New York University (NYU) has taken a significant step in advancing STEM education by announcing the establishment of the Courant School of Mathematics, Computing, and Data Science. This new school marks a strategic evolution in NYU’s approach to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, combining multiple disciplines into a unified academic and research powerhouse. The move reflects the university’s commitment to preparing students for the future of technology-driven industries and research. A New Era for STEM at NYU The creation of this new school integrates NYU’s mathematics department, computer science units, data science programs, and engineering-related fields. By bringing these areas together, NYU aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. This integration will provide students with a broader academic platform and access to cutting-edge research opportunities. Currently, prospective students applying for Fall 2026 cannot select this new school on the Common Application. However, the establishment of this school signals a future where NYU students will benefit from a more cohesive and forward-looking STEM education. Technology innovation has long been a priority for NYU. The new school consolidates the university’s strengths in mathematics, applied mathematics, data science, computer science, and engineering. This consolidation will enhance NYU’s influence in emerging fields and improve its ability to train students with the skills needed for careers in computing and data-driven industries. NYU’s president, Andrew Hamilton, highlighted that the school’s formation represents a major leap in the university’s technology strategy. It builds on a decade of impressive research achievements and positions NYU to remain a leader in scientific discovery and engineering education. NYU’s Research Growth and Ambitions Over the past ten years, NYU’s research funding and output have grown dramatically. According to the National Science Foundation’s 2024 Higher Education Research and Development Survey, NYU now ranks first in research funding within New York State and has climbed to 12th nationally. This rapid rise places NYU among the fastest-growing research universities in the United States. Under the leadership of Vice President for Research, Dr. Maria DePablo, NYU plans to launch new research initiatives, recruit top scientists, host international conferences, and expand laboratory facilities. The new school will be central to these efforts, embodying the idea that combining strengths across disciplines creates a whole greater than the sum of its parts. The Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences has a storied history dating back to the 1940s. Founded by Richard Courant, it has been a beacon of excellence in applied mathematics and interdisciplinary research. The institute has produced numerous distinguished scholars, including: 3 Turing Award winners 3 Fields Medal recipients 6 Abel Prize laureates 11 National Medal of Science recipients One of the institute’s current members, Professor Hong Wang, recently gained international recognition for proving the “Hodge Conjecture,” underscoring the ongoing academic vitality of the Courant tradition. Collaborative Formation of the Courant Institute School The new school emerged from months of collaboration among faculty from the Courant Institute, the Center for Data Science, and the Computer Science and Engineering Department at the Tandon School of Engineering. Together, they crafted a vision for a high-caliber academic institution that emphasizes interdisciplinary research and innovation. The school will include: The Mathematics Department, building on Courant’s pure and applied math expertise The Data Science Center An expanded Computer Science Department that merges strengths from Courant and Tandon Faculty will hold joint appointments across departments, breaking down traditional barriers and encouraging resource sharing and collaboration. The new school will maintain the Courant tradition of selective admissions. For example, the existing computer science master’s program requires strong academic backgrounds and research experience, with core courses in algorithms, operating systems, and machine learning. The new school will likely place even greater emphasis on interdisciplinary potential and creativity. Students aiming to apply should focus on: Participating in mathematical modeling competitions to develop abstract problem-solving skills Engaging in machine learning projects to gain hands-on experience with algorithms and engineering Pursuing cross-disciplinary research, such as bioinformatics or climate data analysis, to demonstrate innovative thinking These experiences will help applicants stand out in a competitive admissions environment. From its origins as a small research group in 1935, the Courant system has evolved into a flagship academic institution. The launch of the new School of Mathematics, Computing, and Data Science reflects broader shifts in global STEM education, where integration and collaboration across disciplines are key. This new school combines a rich academic heritage with a clear vision for the future. It promises to be a vital training ground for the next generation of leaders in technology and science, helping NYU maintain its position as a national center for research and innovation.

