Nigeria Ranks Seventh Globally for International Students in the U.S., Leading Africa in 2024 Open Doors Report

Nigeria has reaffirmed its status as a top source of international students in the United States, ranking seventh globally and first in Africa, according to the 2024 Open Doors Report on International Education Exchange.

The U.S. Embassy shared this information in a statement on Tuesday.

In the 2023/2024 academic year, 20,029 Nigerian students enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities, representing a 13.5% increase from the previous year.

Released during International Education Week, the report revealed that U.S. institutions now host a record-breaking 1,126,690 international students, the highest number ever recorded.

Nigerian students contribute significantly to this total, known for their academic excellence and dedication to higher education. Over 55% of Nigerian students in the U.S. are pursuing graduate-level studies, enhancing both the academic and cultural environments of American universities.

“The report shows that U.S. colleges and universities are hosting a record-breaking 1,126,690 international students this year, setting an all-time high for international enrollment. This milestone coincides with the 75th anniversary of the Open Doors Report, a key indicator of international educational exchange in the U.S.,” the statement said.

The steady rise in Nigerian student enrollment underscores the growing demand for U.S. education and the strong bilateral ties between the two nations. These connections are further deepened through educational exchanges, fostering mutual understanding and global collaboration.

Sub-Saharan Africa continues to be the fastest-growing region for international education, with a 13% increase in student mobility this year, following an 18% rise in 2022/2023.

“Sub-Saharan Africa’s student mobility grew by 13% in 2023/24, maintaining its position as the fastest-growing region for the second consecutive year after an 18% rise in 2022/23. The influx of Nigerian students highlights the strong educational relationship between the U.S. and Nigeria,” the statement added.

The Open Doors Report, published by the Institute of International Education in collaboration with the U.S. Department of State, serves as a key benchmark for global educational exchange. It was revealed during International Education Week, an initiative designed to promote cross-cultural learning and inspire future leaders to study in the United States.