International Student Economic Value - NAFSA

During each November's International Education Week (IEW), NAFSA: Association of International Educators, releases new data and analysis illustrating the economic value of international students and their dependents contribute to the United States, and here is the latest analysis of the 2012-2013 academic year.

NAFSA shows that international students and their dependents contributed $24 billion to the U.S. economy. NAFSA also estimates that 313,000 jobs were created or supported during this same timeframe, meaning three U.S. jobs were created or supported for every seven enrolled international students (analysis excludes students on post-completion optional practical training). This is a 6.2% increase in jobs supported and a nearly 10% increase in dollars contributed to the economy from the prior academic year. The economic contribution is just one of the many benefits that international students bring to our campuses and communities.

NAFSA also released new analysis this week on U.S student participation in study abroad programs, including the demographic trends and more. When compared to the overall U.S. post-secondary student enrollment, the number of students studying abroad still only represented about 1% of all students. This analysis was based on data from the IIE's Open Doors 2013 report.