Florida State University (FSU) has been recognized for its international education efforts, earning high rankings in the latest Open Doors 2025 Report by the Institute of International Education (IIE). According to the report, FSU is ranked first among public universities and fourth overall for long-term study abroad enrollments, with 170 students participating in programs lasting eight weeks or more during the 2023-2024 academic year. The university also placed tenth among public universities and twelfth overall for total study abroad participation, with 2,702 students involved in overseas programs during the same period.
“Florida State University’s strong performance in the Open Doors report is continuous and reflects our deep commitment to global engagement and experiential learning,” said Steve McDowell, assistant provost for International Initiatives and interim dean of The Graduate School. “Long-term study abroad experiences provide transformative opportunities for students to immerse themselves in different cultures, broaden their perspectives, and develop skills that prepare them for success in an interconnected world.”
The Open Doors report is widely regarded as a comprehensive source of information on international student mobility in the United States. It is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State with government funding and supported by IIE.
The most popular destinations for American students studying abroad remain Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom. FSU maintains a presence in these countries through its study centers located in Florence, Valencia, and London. Additionally, FSU operates a branch campus in Panama City, Republic of Panama.
FSU International Programs offers further opportunities in countries such as Costa Rica, Croatia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Kosovo, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, Romania and Switzerland. This summer’s programming includes a partnership between International Programs and the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE), administering an internship program based in Durban, South Africa. The initiative targets CARE students who will participate in full-time internships with local organizations alongside group excursions designed to enrich their experience. Funding support comes from Dr. Jai’s First-Gen Explorers Fund established earlier this year by FSU First Lady Jai Vartikar.
“Our programs are designed to give students meaningful, hands-on experiences that go beyond the classroom,” said Louisa Blenman, executive director of International Programs. “These opportunities help students grow academically and personally while building lifelong connections across the globe.”
FSU also offers Global Exchanges through its Center for Global Engagement. This program allows students to attend partner universities abroad while earning credit at FSU rates. Currently there are partnerships with over 40 institutions across 20 countries including Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands South Korea Spain and United Kingdom.
More information about these programs can be found at international.fsu.edu or cge.fsu.edu/fsu-global-exchange-programs.
