UF leads in study abroad, international students
Global Gators are on the rise.
The number of University of Florida students studying abroad rose 6 percent to 2,286 for 2014-15, making UF No. 11 in the nation. That’s more than double the increase for American students nationwide, according to the 2016 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange.
“Now more than ever, it is imperative to foster global understanding and respect for diversity,” said Angela Miller, director of study abroad services at UF’s International Center.
Although study abroad is at an all-time high nationwide, only 10 percent of U.S. undergraduates take part. The UF International Center works to extend opportunities for coursework, service learning, internships and research abroad to all students through exchanges, UF-led programs and third-party providers, Miller explained.
For international students coming to the U.S., UF ranked 23rd, the highest of any Florida school. The 6,752 students come from 140 countries, with China, India, South Korea, Saudi Arabia and Brazil the top five. Nationwide, international students represent just over five percent of those enrolled in U.S. higher education, up from around 4 percent in previous years.
The Open Doors report is published annually by the Institute of International Education in partnership with the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.