US Universities See 17% Drop in International Students Amid Stricter Visa Rules

New enrolments of international students at US universities have fallen by 17 percent this autumn, according to data from the Institute of International Education (IIE).

The decline affects a majority of institutions, with 57 per cent reporting lower numbers of incoming international students. Data from 825 universities show that 96 per cent of those experiencing declines attribute the drop to difficulties in the visa application process, while over two-thirds also cite travel restrictions. Delays, administrative hurdles, and visa denials are increasingly preventing students from starting their studies.

The Trump administration has implemented policies aimed at reducing legal immigration, including tighter scrutiny of visa applicants, requirements to disclose social media accounts, and in some cases, revocation or delay of visas. A White House spokesperson, Anna Kelly, said the measures were intended to “strengthen our country’s visa programmes to put American national security first.”

Universities warn that the impact goes beyond individual students. International enrolments provide a crucial source of revenue, particularly as domestic student numbers plateau and public funding decreases. Many overseas students are ineligible for financial aid and pay full tuition, which helps universities cover operating costs. 

According to NAFSA: Association of International Educators, international students contributed approximately $55 billion to the US economy in 2024. While 29 percent of institutions reported increases in new international enrolments and 14 percent saw no change, the largest declines occurred among students from India, the biggest source of international students in the United States. Analysts suggest this drop has driven much of the overall decrease.

Visa delays and extended waiting times, which have been ongoing concerns, are now intensifying the challenges for universities. Uncertainty over approvals is disrupting recruitment efforts and affecting campus diversity.

The decline in international students has wider consequences. Beyond financial contributions, they enhance academic environments and promote global exchange. A continued fall in enrolments could weaken the United States’ position as a leading destination for higher education and redirect talent to countries with more welcoming policies.