WASHINGTON, November 17 – The United Kingdom is once again the number one study abroad destination for American students, according to the Institute of International Education (IIE) in its annual Open Doors report published today.  Historically, the UK is the most popular study-abroad destination for US students, attracting 32,705 US students to study abroad for the 2006/2007 academic year.  

“What first appealed to me about King’s College London was the truly diverse academic curriculum and student body, as well as all the obvious perks of studying at an incredible location in the heart of central London,” said Bucknell University student Adam Johnson, who completed a semester at King’s College, University of London, in fall 2007.  “Because the University is conveniently situated in such a cultural Mecca, I found myself excited to experience a different type of learning both inside and outside of the College confines.”  

Representing 14.6 percent of the total study abroad population, the United Kingdom maintains its lead among American students over the increasingly popular non-traditional programs in places like China, India and South America.  

“American students choose to attend study abroad programs in the United Kingdom for many reasons, including its rich culture, outstanding academic reputation and highly international student population.  I am delighted that, year after year, American students continue to travel to the United Kingdom to experience a semester abroad,” said Sharon Memis, Director of the British Council in the United States.  The British Council is the United Kingdom’s international non-profit organization for cultural relations and educational opportunities.     

While UK universities remain the top destination for American students, the IIE Open Doors study also indicates that US universities are increasingly surpassing UK universities in attracting international students.    The British Council has urged UK universities to reconsider their global marketing strategies in response to news that record numbers of international students are studying at American universities.

Students planning to study in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland can choose from 150 degree-awarding institutions offering 14,000 programs.  The British Council website (www.britishcouncil.org/usa-education) provides comprehensive information on UK study abroad programs, as well as undergraduate and graduate degrees, available scholarships and other funding options, visa requirements and student life.

A complete copy of the IIE release is available at http://www.opendoors.iienetwork.org.

About the British Council (www.britishcouncil.org/usa)

The British Council is the United Kingdom’s international non-profit organization for cultural relations and education opportunities. In the US, we increase recognition of the wide range of learning opportunities available in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and facilitate educational cooperation between the US and UK.

About Education UK (http://www.educationuk.org)

Education UK is a British Council brand that represents higher education, including universities and schools, in the United Kingdom.

In the United States, Education UK represents UK universities at educational conferences, particularly the annual meetings of the National Association for College Admissions Counseling (NACAC) and the NAFSA - Association of International Educators.