Public Policy
International Students Contribute $14.5 Billion to U.S. Economy
The Economic Benefits of International Education to the United States: A Statistical Analysis, 2006-2007
Annually, NAFSA calculates the economic impact of international students and their dependents on the U.S. economy. During the 2006-2007 academic year, NAFSA estimates that international students and their dependents contributed approximately $14.5 billion to the U.S. economy.2006-2007 Economic Impact Statements
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This conservative figure, $14.5 billion, is based on tuition figures from Peterson's, enrollment figures from the Institute of International Education's Open Doors 2007 report, living expenses calculated from Peterson's figures, and analysis of the data by NAFSA member Jason Baumgartner at Indiana University – Bloomington’s Office of International Services.
This report does not rely on a “multiplier effect.” Although this might provide a more accurate estimate of actual economic impact, there is no consensus on the appropriate size of such a multiplier. We make our assumptions clear in a methodological appendix attached to each report.
Along with our partners at IIE, Peterson's, and Indiana University, we are committed to continuing efforts to improve our data and methodology. By any measure, international education makes a significant contribution to the U.S. economy.
View the 2005-2006 Economic Impact Statements.
