Universities With the Most International Students (2024)

U.S. universities continue to draw students from around the globe, creating diverse and inclusive academic communities. International students are bringing meaningful interactions and experiences to campuses across America.

At universities from the University of California in sunny San Diego to the historic halls of Northeastern in Boston, the presence of students from various parts of the world adds a rich layer to the educational experience. 

It's not uncommon to hear different languages in the hallways or see a range of cultural events on campus. This environment offers both American and international students a chance to learn from one another, fostering a global perspective that's crucial in today's interconnected world.

In this article, we'll explore the U.S. colleges that are leading the way in international student enrollment. We'll explain what makes these institutions stand out and how they contribute to the global tapestry of higher education, preparing students for a world that's more connected than ever before.

Note: This university ranking is in order of percentage of international students and not any other factors. For the purposes of this article, we focus on only undergraduate students, not undergraduate and graduate students. 

The New School

Percentage of international undergraduate students: 30.0%

Number of undergraduate students: 6,399

Acceptance rate: 69%

Public or private: Private

At The New School in New York City, international students make up a significant portion of the student body, with 30% of undergraduate students hailing from outside the United States. The top countries contributing to this international presence are China, India, and Canada.

This rich diversity enhances the learning experience at The New School, which is located in New York City, a global hub. The university's strong international student community, coupled with its diverse academic offerings, especially in design, social sciences, and liberal arts, provides a unique and vibrant environment for students from all over the world.

University of Rochester

Percentage of international undergraduate students: 27.2%

Number of undergraduate students: 6,521

Acceptance rate: 35%

Public or private: Private

At the University of Rochester in New York, international students make up a significant portion of the academic community - 27.2% of the undergraduate student population. The university, known for its global outlook, has a diverse array of backgrounds from more than 130 different countries.

This private university, with an acceptance rate of 35%, prides itself on offering inclusive and globally oriented education. Its campus sees the largest communities from China, India, South Korea, and Canada.

New York University

Percentage of international undergraduate students: 23.7%

Number of undergraduate students: 27,444

Acceptance rate: 21%

Public or private: Private

New York University (NYU), in New York City, is a private institution known for its high academic standards and selective acceptance rate of 21%. It hosts a significant number of international undergraduate students, accounting for 23.7%. 

NYU prides itself on being a global institution, welcoming a diverse international community. The NYU campus is a melting pot of global cultures, with students from over 120 countries.

Florida Institute of Technology

Percentage of international undergraduate students: 21.6%

Number of undergraduate students: 3,475

Acceptance rate: 70%

Public or private: Private

Florida Institute of Technology (Florida Tech) in Melbourne, Florida, has a strong focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. As a result, it attracts a substantial number of international students, accounting for 21.6% of its undergraduate population. 

The university's emphasis on research and technology makes it an appealing choice for students interested in these fields. The diverse international student body at Florida Tech comprises individuals from at least 80 different countries. 

Boston University

Percentage of international undergraduate students: 21.4%

Number of undergraduate students: 16,872

Acceptance rate: 20%

Public or private: Private

Boston University (BU), a private university in Boston, Massachusetts, is a melting pot of global cultures and perspectives, with 21.4% of undergraduate students being international. Ranked in the top 50 universities worldwide, BU's academic excellence draws students from across the globe, making Boston one of the most popular U.S. destinations for international students. 

The school's international students represent nearly 100 countries, contributing to the diversity and richness of BU's academic programs and classrooms.

Brandeis University

Percentage of international undergraduate students: 20.3%

Number of undergraduate students: 3,493

Acceptance rate: 33%

Public or private: Private

Brandeis University, in Waltham, Massachusetts, is committed to social justice and strong programs in liberal arts and sciences. It attracts a substantial number of international undergraduates, making up 20.3% of its student body. 

This private university in Massachusetts offers a unique educational experience that blends rigorous academic programs with a deep commitment to social and global awareness. The international student community at Brandeis is diverse, with the top countries represented being China, India, Vietnam, and Canada??. 

