Blog

January 2, 2025

20 US Colleges With The Highest Number of International Students

In a striking reflection of the growing global influence on American higher education, the Open Doors 2024 Annual Report reveals a notable rise in international student enrollment in U.S. colleges and universities. Drawing data from nearly 3,000 institutions, the report highlights that 1,126,690 international students were enrolled in the 2023/24 academic year, marking a 7% increase over the previous year. These students now account for 6% of total enrollment in U.S. higher education, underscoring their vital role in the academic ecosystem. India leads the charge, followed by China and South Korea, with STEM fields continuing to dominate the academic choices of international students. There has been a surge in participation in Optional Practical Training (OPT) too, which reflects a growing desire for hands-on, post-graduation experience, further signaling a shift toward tech-driven industries. Amidst these trends, certain universities have emerged as top destinations for international students, offering a blend of world-class education and diverse, global perspectives. Here's a look at the 20 U.S. colleges with the highest number of international students in 2022/23.

Name of the University	Location	Number of International Students (2022/23)
New York University	New York	24,496
Northeastern University - Boston	Massachusetts	20,637
Columbia University	New York	19,001
Arizona State University	Tempe, Arizona	17,981
University of Southern California	California	17,264
University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign	Illinois	14,680
Boston University	Massachusetts	13,281
Purdue University	West Lafayette, Indiana	11,872
University of California	Berkeley, California	11,719
University of California	San Diego, California	10,431
University of Michigan	Ann Arbor, Michigan	10,411
University of Washington	Washington	10,198
University of California	Los Angeles, California	9,725
University of Texas	Dallas, Texas	9,582
John Hopkins University	Maryland	9,322
Pennsylvania State University	University Park, Pennsylvania	9,161
Carnegie Mellon University	Pennsylvania	9,009
University of California	Irvine, California	8,984
University of Pennsylvania	Pennsylvania	8,614
University of Wisconsin	Madison, Wisconsin	8,567

International Student Enrollment Trends: New York University Emerges as the Favorite

The list, compiled by the Institute of International Education (IIE), highlights key trends in global academic migration.

New York University leads the list with 24,496 international students, followed by Northeastern University in Boston at 20,637 and Columbia University in New York with 19,001.

These universities are located in major metropolitan areas, emphasizing the appeal of urban centers that offer rich academic and professional opportunities.

California remains a dominant player in international student enrollment, with institutions such as University of Southern California (17,264), University of California, Berkeley (11,719), and University of California, Los Angeles (9,725) attracting students from around the world. The state's reputation for tech, research, and innovation makes it a top choice, particularly for those in STEM fields.

Midwestern schools like University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (14,680) and Purdue University (11,872) are also strong contenders, reflecting the growing international interest in engineering and technology programs. Additionally, East Coast institutions like Johns Hopkins University (9,322) and Carnegie Mellon University (9,009) maintain their appeal, particularly for students pursuing healthcare and cutting-edge technology.