The 2025 Open Doors Report, released by the Institute of International Education (IIE), reveals significant trends shaping the landscape of international education in the United States. This authoritative report, published annually for over 76 years in collaboration with the U.S. Department of State, offers detailed data on international student enrollment, fields of study, and post-graduation work opportunities. The latest edition highlights record-breaking growth in international student numbers, a surge in STEM fields, and evolving patterns in work authorization through OPT (Optional Practical Training). These insights provide valuable guidance for students, educators, and policymakers interested in the future of global education in the U.S. The 2024/25 academic year marks a historic milestone with over 1.17 million international students enrolled in U.S. higher education institutions. This number represents a 4.5% increase from the previous year, underscoring the growing importance of international students to American universities. International students now make up 6.1% of the total U.S. student population. The combined enrollment from China and India accounts for more than half (53.4%) of all international students. Undergraduate enrollment among international students increased by 4.2%, while graduate enrollment saw a slight decline of 2.7%. This shift suggests that more families worldwide are encouraging students to pursue undergraduate studies in the U.S. earlier, allowing them to adapt to the American education system sooner. Meanwhile, graduate enrollment faces challenges such as visa policies and employment prospects. Growth in OPT Participation Reflects Rising Work Opportunities One of the most striking findings is the sharp increase in international students staying in the U.S. for work after graduation through the OPT program. OPT allows students on F-1 visas to work in their field of study for up to 12 months, with extensions available for STEM graduates. The number of international students on OPT reached 294,253, a 21.2% increase from the previous year. Chinese students, despite a slight decline in overall enrollment, showed a rise in OPT participation, indicating a growing desire to gain work experience in the U.S. This trend reflects a shift in priorities for many international students, from purely academic goals to career development and employment opportunities. The OPT surge highlights the U.S. as a preferred destination not only for education but also for launching global careers. China and India Remain Leading Source Countries India continues to lead as the largest source of international students in the U.S., with 363,019 students enrolled, a 9.5% increase from last year. China follows with 265,919 students, though its numbers declined by 4.1%. Indian students now represent the largest share of international enrollment. Chinese undergraduate enrollment dropped by 10.2%, while graduate numbers fell by 2.1%. Despite these declines, Chinese students on OPT increased slightly by 0.7%, signaling a focus on employment after graduation. Other top countries sending students to the U.S. include South Korea, Canada, Vietnam, Nepal, Taiwan, Nigeria, Bangladesh, and Brazil. The data reflects shifting global dynamics and the growing diversity of the international student body. STEM Fields Dominate International Student Preferences STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs remain the most popular choice among international students, accounting for 57% of all enrollments. Mathematics and computer science lead within STEM, attracting the highest number of students. Engineering programs enrolled 217,016 students, a 3.3% increase from the previous year. Business and management fields follow STEM in popularity, with 159,857 students. In contrast, fields like communication and journalism attract fewer international students, with only about 20,000 enrolled. The strong preference for STEM reflects global demand for skills in technology and innovation, as well as the availability of OPT extensions for STEM graduates. Popular Universities for International Students The report identifies the top U.S. universities attracting international students in 2024/25: New York University leads with 27,532 international students. Northeastern University (Boston campus), Columbia University, Arizona State University, and the University of Southern California follow closely. Other notable institutions include the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of North Texas, Purdue University, Boston University, and the University of California, Berkeley. These universities are often located in major metropolitan areas such as New York, Boston, and Los Angeles, offering strong economic opportunities, safer environments, and vibrant cultural scenes. International students increasingly consider factors like cost-effectiveness and career prospects when choosing schools, favoring institutions with strong STEM programs and good job placement records. The 2025 Open Doors Report offers several takeaways for students planning to study in the U.S.: Growing competition and opportunities: With international student numbers at an all-time high, competition for spots at top universities is intense, but opportunities for work experience after graduation have expanded. STEM fields offer strong career paths: Students interested in STEM disciplines benefit from higher enrollment, better job prospects, and extended OPT work authorization. Strategic university selection matters: Beyond prestigious names, universities with strong STEM programs and located in economically vibrant cities provide better value and career opportunities. OPT participation signals a shift: Many students now view U.S. education as a pathway to employment, not just academic achievement. Families should weigh these factors carefully when planning education abroad, considering both academic goals and long-term career plans.

InAmerica is now an official SSAT test center, providing expert guidance for families navigating the private school admissions process. NEW YORK, NY, UNITED STATES, November 14, 2025 / EINPresswire.com / -- InAmerica Education , a leading international education consultancy specializing in U.S. K–12 and higher education admissions, is proud to announce its official registration as an SSAT (Secondary School Admission Test) testing center. This milestone reflects InAmerica’s continued commitment to enhancing educational access and supporting families throughout every stage of the admissions process. The SSAT, administered by the Enrollment Management Association (EMA), of which InAmerica is a part, is a standardized exam used by hundreds of top private and independent schools in the United States and around the world. It serves as a critical benchmark for student readiness and competitiveness in the application process, assessing verbal, quantitative, and reading skills. As an officially registered SSAT test site, InAmerica will now offer students the convenience of completing this important assessment in a familiar, secure, and professionally managed environment. This designation also enables InAmerica to support students more holistically, ensuring not just strong application materials and academic profiles, but also smooth and well-planned test logistics. “Becoming an SSAT test center is a natural extension of the work we already do,” said Cindy Gong, partner at InAmerica. “We understand how high-stakes testing can be stressful for students and their families, and we’re proud to offer a testing environment that feels safe, supportive, and accessible.” The benefits of this new status are far-reaching. Students will have more flexible options for scheduling, fewer travel demands, and direct access to a test location operated by a team that is deeply familiar with the admissions process. Families working with InAmerica will now receive end-to-end guidance, including test registration assistance, preparation planning, and score strategy discussions, all in one place. With over a decade of experience, InAmerica has established a reputation for its thoughtful leadership, strategic planning, and high success rates across competitive school admissions. This new development reaffirms the organization’s role as a trusted partner for families navigating complex academic pathways. For more information about InAmerica’s services or to learn more about upcoming SSAT test dates, please contact info@inamericaedu.com .

