International Student Enrollment at US universities Declines 17%
WASHINGTON D.C. - A new survey reveals a significant drop in first-time international student enrollment at US universities this fall, declining by 17%, according to data released by the Institute of International Education. While overall international student numbers saw a more modest 1% decrease – factoring in students already studying in the US – the sharp fall in new arrivals raises concerns about the future of international education in the country.
International students contribute approximately $55 billion (£41 billion) to the US economy and comprise roughly 6% of total higher education enrollment, according to 2024 figures from the commerce department. The Institute of International Education’s survey examined 828 higher education institutions.
The 17% decline in new students is lower than a summer forecast by NAFSA, a non-profit international educators group, which predicted a potential 30-40% drop due to visa challenges. Despite this, experts remain worried. “There are warning signs for future years, and I’m really concerned about what this portends for fall ’26 and ’27,” said Clay Harmon, executive director of AIRC: The Association of International Enrollment Management, in a statement to the Associated press.
Universities are responding to the challenges, with 84% prioritizing foreign student recruitment. Many institutions are offering increased flexibility, including deferrals, which rose 39% compared to the 2024 survey.
Several factors are cited as contributing to the decline, including visa issues, travel restrictions affecting around 2% of the foreign student population, and concerns among students about feeling unwelcome in the United States.
Recent policy changes under the current governance have also played a role. Earlier this year, the administration paused scheduling visa appointments for international students. when appointments resumed in June, visa applications faced increased scrutiny, including a requirement for applicants to provide access to their social media accounts.This policy followed large pro-Palestine protests on college campuses. Prior to this, the State Department revoked over 6,000 international student visas due to violations of US law, including assault, driving under the influence, and “support for terrorism.”
Notably, former President Donald Trump has publicly acknowledged the economic benefits of international students, stating, “You know, the students pay more than double when they come in from most foreign countries…I want to see our school system thrive. And it’s not that I want them, but I view it as a business.” He indicated in September plans to issue 600,000 chinese student visas – double the current number – despite some national security concerns raised by supporters.
