Nigeria has reinforced its status as a leading source of international students in the United States, ranking first in Africa and seventh globally, according to the 2024 Open Doors Report on International Education Exchange.
The US Embassy revealed in a statement on Tuesday that 20,029 Nigerian students enrolled in US colleges and universities for the 2023/2024 academic year, representing a 13.5% increase from the previous year.
The report, released during International Education Week, highlighted that US institutions now host a record 1,126,690 international students, the highest ever. Nigerian students make up a significant portion of this group, with over 55% pursuing graduate-level studies, contributing to the academic and cultural diversity of American universities.
“Nigeria, with 20,029 students, reinforces its position as the top sending country from Africa and the seventh largest globally,” the report stated, emphasizing the strong educational ties between the two nations.
Sub-Saharan Africa continues to be the fastest-growing region for international education, with a 13% rise in student mobility in 2023/2024, following an 18% increase the previous year.
The Open Doors Report, marking its 75th anniversary, is published by the Institute of International Education in collaboration with the US Department of State. It serves as a key benchmark for global educational exchange, promoting cross-cultural learning and strengthening global partnerships.
