Fact Check: "India sends over 331,000 students to the US in 2024, a record high."
What We Know
In 2024, India became the leading country for international students in the United States, with more than 331,000 students enrolled in various educational programs. This figure marks a significant milestone, as it is the highest number of Indian students studying in the U.S. since the 2008/2009 academic year (U.S. Mission to India, Times of India). The increase in student enrollment is part of a broader trend, as the total number of international students in the U.S. has also reached an all-time high of over 1.1 million, reflecting a growing demand for education in the United States (Open Doors Report).
Analysis
The claim that India sent over 331,000 students to the U.S. in 2024 is supported by multiple reliable sources. The U.S. Mission to India explicitly states that this number represents a record high for Indian students in the U.S. (U.S. Mission to India). Additionally, the Times of India corroborates this information, confirming that India has regained its position as the top source country for international students after several years (Times of India).
Furthermore, the Open Doors Report, a reputable source for international education statistics, also indicates that India surpassed China as the leading country of origin for international students, with a reported 331,602 Indian students enrolled in the U.S. for the 2023-2024 academic year (Open Doors Report, IIE). The consistency across these sources enhances the credibility of the claim.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The assertion that India sent over 331,000 students to the U.S. in 2024 is accurate and well-supported by multiple credible sources. The data reflects a significant increase in Indian student enrollment, establishing India as the top source country for international students in the United States.
