International students, faculty, and staff play a critical role at UW–Madison by bringing a wealth of expertise, breadth of experience, and diverse perspectives to the campus community. In a video I narrated recently for the International Division, we explored the history of UW–Madison’s global engagement. It was fitting to begin by recognizing that international students have been an integral part of our university since its very first class, more than 175 years ago.
The 7,600 international undergraduate and graduate students on campus from more than 120 countries are some of the best and brightest from around the world, and they put into practice the Wisconsin Idea by enriching lives beyond the classroom. Many of them do so through programs like International Reach, a cultural speakers initiative sponsored by International Student Services that connects international students with local schools and organizations. By sharing information and personal experiences about their home countries, they help to bring the world to Wisconsin in meaningful ways. In academic settings, international students play a vital role in advancing groundbreaking research in a wide range of disciplines that serve as an engine for innovation in the U.S. and beyond. Equally important are the friendships forged on our campus that cross national and disciplinary boundaries and strengthen our global alumni network.
In addition to these cultural and academic contributions, international students have a significant positive economic impact on the nation and state. According to a report published by NAFSA, the more than 1.1 million international students studying in the U.S. contributed over $43 billion to the national economy, supporting 378,175 jobs in 2023-2024 alone. In Wisconsin, the 15,587 international students studying at our colleges and universities contributed more than $540 million and helped sustain nearly 5,000 jobs, underscoring their critical role in our state’s economic vitality.
At UW–Madison, we recognize that international students, faculty, and staff are not simply visitors—they are an essential part of our academic community, shaping the cultural and intellectual fabric of the university. Their presence fosters cross-cultural understanding, strengthens global connections, and enhances the educational experience for all. The International Division is proud to reaffirm our commitment to a campus that is truly global in its mission.