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Growth for Inbound Study Abroad Programs Hits an All-Time High
The U.S. hosted a record-breaking number of international students in the 2023-2024 academic year, Open Doors reports, with 1.13 million students from over 210 countries. This marked a 7% increase from the previous year, with states like California, New York and Texas welcoming the most. Graduate student enrollments reached an all-time high of 502,291, up 8%, while the number of students staying in the U.S. for Optional Practical Training (OPT), a temporary work permit for students to work in their field of study, rose by 22%, reaching 242,782.
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| India became the leading country of origin for international students, surpassing China for the first time since 2009. Students traveling from India grew by 23%, reaching 331,602, while Chinese student enrollments fell by 4% to 277,398. Together, these two countries accounted for over half (54%) of all international students. The number of international students in STEM fields remained strong, with 56% of students pursuing science, technology, engineering and mathematics majors. |
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The U.S. also saw growth in student numbers from Sub-Saharan Africa, which increased by 13%, the highest growth rate among all regions.
As international students continue to seek an education in the U.S., ensuring they have access to comprehensive healthcare during their time abroad is essential. GeoBlue provides specialized inbound plans and services tailored to meet the unique needs of these students. With these plans, students gain access to the Blue Cross® Blue Shield® network, one of the largest in the country, along with free telemedicine and counseling services. For more information, please contact studentsales@geo-blue.com.
Source: The Open Doors International Educational Exchange is a comprehensive information resource on international students and scholars at higher education institutions in the United States and U.S. students studying abroad. It is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. government and is published by IIE. For more information, visit www.opendoorsdata.org.
Looking Ahead: Study Abroad in 2025
After the Trump administration’s reelection, early signs suggest shifts in international student interest in the U.S. and U.S. student interest in studying abroad. According to Forbes, surveys show that 42% of global students are less likely to study in the U.S. because of the election, with European students particularly impacted. However, international student numbers have historically rebounded after periods of political uncertainty.
At the same time, U.S. student interest in studying abroad has increased significantly, with inquiries surging five-fold following the election and current interest remaining 20%-30% higher than usual. This growing interest presents an opportunity for U.S. students to gain more global exposure. Meanwhile, the new administration may introduce policies that could affect international exchange programs, such as travel restrictions and visa delays, with some universities already issuing statements to their international communities in anticipation. These developments emphasize the need to monitor trends and global dynamics closely and to stay prepared for potential changes that could impact student mobility in the years ahead. |
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Helpful Resources
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| With the increase in U.S. students traveling abroad, ensuring access to life-saving medical care is crucial. GeoBlue’s medical evacuation, repatriation, and global assistance services offer a comprehensive international healthcare solution that covers all needs. In a medical emergency, we arrange transportation to the nearest center of medical excellence and monitor the member until discharge or return home. If necessary, we will repatriate the member and cover expenses for the preparation and transportation of remains in the event of death. We also coordinate travel for a family member if hospitalization exceeds seven days. This flyer provides additional details on these benefits and the support GeoBlue offers. |
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Wellness Portal
Wellness is a top priority for members, and the demand for well-being resources continues to grow. Did you know your students can access a wealth of tools through GeoBlue? The GeoBlue wellness portal offers a wide range of articles, webinars and resources to support their health journey, . It's a one-stop resource for a variety of wellness support.
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- Multiple language options
- LiveConnect for quick access to a counselor
- The ability to schedule appointments with a counselor or wellness coach
- Access to Perks at Work and Community Online Academy
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| Students can access the Wellness Portal by logging into the Member Hub, selecting "Wellness" from the dropdown menu in the navigation bar, scrolling to the bottom of the page and clicking on "Wellness Portal" to get started. |
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See You Soon!
BE SURE TO STOP BY AND VISIT US AT THE FOLLOWING EVENTS! |
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Toronto, Canada |
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Forum on Education Abroad Annual Conference
March 19–21, 2025
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San Diego, CA |
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NAFSA: Association of International Educators Annual Conference
May 27–30, 2025 |
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“They listen, understand, and properly guide. I felt much better after I called because they thoroughly took me through everything I needed to know and gave me solutions to solve my problem.”
– MEMBER |
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Catch the Headlines: Be among the first to hear about news and issues impacting the globally mobile |
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Grab a Seat: Register for upcoming events and webinars featuring relevant topics and industry experts |
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Get to Know Us: Catch snippets of who we are and how we’re simplifying the international healthcare experience |
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GeoBlue® is the trade name of Worldwide Insurance Services, LLC (Worldwide Services Insurance Agency, LLC in California and New York), an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. GeoBlue is the administrator of coverage provided under insurance policies issued in the District of Columbia by 4 Ever Life International Limited, Bermuda, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.
Global Wellness Assist services are provided by WorkPlace Options, an independent company that is not affiliated with GeoBlue and does not provide Blue Cross or Blue Shield products or services. WorkPlace Options is solely responsible for referring participants for counseling, coaching and work-life services and health assessments by providers who are appropriately licensed by local authorities. The evaluation and efficacy of any service delivered by a provider lies solely with the employee, spouse, dependent or other authorized party who inquires on behalf of those or other participants. GeoBlue shall have no responsibility or liability whatsoever for any aspect of the provider counseling, coaching, work-life services and health assessments or other similar services, or the counselor/participant relationship.
SCHL207951-ADM-BRK-3/25
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