Skip to main content

International Students

A Community of International Scholars

NC State University recognizes the importance of common global concerns and acknowledges the interdependence of nations and peoples throughout the world. We support a wide array of cooperative academic, research and public service programs that allow our faculty, staff and students to address international political, social and economic problems. We also sponsor a variety of study abroad opportunities and international activities.

Currently, there are several thousand graduate students from over 85 different countries pursuing degrees at NC State. These international scholars play an important part in our academic community by bringing a new perspective to their area of study, opening new doors for research, and spreading NC State’s reputation for excellence around the world.

From Middle East to America: PhD Graduate Tells of Inspiring Journey

While working on her master’s degree in her home country of Saudi Arabia, Heba Al-Mohsin wanted one thing: the opportunity to do her own research in the laboratory.

Back home at the Saudi women’s university Al-Mohsin attended, instrumentation wasn’t available, so lab work was done at a men’s university and women students would analyze men’s lab data.

Al-Mohsin in commencement robe

International Student Services

Most international students are away from their support system back home, so we work hard to make sure they feel at home once they enroll. We make the transition easier by offering services to help with immigration issues, application requirements, meeting fellow students, and overall beginning the process of becoming a graduate student at NC State. Multiple support offices exist solely to assist international students through their entire academic career, from admissions and visa processing, to academic and sponsored student support, to on-going immigration and travel advice and post-graduate employment authorization.

2,600 + International Graduate Students

International students make up 35 percent of NC State’s graduate student population.