The rankings and data include several points of particular interest to international students considering a U.S. education, including information on the highest average financial aid awards and available ESL programs.

International student data is available for schools in various geographic and academic categories, with the most popular being National Universities and National Liberal Arts Colleges. National Universities offer a full range of undergraduate majors, plus master's and Ph.D. programs, while National Liberal Arts Colleges focus on undergraduate education and award at least half of their degrees in the liberal arts fields of study.

The diverse academic offerings at these institutions make them attractive options for international students planning a U.S. education.

This year, 10 National Universities reported having undergraduate student bodies with at least 15 percent international students for fall 2012, according to a U.S. News survey. Four out of five ranked National Universities reported offering ESL programs or classes. Soka University of America, a liberal arts college located in California, led its peers with a reported study body of 39 percent international students.

Prospective international students can view the above data points and more by referring to the graphic below. Enrollment data are from fall 2012, and financial aid data are from 2012-2013. In addition, the U.S. News International Student Counsel blog offers student views of U.S. college life – from admissions to graduation.

Source: ICEF