Foreign undergraduate enrolment in US colleges has fallen by an average of 20% this spring, a coalition study says, based on a survey of 149 American schools. The decline is already showing up in both undergraduate and graduate intakes, with 62% of institutions reporting lower international enrolment. Universities blame restrictive government policies, immigration enforcement actions, paused interviews, and sharply fewer student visa issuances. With international students funding large parts of budgets, universities fear stronger pressure ahead for the fall intake.
Iran’s football federation chief Mehdi Taj says the team has received no US visas for the 2026 World Cup so far. Players are expected to travel for fingerprinting, but Iran is waiting on FIFA guarantees about the visa process. The squad is scheduled to face New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt across US cities including Los Angeles, leaving their participation in limbo.
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The US has introduced new screening questions for non-immigrant visa applicants tied to asylum risk. Applicants are asked whether they have experienced harm or fear returning to their home country, and refusal to answer is also treated as a negative signal. A “yes” to either question or not answering can lead to visa denial as part of tighter interview scrutiny.
The US issued fewer visas in early 2025 than the year before, hitting India and China the hardest. Stricter immigration rules have disrupted plans for students, workers, and family members. The US government says priority remains American citizens, with visa issuance reflecting a sharper focus on national safety rather than expanding foreign entry.
Perceived anti-foreign US moves, including attempts to restrict international students, are shaking Indian students’ confidence in studying in America. Growing worries about personal safety, uncertain job prospects after graduation, and potential visa complications are pushing many to consider alternatives such as the UK, Europe, and the Middle East. The result is a rapid rethink of study plans and future pathways.
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