New York City Is the Best Destination in US for Int'l Students, According To New Study

New York City is the best destination in the United States for international students, according to a recent study conducted by CommercialSearch, a US commercial real estate company.

The research, which analyzed the US cities where the country's top 250 universities are located, found that iconic destinations such as New York City, Los Angeles, and Washington, DC, are the best places for international students in the US, Erudera.com reports.

“These cities captivate interest with their large international student communities, array of support services, and abundant opportunities for fun,” the report by Comercial Search notes.

Nearly 13,500 international students are enrolled at universities in New York City, which also attracts the highest number of undergraduates from around the world compared to any other city in the US. Findings show the city is well-known for providing a variety of services specifically designed to meet the needs of international students.

Texas cities such as Houston, Dallas, and Austin rank among the top six best student cities in the US. The three destinations, according to the study, emerge as budget-friendly, offering a high-quality academic experience at affordable rates.

On the other hand, Los Angeles, which had approximately 6,800 international undergraduates in the fall of 2022, secured the second spot on the list not only for its academic programs and research opportunities but also for its diverse range of student support services.

Washington, DC, claimed the third spot, mostly because it offers international students a combination of culture, outdoor activities, and convenient transportation options.

“This makes it an ideal choice for students who value both cultural experiences and fun activities. In fact, the city scores second highest in the fun and recreation category,” the report adds.

For international students who prioritize affordability, Houston, Fort Worth, and Austin are three good options. Despite scoring lower in the green commuting metric, these cities stand out for food price index, rent, and transportation ticket price metrics, meaning international students can have a cost-effective college experience.

Last year, official figures showed that the United States hosted more than one million international students from more than 210 countries. During the 2022/23 academic year, the number of international students at US colleges and universities increased by 12 percent compared to the previous year. This is the largest annual increase in more than 40 years.

China and India remain the top source countries for international students in the US, with 289,526 students and 268,923 students, respectively. However, India has overtaken China with most students in 24 US states, including Texas.

>> International Students Contributed Over $40 Billion to US Economy in 2022/23

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