International Student Enrollment in U.S. Colleges Faces Decline

Mon Nov 17 2025 09:31:57 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Despite stable overall international enrollment figures, a significant drop in new foreign students raises concerns for U.S. colleges as they navigate policy changes and market challenges.

International student enrollment has seen a slight overall decline in U.S. colleges this fall, driven by a steep 17% drop in new foreign students. Many universities report financial impacts due to these trends, while the Trump administration pushes for reduced foreign enrollment. Although colleges are adapting to challenges, experts express concerns about the future sustainability of international student numbers.

WASHINGTON (AP) — International student enrollment at U.S. universities has shown resilience this fall despite fears of a downturn from Trump administration policies aiming to limit foreign students. Yet, the statistics reveal troubling trends as there is a stark 17% decrease in new foreign students, marking the sharpest drop since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to a recent survey by the Institute of International Education, while the overall international student population dropped by just 1% compared to last year, much of this stability comes from graduates remaining in the U.S. for temporary work. Several institutions, particularly those highly dependent on tuition fees from foreign students, report significant financial challenges stemming from dwindling enrollment in this demographic.

“Colleges and universities have exerted extensive efforts to facilitate student entry into the country amidst visa issues and changing policies,” stated Mirka Martel, the head of research at the institute.

Particularly affected are graduate programs, where international enrollment has decreased by 12%, causing budgetary constraints at multiple institutions, including the University at Albany and Kent State University, which faced substantial budget cuts as a consequence. The decline is being coped with through flexibility in enrollment options, with many colleges offering deferred admissions.

Furthermore, there's increased competition. Countries like Canada and Germany are enhancing their recruitment efforts, presenting more welcoming policies for international students. As education firms note a shifting interest among prospective students towards international options outside the U.S., concerns mount over future enrollment sustainability.

As foreign students typically account for about 6% of the American college population and significantly contribute to tuition revenue, the downturn signifies a looming financial challenge for universities that have historically counted on these students to balance their budgets.

Looking ahead, experts express unease regarding potential long-term impacts, predicting enrollment sluggishness may further affect financial stability for institutions relying on international tuition.