Interesting Facts About USA for International Students

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Top Global Universities and Cutting-Edge Research

The U.S. is home to some of the world’s best universities, including Harvard University, Stanford University, and MIT. These institutions regularly rank at the top globally and provide exceptional opportunities for research, innovation, and networking.

• As of 2024, Harvard University has 167 Nobel Laureates among its faculty and alumni, more than any other university in the world.
• MIT continues to lead in STEM fields, with a focus on technology, robotics, and engineering.

Indian Students Contribute Over $7 Billion to the U.S. Economy

International students make a significant contribution to the U.S. economy. In 2020, it was estimated that international students contributed $39 billion to the U.S. economy, with Indian students contributing over $7 billion alone.

• Indian students are the second-largest group of international students in the U.S., only behind China.
• According to the Institute of International Education (IIE), over 200,000 Indian students were enrolled in U.S. higher education in 2022—making up about 18% of the total international student population.

This economic impact is not limited to tuition fees. Indian students also support local economies through spending on housing, food, transportation, and leisure, and contribute to the creation of over 400,000 jobs in various sectors.

Also Read: Popular Scholarships to Study in USA

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The OPT Program: A Gateway to Work in the U.S.

One of the most significant benefits for international students in the U.S. is the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program.

• In 2022, approximately 223,000 international students participated in OPT, with the majority being from India.
• Students in STEM fields can apply for a 24-month extension, making it possible to stay in the U.S. for up to three years to gain work experience.
• Indian students are particularly prominent in computer science and engineering, with these students accounting for about 70% of all STEM OPT participants.

Also Read: How to Appeal for OPT Denial

Recent data from the National Foundation for American Policy indicates that over 60% of international students stay in the U.S. after graduation, using the OPT program to secure jobs and gain permanent employment.

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Indian Students in STEM: A Dominant Force

Indian students have a significant presence in the STEM Courses in USA, particularly in engineering, computer science, and data science.

• 50% of all international students in engineering and computer science in the U.S. come from India.
• Indian students represent 40% of all international students in graduate-level STEM programs in the U.S.
• According to a report by the National Science Foundation, Indian-born students make up over 30% of the workforce in computer-related jobs in the U.S.

This trend is expected to continue, with Indian students playing a critical role in ensuring the U.S. maintains its technological edge and innovation leadership.

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Cultural Exchange and a Rich Campus Life

U.S. campuses offer an exciting mix of academic, cultural, and social activities. For international students, particularly from India, this is an excellent opportunity to engage in cross-cultural exchanges.

• Over 80% of U.S. universities have dedicated support services for international students, including cultural clubs, mentoring programs, and counseling.
• Campuses host a wide variety of international festivals, including Diwali and Holi celebrations, where Indian students can connect with peers and showcase their culture.

Moreover, universities frequently offer global study tours, exchange programs, and international networking events. These opportunities allow international students to enhance their academic experience and build long-term global connections.

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The U.S. Has the World's Largest Indian Student Population

Indian students make up a significant portion of the international student body in the U.S., and they continue to grow in number.

• In 2022, the U.S. hosted approximately 200,000 Indian students in higher education, making them the second-largest group of international students after China.
• The most popular areas of study for Indian students in the U.S. include STEM, business administration, mathematics, and life sciences.
• In recent years, there has been a surge in Indian students applying for graduate programs, particularly Master's and PhD programs.

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Natural Beauty and Outdoor Adventures

Studying in the U.S. gives students access to some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the world.

• National Parks: The U.S. is home to 63 national parks, including the Grand Canyon (Arizona), Yellowstone (Wyoming), and Yosemite (California).
• Outdoor Activities: From skiing in Colorado to surfing in California, outdoor activities are a big part of the U.S. lifestyle.
• Many students use their breaks or weekends to explore the natural beauty of the country, often participating in university-organized trips to national parks and scenic destinations.

Pro Tip: Start planning early! Ensure your finances are sorted, research visa processes, and tap into support networks at your university to make the most of your U.S. study experience.