India Becomes Leading Source of International Students in the US for 2023-24
India has reclaimed its position as the top source of international students in the United States after 15 years, surpassing China for the 2023-24 academic year. According to the Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange 2024, over 330,000 Indian students are currently enrolled in US institutions—a 23% increase from the previous year.
Graduate and OPT Programs See Significant Growth
The surge in Indian student enrollment is largely attributed to a 19% rise in graduate program registrations and a remarkable 41% increase in participation in Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs. About 64.5% of Indian students enrolled in public universities, while the remaining opted for private institutions.
Popular Fields of Study
Indian students have shown strong preferences for fields with high career prospects:
- Mathematics and Computer Science: Chosen by 42.9% of students.
- Engineering: Selected by 24.5%.
- Business and Management: Pursued by 11.2%.
- Physical and Life Sciences: Enrolled by 5.4%.
Why Indian Students Choose the US
The US remains an attractive destination for Indian students due to its globally renowned universities, cutting-edge research opportunities, and strong job prospects. Although education in India is more affordable, factors such as rising fees at elite institutions like the IITs and IIMs and intense competition for limited seats drive many to look abroad.
Additionally, US universities offer international students access to modern facilities, diverse cultural exposure, and pathways to lucrative careers, particularly in the STEM fields. The OPT program and its 24-month STEM extension allow students to gain valuable work experience in top US companies, enhancing their career trajectories.
Leading US Universities for Indian Students
Indian students often pursue degrees in high-demand fields like mathematics, computer science, engineering, and business. The top institutions attracting Indian students include:
Mathematics and Computer Science
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Harvard University
Engineering
- MIT
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- Harvard University
Business and Management
- Harvard University
- Stanford University
- MIT
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of California, Berkeley
Challenges in Indian Higher Education
Many Indian students choose to study abroad due to limited opportunities at home. High competition, restrictive quotas, and intense entrance exams make admission to top institutions like IITs increasingly difficult. Rising fees at these institutions further push students to explore international options, where they often find comparable or better educational experiences at similar costs.
US Job Market: A Key Driver
The US job market remains a significant draw for Indian students. With access to leading global companies like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and Apple, students benefit from robust post-graduation employment opportunities. The OPT program provides up to three years of work authorization for STEM graduates, allowing them to establish strong professional foundations.
Conclusion
India’s ascension as the leading source of international students in the US underscores the nation’s emphasis on global education and career advancement. With world-class institutions, cutting-edge research, and lucrative job opportunities, the US continues to attract Indian students eager to build successful careers and contribute to international progress.
