Indian Students In the US: India has become the leading source of international students in the United States for the first time since 2009. According to the latest Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange, Indian students now account for 29% of the total international student population in the US. In the 2023-2024 academic year, over 330,000 Indian students enrolled in US higher education institutions, representing a remarkable 23% year-over-year growth.
Key Drivers of Growth: Graduate Programs and OPT
Surge in Graduate Enrollment
A significant portion of this growth came from graduate programs, where Indian student enrollments increased by 19%, reaching 196,567 students.
Rise in Optional Practical Training (OPT) Participation
Post-graduation opportunities through Optional Practical Training (OPT) also played a critical role. The number of Indian students in OPT programs rose by an impressive 41%, bringing the total to 97,556.
A Message from US Ambassador Eric Garcetti
US Ambassador Eric Garcetti celebrated India’s milestone, stating:
“I am thrilled to share that, with over 330,000 students, India has sent more students to the US than any other country this year. This is International Education Week. Let’s celebrate the power of education to build tomorrow’s leaders and deepen our bonds. I came to India first as a 19-year-old student, and I know firsthand the value of these exchanges.”
China Slips to Second Place
China, historically the largest source of international students in the US, has now dropped to the second spot. In the 2023-2024 academic year, 277,398 Chinese students pursued education in the US, reflecting a 4% decline from the previous year. Despite this, China continues to lead in undergraduate and non-degree programs.
Record-Breaking Numbers for International Students
The 2023-2024 academic year witnessed a record 1.1 million international students in the United States, marking a 7% increase from the previous year. This growth was highlighted in the Open Doors Report, jointly published by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and the Institute of International Education (IIE).
Growth in Graduate Programs and OPT
- Over 500,000 international students enrolled in graduate programs.
- More than 242,000 students participated in OPT initiatives.
Increasing Numbers of American Students in India
Notably, the number of American students studying in India surged by an astonishing 303.3%, increasing from 336 in 2021-2022 to 1,355 in 2022-2023.
Fields of Study: STEM Leads the Way
Popular Fields Among International Students
STEM disciplines continue to dominate as the preferred fields of study for international students in the US:
- Math and Computer Science: 25% of total enrollments.
- Engineering: 19% of total enrollments.
- Business and Management: 14%.
- Physical and Life Sciences: 8%.
- Social Sciences: 8%.
- Fine and Applied Arts: 5%.
Growth from Sub-Saharan Africa
In addition to the rising numbers from India, the US has seen increased enrollment from Sub-Saharan African nations, further contributing to the diversity of international students.
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