Over the past year, the number of international students enrolled at U.S. universities has greatly increased. While reasons for this growth are wide-ranging, there is no denying that the high number of international students studying in this country benefits the United States in a variety of ways.

International students greatly contribute to the American economy.  According to an article in USA Today, Mary Beth Marklein cited a U.S. Commerce Department report that said, “international students contribute more than $21 billion to the U.S. economy through tuition and living expenses, which include room and board, supplies, transportation and health insurance and support for dependents.”  In an article Larry Gordon wrote for the Los Angeles Times, Timothy Brunold, the University of Southern California’s admission dean said that “USC foreign students help provide revenue since they are not eligible for need-based financial aid, although they can compete for merit aid and fellowships.”

While international students benefit from the high quality of an American education, fellow students on campus also stand to gain from their attendance. According to Washington Post writer Jenna Johnson, international students are so attractive to U.S. universities because they are “usually well-educated and well-traveled, bringing a global point-of-view and sophistication to campuses.” Officials cited in the Wisconsin State Journal said that having international students brings more diversity to the campus.  Assistant Secretary of State Ann Stock said that “international students globalize our campuses and communities” in USA Today.

Based on the steps that they must take just to step foot on an American campus, international students are a motivated group. John Webster, director of writing at the University of Washington’s College of Arts and Sciences said in the Seattle Times that they are very entrepreneurial group and that he is impressed with the “intensity of these kids, and the sacrifices people are making for them. . .” Webster sees this as only a positive for the United States.

Sources: 

• “USC enrolls the most international students in the nation,” Los Angeles Times
• “More foreign students studying in USA,” USA Today
• “Chinese students arrive at UW-Madison with dreams and fears for their future,” Wisconsin State Journal
• “Chinese students enroll in record numbers at U.S. colleges.” Washington Post
• “Foreign enrollment skyrockets for UW," Seattle Times