International Students in the United States
Since the mid-20th century, the United States has been the destination of choice for international students. When pursuing education abroad, many are drawn by the quality of its higher education system, its welcoming culture, and the prospect of transitioning into the labor market after graduation. Although the U.S. share of the worldwide international student population has decreased in recent years, from 23 percent in 2000 to 19 percent in 2013, the number of international students enrolled in U.S colleges and universities has grown. In 2013, the United States hosted more of the world’s 4.1 million international students than any other country. The next two destinations, the United Kingdom and Australia, hosted 10 percent and 6 percent, respectively. International student enrollment in U.S. colleges and universities increased 10 percent between school year (SY) 2013-14 and SY 2014-15, the highest growth rate in 35 years, reaching a record high of 975,000 students.
Using data from the Institute for International Education (IIE), U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE) and NAFSA: Association of International Educators, this Migration Information Source Spotlight provides information on the international students enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities in SY 2014-15. After outlining the legal framework for different forms of study in the section Student Visa Categories, this article will focus on the size and distribution of this group, enrollment trends, and impact on the U.S. economy and labor market.
KJ