a 19-year-old student.
China slipped to second place China, long the largest source of international students, dropped to second place with a 4% decline in enrollment. A total of 277,398 Chinese students studied in the US and pursued graduate and non-degree programs.
Record International Student Number Overall, the United States is poised to host a record 1.1 million international students during the 2023-2024 academic year, representing a 7% year-over-year increase.
Increase in number of American students in India The number of US students studying in India has also seen a significant increase, from 336 in 2021/22 to 1,355 in 2022/23, representing an increase of 303.3%.
Developments and popular fields of study in sub-Saharan Africa
International students in the United States have a wide range to choose from, with many areas seeing enrollment growth. The majority of these students (56%) are enrolled in STEM subjects, with mathematics and computer science leading areas of study, attracting 25% of international students. Engineering is also a strong field, with 19% of students enrolled. Other popular fields include business and management (14%), physical and life sciences (8%), social sciences (8%), and fine and applied arts (5%).
Image Credit: (Divya-Bhaskar): Images/graphics belong to (Divya-Bhaskar).