InAmerica International Since 2010 What is KinderQuest? KinderQuest is the term used to describe the competitive admissions process for top-tier private schools in the U.S. that serve students from nursery (ages 2–3) through elementary school (typically up to Grade 5 or 6). Often described as the “Ivy League for little kids,” these schools are known for their academic excellence, robust resources, and long-term advantages in placement into elite middle and high schools—and ultimately, top universities. In recent years, more families have chosen to apply earlier and earlier, moving from Grade 1 to Kindergarten, from Kindergarten to Pre-K, and even to Nursery, especially at highly selective institutions like Horace Mann, where competition has driven families to seek any possible edge in timing. Each admissions stage varies in its characteristics, evaluation criteria, and preparation focus. Families should plan strategically and early. Through years of working closely with families, we’ve found that the younger the entry point, the earlier and more thoughtful preparation should begin. Below is a breakdown of suggested starting ages and difficulty levels for different early education stages: How is KinderQuest Different from College Admissions? While U.S. college admissions evaluate academic rigor, extracurriculars, essays, and standardized tests, top-tier K–12 schools often assess soft skills—including verbal development, emotional regulation, behavioral maturity, and social interaction. A child’s ability to connect, express, and adapt often matters more than scores. And instead of personal statements, there’s the parent interview. How a family’s values align with the school’s philosophy plays a critical role in admissions decisions. Why Are More Families Considering KinderQuest? Highly competitive private schools act as feeders to elite colleges. Early placement allows time for long-term development, without the rush of late-stage application stress. Parents are more proactive than ever in investing early in character, mindset, and communication training. Our KinderQuest Services We offer tailored advisory services for families with children aged 2 to 6, guiding them through the early admissions process with a holistic and strategic approach. Verbal Development & Communication Skills Through guided play, interactive exercises, and early language coaching, we help children strengthen verbal expression and age-appropriate communication. Emotional & Behavioral Readiness We support children in developing essential behavioral skills—such as self-regulation, turn-taking, and peer interaction—crucial for a smooth transition into structured school environments. Playdate Observations & Developmental Insights Structured play sessions allow us to assess social behavior and developmental cues. Families receive personalized feedback to better support their child's growth. Parent Interview Preparation We train parents to present their values, parenting philosophy, and family culture in a way that resonates with target schools’ missions and admissions expectations. Family Profile & Community Engagement Strategy We help families refine their narrative, highlight local involvement, and build a compelling presence through Family Presentation and social impact strategies. School Visits & Admissions Liaison We coordinate school tours and assist with admissions communication to advocate effectively for each child and family.

