Dhaka, Nov 18 (V7N) – The number of Bangladeshi students enrolled in the United States has reached a record high, with over 17,000 students pursuing education at US institutions, marking a 26% increase from the previous academic year (2022-2023), according to the 2024 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange.

This surge in enrollment has propelled Bangladesh to the eighth-largest sender of international students to the US, up from 13th position last year. Over the past decade, the number of Bangladeshi students in the US has increased by over 250%, rising from 4,802 in the 2013-2014 academic year to 17,099 in 2023-2024.

The Open Doors Report, published annually by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and the Institute of International Education, highlights international student enrollment trends, including those enrolled in pre-academic English programs.

In 2023-24, overall international student enrollment in the US reached a record 1,126,690, reflecting a 7% year-on-year growth. Graduate students hit a historic high of 502,291, increasing by 8%, while post-graduation practical training program participants surged by 22%. Enrollment at community colleges grew by 13%, marking the fastest growth rate in over 25 years.

International students contributed over $50 billion to the US economy and supported more than 368,000 jobs in 2023, according to the US Department of Commerce.

The US embassy in Dhaka emphasized the importance of international education, describing it as a cornerstone for innovation, economic growth, diplomacy, and national security. The embassy is commemorating International Education Week 2024 by hosting virtual and in-person sessions to guide Bangladeshi students and scholars through the US higher education application process, scholarship opportunities, and academic exchange programs.

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