The number of Nigerian students enrolling in U.S. colleges and universities surged by 13.5% in the 2023/2024 academic year, reaching a total of 20,029 students. This marks Nigeria as the leading source of international students from Africa and places it 7th globally, according to the 2024 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange. This is a significant milestone, as U.S. institutions now host a record 1,126,690 international students, the highest number ever recorded.
The Open Doors Report, celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, reveals the growing international appeal of U.S. higher education. Nigerian students are increasingly contributing to the diversity and intellectual richness of American campuses, known for their strong academic credentials and dedication to furthering their studies. More than half of Nigerian students, over 55%, are enrolled in graduate-level programs, underlining their commitment to advanced education.
READ MORE: Ondo Election 2024: Aiyedatiwa Secures Landslide Victory, Winning All 18 LGAs in Ondo
The rise in Nigerian student enrollment highlights not only the quality of education in the United States but also the deepening academic exchange between the two nations. It reflects a broader trend in Sub-Saharan Africa, where student mobility increased by 13% in 2023/24. This follows an 18% rise in the previous year, cementing the region’s status as the fastest-growing source of international students.
The report, published by the Institute of International Education (IIE) in partnership with the U.S. Department of State, was released during International Education Week. This initiative, aimed at promoting global awareness and inspiring future leaders, further emphasizes the growing educational ties between the U.S. and Nigeria, and the pivotal role of people-to-people connections in fostering mutual understanding.
