Archive · 9 Jun 2025
U.S. Sees Record Enrollment of 1.58 Million Foreign Students in 2024
In 2024, the U.S. had a record number of 1.58 million international students studying in the country.
Think of it like a big school where lots of kids from other countries come to learn.
Most of these students are from Asia.
India has the second largest group, making up about 25% of all international students.
More students are attending colleges and universities, pursuing degrees like Bachelor's and Master's.
Foreign students can also work while they study through practical training programs.
There was a slight decrease in the number of schools that can accept foreign students.
This data comes from a government system called SEVIS, which tracks all these students.
The U.S. enrolled a record 1.58 million foreign students in 2024, a 5.3% increase from 2023.
Asia accounts for the largest share of foreign students in the U.S., with 71.7% of the population.
India contributed 422,335 students, representing about 25% of the foreign student population.
California and New York hosted the highest number of foreign students among U.S. states.
A majority of students pursued degrees in higher education, with bachelor's and master's degrees being most popular.
- Who
- Foreign students
- What
- Record number of foreign students enrolled in the U.S.
- When
- In 2024
- Where
- United States
- Why
- The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) releases an annual report detailing trends in the foreign student population.
- Total Foreign Students (2024)
- 1.58 million
- Increase from 2023
- 5.3%
- Students from Asia
- 71.7%
- Indian Students
- 422,335
- Indian Students Percentage
- 25%
- SEVP-certified schools in 2024
- 7,234
- Foreign students with work authorization
- 381,140