The 11 Best Universities in the US for International Students

International students flock to US institutions to experience some of the country’s best academic possibilities.

Here's a breakdown of recent data:

• In the 2023-24 academic year, 1,126,690 international college students were enrolled in the U.S
• International students represented nearly 6% of total higher education enrollment in the US in 23-24 (Open Doors Data)
• In 2022-23 international student enrollment in the US was up about 11% from the prior year, and it went up another 6% in 2023-24 (Open Doors Data)
• The 24-25 academic year is predicted to see a 30% to 40% decline in international student enrollment (roughly 80,000 less international students) according to NAFSA (the Association of International Educators), potentially a result of increased visa application restrictions and monitoring and a growing lack of trust international families have in the US amid heightened feelings of uncertainty about the impact of new US policies on international student visas.
• Indian and Chinese students comprised almost half of the international student cohort (NAFSA)

What Are The Benefits of Studying in the US?

Many international students choose to study in the US because top colleges offer benefits in and out of the classroom. From world-class facilities to networking and growth opportunities, there’s something for every student.

The top benefits of studying in the US as an international student include:

• Renowned Academics
• Quality of Education
• Transferrable Work Experience & Career Opportunities
• Post-Grad Opportunities
• Diversity

Although the cost of college, especially for international students, can be high, college is worth it in the long run. Studying in the US has a tremendous return on investment for international students.

Top 10 Universities with the Highest International Student Enrollment

International students can apply to more than 5,000 universities across the US, including liberal arts, public, private, and Ivy League institutions. Here are the top 10 universities with the highest international student enrollment.

Top US Universities with Large International Student Numbers

1. University of California, Los Angeles

Los Angeles, California

As a public research university, UCLA’s principal goal is to promote academic freedom, innovation, discovery, and creativity for its students.

UCLA regularly ranks among the very best of all public universities in the nation. UCLA is also a popular destination for international students who make up 22.5% of undergraduates enrolled.

Beyond the classroom, UCLA has more than 1,200 clubs and student organizations. These clubs give international students opportunities to explore current passions and build friendships.

For more about UCLA admissions, see How To Get Into UCLA: Acceptance Rates and Admissions Requirements

2. New York University

New York City, New York

At NYU international students represent more than 130 countries and make up 26% of NYU’s student body. NYU has an extensive list of over 400 academic programs for students to explore. Some of their most popular programs are liberal arts and humanities, economics, business, and nursing.

Located in the heart of Manhattan’s Greenwich Village, a New York City cultural center, NYU students can explore one of the most vibrant and diverse urban centers in the world and immerse themselves in its abundance of art, culture, and food.

If your eye is on NYU, be sure to check out our in-depth guide How To Get Into NYU.

3. Purdue University

West Lafayette, Indiana

Purdue University, located in Indiana, is nationally known for its renowned engineering and technology programs, modern facilities, and competitive sports programs.

Purdue University is also famous for its School of Aviation and Transportation Technology. Purdue alumni include 25 astronauts, including Neil Armstrong and Eugene Cernan, the first and last astronauts to land on the moon.

International students make up 10% of Purdue’s undergraduate enrollment. If you’re an international student interested in pursuing science, engineering, or aviation, Purdue is the university for you!

4. Boston University

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston University, located in Boston, Massachusetts, has more than 18,000 undergraduate students and 4,000 faculty members. The more than 3,900 international undergraduates represent more than 50 countries, and represent about 21% of undergraduate enrollment.

Even through Boston University is a larger school, many classes are still smaller in size, allowing students to dig deeper in their studies and create a tight-knit community. Boston’s founding principles are access to affordable higher education, scholarship possibilities, professional practice, and artistic creation.

5. Northeastern University

Boston, Massachusetts

Northeastern University enrolled students from 141 countries in 24/25. More than 12% of Northeastern’s student body consists of International Students.

International students can also experience Northeastern University’s academic opportunities at the main campus and online campuses.

Most of Northeastern’s 15 global campuses are located in the US, in addition to campuses in the UK, and Canada. The institution's main campus is in Boston, but Northeastern recently added Marymount Manhattan College campus in New York City.

Popular majors at Northeastern include Business, Marketing, Engineering, and Management.

6. University of California, Berkeley

Berkeley, California

University of California, Berkeley (UCB) is another highly sought-after University of California campus with many international students. UC Berkeley has been ranked the #1 public university in the US, by US News, and other outlets, in recent rankings.

Students around the world recognize UCB’s highly-regarded programs in engineering, computer science, chemistry, and biology, and business among many others.

International students make up almost 10% of the school's undergraduate enrollment.

UCB is also not far from San Francisco and Silicon Valley, where students can vie for internships at some of the world's most prestigious and cutting-edge technology firms and startups.

If you're aiming to get into this amazing public university this guide can help: How To Get Into UC Berkeley: Breaking Down Admission Requirements.

7. University of Southern California

Los Angeles, California

USC resides in the heart of one of the most diverse and vibrant cities in the US. The university’s objective is to make higher education more affordable to families by providing more than $640 million in scholarships and grants.

International students at USC have opportunities to experience incredible opportunities in innovation and research.

About 12% of USC undergraduates come from international destinations.

8. Columbia University

New York City, New York

Regarded as one of the most prestigious universities in the world, Columbia University is also one of the eight Ivy League institutions.

Columbia’s traditional but rich core curriculum, and its programs in political science, computer science, engineering, and economics among others are widely respected. And, like New York City itself, Columbia is exceptionally cosmopolitan with international students from about 100 different countries.

If you're applying, be sure to check out How To Get Into Columbia

Similar to NYU, Columbia’s location offers students vast opportunities and resources while supporting the academic advancement of its students. Learn more about what Columbia has to offer on our university profiles.

9. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, Illinois

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) seeks to create a transformative educational experience for its students.

UIUC offers resources like the “Illinois International” program. This unique program supports international students, collaborates with global partners, fosters an institutionally inclusive culture, and awards scholarships to international students.

10. University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, Michigan

The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the United States, alongside other top public universities like UC Berkeley and UCLA.

With one of the largest international student communities in the country, U Michigan attracts undergraduates from more than 100 countries, and international students make up about 3.3% of total undergraduate enrollment.

The university is a has a strong research tradition and is touted for research facilities and advances in fields like engineering, health sciences, and social policy.

Faculty include MacArthur Fellows, Pulitzer Prize winners, and members of national academies, highlighting Michigan’s academic prestige.

How International Students Can Get Into a Top US University

Students applying to top US universities often face a demanding and competitive application process. Applying to these universities as an international applicant requires dedication to academics, extracurriculars, essays, letters of recommendation, and other critical components of the application.

Top universities are not looking for the perfect candidate. They are looking for well-rounded students who will be an excellent fit for their institution.

How To Find a University That Best Fits You

When creating your US university shortlist, don’t choose a school solely based on its name or reputation. Think carefully about how your dream universities best fit your needs and goals.

Here are a few additional points to consider before applying to US universities:

• Academic possibilities and programs
• Campus culture
• Financial aid
• Career development opportunities
• University values

Final Thoughts

Studying abroad is a popular option for many students. International students who choose to study in the US gain access to countless academic and networking opportunities. While the application process may seem daunting, Crimson can help!

We have a network of exceptionally qualified college admissions consultants who have a proven approach to providing personalized admissions services that help students realize their fullest potential and build compelling and competitive applications.

Check out our students' record of success and sign up soon for admissions planning webinars and events.

To get started, learn more about the Crimson story and our commitment to helping motivated students get into top-ranked universities. To discuss admissions support tailored to your goals, schedule a free feedback session with one of our admissions experts.