International student enrolments in the US have witnessed a decline in the academic year 2024/25, as per the latest analysis of visa data. The data, sourced from the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), highlights an overall drop in foreign enrolments, particularly in master’s programs and from key markets like India. This decline occurred under the Biden administration’s tenure, preceding any potential impact of Trump-era policies.
An in-depth examination of the SEVIS data conducted by Chris Glass, a higher education expert, revealed a significant -11% year-over-year decrease in international enrolments between March 2024 and March 2025. This decline, estimated to result in a multi-billion-dollar loss in economic impact, mirrors the challenges faced during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Notably, the drop in enrolments was most pronounced at the master’s level, with a substantial -20.5% reduction in foreign students pursuing advanced degrees. The analysis underscores the vital role international graduate students play in bolstering America’s scientific prowess and innovation landscape.
The decline in enrolments is attributed to various factors, including shifting trends in key source markets and soaring visa refusal rates. The analysis points to a concerning -28% decrease in students from India, a market traditionally inclined towards STEM programs. This trend suggests a broader issue affecting the attractiveness of US institutions to international students.
Furthermore, the potential implementation of a travel ban by the Trump administration could exacerbate the enrolment downturn. The proposed ban categorizes countries into tiers based on restrictions, with severe implications for student mobility and academic exchange.
Adding to the challenges, recent funding cuts in scientific graduate programs, such as the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health, threaten to disrupt the academic landscape further. These cuts have far-reaching consequences, particularly for international STEM students who heavily rely on federal grants for research assistantships.
Chris Glass warns that the current trajectory of declining international enrolments signals a fundamental restructuring in American higher education and scientific research. The potential long-term implications could reshape the country’s position in the global knowledge economy, posing a significant threat to its leadership in higher education.
As the US grapples with these complex challenges, it faces a critical juncture in maintaining its status as a premier destination for international students. The forthcoming data releases and policy decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the future landscape of higher education in the country.
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