In August 2025, the United States experienced a significant 19% decline in international student arrivals compared to the same month in 2024. This downturn is attributed to a series of stringent measures implemented by the Trump administration, including the suspension of student visa interviews and the introduction of a travel ban affecting 19 countries, primarily in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Notably, India, the largest source of international students to the U.S., saw a staggering 45% decrease in arrivals.
The new vetting procedures, which require applicants to provide access to their social media accounts, have further complicated the visa application process. These developments have led many prospective students to reconsider studying in the U.S., with some opting for alternative destinations such as Germany and the United Kingdom.
The decline in international student numbers poses a financial challenge for U.S. universities that rely heavily on tuition fees from foreign students. Experts warn that if this trend continues, it could undermine the global standing of American higher education institutions.
