Core Points - The number of international students arriving in the U.S. has significantly decreased due to restrictive visa policies implemented during the Trump administration, with a notable 19.1% drop in student visa issuances in August compared to the previous year [2][4] - Indian students, the largest group of foreign students in the U.S., experienced a 44.5% decline in visa issuances in August, primarily due to processing delays [2][5] - The overall number of student visas issued in August was 313,138, down from nearly 387,000 in August 2024 [4] Visa Policy Impact - The Trump administration's visa regulations have particularly affected Indian applicants, requiring them to apply for visas at U.S. consulates in their home country, which has led to significant backlogs [5][8] - Other countries, such as Iran, have also seen drastic declines in student visa issuances, with an 86% drop reported [6] Economic Consequences - The decline in international student enrollment poses a threat to U.S. universities' budgets and their international standing, as approximately 1.1 million international students contribute significantly to tuition revenue [9] - A recent survey by NAFSA predicts a 30% to 40% decrease in international student enrollment this fall, potentially resulting in an economic loss of $7 billion and affecting over 60,000 jobs [9][10] Long-term Implications - The loss of international students could lead to a talent gap in the U.S. higher education system, impacting research and academic diversity [11] - Concerns have been raised about the long-term effects of restrictive visa policies on the U.S.'s global competitiveness in higher education [11]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant decline in international student visa issuance in the U.S., particularly affecting Indian students, due to restrictive visa policies implemented by the Trump administration, which poses a threat to U.S. universities and the economy [2][3][10]. Visa Issuance Data - In August, the U.S. issued 313,138 student visas, a decrease from nearly 387,000 in August 2024, marking a decline of 19.1% year-on-year [6][7]. - Indian student visas dropped by 44.5% compared to the previous year, primarily due to delays in visa processing [3][7]. - The largest decline in international students came from Africa, with a 32.5% decrease, followed by Asia at 23.8% [7]. Impact on U.S. Higher Education - The decline in international student enrollment is expected to threaten university budgets and the international standing of U.S. institutions [11]. - Approximately 1.1 million international students are projected to study in the U.S. in 2024, contributing significantly to tuition revenue, as many do not qualify for federal financial aid [11]. - A survey by NAFSA indicates that international student enrollment could drop by 30% to 40% this fall, leading to an estimated economic loss of $7 billion and affecting over 60,000 jobs [11]. Policy Changes and Their Effects - The Trump administration's visa restrictions have created significant barriers for international students, including a requirement to apply for visas in their home countries, which has led to severe backlogs in India [10][12]. - The U.S. State Department's suspension of student visa interviews earlier this year further exacerbated the situation, impacting the issuance of visas for the fall semester [12][13]. - Concerns about the value of U.S. degrees and economic factors have led to a decline in interest among prospective international students [14]. Long-term Consequences - The loss of international students poses a substantial threat to the talent pool in the U.S., potentially leading to a talent gap in higher education and research [14]. - International students have historically contributed to the intellectual and cultural diversity of U.S. universities, playing crucial roles in academic research and innovation [14].