During the period (2013-2024), learning engagement has been extensively researched. We reviewed the evolution of university students' engagement in learning over 12 years and explored research hotspots and trends for sustainable development. We applied a bibliometric analysis to visualize and analyze 1,231 articles on the topic of university students' learning engagement. We collected the data from the Web of Science database between 2013 and 2024, using CiteSpace and VOSviewer bibliometric software to map the nature of international university students' learning engagement research. This mapping was executed by analyzing the country/region of publications, institutions of publications, hotspots, and emerging topics/themes. The results yielded a great understanding of undergraduate education. There is academic consensus on effectively engaging students to actively participate in class activities. International cooperation among researchers should be expanded to strengthen exchange of learning experiences between developed and developing countries for sustainability and quality education.