Who are International Students?

This is the group of students that provide much of the student diversity at WKU. We can describe them by a number of different category systems:

By continent:

Every continent except Antarctica is represented in the WKU student body. The largest numbers of international students come from Asia, which is the same pattern witnessed on almost every university campus in the USA. Asia is the most populous continent, and growing affluence in the Pacific Rim has made it possible for many students to come to universities in the USA to study.

In addition to the students who are self-funded, there are many students in developing countries who are sponsored by their governments or agencies of their government. South American students are the second largest continental group at WKU.

By country:

60 foreign countries are represented at WKU this semester. India has the largest number of students by far, with 200 of our approximately 515 internationals. Korea has moved past China as the second largest. Bosnia is third, followed by Taiwan, China, Canada, Japan, Brazil, and Mexico.

Students at WKU by country FALL, 2001
When two numbers appear by a country, the first number indicates the number of students enrolled in classes at WKU. The second number includes visiting scholars and students participating in Optional Practical Training away from the WKU campus.

By level of study:

Approximately two thirds of our international students are graduate students, which is consistent with the national pattern. We have approximately 50 students in the English as Second Language Institute. Many of these go on to enroll in our graduate and undergraduate programs when they complete their study of English.

By area of study:

Although international students are enrolled in many departments all over campus, they are predominantly enrolled in the Ogden College of Science and Engineering, once again reflecting the national pattern. Computer Science and Public Health have the largest numbers of international students. The Gordon Ford College of Business has a growing number of international students as well.