July Sees Sharp Decline in US Student Visa Arrivals
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The United States has recorded a steep fall in international student arrivals this July, with new data showing a 28.5% decline compared with the same period last year. Figures from the US International Trade Administration revealed that just 76,519 student visa holders entered the country in July 2025, down from 106,993 a year earlier.
The most dramatic impact has been felt among Indian students, with arrivals plunging by nearly half (–46%). Students from China also fell sharply, recording a 26% decline. Other key markets such as South Korea (–20%), Taiwan (–14.5%) and Vietnam (–36%) also reported concerning drops.
Analysts say the decline is closely linked to the US state department’s suspension of visa interviews earlier this summer, alongside increasingly restrictive federal policies. Although the interview freeze was lifted on 26 June, many students continued to face limited appointment availability, heightened social media vetting, and processing delays.
NAFSA chief executive Fanta Aw described the figures as “alarming evidence” that the country’s global standing as a leading study destination is under threat. “Unwelcoming rhetoric, restrictive policies and visa uncertainties are having an undeniably negative effect on international students’ perception of the United States,” she said.
The downturn could have serious financial repercussions. Forecasts by NAFSA and JB International suggest that a 30–40% decline in new enrolments this autumn could result in losses of up to $7 billion for the US economy.
The United States has traditionally been the most popular choice for international students, but experts warn that the combination of visa delays, policy hostility and ongoing travel restrictions could drive future cohorts towards other destinations.
While part of the July dip may reflect students staying in the US over summer to avoid re-entry issues, sector leaders stress that the wider picture points to a longer-term challenge. “This is not a one-year problem. The ripple effect could last for years,” Aw cautioned.
With the academic year set to begin in late August, universities across the United States now face uncertainty over the scale of new international enrolments arriving on campus.
Source: THE PIE NEWS
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