The United States continues to dominate the global education market, attracting 1.58 million international students in 2024, according to a recent analysis by Boundless, an immigration-focused platform that provides data-driven insights on international student trends, visa policies, and employment opportunities. This marks a 5.3% increase over 2023 and generated an estimated $43.8 billion for the US economy, supporting more than 378,000 jobs. But the big question is: why do nearly half of these students choose just a handful of states, with California, New York, and Texas leading the list? The answer lies in a mix of academic prestige, career opportunities, cultural vibrancy, and lifestyle appeal.
Academic powerhouses with global prestige
Boundless notes that California, New York, and Texas are home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world.
- California houses Stanford, UC Berkeley, UCLA, and USC, globally ranked for research and innovation.
- New York boasts Columbia University, NYU, and Cornell, which dominate business, law, and arts programs.
- Texas features top institutions like UT Austin and Texas A&M, known for engineering and technology.
These universities offer not just world-class education, but also extensive research opportunities and strong connections to global industries.
Career opportunities and the OPT advantage
According to the Boundless study, most international students gravitate toward STEM fields—especially computer science and business administration—and seek work experience through Optional Practical Training (OPT).
- In 2024, a record 165,524 students participated in STEM OPT, with India and China accounting for nearly 70% of new authorisations.
- California’s Silicon Valley, New York’s financial hub, and Texas’s growing tech and energy sectors make these states prime job markets.
The OPT program, especially the STEM extension, allows graduates to work in the U.S. for up to three years, giving them an edge in AI, data science, cybersecurity, and engineering roles.
Cultural diversity and supportive communities
Boundless highlights that more than 70% of international students in the U.S. come from Asia, with India and China together making up 47.5% of SEVIS records. States like California and New York are cultural melting pots, offering vibrant immigrant communities, diverse cuisines, and inclusive social networks. Texas, too, has a growing international student population and strong support systems through university cultural associations and international student offices.
Lifestyle and location perks
International students don’t just seek great universities—they also prioritise quality of life. California offers sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and proximity to global tech hubs, making it an ideal destination for those eyeing innovation and a vibrant lifestyle. New York, on the other hand, delivers the ultimate urban experience with its cultural landmarks, world-class entertainment, and status as a global financial powerhouse. Meanwhile, Texas stands out for its affordability, strong economy, and rapidly growing industries, all while maintaining a lower cost of living than coastal states. This blend of academic excellence, career opportunities, and lifestyle perks makes these states the most attractive destinations for students from around the world.
Aggressive recruitment and global branding
The Boundless report also credits strong recruitment strategies by universities in these states. They offer generous scholarships, career guidance, and international alumni networks. Their ability to market themselves as innovation hubs and culturally rich environments strengthens their global appeal.
Can the US maintain its lead?
The US hosts 16% of the world’s internationally mobile students, but faces growing competition from Canada and the UK, which offer attractive immigration pathways. Boundless notes that political uncertainties and visa delays in the US remain key concerns. However, as long as policies continue to support international talent, California, New York, and Texas will remain at the forefront of global education.As the Boundless study shows, these states aren’t just educational destinations—they’re gateways to opportunity. By combining top-tier academics, dynamic job markets, cultural diversity, and lifestyle perks, California, New York, and Texas offer international students more than a degree—they offer a future.
