According to the latest Open Doors report, the number of international students enrolled in the US surpassed one million (1,057,188) for the academic year 2022-23, showing a 12% rise from the previous year.
International student enrolment increased at all levels for the first time since 2014-15, including masters, doctorates, and professional degrees.
In response to a question about job cuts in big tech companies in the US and the opportunities for students, Mirka Martel, who is the head of research, evaluation, and learning at the Institute of International Education, stated that their data shows strong growth and interest from Indian students to pursue their studies in the US.
The Fall 2023 snapshot survey may be the most significant indicator we have seen of these increases, especially for international graduate students, leading to higher rates of OPT.
OPT, or Optional Practical Training, is the main avenue for international graduates to acquire work experience in the US and transition into the workforce. Martel mentioned that there was a 17% uptick in total international students on OPT in the fall 2023 snapshot. The OPT numbers have seen a double-digit increase as of fall 2023-24. We can expect to see strong growth over the next couple of years. This means that more venues are becoming available. Students have been given approval for OPT and are making the most of these opportunities.
