Top-Ranked for Study Abroad for Third Straight Year
鶹 is one of only three master's-level institutions in the state to receive the distinction in 2025.
For the third consecutive year and fourth overall , 鶹 has earned the top spot in the nation among master’s-level institutions for number of students studying abroad, according to the Institute of International Education’s (IIE) Open Doors Report for the 2023–24 academic year.
The prestigious recognition, announced at the start of International Education Week, highlights 鶹’s reputation as a national leader in global experiential learning. 鶹 is one of just three California master’s institutions to receive the distinction in 2025. This marks the fourth year 鶹 has earned the No. 1 ranking since 2020.
In addition to its top ranking overall, 鶹 placed second in the nation for long-term study abroad, first for mid-term programs and third for short-term programs among peer institutions.
“Our students continue to see international study, research and internship opportunities as integral components of their studies,” said Cari Vanderkar, assistant vice provost for international programs and senior international officer at 鶹. “These high-impact experiences bring 鶹’s Learn by Doing philosophy to life in a global context and are foundational for their future careers. This achievement is a testament to our dedicated staff, faculty and supporters who help advance our efforts to broaden access to these transformative learning opportunities.”
Between fall 2023 and summer 2024, Open Doors reports, 1,188 鶹 students studied abroad — with the International Center reporting more than 1,250 total student experiences in 37 countries, led by Spain and Italy and followed by the United Kingdom, Denmark, Japan, South Korea and Australia. Since 2000, 鶹 has consistently ranked among the top institutions in the nation for study abroad participation at the master’s level.
According to comprehensive findings from the Open Doors report, the diversity of students participating in study abroad programs overall has also grown significantly. Over the past decade, the proportion of students from historically underrepresented racial and ethnic groups has climbed from to 34% from 24%, reflecting sustained progress toward broader access and inclusion in global education opportunities.