COLOMBO – There has been a 10% increase in the number of Sri Lankan students studying at US colleges and universities during the 2023-2024 academic year, reflecting a growing trend of Sri Lankan students seeking higher education in the United States.
The increase was highlighted in the 2024 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange.
The US embassy in Sri Lanka in a statement issued on Tuesday (19), said the increase underscores the robust educational ties between Sri Lanka and the US, as well as the global appeal of US higher education institutions.
The Open Doors Report, celebrating its 75th year, is a comprehensive census of international student mobility trends. The 2023-2024 report reveals the United States had welcomed an all-time high of 1.12 million international students from more than 210 countries and territories, which the US embassy said reaffirmed the country’s position as the leading destination for higher education.
The embassy also noted that the United States had also marked 25 years of EducationUSA, the global educational advising network that provides resources for students worldwide, including in Sri Lanka.
The statement said Sri Lanka’s contribution to the high number demonstrated the continued appeal of US higher education as a destination of choice for students seeking cutting-edge academics, research opportunities, and vibrant campus experiences.
US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung commenting on the growing interest among Sri Lankan students in studying abroad said the 10% increase in Sri Lankan students demonstrates the power of international education in building strong connections between the two countries.
“US universities offer Sri Lankan students access to world-class education, cutting-edge research, and lifelong networks, equipping them to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world. This growth reflects the strength of the US-Sri Lanka partnership and our shared dedication to education and innovation,” she said, adding that through programs like EducationUSA, the US remains committed to supporting students interested in cross-cultural exchange. She encouraged more Sri Lankan students to consider the transformative opportunities that studying in the United States can provide.
The statement said that Sri Lankan students are drawn to US institutions for their renowned STEM programs, research facilities, and practical training opportunities. Many pursue graduate-level studies, becoming part of a global network of professionals with deep ties to both countries.
The release of the Open Doors Report coincides with International Education Week (IEW), a joint initiative of the US Departments of State and Education. IEW celebrates the benefits of international education and promotes opportunities for students to engage in global academic and cultural exchanges.
Sri Lankan students interested in studying in the United States can access free resources through EducationUSA, including one-on-one advising and guidance on finding the best academic fit. To learn more, visit EducationUSA or the US Embassy’s EducationUSA advising centre in Colombo.
Other key findings from Open Doors 2024
- The United States saw a 7% increase in international student enrolment in the 2023-2024 academic year, with 90% of students returning to in-person learning.
- STEM fields remain a significant draw for international students, with nearly 50% of students enrolled in STEM programs such as Computer Science, Engineering, and Physical Sciences.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs experienced double-digit growth, highlighting the US commitment to practical, hands-on learning for global careers.
- US institutions also saw a 13% increase in international students at community colleges, offering more accessible pathways for higher education.
-ENCL
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