The OECD's Education at a Glance 2026 report, based on 2024 data, shows that international students matter most at the higher levels of study.
The numbers
Across OECD countries, international students made up 11% of new bachelor's students, 24% of new master's students and 34% of new doctoral students. In Luxembourg they were 68% of new master's and 87% of new doctoral students; in New Zealand 56% and 63%.
International students also choose STEM more often: 30% graduated with a STEM degree, against 23% of domestic students. The gap is largest in the United States (53% against 20%).
What has changed since
The OECD data predate many of the recent restrictions. Newer figures show active US master's visa records down 13.8% year on year in September 2026. In Canada, permits for master's and PhD students doubled in the second quarter of 2026 after early-2026 policy changes. In Australia, research master's enrolments tripled from a small base while taught master's starts fell 10% in the first half of 2026.
Key points
- International students: 11% of new bachelor's, 24% of master's, 34% of doctoral students (OECD, 2024 data).
- 30% of international graduates hold a STEM degree, against 23% of domestic graduates.
- Graduate-level students are in high demand as countries compete for them.
If you plan a master's or PhD, especially in STEM, compare scholarships and post-study rules across countries: you are the group universities compete for most.
Source
- New OECD data underlines growing competition for graduate-level international studentsICEF Monitor · Oct 27, 2026Reports the OECD's Education at a Glance 2026.
Written by the Study and Work Abroad team in our own words from the sources above. Rules change often: before you apply, ask us to check the current rules for your case.
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