The number of Nepali students holding active visas to study in the United States saw a significant rebound in February, driven largely by a surge in undergraduate and associate degree enrollments, according to the latest federal SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) data.
Total enrollment for Nepali students rose to 34,850 in February, an increase of 1,115 students from the 33,735 recorded in January. The 3.3% month-over-month growth suggests a strong mid-academic-year intake for the Spring 2026 semester.
The data reveal a narrowing gender gap among Nepali students. While the number of male students rose from 18,902 in January to 19,396 in February—an increase of 494—female enrollment grew at a faster rate. The number of female students climbed by 621, moving from 14,833 to 15,454.
Academic interest showed a marked shift toward foundational and undergraduate programs. The Associate Degrees category saw the biggest spike, jumping from 7,021 in January to 7,797 in February—an increase of 776 students. Bachelor’s degree enrollment grew by 266, reaching 12,180.
Master’s degree enrollment saw modest gains, rising from 9,919 to 9,978, while doctorate levels remained nearly flat, moving from 4,335 to 4,337. Short-term language program enrollment rose from 276 to 310.
Texas continues to cement its status as the primary hub for the Nepali diaspora in American higher education. The state added 606 Nepali students in a single month, bringing its total to 8,364. Nearly one in every four Nepali students in the U.S. is now located in Texas.
Other states with significant Nepali student populations also saw steady increases. Ohio remained the second-most popular state, increasing slightly from 2,422 to 2,435. New York saw a gain of 67 students, rising from 2,200 to 2,267. Kentucky and Missouri maintained their positions in the top five, with 1,658 and 1,506 students, respectively.
While general academic enrollment fluctuated, specialized vocational programs remained stagnant. The number of Nepali students enrolled in U.S. flight schools held steady at exactly 53 in both January and February. Additionally, no Nepali students were recorded in primary school or other vocational school categories during this period.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
