For more than 10 years, UH has ranked amongst the top 25 to 30 universities to host non-immigrant international students. This year it ranked 25th among other Tier One research universities across the country.
“UH is a magnet for international students because of the breadth and quality of its programs, its special focus on disciplines related to energy, health and the arts and because of Houston, the most diverse large city in the U.S.,” said Jerald Strickland, assistant vice chancellor for Office of International Studies and Programs.
“Happy international students attract other students who want a welcoming and stimulating academic environment.”
UH serves as a stepping stone for international students who have never been to the U.S. by preparing them for a future beyond the classroom, said Anita Gaines, director of Office of International Student and Scholar Services.
“The rich ethnic diversity and academic excellence found at the University of Houston provide boundless opportunities for our students by preparing them to be global citizens,” Gaines said.
Strickland said UH has developed partnerships with international universities and organizations, to assist in recruiting international students.
“UH has over 100 international university partners across the globe that know UH and are anxious to provide an avenue for advanced study at this University,” Strickland said.
“A few have exchange programs provide opportunities for UH students to study abroad at the cooperating international universities.”
The Office of International Student and Scholar Services assist international students in their transition to the University and the U.S. by providing orientation of the UH academic system, policy and procedures and connecting them with the Houston community for their culture adjustment, said Jin Zhang, associate director for the Office of International Student and Scholar Services.
“Our office provides assistance before the student even arrives to the U.S. We assist them on how to apply for the visa, provide airport picking up, and arrange housing,” Zhang said.
“Once they arrive, we provide check-in to verify the student immigration documents and report to (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) accordingly.”
The number of non-immigrant international students attending the University continues to increase each year, and includes students from 121 countries. In Fall 2012, there was an enrollment of 3,520 — 3,343 in Fall 2011 and 3,242 in Fall 2010, according to UH admission statistics.
The continued growth of international students is important to the overall success of the University and the for the experience of its students, said Parul Fernandes, director for the Office of International Studies and Programs.
“In order to be globally competent, every student must learn of different cultures. U.S. students who cannot go abroad due to monetary reasons interact with international students and learn about the different cultures and countries,” Fernandes said.
“So international students are great contributors to U.S. economy and in communicating about their culture through participation in the various programs.”
