The University of Central Arkansas welcomed 100 new international students this semester from 29 different countries. This was up from 61 new international students one year ago.The overall international enrollment at UCA is 240 students, a 33 percent increase over last year’s international enrollment of 180 students. This is also the highest international student population on UCA’s campus in eight years. The increase is the result of more focused and expanded recruiting efforts by the Office of International Programs.
UCA’s total international student population represents 54 countries. The top five countries represented at UCA are: Honduras (31), Niger (23), Japan (14), South Korea (12) and Nigeria (11). The university also welcomed students for the first time from several countries including Hungary, Gambia and Uzbekistan.
?We are very pleased with this year?s numbers, they represent a significant increase. In addition to the recruiting, initiatives such as improved international orientation, a special orientation class for new international students, increased cultural student activities and a newly designated international residence hall will increase retention and help attract more students,? said Jim Brosam II, director of International Programs.