From 832 To 1,010: Inside SUU’s Booming International Student Community

Southern Utah University (SUU) has seen a remarkable rise in international student enrollment, growing from 832 students in fall 2023 to 1,010 in fall 2024. This increase outpaces that of many similarly sized schools in the region and aligns with SUU’s rapid overall growth. International students at SUU now represent 93 countries, with notable growth from Southeast Asia, Europe, Africa, and Latin America.

SUU’s Associate Vice President for International Affairs, Stephen Allen, highlights the University’s proactive approach to fostering a diverse student body. “We focus on multiple parts of the world to increase stability in our global enrollment,” he said in a press release, noting that SUU now represents a record number of countries and territories. This achievement results from strategic efforts in digital marketing, targeted travel, and partnerships worldwide, a strategy that has proven highly effective for SUU.

According to Allen, international students and their families are drawn to SUU’s appealing combination of safety, proximity to natural attractions, and affordable, high-quality programs. Cedar City’s low crime rate and supportive community further bolster SUU’s reputation as a welcoming destination for international students. Additionally, many students and parents report high satisfaction with the individualized attention and support SUU provides.

The impact of SUU’s international students extends beyond campus. International students contribute an estimated $23.1 million annually to the local economy and foster social and cultural exchange in Cedar City and Iron County. Programs like SUU’s homestay program create opportunities for lasting connections between students and community members, enriching the area with new perspectives and friendships.

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SUU anticipates continued growth in international enrollment, aspiring to foster an increasingly inclusive environment that welcomes students from all over the world. For more information, visit SUU’s international admissions website.