There has been a steady decline in international students studying in the United States over the last few years, which has caused economic consequences, according to a report by NAFSA: Association of International Educators.
The study, Losing Talent: An Economic and Foreign Policy Risk America Can’t Ignore, highlighted the reasons behind the enrollment decline as well as its negative impact.
International students enrolling in U.S. universities and colleges are a major financial benefit. Last year, according to NAFSA’s research, international students contributed $39 billion to the economy.
However, the 10-percent enrollment decrease within the last two years cost the U.S. economy an estimated $5.5 billion and more than 40,000 jobs, according to the report.
“This downward trend must stop in order for the United States to remain competitive in today’s global market,” said Dr. Esther D. Brimmer, NAFSA executive director and CEO. “International students and scholars create jobs, drive innovation, enrich our classrooms, strengthen national security and become America’s greatest foreign policy assets. International students and scholars are truly great for America.”
Daisy Biddle, director of business development at STA Travel, believes that not only do international students positively impact the economy, but they also provide cultural benefits.
“We certainly do see the benefits of international exchange in terms of sharing each other’s cultures, sharing ideas and really making the world a smaller place,” she said. “I think that will also encourage more students within the U.S. to study abroad and go and experience other cultures.”
