Top 10 countries of origin of foreign students in the U.S., 2016
Number of foreign students newly enrolled in associate, bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate degree programs
| Country of origin | Number of students |
|---|---|
| China | 108,000 |
| India | 66,000 |
| South Korea | 21,000 |
| Saudi Arabia | 18,000 |
| Canada | 10,000 |
| Vietnam | 9,000 |
| Taiwan | 7,000 |
| Nepal | 6,000 |
| Japan | 6,000 |
| Nigeria | 6,000 |
Note: Foreign students are full-time students on F-1 visas approved to study in the United States. Students approved for F-1 visas are assumed to be enrolled for studies at their sponsoring school. Data are based on the calendar year.
Source: Pew Research Center analysis of U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement data from 2004-2012 and 2014-2016 received through a Freedom of Information Act request.
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
