Nigeria has emerged as the eighth-largest source of international students in the United States, with 21,847 Nigerians enrolled in American higher institutions for the 2024/2025 academic session.
This was disclosed in the latest Open Doors Report, which tracks global student mobility trends. The figure marks a 9.1 per cent increase compared to the previous academic year and extends a consistent five-year growth pattern from fewer than 13,000 students recorded in the 2020/2021 session.
Despite the increase, Nigeria slipped one spot in the global ranking after Taiwan posted stronger numbers within the review period.
India retained its position as the leading source of international students in the U.S. with 363,019 enrollees, overtaking China, which recorded 277,398 students. Overall, total international student enrollment in the U.S. surpassed 1.1 million during the academic year under review.
However, the report indicated that fresh enrollments began to show signs of slowing toward the end of the session, amid policy adjustments introduced following the January 2025 inauguration of U.S. President, Donald Trump. The measures reportedly include tighter immigration controls and increased visa scrutiny.
Analysts say Nigeria’s rising student population in the U.S. strengthens remittance inflows and deepens people-to-people relations between both countries. It also contributes to Nigeria’s human capital development, as students gain access to globally competitive education and skills.
While Nigerian families continue to pursue academic opportunities abroad, American universities benefit significantly from tuition revenue and international diversity.
Observers note that although demand for U.S. education among Nigerians remains strong, evolving visa and immigration policies may shape future enrollment trends.
