More Cambodian students than ever are pursuing higher education in the United States, with a 55 per cent increase over the past five years — the fastest growth rate in the East Asia Pacific region, according to the US embassy.
The surge was highlighted at the EducationUSA Fair 2025, held in Siem Reap on September 8 and Phnom Penh on September 10, where Cambodian students had the chance to meet with representatives from 12 American colleges and universities.
In Siem Reap, the fair opened with remarks from Sara Feuerstein, acting public affairs officer at the US embassy, and Ly Bunna, director of the Provincial Department of Education, Youth and Sport.
More than 900 students, parents and educators attended.
“Through EducationUSA, Cambodian students gain access to unparalleled opportunities to study in the US, fostering mutual understanding and empowering the next generation of leaders to contribute to global progress,” Feuerstein said.
Two days later in Phnom Penh, chargé d’affaires Benjamin Chiang joined Som Ratana, undersecretary of state at the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“Cambodia’s commitment to education and international collaboration reflects the aspirations of its youth to engage with the world,” Chiang noted.
The fairs featured representatives from 12 US institutions, including Iowa State University of Science and Technology, Kent State University, the University of Arizona and Seattle College.
“Students had the chance to explore scholarship opportunities, learn about visa procedures from a US consular officer, and gain direct advice on admissions and academic programs,” according to the embassy.
The embassy emphasised that the diversity of institutions represented — ranging from large public universities to smaller private colleges and community colleges — ensures that Cambodian students can find pathways tailored to their academic and professional goals.
Beyond the annual fair, Cambodian students have year-round access to EducationUSA Advising Centers in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, along with services at American Spaces in Battambang, Kampong Cham, Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
These centres provide free one-on-one coaching, preparatory materials and guidance through the application process.
The steady rise in Cambodian enrolments reflects both growing aspirations among young Cambodians and the embassy’s efforts to strengthen educational exchange.
With more students setting their sights on the US, the trend signals a deepening connection between Cambodia and the global academic community.
