In 2023, there were 1,503,649 active F-1 and M-1 students in the U.S., a 10% increase from the previous year. This marks the largest growth in international student enrollment since before the COVID-19 pandemic, signaling a strong recovery. After several years of disruption due to the pandemic, the number of international students is now reaching levels not seen since 2019.
Key Reasons for the Surge in International Students
Increased Recruitment Efforts
U.S. colleges and universities are ramping up efforts to attract international students, especially as domestic enrollment numbers have declined. Many schools are focusing on global recruitment to counter this trend and ensure their campuses remain diverse and competitive.
Capacity to Host More Students
Unlike countries such as Canada and the U.K., which are nearing their limits for hosting international students, the U.S. still has ample capacity. International students represent just 6% of total U.S. higher education enrollment, meaning there is plenty of room for growth.
Increase in Student Visas Issuances
In 2023, the U.S. government issued 446,000 student visas, marking an 8.5% increase from the previous year. This is the highest number of student visas granted in a single year since 2016, indicating growing demand for U.S. educational opportunities.
Where Are International Students Coming From?
There have been shifts in the countries that send the most students to the U.S., with many international students choosing to study in various regions across the country. In fact, all four U.S. regions saw increases in international student enrollment in 2023.
- California continued to be the top destination for international students, hosting more students than any other state.
The Popularity of OPT (Optional Practical Training)
One of the most appealing aspects of studying in the U.S. for international students is the opportunity to work in the U.S. after graduation through the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. This program allows students on F-1 visas to gain work experience in their field of study for up to one year (with a possible extension for STEM graduates).
In 2023, 160,627 international students participated in OPT, a 37% increase from the previous year. Of these students, 122,101 were in STEM-related fields, with the largest groups coming from India (39%) and China (23.7%).
The 2023 surge in international students highlights a strong recovery for U.S. higher education following the pandemic. With increased recruitment efforts, a favorable visa issuance process, and the continued popularity of programs like OPT, the U.S. remains a top destination for students from around the world.
