The number of Indian students in the US increased by over 12 per cent in 2021, while those from China, which accounts for the largest share, dropped by more than 8 per cent, according to an official report.

In its annual report released on Wednesday, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services said the pandemic continued to impact international student enrolment.

The total number of Students and Exchange Visitor Information System records for F-1 and M-1 students was 1,236,748 in 2021, a decrease of 1.2 per cent over 2020’s figure.

“The number of students from China and India made Asia the most popular continent of origin…. China sent fewer students in 2021 in comparison to 2020 (-33,569) while India sent more students (+25,391),” the report said.