Columbia University

Percentage of international undergraduate students: 18.1%

Number of undergraduate students: 8,148

Acceptance rate: 7%

Public or private: Private

Columbia University, in New York City, is a private institution known for its prestigious position in higher education. With 18.1% of its undergraduate students being international, Columbia creates a diverse academic environment enriched by global perspectives from over 150 countries.

The university's top countries of international student enrollment include China, India, Canada, and South Korea.

University of California, San Diego

Percentage of international undergraduate students: 17.0%

Number of undergraduate students: 31,842

Acceptance rate: 37%

Public or private: Public

The University of California, San Diego (UCSD), a public university in La Jolla, California, is known for its focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. This focus, coupled with its comprehensive research initiatives, draws 17% of undergraduates from over 110 countries. 

The university offers a range of programs both online and in person, providing international students with opportunities to grow and connect with the wider campus community??.

Carnegie Mellon University

Percentage of international undergraduate students: 16.1%

Number of undergraduate students: 6,622

Acceptance rate: 17%

Public or private: Private

Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a private research university celebrated for its academic programs in areas like computer science, engineering, business, and the arts. The university boasts a significant international student population, with 16.1% of its undergraduates coming from various parts of the world. 

CMU's reputation for research excellence and its innovative, interdisciplinary approach provide unique opportunities for academic and personal growth. Additionally, CMU's location in the student-friendly city of Pittsburgh offers a dynamic yet affordable urban experience.

Northeastern University

Percentage of international undergraduate students: 16.0%

Number of undergraduate students: 15,156

Acceptance rate: 20%

Public or private: Private 

Northeastern University, in the city of Boston, is a private institution known for its cooperative education (co-op) program and global research opportunities. This program allows students, including the 16% international student body, to alternate semesters of academic study with semesters of full-time employment in positions related to their academic interests and career goals.

The global research opportunities at Northeastern provide students with the chance to engage in cutting-edge research across various disciplines. These opportunities often span international borders, offering students the chance to work on projects with a global impact.

Honorable mentions

Other universities with notable percentages of international students include:

• University of Washington - 15.1%
• University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign - 13.0% 
• University of California, Berkeley - 12.6%
• University of Southern California, Los Angeles - 12.0%
• Purdue University - 12.0%
• Harvard University - 11.2%
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - 10.3%
• Pennsylvania State University - 8.5%
• University of Michigan, Ann Arbor - 7.3%
• Arizona State University - 6.5%
• Indiana University - 6.1%
• University of Texas, Dallas - 4.0%

Considerations for international students

Choosing to study in the USA is a big decision for international students. It involves navigating a new academic system and often a new language, primarily English. 

Here are some key considerations for international students:

• Academic year and course structure. An academic year typically consists of two main semesters and, in some cases, an optional summer term. This structure can influence course selection and workload for students pursuing a bachelor's degree.
• Financial aid and scholarships. Many U.S. universities offer financial aid and scholarships for international students. It's important to research and apply for these financial supports early, as they can reduce the cost of education.
• English language proficiency. For students whose first language isn't English, demonstrating English language proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS is often required. Additionally, many universities offer English language support services to help international students adapt.
• Cultural adaptation. Adapting to a new cultural environment is an integral part of the international student experience. Engaging in campus activities and cultural events can make for a smoother transition.
• Global networks and opportunities. Universities in the USA often have big global networks, offering international students opportunities to connect with peers from Asia and other regions, enhancing their global outlook.
• Open doors to career opportunities. Studying in the U.S. can open doors to various career opportunities, both domestically and internationally. The practical experience, internships, and networking opportunities available at American universities are invaluable.

By considering these factors, international students can make informed decisions and fully embrace the unique opportunities offered by top universities in the United States.

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College Rover gets the majority of its data directly from the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). The DOE publishing schedule "lags" the most current data which some colleges post on their official websites. This may cause there to be a difference in the data you see on College Rover and an individual college website. College Rover's website is updated as the DOE data becomes available and is configured for the College Rover website.