Nigeria has reaffirmed its status as a top contributor to international student enrollment in the United States, ranking seventh globally and first in Africa, according to the 2024 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange. The report, released during International Education Week, highlights the growing impact of Nigerian students on the US academic landscape.
The US Embassy, in a statement on Tuesday, disclosed 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. This surge underscores Nigeria’s role in the record-breaking 1,126,690 international students currently hosted by US institutions, the highest in history.
Nigerian students are recognized for their academic excellence and commitment to higher education, with over 55% pursuing graduate-level studies. Their presence significantly enriches the academic and cultural environment in the US.
The Embassy’s statement noted: “US colleges and universities host a record-breaking 1,126,690 international students this year, marking an all-time high for international enrolment. Notably, Nigeria, with 20,029 students, reinforces its position as the top sending country from Africa and the seventh largest globally.”
The steady increase in Nigerian student enrolment reflects a strong demand for US education and highlights the enduring ties between the two nations. These ties are further bolstered by educational exchanges that foster mutual understanding and global collaboration.
Sub-Saharan Africa continues to lead as the fastest-growing region for international education, recording a 13% increase in student mobility for 2023/2024, following an 18% rise in the previous academic year.
The Open Doors Report, published by the Institute of International Education in partnership with the US Department of State, marks its 75th anniversary this year. It remains a crucial benchmark for understanding global educational exchange, inspiring cross-cultural learning, and encouraging future leaders to study in the US.
