The Brian Lehrer Show The Latest on International Students in the US
May 30, 2025
Liam Knox, an admissions and enrollment reporter for Inside Higher Ed, shares vital insights on international students in the U.S. He discusses the Trump administration's aggressive stance on revoking student visas, particularly affecting Chinese students. Knox highlights the growing tension between universities and government policies over foreign student admissions. He also addresses the financial contributions of these students and the safety concerns they face amidst a challenging political climate, illustrating the significant role they play in American higher education.
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International Students Subsidize Aid
- Harvard and many U.S. universities enroll many international students who pay full tuition, which subsidizes financial aid for domestic students.
- International students also contribute to cross-cultural exchange and university research, vital for higher education sustainability.
International Students Are Economically Vital
- International students comprise only about 6% of the total U.S. higher education population, contrary to claims of excessive enrollment.
- These students contributed over $50 billion to the U.S. economy in 2023, highlighting their economic importance.
International Students Boost University Revenue
- International students pay full tuition and fees as they do not qualify for federal or state financial aid.
- Their presence generates significant revenue for universities and positively impacts local economies around campuses.