India Leads as Top Source of International Students in the US for the 2023-24 Academic Year
India has reclaimed its position as the leading source of international students in the United States after a 15-year gap, surpassing China for the 2023-24 academic year. According to the Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange 2024, over 3.3 lakh Indian students are now studying in the US, marking an impressive 23% increase in enrollments.
The report highlights a notable rise in the number of Indian students enrolling in graduate programs, which saw a 19% increase. Additionally, participation in Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs surged by 41%. Of these students, 64.5% were enrolled in public institutions, while the rest attended private universities.
Popular Fields of Study Among Indian Students
Among the various fields of study, mathematics and computer science attracted the largest share, with 42.9% of Indian students opting for these programs. Engineering followed with 24.5%, while 11.2% pursued business or management courses. A smaller portion, 5.4%, enrolled in physical and life sciences.
Why Indian Students Choose the US for Higher Education
The growing trend of Indian students heading abroad for higher education is driven by the increasing recognition of the value of global exposure for career prospects. This year’s rise in enrollment follows a similar pattern seen in the UK, where India emerged as the top source of non-EU students for the 2022-23 academic year, with a 39% increase.
Several factors make the US an attractive destination for Indian students. The US boasts some of the world’s top-ranked universities that offer cutting-edge research opportunities, state-of-the-art facilities, and international exposure. Although education in India is more affordable, the rising fees at prestigious institutions like the IITs and IIMs, combined with limited admission opportunities, push many students to look abroad. The US also offers favorable job prospects for international students, making it a compelling option for both academic growth and career development.
Top US Universities for Indian Students
Indian students heading to the US often pursue studies in mathematics, computer science, engineering, and business management. Some of the top US universities offering programs in these fields include:
Top 5 US Institutions for Mathematics:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – QS Ranking 1
- Stanford University – QS Ranking 3
- Harvard University – QS Ranking 5
- University of California, Berkeley – QS Ranking 6
- Princeton University – QS Ranking 7India, US,
Top 5 US Institutions for Computer Science:
- MIT – QS Ranking 1
- Carnegie Mellon University – QS Ranking 2
- Stanford University – QS Ranking 2
- University of California, Berkeley – QS Ranking 5
- Harvard University – QS Ranking 7
Top 5 US Institutions for Engineering:
- MIT – QS Ranking 1
- Stanford University – QS Ranking 2
- University of California, Berkeley – QS Ranking 5
- Harvard University – QS Ranking 8
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech) – QS Ranking 9
Top 5 US Institutions for Business and Management:
- Harvard University – QS Ranking 1
- Stanford University – QS Ranking 4
- MIT – QS Ranking 5
- University of Pennsylvania – QS Ranking 7
- University of California, Berkeley – QS Ranking 13
Challenges in Indian Education and the Appeal of Studying Abroad
A significant factor driving Indian students to pursue education abroad is the stiff competition for limited seats in top Indian universities. Despite strong academic performance, many students are unable to secure admission to prestigious institutions due to high cut-offs, reservation policies, and the challenges associated with entrance exams like JEE Mains and JEE Advanced.
Moreover, in recent years, fees at India’s top institutions, including IITs, have risen, making studying abroad an increasingly viable option for many students. With similar or even more affordable costs in some cases, students are attracted to US universities where they can access superior facilities, research opportunities, and international exposure.
Job Opportunities in the US: A Major Attraction
The US is home to some of the world’s most influential companies such as Google, Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft. Indian students benefit from the OPT program, which allows them to work in the US for up to 12 months in a role related to their field of study. STEM graduates can also apply for a 24-month extension to their OPT, giving them more time to gain valuable work experience in the US job market.
The rigorous academic programs and global recognition of US degrees ensure that graduates are highly sought after by top employers worldwide, giving them a competitive edge in both the US and the global job market.
Conclusion
India’s growing dominance as a source of international students in the US underscores the country’s increasing focus on higher education as a pathway to global opportunities. With excellent academic institutions, research opportunities, and promising job prospects, the US continues to be a preferred destination for ambitious Indian students seeking to build successful careers and contribute to global progress.
