India Surpasses China as Leading Source of US International Students

According to the Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange 2024, India has emerged as the largest source of international students in the United States for the 2023-24 academic year, surpassing China for the first time in 15 years. Indian student enrollment in the US grew by 23% year-over-year, with over 330,000 students enrolled. This marks a significant rise in India's presence, which also mirrors its increasing dominance in the UK, where it became the largest source of non-EU students in 2022-23, surpassing China.

Most Indian students in the US are pursuing STEM fields, with 42.9% studying Mathematics or Computer Science, 24.5% in Engineering, and 5.4% in physical or life sciences. The growing trend of students seeking practical work experience post-graduation is also evident, with Indian participation in Optional Practical Training (OPT) increasing by 41%, reaching over 97,000 students. International students contributed $50 billion to the US economy in 2023, with Indian students accounting for 20% of this economic impact.

Regarding geographic distribution, Indian students are spread across 44 US states, with the highest concentrations in California, New York, and Texas. Graduate programs saw significant growth, with the number of graduate students increasing by 8%, while students in OPT programs grew by 22%. Meanwhile, Chinese enrollment in the US dropped by 4%, highlighting India's growing influence in international education.

The US remains a crucial destination for international students, hosting over 1.1 million students in 2023-24, a 7% increase from the previous year countries like Bangladesh, Colombia, and Ghana, and record-breaking numbers of students studying in the US. International education fosters global connections with long-term business, trade, science, and innovation implications.

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