For the second consecutive year, SF State ranks first in number of international students, according to a report based on 2005-2006 enrollment numbers released by the Institute of International Education Monday.

Last fall 1,719 undergrad and graduate level international students attended SF State from 94 different countries.

“When you add to their numbers those of our many students who were born elsewhere, our international reach is even greater,” wrote SF State President Robert Corrigan in an email to the faculty.

Students from Asian countries make up 74 percent of the international student body, led by Japan with 425 students followed by Taiwan, 169, South Korea, 134, and China, 117.

“In the long run, these students will be leaders in government, commerce, law, and education. They will return to do business with us and look to us for collaboration,” wrote Yenbo Wu, SF State director of international programs.

San Francisco has a reputation as an international city and SF State is more affordable than other nearby four-year universities, which has helped make it a popular destination for international students, said Jennifer Wissink, SF State senior international adviser.

“Our international students add greatly to the richness of the SF State experience,” Corrigan wrote.