Augustana ranked No. 4 in enrolling international students

Augustana College once again moved up the ranks in the federal 2025 Open Doors Report among baccalaureate colleges for the number of international students it enrolls. Augustana's 2024-25 ranking is now #4 in the nation.

This fall, Augustana welcomed 165 international first-year students from countries including Ethiopia, Morocco, Nepal, Vietnam and Pakistan, making up 25% of the cohort. More than 20% of Augustana’s student body overall is now international, up from 11.9% in 2020, giving all students the chance to learn in a truly global classroom.

The Open Doors Report found the number of international students at U.S. colleges and universities reached an all-time high in 2024-25, with more than 1,177,766 international students enrolled. This is a 4.5% increase from the previous academic year.

“Augustana’s commitment to diversity and success for students of all backgrounds is shown every day in the programs and the support we offer,” said Dr. Gauri Pitale, vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion. “We’re thrilled to continue to be an attractive place for learners from across the globe to achieve their academic and life goals at Augustana.”

According to the report, international students accounted for 6% of the total U.S. higher education population. The U.S. Department of Commerce notes international students contributed $55 billion to the U.S. economy in 2024.

President Andrea Talentino said Augustana’s international students are a vital part of the college’s vibrant community.

“This fall we welcomed new and transfer students from 22 states and 34 countries,” said President Andrea Talentino. “The life experiences of both our international and domestic students are enriched by learning and living together. We’re proud to continue our commitment to all students in preparing them for a diverse and changing world.”

Augustana’s Office of International Student and Scholar Services and Office of Student Inclusion and Diversity provide support and engagement opportunities for international students, students of color and the entire campus community. Programming includes International Education Week, International Student Orientation, cultural market trips, cooking classes, the PACE Multicultural Mentorship Program and the Culture Houses Block Party.

This year Augustana ranks among Brigham Young universities in Hawaii and Idaho; Barnard College, New York, N.Y.; Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, Mass.; Denison University, Granville, Ohio; DePauw University, Greencastle, Ind.; and University of Richmond (Va.).