NC State University excels in Global Learning
NC State University’s commitment to global learning is reflected in recent Open Doors data.
The 2024 Open Doors report, commissioned by the U.S. Department of State and compiled by the Institute of International Education, documents NC State student participation in global education and exchange.
NC State enrolled 3,720 international students and supported 1,649 students in study abroad programs. “Global learning is increasingly important for career readiness and deeper understanding of the complex challenges facing society ,” said Vice Provost for Global Engagement Amy Conger. “NC State’s global programs not only broaden students’ worldviews but also drive innovation and collaboration across borders, equipping our students with the skills and global networks essential in today’s world.”
This year, NC State has received the Open Doors 75 Seal of Excellence in recognition of its participation in the survey since it was first published in 1949. Back then, NC State had 70 international students. Today, it has 3,720 enrolled students.
International Students at NC State
During the 2023-2024 academic year, NC State enrolled 3,720 international students. Among these students, 15% were undergraduates, 81% were graduates and 4% were non-degree students participating in intensive English and short-term exchange programs. Open Doors also reports an additional 1,755 recent NC State graduates participating in post-completion training. Our international students represent 116 countries and their enrollment reflects NC State’s strengths in STEM education. Top fields of study include computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, industrial engineering, and mechanical engineering.
NC State leads UNC system institutions in total international student population with nearly 39% of total UNC system schools reporting. NC State is also amongst the top 50 in the nation for total international student population.
NC State International Students Top 10 Countries of Origin
- India
- China
- Bangladesh
- South Korea
- Iran
- Taiwan
- Saudi Arabia
- Brazil
- Nigeria
- Egypt
U.S. Students Studying Abroad
The Open Doors Report documents the number of U.S. citizen and permanent resident students who participated in credit-bearing study abroad programs during the 2022-2023 academic year. NC State is ranked second in the state in sending students abroad and 31st nationally. The NC State Open Doors total was 1,649 U.S. students, marking a 60% increase from the previous year and a full rebound of study abroad activity following the pandemic.
Students also traveled internationally for non-credit bearing research or fieldwork, volunteering or service learning, internships and work abroad activities. These activities, tracked through NC State’s International Travel Gateway, totaled 231 students who completed experiential learning activities beyond study abroad.
Our students explored the world through a broad range of programs, with over 63% choosing summer sessions led by NC State faculty. The Poole College of Management and the College of Engineering led the way with the largest cohorts of participants.
NC State’s European Center in Prague emerged as the top host location for our students, followed by Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and France. The University dispersed over $700,000 in study abroad scholarship funding, emphasizing our commitment to addressing financial needs and expanding student access to global learning.
Top 10 Destinations for NC State Students Studying Abroad:
- Czech Republic (327)
- Italy (248)
- Spain (198)
- United Kingdom (148)
- France (91)
- Ireland (66)
- South Africa (62)
- Australia (51)
- Finland (47)
- Germany (43)
NC State’s commitment to global learning extends beyond statistics. Our campus takes an active role in supporting international students, provides high-impact study abroad experiences, and fosters global perspectives across disciplines. These efforts are critical for student learning and continued prosperity for the university, the state of North Carolina and ultimately, the world.
About Open Doors: The Open Doors Report provides comprehensive information on international students and scholars in the United States and on U.S. students studying abroad for academic credit. Commissioned by the U.S. State Department and compiled by the Institute of International Education, Open Doors data provide useful analyses of student mobility trends and the economic impact of international exchange.