Universities with Most International Students

The United States, long known for its world-class education system, is home to a number of universities and colleges that have become popular destinations for international students. With their rich academic offerings, diverse campuses, and global reach, these institutions have earned recognition for their ability to attract students from all over the world. Among the U.S. universities that excel in welcoming international students, several stand out for their high international student enrollment and commitment to fostering a multicultural campus environment. Hawai`i Pacific University, Suffolk University, Campbellsville University, California State Polytechnic University Pomona, and Fairleigh Dickinson University are some of the best colleges and universities in the United States that boast impressive international student populations. These institutions are not only celebrated for their academic achievements but also for their dedication to diversity and inclusion.

Hawaii Pacific University (HPU) has become a standout institution for international students. Located in Honolulu, HPU is renowned for its diverse and inclusive atmosphere, which attracts students from across the globe. The university’s commitment to international diversity has earned it a consistent ranking as one of the top Master’s universities worldwide for international student enrollment. In 2010, it was ranked 20th globally in international enrollment by the Institute for International Education (IIE). This ranking places HPU among the most international institutions in the world, a distinction that highlights its global appeal. U.S. News has also recognized HPU for its diverse student body, naming it as one of the top universities in the Western United States for “Most International Students.” One of the major reasons for HPU’s popularity among international students is its location in Hawaii, which is an attractive destination for students looking to study in a culturally rich, tropical setting. Additionally, HPU offers a wide range of programs, including business, health sciences, international studies, and marine biology, all of which attract students from different corners of the globe. The university’s strong international student community fosters cross-cultural exchange, allowing students to engage with peers from a variety of backgrounds and perspectives. This vibrant, multicultural environment plays a key role in making HPU a sought-after institution for international students seeking an American education.

Suffolk University, located in Boston, Massachusetts, is another institution with a growing international student population. Ranked 7th for “Most International Undergraduate Students” among Master’s Universities in the Northern U.S. by U.S. News & World Report in 2009, Suffolk University has become a leader in welcoming international students. The university’s urban setting in Boston, one of the most culturally diverse cities in the U.S., provides international students with ample opportunities to connect with peers from around the world and immerse themselves in an array of cultural experiences. Suffolk offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including those in business, law, public policy, and international relations, which attract students from all over the globe. The university’s emphasis on providing a global perspective within its academic programs, combined with its welcoming campus culture, makes it an appealing choice for international students. Suffolk University also benefits from its active engagement in fostering a sense of community among its international students. Support services, cultural exchange programs, and international student organizations create a campus environment that celebrates global diversity and provides students with the tools they need to succeed in their academic and personal pursuits.

Campbellsville University (CU), located in Campbellsville, Kentucky, is another institution that has garnered attention for its diverse international student body. Ranked in U.S. News’ 2010 “America’s Best Colleges,” CU is recognized not only for its academic quality but also for its welcoming atmosphere for international students. In particular, CU is ranked 23rd in the category of “Best Baccalaureate Colleges” in the South, and it is tied for 5th in the region for the number of international students. CU’s international student enrollment is bolstered by the university’s commitment to global diversity, offering a variety of support services and programs to help international students adjust to life in the U.S. The university provides a broad array of academic offerings, with strengths in business, education, nursing, and theology, and it consistently attracts students from regions such as Africa, Asia, and Europe. CU’s relatively small size fosters a close-knit community, allowing international students to receive personalized attention and form meaningful relationships with both their peers and professors. The university’s commitment to global engagement is reflected in its growing international student population and its efforts to provide a culturally enriching educational experience.

California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona) is another institution that has seen a significant increase in international student enrollment. In the 2010 U.S. News & World Report College Rankings, Cal Poly Pomona was ranked 17th in the West region for most international students, making it one of the top universities in California for global diversity. The university’s academic focus on polytechnic education—offering programs in engineering, architecture, business, and the sciences—has proven particularly attractive to international students pursuing technical and applied science degrees. Cal Poly Pomona stands out for its emphasis on hands-on learning, where students engage in internships, research projects, and industry partnerships, making it an appealing option for students from across the globe who want a practical education in fields such as engineering and business. The university’s international student community is diverse, with students from all over the world, including Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Cal Poly Pomona’s welcoming campus culture, coupled with its strategic location in Southern California, provides international students with access to a wealth of cultural, academic, and professional opportunities. The university also offers support services for international students, including language assistance, orientation programs, and counseling services, which help students adjust to life in the U.S. and navigate the complexities of higher education.

Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU), with campuses in New Jersey and Vancouver, Canada, is another institution recognized for its commitment to attracting international students. U.S. News ranks FDU among the top 20 schools in the Northern U.S. for both “Most International Students” and “Campus Diversity” among comprehensive universities offering master's degrees. This recognition speaks to FDU’s success in creating a diverse and inclusive academic environment that welcomes students from around the world. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, nursing, and the arts, which attract international students from various countries. FDU’s New Jersey campus benefits from its proximity to New York City, providing students with access to one of the most dynamic and diverse urban environments in the world. The university’s Vancouver campus offers international students the opportunity to study in Canada, further expanding FDU’s global reach. The university’s focus on diversity is evident in its support services, which include academic advising, cultural programs, and international student organizations, all of which help students feel at home in their new environment. FDU’s inclusive campus culture, combined with its international student-friendly policies, ensures that students from all over the world can thrive academically and socially.

These universities—Hawai`i Pacific University, Suffolk University, Campbellsville University, California State Polytechnic University Pomona, and Fairleigh Dickinson University—are all distinguished by their commitment to welcoming international students and fostering a diverse, global campus community. Through their academic programs, cultural exchange opportunities, and support services, these institutions provide students with a rich educational experience that prepares them for success in an increasingly interconnected world. The high international student enrollment at these universities is a testament to their global appeal and dedication to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment for students from all backgrounds. Whether through their diverse academic offerings, global networks, or commitment to creating a welcoming campus, these universities play a vital role in shaping the future of international education in the United States.