USF solidifies its standing as top Florida destination for international students

• Vickie Chachere
• November 26, 2024
• Accolades, Students

For the third year in a row, the University of South Florida remains the top draw among the Florida's higher education institutions for international students.

According to a new report from the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and the Institute of International Education, USF ranks 29th in the U.S. among all universities and 19th among public institutions.

More than 7,000 international students attended USF in the 2023-2024 academic year or engaged in post completion work. When it comes to the 1,415 of USF students who participated in study abroad experiences last academic year, the university ranked third in Florida, 28th among public institutions and 38th nationally.

Across the country, more than 280,700 American students participated in study abroad - a count that has not matched the historic high of more than 300,000 in 2017-18. USF students' interests reflect national trends favoring programs in Europe. The USF in London and its summer and semester-long programs in Florence are among the most popular.

Overall, USF is among the Top 40 universities and colleges nationally for inbound and outbound student mobility, the new data shows.

"This is all about making sure our students have those opportunities available to them," President Law said. "I am so appreciative, not only for this program but for all the donors out there, the scholarships, the other opportunities for financial support that will help our students."

Overall, USF is among the Top 40 universities and colleges nationally for inbound and outbound student mobility, the new data shows.

USF has emphasized the value of study abroad and international students' contributions to the campus community for nearly two decades since the founding of USF World to support students at all levels as well as faculty conducting international research and visiting international scholars.

"The University of South Florida's commitment to student success through international engagement isn't just recognized nationwide, it's known around the world," said Kiki Caruson, vice president of USF World. "We're proud to welcome students from nearly 140 countries to our campuses and to involve them in every aspect of university life, enhancing the learning environment for all students. Our many vibrant networks of global USF alumni are testament to the lifelong connections and impact that's made for our students."

The new data was formally released at the start of International Education Week, which was highlighted by USF World's celebration of its new Global Student Center on the Tampa campus. This event took place just days after USF President Rhea Law returned from a state trade mission to Italy, where she and other Florida officials visited USF students at one of the university's largest study abroad programs in Florence.

"The University of South Florida is proud to once again be recognized as the No. 1 destination in Florida for international students," Law said. "The strong representation of students from across the world within our university community is a point of pride for us because it signifies USF's commitment to providing opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds and preparing our students for successful careers in today's global economy."

About 10 percent of USF's enrollment consists of international students, representing nearly 140 different countries.

About 10 percent of USF's enrollment consists of international students, representing nearly 140 different countries. There were 2,863 undergraduate international students enrolled at USF during the last academic year and 2,595 graduate students with another 60 students in non-degree programs, such as professional development or English language learning opportunities.

According to data submitted to the Open Doors report, the top countries sending international undergraduate students to USF are Vietnam, Brazil, and India, which also ranks as the leading country of origin for USF's international graduate students with more than 1,400 enrolled. USF's programs in engineering, computer science, business and life sciences are a top draw across both undergraduate and graduate levels, reflecting national trends.

USF Student Government President Suryakanth Prasad Gottipati, an international student from India, said before he came to the university, he was told he'd be considered an "outsider," but found not only a warm welcome but an environment which supported his success. USF Student Government Vice President Sumit Subhash Jadhav is also an international student from India - both are computer science engineering majors.

"It's all about the unwavering support USF has for international students, which we should all be proud of," Gottipati said at the grand opening of the International Student Center. "I am a living testament being student body president and representing thousands of students - not only international students but (all) students to the USF Board of Trustees."

Learn more about USF World and USF Education Abroad programs.
https://www.usf.edu/world/education-abroad/