InAmerica’s K–12 Interview Prep Service equips students with the skills and confidence to shine in school admissions interviews. Through personalized coaching, mock interviews, and constructive feedback, we help students express themselves clearly, highlight their strengths, and make a lasting impression on admissions teams. InAmerica International Since 2010 K–12 Interview Preparation Services Personalized coaching, mock interviews, and parent guidance so your family shines in every conversation. Book a Free Consultation Why Interview Prep Matters For competitive U.S. private schools, the interview is often the tie-breaker once grades and test scores look similar. Admissions teams use it to gauge curiosity, communication style, social-emotional readiness, and family fit. A polished, authentic interview can: Broaden your admissible school list and scholarship leverage Signal character strengths—resilience, empathy, leadership Give parents a voice in the process and demonstrate shared values with the school Because most schools schedule interviews only once per cycle, preparation ensures you seize that single opportunity. What to Expect from the Interview The shape of the interview changes with age—yet the goal is always the same: reveal genuine potential and cultural fit. Early Childhood Elementary & Middle School High School Early Childhood (Pre-K–2) Play-based observations and small-group “screenings” measure social-emotional milestones, language development, and the ability to transition between activities. Elementary & Middle School (Grades 3–8) One-on-one student conversations focus on passions, learning style, and problem-solving; parents may have a separate Q&A about educational philosophy. High School (Grades 9–12) Longer individual interviews—sometimes paired with group discussions or panels—assess intellectual curiosity, leadership, and community impact. Parents often face deeper questions about support structures and alignment with the school’s mission. No matter the grade level, schools look for authentic self-expression, active listening, and alignment between student goals and campus culture. Smart Prep Timeline A proven roadmap moves families from baseline to confident delivery. Diagnostic Mock Interview & Feedback Establish current comfort level and identify growth areas. Foundational Coaching Build storytelling skills, body language awareness, and parent talking points. Strategy Phase Drill common and school-specific questions; refine responses for clarity and impact. Simulation Phase Full‐length mock sessions under timed, realistic conditions; receive detailed rubrics. Interview Day & Debrief Last-minute mindset tips; post-interview reflection and thank-you note guidance. Most families begin 4–8 weeks before their first scheduled interview. How InAmerica Helps Our holistic approach balances data-driven feedback with empathetic mentorship, ensuring every family member feels heard and prepared. ✔️Age-Appropriate Student Coaching – From playful icebreakers to senior-level panel strategies ✔️ Parent Interview Guidance – Craft clear narratives about values, support, and partnership ✔️ Behavioral Readiness for Young Applicants – Social-emotional exercises and classroom-skills practice ✔️ Customized Question Banks – Tailored to each target school’s culture and priorities ✔️ Recorded Mock Sessions & Analytics – Replay feedback that pinpoints tone, pacing, and non-verbals ✔️ Domestic & International Support – Time-zone-friendly scheduling and cultural fluency coaching Our 4-Step Onboarding Process Learn & Refine Consult & Plan Speak with a program director to map goals and timelines. Match & Begin We pair your child (and you) with an interview-expert coach. Learn & Refine Weekly sessions reinforced by targeted homework and video reviews. Measure & Succeed Final simulations + data-backed tweaks deliver interview-day confidence. Ready to Make Every Word Count? Schedule My Free Consultation

InAmerica’s Advisory Board is composed of distinguished educators, industry leaders, and experienced professionals who share a passion for guiding students toward academic and personal success. Serving as trusted mentors and strategic advisors, our board members bring diverse expertise in education, admissions, and global career pathways. Their insights help shape our programs, ensuring they remain innovative, impactful, and aligned with the evolving needs of students in a competitive world. InAmerica International Since 2010 Advisory Board The primary objective of this advisory board is to bring together a diverse group of well known experts, thought leaders, and well-connected authorities in the field of international education and educational consultancy. Their collective wisdom, experiences, and insights will play a vital role in guiding our strategic decisions, refining our services, and ensuring that we remain at the forefr ont of the industry. The Advisory Board of Consultations will serve as a valuable resource in the following ways Expert Guidance: Members will provide expert advice and recommendations on the latest trends, best practices, and innovations in educational consulting. Quality Assurance: Their input will help us maintain the highest standards of excellence in our services, ensuring that we consistently deliver outstanding support to our students and clients. Diverse Perspectives: The board will offer diverse perspectives, allowing us to better understand the unique needs of our global clientele and tailor our offerings accordingly. Strategic Direction: Members will assist in shaping our strategic vision, enabling us to adapt and thrive in a dynamic and evolving industry. This exciting initiative is a significant step in our journey to elevate InAmerica Education to new heights. Together, we will make a lasting impact in the field of international education consulting. Audrius Barzdukas Head of School at Poly Prep Country Day School View More Audrius Barzdukas, a dynamic education leader, is currently the Head of Poly Prep Country Day School, having previously served as the Associate Head of School at Harvard-Westlake. With a transformative approach, Audrius has achieved record enrollment, diversity milestones, and outstanding outcomes. His earlier roles include positions at the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee and USA Swimming. Dedicated to shaping a global and diverse learning community, Audrius is a recognized force in educational leadership. Samuel Lundquist Former Vice Dean & Chief Advancement Officer at Wharton View More Samuel Lundquist, a transformative leader in higher education administration, currently serves as Senior Advisor for International Relations at the University of Southern California and the Marshall School of Business. He concluded his 30-year career at the University of Pennsylvania as Vice Dean & Chief Advancement Officer at the Wharton School. Other key roles at Penn and Wharton included Assistant Vice President for Development and Campaign Initiatives, Chief of Staff & Managing Director, and Director of MBA Admissions. Sam also worked at Bucknell University as Vice President for Development & Alumni Relations and as Associate Director of Admissions. He was the Director of MBA Admissions at Dartmouth College’s Tuck School of Business.