Taiwan Emerges as Fifth Largest Contributor to U.S. International Student Population in 2023-2024
In a remarkable shift, Taiwan has positioned itself as the fifth-largest source of international students in the United States for the 2023-2024 academic year, according to the latest Open Doors Report. This marks a significant milestone as Taiwan surpasses Vietnam, which ranked sixth last year, joining the ranks of global educational powerhouses such as India, China, South Korea, and Canada.
The number of Taiwanese students enrolled in U.S. higher education institutions has grown steadily, with a 6.1 percent increase from the previous academic year, bringing the total to 23,157. These students now represent 2.1 percent of the overall international student population in the U.S., underscoring Taiwan’s growing presence in the American academic landscape.
Growing Trend of Taiwanese Students in U.S. Colleges and Universities
The surge in Taiwanese student enrollment reflects a long-term upward trend that began in 2015, with a brief dip during the COVID-19 pandemic years of 2019-2021. This continued growth highlights the increasing demand for higher education opportunities in the U.S. among Taiwanese students and their families.
According to the Open Doors Report, Taiwan’s new position as the fifth-largest contributor to the U.S. international student body is notable, especially as India and China continue to dominate the sector, accounting for more than half of all international students in the U.S.
Taiwanese Students by Academic Level and Participation in OPT Programs
Taiwanese students in the U.S. are not just enrolling in undergraduate programs. A significant 43.1 percent are pursuing graduate degrees, which places Taiwan as the eighth-largest foreign source of graduate students. At the undergraduate level, Taiwanese students represent 24 percent of the total Taiwanese student population in the U.S.
In addition to traditional academic programs, more Taiwanese students are participating in Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs. OPT, which allows international students to gain temporary employment in the U.S. related to their field of study, saw a 27.4 percent increase in Taiwanese student participation. As a result, Taiwan now ranks as the fourth-largest source of OPT students in the U.S., reflecting the growing interest among Taiwanese youth in gaining work experience in the United States after graduation.
The report also highlights that 4.5 percent of Taiwanese students are enrolled in non-degree programs, marking a notable increase of over 22.8 percent from the previous year.
International Education Week 2024 and U.S.-Taiwan Educational Exchange
The Open Doors Report was released during the annual International Education Week (IEW), a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education to promote global educational exchange. From November 18-22, 2024, the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) is hosting various events across Taiwan to highlight the benefits of studying in the U.S.
These events include seminars, a virtual education fair, and a six-part video series that features Taiwanese students sharing their experiences studying and working in the U.S. The aim is to provide Taiwanese students with valuable insights and resources on pursuing higher education and career opportunities in the United States.
Breakdown of Taiwanese Students in the U.S. (2023-2024)
| Category | Percentage of Total Taiwanese Students in the U.S. | Year-over-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate Programs | 43.1% | – |
| Undergraduate Programs | 24% | – |
| Optional Practical Training (OPT) | 28.4% | +27.4% |
| Non-Degree Programs | 4.5% | +22.8% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why has Taiwan’s position risen to 5th in U.S. international student rankings?
The rise in Taiwanese students can be attributed to an ongoing trend of increasing enrollment since 2015, with notable growth in graduate programs and participation in OPT programs.
2. What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
OPT allows international students in the U.S. to work temporarily in jobs directly related to their field of study, providing valuable work experience after completing their academic programs.
3. How many Taiwanese students are in the U.S. currently?
As of the 2023-2024 academic year, there are 23,157 Taiwanese students enrolled in U.S. higher education institutions.
4. How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected Taiwanese student enrollment in the U.S.?
While enrollment slowed during the 2019-2021 period due to the pandemic, the number of Taiwanese students has been steadily increasing since 2015, with significant growth in the last two years.
5. What are the main programs Taiwanese students are pursuing in the U.S.?
A majority of Taiwanese students are enrolled in graduate programs, with a smaller proportion in undergraduate programs. Additionally, many participate in OPT programs for work experience.
