The number of international students on US campuses is expected to drop for the first time in years, with a significant decline in new enrollments projected for the 2025-2026 academic year. According to reports, new international student enrollments are likely to decrease by 30-40%, resulting in a 15% overall decline in international student enrollment – equivalent to 150,000 fewer students compared to the previous year.

Several factors are contributing to this trend, including a temporary suspension of visa interviews from May 27 to June 18, 2025, followed by limited appointment availability and reduced visa issuance numbers in the first half of 2025. The US administration’s travel ban is also seen as a factor in the decline.

The economic implications are substantial, with an estimated $7 billion impact and over 60,000 jobs at risk across the United States. Key states like California and New York are expected to face significant financial losses, with California potentially losing over $1 billion.

Key Highlights:

– 30-40% decline in new international student enrollments for 2025-2026
– 15% overall decline in international student enrollment (150,000 students)
– $7 billion economic impact and 60,000 jobs at risk
– California and New York expected to face significant financial losses