Hyderabad, November 18, 2024: For the first time since 2009, India has surpassed all other countries in sending students to the United States, with over 3,30,000 Indians pursuing higher education in the 2023/2024 academic year. This marks a 23% increase compared to the previous year, according to the latest Open Doors Report.
U.S. Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, while releasing the report in New Delhi, highlighted that India has retained its position as the top sender of international graduate students for the second consecutive year, with nearly 197,000 Indian students—a 19% increase from last year.
The report also noted a remarkable 41% surge in Indian students participating in Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs, reaching 97,556, further cementing India’s role as a leading source of skilled professionals in the U.S. Undergraduate enrollments from India also grew by 13%, crossing 36,000 students.
“This upward trend reflects India’s growing interest in advanced academic and professional opportunities in the U.S.,” stated Ambassador Garcetti.
Interestingly, the report also highlighted a 300% increase in American students choosing India as a study abroad destination, with the number rising from 300 to 1,300 in 2022/2023.
To further enhance academic collaborations, the U.S. and India have launched the ‘Women in STEMM Fellowship,’ a partnership between Johns Hopkins University Gupta-Klinsky India Institute and the U.S.-India Alliance for Women’s Economic Empowerment.
Speaking at the fellowship’s launch, Ambassador Garcetti emphasized the importance of education and gender equity in shaping future advancements in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM).
Johns Hopkins University President Ronald J. Daniels added, “The fellowship is designed to equip Indian women scientists with essential research skills, mentorship opportunities, and global networks.”
This collaboration highlights the deepening ties between the two nations in education and professional development.
