New international student enrolments at US universities fell by 17% in the 2025-26 academic year, with 96% of institutions reporting a decline citing visa application issues, according to the Institute of International Education (IIE). The IIE’s fall 2025 snapshot survey, covering 825 higher education institutions, revealed that around 57% of these schools experienced a drop in international enrolments. The report highlights that visa-related challenges are the primary reason behind the downturn, reflecting broader concerns about access and policy changes affecting global students seeking education in the United States.
US Universities See 17% Drop in New International Student Enrolments
