Beyond Your Campus: International Enrollment Trends in U.S. Higher Ed

First-Time, First-Year Full-Time International Students: Spotting the Trends

According to data accessible via IPEDS, the number of international first-time, first-year full-time student enrollment in U.S. higher education has shown resilience and growth over the past decade. 
In 2023, the total number of international students reached an impressive 82,000, bouncing back from 56,000 in 2020. This recovery highlights the enduring worldwide appeal of U.S. institutions. 
Four-year colleges and universities continue to be the top choice, with 71,000 international students in 2023, up from 49,000 in 2020. Two-year institutions are also seeing a positive trend, with 11,000 international students in 2023 compared to 6,000 in 2020.

Understanding the Shifts and Percentage Insights

Despite increases in total first-time, first-year full-time international students, the percentage of international students did not change much over the decade. 
In 2023, international students made up 4% of the total student population at four-year institutions, consistent with the percentages seen in 2017 and 2014. 
Two-year institutions saw a slight increase, with international students comprising 2% of the student body in 2023, up from 1% in 2020. 

Public institutions hosted 3% of their student population as international students in 2023, while private not-for-profit institutions had a higher percentage at 6%. Both Up 1 percentage point from the 2 percentage point declines observed between 2017 and 2020.
 

International Student First-Time, First-Year Full Time Enrollment

Understanding International Student Mobility and College-Going Behavior: 

Further Insights from Open Doors 2024:

Strengthening diversity among enrolling international students continues to be a priority for many colleges and universities. Building your team’s awareness of key emerging markets can inform recruitment and outreach decisions in the year ahead.  According to IIE, eight of the top 25 countries sending students to the U.S. reached all-time highs in 2023-24: Bangladesh, Colombia, Ghana, India, Italy, Nepal, Pakistan, and Spain. Sub-Saharan Africa totals grew by 13% in 2023-24 and had the highest growth rate among all world regions for the second consecutive year, building on the 18% increase in 2022-23.

International students in the U.S. continue to show strong interest in STEM, given strong job opportunities as well as the ability to extend Optional Practical Training (OPT) for those studying in these fields.

The full press release for the 2024 Open Doors report can be viewed here, and don’t miss the annual Fast Facts release, a quick-reference tool that will be useful in any conversation you’re having with colleagues about international admission and recruitment this year.

Looking Ahead

Remaining informed about the evolving trends in international student enrollment can guide your institution in making strategic adjustments to achieve your enrollment goals. By being proactive and adaptable, you can ensure your institution remains an attractive destination for students worldwide.