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Statistical Report

Orientation.JPGInternational Student Enrollment Data at Michigan State University


OISS is responsible for serving international students at MSU and prepares a statistical report each fall. Reports contain data on international student enrollment and annual highlights. This publication is available at the end of every fall semester.

Since admitting its first international students in 1873, MSU has welcomed tens of thousands of international students and scholars to East Lansing. Today, MSU is home to over 9,000 international students, scholars, and their dependent family members from more than 140 countries. In addition to contributing to the academic and intercultural environment, international students also have a tremendous positive economic impact on the Greater Lansing area. Michigan State University's international students contribute $324.5 million to the local economy through spending on education, housing, dining, retail, transportation, telecommunications, and health care. This economic impact supports 4,675 jobs in the Greater Lansing area. 

Source: NAFSA International Student Economic Value Tool


 

Spring 2021 Snapshot

  • 4,265 international students are enrolled for Spring Semester 2020, including:
    • 2,396 undergraduate students
    • 1,819 graduate students
    • 48 non-degree and visiting students 
    • 606 students currently on Optional Practical Training (OPT) 

  • The top 10 sending countries and regions for international students are as follows: 
    • China, with 2,363 students 
    • India with 599 students 
    • South Korea with 240 students 
    • Canada with 146 students
    • Taiwan with 125 students 
    • Iran with 97 students
    • Bangladesh with 61 students
    • Saudi Arabia with 57 students
    • Turkey with 52 students
    • Vietnam with 52 students 
  • The top fields of study for international students in 2021 are the following: 
    • Business 
    • Engineering
    • Communication 
    • Computer Sciences
    • Social Sciences