The United States is experiencing a surge in international graduate students, particularly from Southeast Asia. These students bring a wealth of knowledge and fresh perspectives, significantly enriching the U.S. economy, academia, and scientific research (Popadiuk & Arthur, 2014). Their contributions extend beyond the academic realm, fostering cultural exchange and enriching the nation's tapestry. This study aims to delve deeper into the experiences of Southeast Asian (SEAA) graduate students in the U.S., specifically focusing on their academic and acculturative journeys (Baba & Hosoda, 2014). Using a qualitative approach to deeply examine the experiences of SEAA international graduate students, the researcher conducted semi-structured interviews with a select group of students and a single focus group. The results identified factors influencing their academic journey, including successes, challenges, and coping mechanisms. Three major themes grounded our understanding of SEAAs graduate experience in the USA: academic challenges, acculturation difficulties, and coping strategies. Participants shared their experiences with adapting to American culture, adjusting to a new academic system, and navigating social integration (Fritz et al., 2008). The study increased our understanding students' strategies to overcome challenges and successfully integrate into the academic community and higher education institutions. Recommendations from participants positions staff, faculty, and students to recognize the significant contributions of SEAAs to the cultural fabric of the U.S. and acknowledges their vital role in the nation's socioeconomic landscape (Xiong, 2021). The implications of the study further acknowledge the importance of inclusivity and equitable opportunities within higher education. This research offers valuable insights that can benefit students, policymakers, and educational institutions. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]