Increase in Chinese students attending US universities on F-1 student visas

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The US Midwest state, Iowa, has reported an increase in enrollment of Chinese students in the state's schools over the past few years. At Iowa State University, Chinese undergraduate enrollment grew from 72 students in 2002 to 1,212 this year. At the University of Iowa, the enrollment of Chinese undergraduate and graduate students on F-1 student visas went from 591 in 2005 to 1,737 last year.

Officials believe there are several reasons for this increase. Among them is the increase in China's middle class, the greater difficulty in gaining admission to Chinese schools, and the increased belief that US schools will provide a better education.

"The increase is due primarily to a combination of a growing Chinese middle class and the growing ability of families in China to afford to send students to the US, combined with the belief of Chinese families that students will get both a good education and a stronger proficiency in English," said James Dorsett, director of Iowa State's international students and scholars office. "There is a perception that a Western education will give students a leg up in their careers."

Also, easier student visas for Chinese students is making the US a more viable study option for many. Patricia Parker, associate director of admissions at Iowa State University, noted that the visa application standard used to be very high in the past few years. In recent years, the US State Department has responded to concerns voiced by various universities that visa application standards were too strict, she said.

International students interested in studying at US universities should apply for an F1 student visa. The F1 visa is a temporary student visa that allows international students to study full-time at an accredited high school, college, university, or other academic institution.

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