The latest report from EnglishUSA, the leading association for English Language Teaching (ELT) programs in the United States, has highlighted Japan’s prominent role as the primary source country for English language programs in the US. The report also coincides with the release of the Open Doors reports by the Institute of International Education (IIE), providing insights into the state of English language education programs in the United States.
Global ELP numbers have reached the 65-70% mark of their 2019 levels as of 2022, demonstrating a recovery from the pandemic’s impact. Cheryl Delk-Le-Good, the Executive Director of EnglishUSA, aims to set a significant benchmark for the organization’s global market share in comparison to other prominent study destinations such as Australia and the UK.
These annual reports are designed to empower individuals with data-driven decision-making capabilities while also serving as advocacy tools for the ELT industry. The report highlights that within the US, there are 750 active English-language programs, with 289 of them participating in the survey. Notably, Japan accounted for an impressive 12% of the total student population in the US in 2022, with 8,694 Japanese students attending various English-language schools across the nation.
Further, the report reveals that Japan led among community college-governed and university-governed providers. However, it secured the second spot among private providers, with a strong growth rate. Surprisingly, France, with 5,911 students, surpassed Japan’s count of 4,977 students attending private ELPs in the US. European nations are also making a shift in the top 10 countries opting for private ELPs, reflecting a shift in trends since the pandemic.
The distribution of English-language programs across the United States is noteworthy. Providers in California make up 16% of the total, followed by Florida at 11%, New York at 9%, and Texas at 6%. California, with over 120 programs, emerges as a key hub for ELPs. Despite the recovery and growth, the report emphasizes challenges that persist. Visa denials remain a significant obstacle for ELPs, with 67% of respondents viewing it as a major concern. Additionally, 50% of respondents consider visa processing times to be a crucial issue affecting the industry.