U.S. international student enrollment declines amid new visa policies

International student enrollment at U.S. higher education institutions is experiencing a significant decline, driven by policy changes from the Trump administration. Data from the Common App shows a 10% drop in international applicants for the 2026-27 academic year, while new enrollment fell 17% in fall 2025 compared to the previous year.

Key drivers of this trend include new rules capping F-1 and J-1 visa stays at four years, limited availability for visa appointments at embassies, and aggressive immigration enforcement. A lawsuit is currently attempting to block visa-length changes scheduled for September 15.

The impact varies by institution; while elite universities may remain stable, regional public universities and mid-tier private colleges face greater financial risks due to their reliance on full-pay international students. The Association of International Educators projects that this decline could cost local economies $3.4 billion and put approximately 40,000 jobs at risk.

In response, U.S. Senator Ron Wyden and other lawmakers have urged the State Department to ensure timely visa processing to maintain U.S. competitiveness.