Newswise — USC counted more international students than any other American institution of higher education, according to the annual Open Doors report released Nov. 14 by the Institute of International Education.
USC hosted 8,615 international students in the 2010-11 academic year, according to the institute. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign was listed in second place and New York University ranks third in the report.
Chinese students represented the largest segment of USC's international population, at 1,951. Students from India were the second largest group with 1,499. The number of Chinese students represented a record enrollment.
USC officials attribute strong numbers of Indian and Chinese students to several factors, including its reputation along the Pacific Rim and a commitment to recruiting supported by an expanding alumni base in several Chinese and Indian cities.
"USC's international students contribute tremendously to the university's vibrant community — and they benefit greatly in return," said President C. L. Max Nikias. "Our campuses hum with diversity, fresh perspectives and a broad range of experiences. As a result, in addition to a world class education, USC offers a truly unique experience for its students to learn and grow."
About 70 percent of USC's international student population in fall 2010 was enrolled in graduate-level programs, with the greatest number attending the USC Viterbi School of Engineering.
This year's report also ranked USC third for the total number of students — 2,500 — to whom the university awarded credit for study abroad programs during the 2009-10 school year.
"USC’s growing international student populations includes students from over 115 different countries of origin," said Tony Tambascia, associate dean of student affairs. "Another very positive trend is how many of the university’s domestic students are choosing to spend time overseas as part of their degree program. While USC has long been a leader in enrollment of international students, it’s exciting to see the university ranked among the top institutions in terms of study abroad participation. The mix of international students alongside domestic students who share a keen interest in global issues makes for a very stimulating academic environment."
More nationwide data from the report is available at: http://www.iie.org/en/Research-and-Publications/Open-Doors/Data
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